Win for British expats in popular country with no income tax and higher pay

Saudi Arabia has no income tax, making it a popular choice for expats. (Image: Getty)

Saudi Arabia has become an increasingly popular option for British expats lured by the promise of zero income taxes and higher salaries. The country's property market is on a meteoric rise, with apartment prices in capital city Riyadh surging 70% since 2019, according to property company Knight Frank. Saudi has been gradually welcoming international investors, enhancing its Premium Residency programme last year, which has been described as similar to a "golden visa" initiative.

Many are drawn in by the promise of higher wages than other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations - Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE. Some senior roles offer wages 15% to 25% higher than in Dubai, while living costs are about 34% less than in the UK, according to numbeo.com.

There remain concerns over Saudi Arabia's human rights record. (Image: Getty)

For example, an executive PA in the energy sector could pocket between £50,000 and £90,000 tax-free, reported Oriel Partners. Teachers can expect average monthly earnings of £2,700, plus perks like private healthcare and free accommodation.

Recruiter Hays found that expat salaries generally span from £2,010 to £7,036 per month. However, the appalling human rights record, homophobia, and sexism remain off putting factors for people looking to move there.

Despite this, Britons are relocating there as the labour and rental markets in Dubai become increasingly competitive, said Harry Goodson-Wickes, head of Savills Northern Gulf.

He told The Telegraph: "There are still misconceptions and mental barriers about the country, but for many it's the most exciting story in the world right now.

"People who see the opportunities are coming with their eyes open. The door is ajar but has not swung open [to foreign property ownership]."

It's estimated that between 26,000 and 30,000 Britons live in Saudi Arabia, and there's evidence to suggest this number is on the rise.

The influx of expats has increased the number of schools, including a branch of Sherborne in Jeddah and two institutions from the SEK Education Group this year.

One woman, who chose to remain anonymous, moved over three years ago when her husband secured a job at the airport. She noted an increase in the number of expats since their arrival.

She told the outlet: "Like many, he came for a bigger and better job than in Dubai. The salaries are higher and, as expats, we follow the money. Who knows what life will be like here in four years' time?

"Life is more difficult after having everything easy. I was a 'Dubai brat' – but new shops and restaurants are arriving fast: Marks & Spencer, Boots and global brands like Zuma."