List of Major Cities in Saudi Arabia: Area, Population and Cost of Living

Saudi Arabia’s urban landscape is a blend of ancient heritage and ambitious modernity, with cities that not only serve as economic and cultural hubs but also as sites of religious and historical significance.

Saudi cities reflect diverse identities rooted in tradition and forward-thinking development, from the capital Riyadh, a sprawling metropolis and political heart of the kingdom, to Mecca and Medina, revered pilgrimage destinations.

Amidst rapid urbanization, cities like Jeddah have emerged as vital commercial ports, while visionary projects such as Neom signal Saudi Arabia’s strides towards a high-tech future.

Here is a list of notable cities across Saudi Arabia, highlighting a diverse range of population sizes and regional centres:

1. Riyadh – Capital and largest city with a population of over 7 million.
2. Jeddah – Major commercial hub by the Red Sea with around 3.7 million residents.
3. Mecca – Islamic pilgrimage centre, home to approximately 2.4 million people.
4. Medina – Second holiest city in Islam, with a population of 1.4 million.
5. Dammam – A key city in the Eastern Province, with around 1.3 million residents.
6. Khobar – An important coastal city in the Eastern Province with over 400,000 people.
7. Buraydah – Capital of the Al-Qassim region with a population close to 574,000.
8. Tabuk – Northwest Saudi city and regional center with around 594,000 people.
9. Abha – Capital of the Asir Region with about 334,000 residents.
10. Al Hofuf – Historic oasis town in the Eastern Province with a similar population size.

This list includes a mixture of major urban centres, religious sites, and economic hubs, with population data subject to updates as city growth continues. Smaller and more developed cities such as Neom and King Abdullah Economic City are also part of Saudi Arabia’s urban expansion strategy​.

Here is a summary of some major cities in Saudi Arabia, with details on area, population, and cost of living for a single person and a family:

1. Riyadh
   • Area: 1,973 km²
   • Population: 4.2 million
   • Cost of Living: SAR 3,160 for a single person; SAR 11,427 for a family of four
2. Jeddah
   • Area: 1,600 km²
   • Population: 2.9 million
   • Cost of Living: SAR 3,059 for a single person; SAR 10,966 for a family
3. Mecca
   • Area: 1,200 km²
   • Population: 1.3 million
   • Cost of Living: SAR 3,280 for a single person; SAR 11,842 for a family
4. Medina
   • Area: 587.9 km²
   • Population: 1.3 million
   • Cost of Living: SAR 2,374 for a single person; SAR 7,243 for a family
5. Dammam
   • Area: 800 km²
   • Population: 768,000
   • Cost of Living: SAR 2,894 for a single person; SAR 10,230 for a family
6. Tabuk
   • Area: 300 km²
   • Population: 455,450
   • Cost of Living: SAR 1,643 for a single person; SAR 4,820 for a family

The cost of living across Saudi cities tends to be higher in major urban centres like Riyadh and Jeddah due to housing and transportation expenses.

Public transport is generally affordable, with monthly passes available, though many residents rely on cars. Basic amenities like food and utilities are relatively inexpensive compared to Western cities, though prices vary based on location and lifestyle

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