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Managing mailboxes or PO boxes in Saudi Arabia

Cheryl

Hello everyone,

Something as simple as receiving mail can become a whole new experience when you settle in Saudi Arabia as an expat. Mailing management can indeed be different from what you are used to. In order to help other expats and soon-to-be expats, we invite you to share your insights.

How do you receive mail in Saudi Arabia? Do you have a traditional mailbox, a PO Box, or another system?

How was it to set it up and what are the formalities?

Is the postal service reliable and secure?

How do you handle missed deliveries or forwarding your mail?

Do you have any tips you would like to share to newcomers and fellow expats?

Share your insights and experience.

Thank you for your contribution.

Cheryl
º£½ÇÂÒÂ× Team

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Hafidzm

Hi Cheryl & community,


Firstly, I don't live in a compound like most expats so some may not apply to those who live in compounds.


Here’s my Riyadh setup (no PO Box):


How I receive mail


Everyday parcels: Delivered to my National Address. Couriers usually call first.

Sensitive/official items: I pick up at the nearest SPL branch—simple chain-of-custody, bring Iqama.


Setup & formalities


Register/confirm your National Address in the SPL app (Nafath login).

Share your address with banks/employer and save it in delivery apps.

For important documents, select or request branch pickup.


Reliability & security


Door delivery is solid when your location pin is clear.

For anything critical (bank cards, originals), branch pickup feels safest.


Missed deliveries / forwarding


Use the SPL/courier SMS or app to reschedule or switch to branch pickup.

I don’t use mail forwarding—local delivery + branch pickup covers my needs.


How I share my location


I send WhatsApp live location to drivers, or share the National Short Address from the SPL app. Both work great here.


Tips for newcomers


Save your address in Arabic & English and add a clear map pin + landmark.

Keep your phone on (unknown local calls are often drivers).

Check SPL app notifications and branch hours before heading out.

For sensitive mail, default to branch pickup with your Iqama.


Hope this helps—SPL’s app really streamlines things!