Stay requirements for Iqama holder

Hello folks,

I have recently joined a new job in Riyadh. I work in a project-based industry, wherein I basically have to work from the client office/location, and not my home office.

I have been assigned to a project in Doha for 18 months. Since I am alone in Riyadh, I would prefer to stay continuously in Doha, rather than flying between Riyadh and Doha every week (some colleagues do that, especially those who have family in Riyadh). My company and team are fine with my choice.

Given this scenario, I had a few questions regarding any legal or regulatory requirements:

  1. Are there any minimum number of days I need to stay within Saudi to maintain my Iqama/residency?

  2. If I stay for an extended period out of Saudi and then try to come back, will there be any issues at immigration? e.g., say I want to come back for a week after 6 months (I will of course ensure I come back before my Iqama expires)

  3. Any other regulations or requirements I need to be aware of to avoid any issues?

Posted May 7, 2026, 12:43 PM UTC

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