Living in Yanbu: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Yanbu.
Yanbu is an industrial port city on the western coast of Saudi Arabia, approximately 350 kilometers northwest of Jeddah and 200 kilometers west of Medina. Known as the Pearl of the Red Sea, this city combines industrial opportunity with coastal living. Managed by the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu since 1975, the city spans 606 km² and serves as Saudi Arabia's second-largest industrial city after Jubail. With a population of approximately 335,000 inhabitants, including a significant expat community, Yanbu offers a unique blend of professional opportunities and relaxed coastal lifestyle.
5 Good Reasons to Move to Yanbu
- Tax-free income – Enjoy competitive salaries without personal income tax, with many employers providing housing allowances or accommodation.
- World-class diving – Access pristine Red Sea coral reefs, including the famous Seven Sisters reef system, with year-round warm water temperatures.
- Lower cost of living – Housing, utilities, and daily expenses are more affordable compared to Riyadh or Jeddah.
- Modern infrastructure – Benefit from well-planned residential districts, quality healthcare facilities, and recreational amenities developed by the Royal Commission.
- Strategic location – Positioned on ancient trade routes, Yanbu offers proximity to Medina and serves as a gateway to European markets through the Suez Canal.
Working in Yanbu: Careers in Saudi Arabia's Industrial Hub
Yanbu's economy is driven by oil refining, petrochemicals, and heavy industry. The city hosts the largest oil export port on the Red Sea and serves as the western terminus for Saudi Arabia's 1,200-kilometer crude oil and natural gas pipelines from the Eastern Province. Major employers include Saudi Aramco, SABIC, Luberef, and various international companies operating within the industrial zone.
Employment Opportunities
The most in-demand professions in Yanbu include mechanical engineers, construction managers, safety officers, chemical engineers, and quality control specialists. The Royal Commission and industrial companies actively recruit expatriates with technical expertise. Employment packages typically include housing allowances, annual flights home, health insurance, and end-of-service benefits. Job seekers can explore opportunities through platforms like Bayt, NaukriGulf, LinkedIn, and company career portals.
Work Permits and Visas
To work legally in Saudi Arabia, expatriates require an Iqama (residence permit) sponsored by their employer. The process involves obtaining a work visa, undergoing medical examinations, and receiving the Iqama within 90 days of arrival. The annual Iqama fee is SAR 650, typically covered by employers. Saudi Arabia's Saudization policies mean companies must justify hiring expatriates over Saudi nationals, so highlighting specialized skills is essential.
The following table summarizes key employment indicators for Yanbu and Saudi Arabia:
Overall unemployment rate (Saudi Arabia) | 3.5% (Q4 2024) |
Average monthly salary in Yanbu | SAR 7,000–13,000 |
Key industries | Oil refining, petrochemicals, manufacturing, logistics |
Sources: General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), PayScale
Working in Yanbu
Yanbu, which is found near the Red Sea, is deemed to be a port and industrial city. Situated on the ancient incense and spices route from Yemen and ...
Higher Education and Universities in Yanbu
Yanbu offers several higher education institutions focused on technical and professional training, aligned with the needs of the local industrial sector. While the city is smaller than Riyadh or Jeddah, its universities provide quality programs with strong industry connections.
Yanbu University College (YUC)
Yanbu University College is a public institution founded in 2005 by the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu. The university offers bachelor's degrees in Management Science, Computer Science, Information Technology, Interior Design Engineering, and Applied Linguistics. The medium of instruction is English, making it accessible for international students. YUC operates separate campuses for male and female students and holds ACBSP accreditation for its business programs. Admission requires passing an English examination, and the acceptance rate is approximately 20%.
Yanbu Industrial College (YIC)
Yanbu Industrial College, established in 1989, focuses on technical and vocational education. Programs include mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, industrial management, and information technology. YIC collaborates closely with industries in Yanbu Industrial City, providing internships and strong job placement opportunities for graduates. The college plays a key role in developing Saudi Arabia's technical workforce under Vision 2030.
Saudi Electronic University – Yanbu Branch
The Saudi Electronic University (SEU) operates a branch in Yanbu, offering blended learning programs that combine online coursework with in-person sessions. SEU provides flexibility for working professionals seeking to advance their education.
Sources: Yanbu University College, QS Top Universities, Saudi Electronic University
Schools for Expat Children in Yanbu
Finding quality education for children is a key concern for expat families considering Yanbu. While the city has fewer international school options than major Saudi cities, recent developments have expanded choices for foreign families.
International Schools
The American International School of Yanbu (AISY) opened in August 2025, offering an American curriculum aligned with AERO standards for Early Childhood through Middle School. Annual tuition ranges from SAR 55,000 to SAR 60,000 per child. Jeel Yanbu International School (JYIS) follows the British curriculum and offers Cambridge IGCSE qualifications, providing a multicultural learning environment. KENZ International School is another option offering international education programs.
Other Educational Options
Radhwa International School provides an American section curriculum and has served the expat community for years. For Indian families, several schools offer CBSE curriculum options. Private preschools and kindergartens typically charge SAR 800–3,000 per month. Some expat families also opt for homeschooling or online programs such as K12 International to supplement local options.
Enrollment Considerations
International school fees in Yanbu range from approximately SAR 8,400 to SAR 60,000 annually depending on the school and grade level. Many employers include education allowances in expat packages. Enrollment typically requires translated academic records, passport copies, and medical clearances. Early application is recommended as spaces can be limited.
Sources: American International School of Yanbu, Jeel Yanbu International School, Numbeo
Housing and Neighborhoods in Yanbu
Yanbu offers diverse housing options ranging from modern apartments to spacious villas. Many employers provide housing or generous allowances as part of expat packages, making accommodation one of the more manageable aspects of relocating to this industrial city.
Popular Neighborhoods
The Royal Commission residential area (Yanbu Al-Sinaiyah) is the most popular choice for Western expats, featuring well-planned infrastructure, parks, shopping facilities, and security. This area resembles suburban communities found in Western countries. Yanbu Al-Bahr (the old town) offers a more traditional atmosphere closer to the sea with a relaxed coastal vibe. Expat compounds like Arabian Homes and The Cove provide gated communities with amenities including pools, gyms, playgrounds, and social activities.
Rental Prices
Housing costs in Yanbu are significantly lower than in Riyadh or Jeddah. The following table shows average monthly rents:
1-bedroom apartment (city center) | SAR 1,167/month |
1-bedroom apartment (outside center) | SAR 800/month |
3-bedroom apartment (city center) | SAR 2,240/month |
3-bedroom apartment (outside center) | SAR 1,580/month |
Rental contracts in Saudi Arabia typically require one year commitment with a deposit of one to two months' rent. Properties can be found through platforms like Bayut, PropertyFinder, and expatriates.com, or through local real estate agents registered with the Saudi Ministry of Housing.
Accommodation in Yanbu
Overlooking the Red Sea, Yanbu is deemed to be Saudi Arabia's second industrial city after Jubail, which is found on the Persian Gulf. In fact, ...
Leisure, Culture, and Things to Do in Yanbu
Despite its industrial focus, Yanbu offers excellent recreational opportunities, particularly for water sports enthusiasts and those who appreciate coastal living and outdoor activities.
Diving and Water Sports
Yanbu is considered Saudi Arabia's diving capital, with pristine Red Sea waters and vibrant coral reefs. The famous Seven Sisters reef system offers opportunities to spot hammerhead sharks, barracuda, and colorful tropical fish. Dive centers like Saudi Diving Center and Dolphin Diver offer courses for beginners and guided trips for experienced divers. Water temperatures remain comfortable year-round. Snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing are also popular along the coast.
Parks and Recreation
The Yanbu Waterfront (Corniche) stretches 11 kilometers along the Red Sea, featuring parks, walking paths, sports grounds, and an outdoor theater. Yanbu Lakes (also called Birds Park) is one of the largest recreational areas, offering green spaces and wildlife. Al-Fairouz Park showcases diverse plants and hosts the annual Flower Festival each spring, which holds a world record for the largest flower carpet. Mount Radwa rises 2,282 meters northeast of the city, offering hiking opportunities with stunning views and seasonal waterfalls.
Culture and Heritage
The Yanbu Night Market near the historic port is nearly 500 years old, offering fresh seafood, local dates, and traditional goods. The Historic Yanbu Port features narrow alleys and traditional Hijazi houses built from Red Sea coral. The Turkish Castle, over 360 years old, sits atop a mountain overlooking the city. For modern entertainment, Dana Mall offers shopping and dining, while hotels like the Mövenpick and Radisson provide beachfront relaxation and quality restaurants.
Sources: Visit Saudi, Liveaboard.com
Daily Life in Yanbu: What to Expect
Living in Yanbu means adapting to Saudi Arabian culture while enjoying a more relaxed pace than the major cities. The city's coastal location and industrial focus create a unique expat experience.
Climate and Environment
Yanbu has a hot desert climate with temperatures frequently exceeding 40°C (104°F) during summer months. Winters are mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities. The Red Sea moderates temperatures somewhat, and water temperatures remain above 20°C year-round, perfect for diving and swimming. Expect high humidity, especially in summer.
Getting Around
A personal vehicle is essential in Yanbu as public transportation is limited. Taxis are available with starting fares around SAR 10 and approximately SAR 3 per kilometer. Gasoline is inexpensive at around SAR 2.24 per liter. The local Prince Abdul Mohsin Bin Abdul Aziz Airport serves domestic routes and some international connections, though many travelers drive three hours to Jeddah for more flight options.
Cultural Considerations
Saudi Arabia is a conservative Islamic country, and Yanbu's proximity to Mecca and Medina means local customs tend to be traditional. Key points include: modest dress is expected for both men and women; alcohol is strictly prohibited; Friday is the weekly holy day when many businesses close; Ramadan brings restrictions on eating and drinking in public during daylight hours. English is widely spoken within the expat community and industrial sector. The pace of life is relaxed, with families often gathering for evening picnics in parks and along the waterfront.
Sources: Visit Saudi, Numbeo
Cost of Living in Yanbu: Budget Planning
Yanbu offers a moderate cost of living compared to other Saudi cities, with lower housing costs being a significant advantage. Combined with tax-free salaries and employer benefits, many expats find they can save substantially.
Monthly Budget for a Single Person
The following table provides estimated monthly expenses for a single expat:
Category | Estimated Cost (SAR) | Estimated Cost (USD) |
Rent (1-bedroom apartment) | 1,000 | 267 |
Utilities (electricity, water, cooling) | 400 | 107 |
Internet and mobile | 330 | 88 |
Groceries | 800 | 213 |
Transportation (fuel/taxi) | 300 | 80 |
Dining out and leisure | 500 | 133 |
Total | 3,330 | 888 |
Monthly Budget for a Family of Four
Category | Estimated Cost (SAR) | Estimated Cost (USD) |
Rent (3-bedroom apartment) | 2,200 | 587 |
Utilities | 600 | 160 |
Internet and mobile | 400 | 107 |
Groceries | 1,500 | 400 |
Transportation | 500 | 133 |
International school fees (2 children) | 8,000 | 2,133 |
Health insurance (if not employer-provided) | 800 | 213 |
Dining and leisure | 1,000 | 267 |
Total | 15,000 | 4,000 |
Sources: Numbeo (December 2024), Expatica
In Short
Yanbu offers a distinctive expat experience: competitive tax-free salaries in the industrial sector, affordable coastal living, and access to some of the Red Sea's best diving sites. While the city is smaller and more conservative than Riyadh or Jeddah, its well-managed Royal Commission infrastructure, modern amenities, and relaxed pace make it an attractive option for professionals seeking career opportunities with a better quality of life. Families will find a close-knit expat community, improving international school options, and over 100 parks for outdoor recreation. Ready to connect with others who have made the move? Join the Expat.com Yanbu forum to ask questions, share experiences, and find practical advice from fellow expats.
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this content, please contact us.
