Welcome to your definitive guide on the top ten most useful apps in Saudi Arabia for 2023! In an era where our smartphones have become extensions of ourselves, the right apps can make life easier, particularly for expats settling into a new environment.
This blog post will take you on a tour of the most vital and user-friendly apps for both iOS and Android users living in Saudi Arabia. You’ll find everything from ride-hailing apps to food delivery services, online government platforms, and more. Let’s dive in!
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, rich in history and culture, has also embraced digital transformation with open arms. For those unfamiliar with the country’s norms, navigating everyday tasks such as transportation, food ordering, or even basic communication can be challenging. That’s where the power of apps comes into play.
They offer a convenient way to manage day-to-day activities while also providing a sense of familiarity in a foreign land. These apps range across various categories including transportation, social media, online shopping, government services, and more.
Top 10 Must-Have Apps for Expats in Saudi Arabia
Let’s delve deeper into the top 10 must-have apps that will make your life in Saudi Arabia smoother and more enjoyable.
MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs app, commonly referred to as MOFA, is a vital tool for expats in Saudi Arabia. It provides updated information about visa statuses, passport services, and other essential details. Available on both iOS and Android platforms, it is a must-have for anyone residing in the Kingdom.
The MOFA app is designed to streamline the interaction between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the public. Through the app, you can apply for various government services, check the status of applications, and receive notifications about any changes or updates. The convenience of having this information at your fingertips makes life in Saudi Arabia that much easier.
Absher Online Platform & App
Absher is a comprehensive e-service platform provided by the Saudi Arabian government. It offers a wide range of services including passport queries, traffic fine payments, and updating personal details. For expats, this app is an essential tool for interacting with government services efficiently.
The Absher app offers a multitude of e-services, making it an indispensable tool for expats. It provides access to over 160 different services such as renewing passports, checking visa statuses, and paying traffic fines. Its user-friendly interface and secure payment options make it a reliable platform for managing government-related tasks.
Uber or Careem for Commute
Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the city, Uber and Careem are the go-to apps for transportation in Saudi Arabia. These ride-hailing services are reliable, convenient, and often more cost-effective than traditional taxi services. Moreover, they offer a safe commuting option with easy-to-use interfaces.
The convenience of booking a ride with just a few taps on your phone makes Uber and Careem ideal for daily commuting or occasional travel within the city. They offer various car options to suit individual needs and budgets. Plus, their transparent pricing structures eliminate any unpleasant surprises at the end of your ride.
Mobile Service Provider Applications
Staying connected is paramount, especially when you’re in a new country. Mobile service provider applications like STC, Mobily, Zain, and others allow users to manage their mobile subscriptions, pay bills, and avail of special offers right from their smartphones.
Being able to manage your mobile services remotely is a significant advantage, especially for busy individuals. With apps from STC, Mobily, Zain, and others, you can check your data usage, recharge your line, pay bills, and even subscribe to new services. They also provide customer support, ensuring that any queries or issues are promptly addressed.
Food Delivery Service Apps: Talabat, Hellofood, Hunger Station
Craving delicious local cuisine right at your doorstep? Food delivery apps like Talabat, Hellofood, and Hunger Station make it possible. With a few taps on your phone, you can explore a variety of cuisines from local and international restaurants and have them delivered to your location.
These food delivery apps have revolutionized dining by bringing a wide array of culinary delights to your doorstep. They offer features like real-time order tracking, multiple payment options, and customer reviews to help you make the best dining decisions. Whether you’re craving late-night snacks or planning a lavish dinner, these apps have got you covered.
Saudi National Portal
Navigating governmental services in a foreign country can be daunting. The Saudi National Portal app simplifies this process by providing a comprehensive guide to all government services, including health, education, tourism, and more. It is a handy tool for expats looking to familiarize themselves with Saudi’s public services.
The Saudi National Portal app is a comprehensive source of information regarding all government services. It offers a unified platform to access e-services such as renewing licenses, applying for visas, registering vehicles, and much more. The app also provides updated news and information about the Kingdom, making it an invaluable tool for staying informed.
Najm
Najm is an essential app for vehicle owners in Saudi Arabia. It provides a platform for recording accidents, requesting insurance claims, and accessing other related services. With its user-friendly interface, Najm greatly simplifies the process of managing vehicular incidents.
For vehicle owners, Najm offers a hassle-free way to manage accidents and insurance claims. In case of an accident, you can use the app to record the incident, communicate with other parties involved, and even request an assessor. Moreover, the app simplifies insurance claim procedures, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Al Kahraba
Al Kahraba, developed by the Saudi Electric Company, is an application designed to manage electricity accounts. It enables users to pay bills, report power outages, and monitor their consumption. For expats, this app eliminates the need for physical visits to electricity offices and provides a seamless way to manage their electricity services.
Managing utilities in a new country can be challenging, but Al Kahraba makes it easy. You can monitor your electricity consumption, pay bills, report power outages, and even receive energy-saving tips. The app also offers a customer service feature to address any issues promptly.
Communication is key when living abroad, and WhatsApp reigns supreme in Saudi Arabia. This popular messaging app allows users to make voice calls, send text messages, share images and documents, and even video call with loved ones back home – all for free!
WhatsApp’s popularity lies in its simplicity and versatility. It allows for free voice and video calls, group chats, and the sharing of photos, videos, and documents. Its end-to-end encryption ensures that your conversations remain private. Whether it’s keeping in touch with family back home or communicating with new friends in Saudi Arabia, WhatsApp is the go-to app for many expats.
Tawakkalna app
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Saudi Arabian government launched the Tawakkalna app. It provides updates on COVID-19 cases in the Kingdom, allows users to report symptoms, and is also used for travel permissions during lockdowns. Keeping this app handy will ensure that you stay informed and safe during these challenging times.
The Tawakkalna app has been a crucial tool during the COVID-19 pandemic. It provides real-time updates about the spread of the virus in Saudi Arabia, allows users to report their health status, and even facilitates travel permissions during lockdowns. Its role in promoting public safety during these unprecedented times has been invaluable.
Conclusion
Living in a new country comes with its challenges, but the right set of apps can make the transition smoother. From managing government services with MOFA and Absher to commuting with Uber or Careem, staying connected with WhatsApp, feeding your appetite with Talabat, Hellofood, and Hunger Station, and staying updated on COVID-19 news with Tawakkalna, these apps have made life easier for expats in Saudi Arabia.
Whether you’re planning to move to Saudi Arabia or already living there, these apps will become essential tools in your daily life. They not only simplify tasks but also help you understand and navigate the local culture and practices better. So, go ahead, download these apps, and welcome a hassle-free life in Saudi Arabia!