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Tag: national address

  • Your First Month in Madinah: A Settling-In Checklist (National Address, Apps, Health and Home)

    Moving to Madinah is a big change, and the first month sets the tone. Families who settle fastest tend to work through the admin in a set order, so each step makes the next one easier. This week-by-week checklist focuses on your National Address, the main government apps, healthcare access and home basics. It doesn’t include prices or fixed processing times beyond what the official services publish.

    Week 1: Get your digital basics working

    Absher. The Ministry of Interior’s platform for digital services for citizens and residents. Make sure your login works and your mobile number is correct, because verification codes are sent there and many other services rely on the same national sign-on.

    Tawakkalna. The national services app from the National Information Center. Install it and look through which services and digital documents are available to you.

    A local SIM. If you don’t already have one, a SIM in your own name from one of the major operators makes verification codes and deliveries far easier.

    Tip: Make a secure note of your Iqama number, passport details and emergency contacts. Don’t screenshot sensitive documents into shared family chats.

    Week 2: Register your National Address

    Saudi Post’s National Address gives your home an official, standard address: building number, street, secondary number, district, postal code and city, plus a short address of four letters and four numbers.

    According to the National Platform:

    • Individuals register online after signing in with the national sign-on (Absher credentials).
    • Activation is shown as ready within 24 hours.
    • Registered users can later update the address or print a proof-of-address document through the “Managing National Address” service.

    Why this matters in Madinah: Districts such as Al-Aziziyah, Shuran or Al-Khalidiyah cover large areas. A precise address and short code save drivers, delivery riders and visiting relatives a lot of phone calls. Save your short address in your phone and share it whenever someone needs to find your home.

    See our neighborhoods overview if you’re still choosing a district.

    Week 2–3: Set up healthcare access

    • Sehhaty. The Ministry of Health’s platform for appointments at eligible facilities, records and other services. Register each family member as the app allows.
    • Your nearest primary care centre. Public care in the region is organized through the Madinah Health Cluster. Find your nearest primary healthcare centre and save its location.
    • 937. Save the Ministry of Health’s 24/7 line for medical advice from inside the Kingdom.
    • Private insurance. If your employer provides health insurance, check which clinics near your district are in the network.

    For more, see our healthcare tips.

    Week 3: Home and household basics

    • Electricity and water. Confirm with your landlord which accounts belong to your unit and how readings will be handled at move-in. In the hot months, keep an eye on your air-conditioning use.
    • Drinking water. Many households arrange bottled water delivery. Choose a supplier with clear contact details.
    • Groceries. Find your nearest supermarket and a smaller neighborhood shop for quick top-ups. See our groceries tips.
    • Banking. If you haven’t yet, open an account once your Iqama and address details are in place. Ask your employer which bank payroll uses.

    Week 4: Find your community rhythm

    • Your local masjid. Learn its prayer times and Friday arrangements. Many residents pray locally on most days and plan visits to Masjid an-Nabawi around their schedule.
    • Getting around. Try the Madinah Bus network for one regular trip and compare it with driving or ride-hailing. See our getting around guide.
    • Children’s routines. If you have school-age children, start on school registration early. See our schools and tutoring guide for how registration generally works.

    Printable first-month checklist

    • ☐ Absher login and mobile number verified
    • ☐ Tawakkalna installed
    • ☐ Local SIM in your own name
    • ☐ National Address registered and short address saved
    • ☐ Sehhaty set up for each family member
    • ☐ Nearest primary care centre and emergency department saved
    • ☐ 937 saved in your contacts
    • ☐ Electricity and water accounts confirmed with your landlord
    • ☐ Bank account opened
    • ☐ Local masjid and a regular transport route sorted

    A gentle note for new residents

    Madinah is a city many people love deeply. A calm, respectful approach (patience in crowded areas, following official instructions, and consideration for neighbors and visitors) helps you settle in, not just to an address but into a community.

    More guides are on the Living in Madinah homepage.

    General information only. Procedures are set by the relevant authorities and may change; always confirm on official channels.

    Sources