How I Bought My First Car in Saudi Arabia: Real Experience for Employees

 Buying your first car in KSA can feel exciting but also confusing, especially if you’re new to the country or don’t know the full process. In this blog, I’ll share a realistic and honest experience — the kind most normal employees face when buying a car for daily use.

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🧍‍♂️ 1. Step 1: Why I Decided to Buy a Car

Like many expats and local employees, I got tired of depending on friends, Uber, or company transport. In cities like Riyadh or Jeddah, having your own car means freedom, saving time, and less stress — especially in summer.

So I made a plan: buy a small, fuel-efficient car under 20,000–25,000 SAR — secondhand, but in good condition.

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🔍 2. Step 2: Searching Online

The best sites to search:

• Haraj.com.sa

• Motory.com

• OpenSooq

• Facebook Marketplace (but be careful of scams)

I used Haraj, where most car owners post full details. I filtered by:

• Price range

• Location

• FAHAS valid ✅

• Automatic transmission

• Low mileage (under 200,000 km)

After 3 days, I shortlisted 3 cars: a Hyundai Accent, a Toyota Yaris, and a Nissan Sunny.

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👨‍🔧 3. Step 3: Inspection & FAHAS Check

Before finalizing, I followed this checklist:

• Check FAHAS date (must be valid)

• Check Istimara (registration card)

• Check Mojaz report for past accidents

• Take a trusted mechanic or friend who knows cars

• Test drive on highway and bumps

Pro Tip: Avoid cars with oil leaks, heavy smoke from exhaust, or tampered dashboards.

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🤝 4. Step 4: Payment & Ownership Transfer

I agreed on 16,500 SAR for a 2017 Nissan Sunny.

Steps I followed:

1. Seller uploaded the car for transfer on Absher

2. I accepted the transfer request on my Absher account

3. Paid the fee (230 SAR)

4. Transferred money to the seller (cash or bank)

5. Got the new Istimara issued under my name

🛡️ I also bought Tawuniya 3rd party insurance (cheap, around 180 SAR)

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🛠️ 5. Maintenance After Buying

I changed:

• Engine oil & filter

• AC gas top-up

• Tyres check

• Car wash + polish

Total cost: around 400 SAR

Now the car runs smooth, and I use it daily for work, groceries, and even small trips to Dammam or Taif.

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❌ Mistakes to Avoid (From My Own Experience)

• Don’t rush to buy just because it “looks clean”

• Never skip the test drive

• If FAHAS is expired, don’t accept the car — many issues might be hidden

• Watch out for gear/AC issues in summer

• Don’t pay anything before verifying papers

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💡 Tips for First-Time Car Owners

• Check tyre pressure weekly

• Do oil change every 5,000 km

• Keep insurance & Istimara copies in glove box

• Use apps like Google Maps, Gas Station Finder

• Don’t park long in direct sun — use shades

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📝 Final Words

Buying a car in Saudi Arabia as an employee is 100% possible, even with limited salary. With the right planning, honest sellers, and little research — you can find a reliable car within your budget.

It’s not just a car — it’s your daily partner in KSA life. 🛣️

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Planning to buy your first car? Or already have one? Share your experience in the comments — let’s help each other!

Buying a Car for Personal Use in Saudi Arabia: A Simple Guide

 In Saudi Arabia, many employees — whether Saudi nationals or expats — buy a car for daily use, work commutes, or family travel. It's a basic need, especially in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam where public transport is still developing.

This blog is for everyday people who want a good, affordable, and reliable car, and also want to understand important rules like FAHAS and Istimara.

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🏷️ 1. Popular Affordable Cars in KSA

Most working people in Saudi Arabia choose practical cars that are fuel-efficient, low maintenance, and easy to resell.

Here are some common choices:

Car	Why People Like It
Toyota Yaris / Corolla	Reliable, cheap parts, easy resale
Hyundai Elantra / Accent	Good features, low fuel cost
Nissan Sunny	Budget-friendly, basic daily car
Kia Pegas / Rio	Modern design, affordable
Chevrolet Spark / Aveo	Great for small families or single use

Used cars are also a good option if your budget is limited — but you have to be careful with documentation and condition.

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🧾 2. What is FAHAS?

FAHAS (Vehicle Inspection Report) is a mandatory check for cars in Saudi Arabia. It ensures your car is safe and roadworthy.

✅ You must do FAHAS:

• Every year

• Before renewing Istimara (registration)

• Before selling a car

FAHAS checks:

• Brakes

• Lights

• Tyres

• Engine emissions

• Suspension

If your car fails FAHAS, you have to fix the issue and repeat the test.

📍 You can do FAHAS at MVPI stations (Vehicle Periodic Inspection centers), found in every city.

💡 Tip: Don’t go for FAHAS with broken lights, tinted front glass, or oil leakage — you’ll fail.

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🪪 3. What is Istimara?

Istimara is the car’s registration card. It shows that the vehicle is legal, insured, and allowed on the road.

• Valid for 3 years

• Must be renewed after passing FAHAS

• You need it for police checks, insurance claims, etc.

🔄 Renewal Process:

1. Do FAHAS ✅

2. Renew car insurance ✅

3. Pay MOI renewal fee online (Absher/SADAD)

4. Request renewal through Absher

5. Pick up the new Istimara

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💡 4. Important Tips for First-Time Car Buyers

• Check Mojaz report (like CarFax): accident history, ownership, etc.

• Avoid cars from taxis or rental companies — they’re usually overused.

• If used, check:

  • FAHAS validity

  • Istimara status

  • Insurance

  • Gearbox/AC condition

• Always test drive before buying

• Prefer full cash — but many banks also offer salary-based installments

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💰 5. Monthly Car Budget

Item	Average Monthly Cost (SAR)
Fuel (medium use)	200 – 300 SAR
Insurance	100 – 200 SAR
Installment (if any)	600 – 1500 SAR
Maintenance	50 – 200 SAR
FAHAS / Istimara (yearly)	~100 SAR

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📱 Useful Websites

• Haraj.com.sa – Used car marketplace

• Motory.com – New/used cars

• Absher.sa – For Istimara, insurance, FAHAS check

• Mojaz.sa – Vehicle history report

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✅ Conclusion

Buying a car in Saudi Arabia is easy — but it’s important to stay aware of FAHAS, Istimara, insurance, and the condition of the car. Whether you buy new or used, keep it simple, legal, and safe.

If you're just starting your life in KSA, a good car will save you time, money, and stress.

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Have questions about FAHAS or buying a used car? Drop them in the comments — I’ll reply based on real experience.

How Difficult It Is to Find a Job in KSA 🇸🇦

 

Finding a job in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is not as easy as it seems from the outside. Many people back home think that just by landing in Saudi, opportunities will automatically appear 🌍✈️. But the reality hits differently.

I have seen people with good skills and experience waiting for months without getting the right job ⏳. It's not just about what you know — it’s also about who you know, timing, valid documents, and sometimes… just pure luck 🍀.

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🔍 Main Challenges Faced:

• Iqama issues 🪪: Without a transferable Iqama or proper sponsorship, no company will take the risk to hire.

• Wasta culture 🤝: Connections (called “wasta”) play a big role. No reference = less chance your CV is noticed.

• Saudization (Nitaqat) 🇸🇦: Many jobs are now reserved for Saudi nationals, especially in admin and office sectors.

• Mismatch in expectations ❗: Sometimes the job sounds good on paper, but the reality means low salary, long hours, or extra duties.

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🧳 For Freshers or New Arrivals:

If you’re coming to KSA without a job offer, the stress is real 😓. Accommodation, food, transport — everything needs money 💸. And without income, survival becomes tough.

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💡 My Personal Advice:

• Be patient 🧘‍♂️: Jobs come with time.

• Build contacts 📲: Talk to people, check job portals, attend interviews.

• Keep learning 📚: Upgrade your skills. Even learning a little Arabic helps!

• Be honest and respectful 🤲: Very important in Saudi work culture.

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💬 Conclusion:

Job hunting in KSA is a journey of hope, struggle, and learning. If you're still looking — don’t give up. If you've already found your place — try to help someone else. We rise by lifting others 🤝❤️.

Have you faced job challenges in KSA? Share your story below ⬇️ in the comments.

🕋 Important Notice: Hajj 2025 Regulations Are Strict — Know the Rules Before You Travel 🛑

 

As Hajj 2025 approaches, the Government of Saudi Arabia has issued strict guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety, sanctity, and proper organization of the pilgrimage. Whether you're a resident, an expat, or visiting on a visa — it’s crucial to understand these rules to avoid serious penalties.

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❗ No Permit, No Hajj

Performing Hajj without an official Hajj permit is strictly prohibited for everyone, including Saudi residents, expatriates, and visit visa holders.

Violators will face:
🔸 A fine of SAR 20,000 (approx. USD 5,300)
🔸 Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties

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📅 Restricted Entry Period: April 29 – June 10, 2025

(1 Dhul-Qi’dah to 14 Dhul-Hijjah)

During this period, entry into Makkah and other holy sites is restricted. Only those with verified Hajj permits and permissions will be allowed.

Anyone entering these areas without authorization may face:

✔️ Heavy fines
✔️ Legal consequences
✔️ Possible deportation (for expats)

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🏠 Assisting Unauthorized Pilgrims Is Also a Crime

Helping someone perform Hajj illegally is punishable under Saudi law. This includes:

🏨 Providing Accommodation

If a person, hotel, or facility provides housing to unregistered pilgrims, the penalty includes:

➡️ A fine up to SAR 100,000
➡️ Possible legal charges

🚗 Transporting Unauthorized Pilgrims

If you drive or arrange transportation for anyone without a Hajj permit:

🔸 You may be fined up to SAR 100,000
🔸 Your vehicle can be confiscated
🔸 Expats may face immediate deportation
🔸 A 10-year ban on re-entering Saudi Arabia

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🛑 For Expatriates: A Special Warning

Foreign nationals must be especially careful. If caught violating Hajj rules:

✅ You can be deported immediately
✅ You may be blacklisted from returning to Saudi Arabia for 10 years

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📞 Report Illegal Activities

To maintain the sanctity and order of Hajj, authorities urge everyone to report violations or suspicious activities:

📍 911 – Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern Region
📍 999 – All Other Regions

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✅ Final Message to All Pilgrims

Hajj is one of the most sacred acts of worship. These regulations are designed to protect the well-being and spiritual experience of every pilgrim.

Please ensure:

🔹 You travel through official channels only
🔹 You carry a valid Hajj permit
🔹 You do not assist or support unauthorized individuals

Let’s respect the rules and preserve the sanctity of Hajj.

Share this message to help others stay informed. 🤲

🚫 Saudi Arabia Hajj 2025: Restrictions & Fines You Should Know

 As Hajj 2025 approaches, Saudi Arabia has announced strict regulations to ensure safety, security, and proper organization during the pilgrimage. If you're planning to travel, especially from within the Kingdom, it's important to understand the new rules and the serious consequences for violations.

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❗ Unauthorized Hajj Participation

• No Permit, No Hajj
  Anyone attempting to perform Hajj without an official Hajj permit will face a fine of SAR 20,000 (around USD 5,300). This rule applies to all individuals, including residents, expats, and visit visa holders.

• Entry Ban Period
  From April 29 to June 10, 2025 (1 Dhul-Qi'dah to 14 Dhul-Hijjah), entry to Makkah and other holy areas is restricted. Entering without permission during this period may result in legal action and fines.

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🚫 Penalties for Assisting Unauthorized Pilgrims

• Providing Accommodation
  Any individual, hotel, or establishment providing housing to unregistered pilgrims will be fined up to SAR 100,000.

• Transporting Pilgrims
  Transporting anyone without a Hajj permit to the holy sites is also illegal. Penalties include:

  • Up to SAR 100,000 fine

  • Vehicle confiscation

  • Deportation (for expats)

  • Ban on re-entry for 10 years

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🛑 Deportation & Blacklisting

• Foreign nationals who violate Hajj laws may be:

  • Deported immediately

  • Blacklisted from re-entering Saudi Arabia for 10 years

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📞 Report Violations

To maintain order during Hajj, Saudi authorities encourage people to report any suspicious or unauthorized activity:

• 911 – Makkah, Riyadh, Eastern Region

• 999 – Other Regions

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Final Note

These steps are being taken to protect the sanctity of Hajj and ensure a safe environment for pilgrims. Whether you are a visitor or a resident, make sure to follow the rules and only travel with proper documentation and permits.

The Real Power of Simplicity in Tech

 In a world chasing complexity, simplicity often becomes underrated. The most powerful tools—Linux terminal, minimal blogs, or even basic HTML pages—are not flashy, but effective.

We often believe more features mean better experience. But real innovation lies in removing the noise and focusing on what matters.

💡 A thought:
In your tech, your life, or even your blog—focus not on "adding more", but "removing what's unnecessary."

Let the user think less and experience more.
Let the creator do more by building less.

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Inspired by: My ongoing efforts to simplify my personal blog, turning it into a focused, page-based experience where readers pick what they want—no clutter.

Let’s continue thinking forward.
— Faizan Khan

AI Regulation in 2025 – A Global Tug of War

 In 2025, the world finds itself at a critical intersection of innovation and governance. Artificial Intelligence, once a niche domain, is now embedded into daily life — from healthcare to defense, education to employment.

Recently, the European Union passed the AI Act, one of the strictest regulations on artificial intelligence in the world. It classifies AI systems by risk level and bans certain applications altogether, such as real-time facial recognition in public spaces. This move sparked a global debate: Can innovation coexist with regulation?

In contrast, the United States has taken a more market-driven approach, allowing tech giants greater freedom, with the belief that the private sector can self-regulate responsibly. Meanwhile, China has already implemented national standards for AI ethics and governance, focusing heavily on data control and surveillance.

Saudi Arabia, where I work, is also making significant strides. Under Vision 2030, the Kingdom is investing heavily in smart cities, AI-driven services, and automation — but the regulatory framework is still evolving. This makes KSA a strategic observer and potential leader in balancing growth and oversight.

As someone working closely in tech and manpower sectors, I see how AI is already impacting labor — automating tasks, changing job requirements, and creating a demand for upskilling.

The big question remains:
Will global regulation align, or will we see a fragmented AI world, with different standards across regions?

It’s time for professionals, companies, and governments to engage in open, honest dialogue — not just about what AI can do, but about what it should do.

Why Linux Feels Like Home: A Personal Take on Digital Freedom

 In a world dominated by polished but restricted systems, Linux stands tall as the symbol of digital freedom. For me, it's more than an operating system—it's a mindset.

I remember the first time I booted into a Linux distro. It wasn’t flashy or “user-friendly” in the traditional sense, but it gave me something rare: control. Over time, I stopped seeing my computer as just a tool—and started treating it as an environment I could shape, mold, and understand deeply.

Linux teaches you patience, sharpens your problem-solving, and connects you to a community that values knowledge over convenience. Whether you're configuring a server or tweaking your desktop setup, every task helps you grow.

That’s why I keep coming back. It's not just about open-source or security. It’s about learning, building, and owning your tech journey.

— Faizan Khan

Comprehensive Manpower Solutions in KSA – Spotlight on Care-Pro, Jeddah

 The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is witnessing significant growth across various sectors, which has led to a steadily increasing demand for skilled and reliable manpower. From hospitality and maintenance to security and domestic services, organizations require competent staff to maintain operational excellence.

One of the leading providers in this domain is Care-Pro, based in Jeddah. Care-Pro specializes in delivering tailored manpower solutions that cater to a wide spectrum of industries, ensuring that clients receive professional and trustworthy workforce support.

Key Services Offered by Care-Pro:

• Hospitality Staff: Trained personnel including hotel staff, housekeeping, waiters, and support staff.

• Maintenance Workforce: Skilled electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and general maintenance technicians.

• Security Personnel: Experienced security guards and supervisors trained to maintain safety standards.

• Domestic Helpers and Caregivers: Reliable and background-verified domestic workers and caregivers for personal and household assistance.

At Care-Pro, stringent recruitment and training processes are followed to ensure the highest quality standards. Each worker is carefully selected and trained to meet client-specific requirements, guaranteeing satisfaction and smooth operations.

Operating in a bustling city like Jeddah, Care-Pro has built a reputation for professionalism, reliability, and timely delivery of manpower services. Whether your organization needs short-term contract workers or long-term staff deployment, Care-Pro offers comprehensive solutions customized to your unique needs.

Why Choose Care-Pro?

• Rigorous screening and training of manpower

• Tailored services matching client requirements

• Transparent and efficient communication

• Commitment to quality and client satisfaction

The manpower industry in KSA demands not only skill but also trust and professionalism. Care-Pro strives to bridge this gap by delivering workforce solutions that empower businesses to thrive.

My 40 Days of Peace — Back Home in Lucknow

 After months of continuous hustle in KSA, I finally took a much-needed break — a full 40-day vacation back in my hometown: Lucknow.

From the moment I landed, I felt the emotional warmth that only family can bring. Meeting my loved ones after so long… there's nothing more healing. The time I spent with them was precious, filled with laughter, hugs, and chai sessions that never seemed to end.

During this time, I also made a personal move — I underwent a hair transplant. It was something I had been thinking about for a while, and I’m glad I did it during this break when I was mentally relaxed and surrounded by support.

I didn’t just stay indoors though — Lucknow has so much to offer and I tried to soak in every bit of it:

• Explored famous food spots that brought back childhood memories

• Had fun at Anandi Water Park — it was thrilling and refreshing

• Visited places like Magic World, enjoyed desi street food, and rediscovered the city through a fresh lens

The most beautiful part? Even the smallest moments felt big. Whether it was spending time in my gram (village), sipping tea with elders, or taking peaceful evening walks — everything healed me in ways I didn’t expect.

Now that I’m back, this post is a small memory capsule of all the love, laughter, and "zindagi ke asli lamhe" I experienced in my city, Lucknow.