What are the disadvantages of living in Saudi Arabia?

Is it difficult to live in Saudi Arabia?

Local culture in Saudi Arabia

Moving to Saudi Arabia can be daunting, even if you're a seasoned expat. It's a conservative Islamic country and you'll probably find that many customs from back home are more strictly regulated. The culture shock can be tempered by living in an expat compound.

Is it worth moving to Saudi?

Are you considering relocating to Saudi Arabia? Working and living in this country can be a great experience, with attractive benefits such as tax-free salaries, career development prospects, and opportunities to travel. You'll benefit from hot weather throughout the year and generous employment packages.

What are the do's and don ts in Saudi Arabia?

Alcohol is banned. Women should wear an Abaya in public, but headscarves are not compulsory any longer. You should refrain from holding hands and public displays of affection. This is also applicable in the UAE and the GCC.

Why people are moving to Saudi Arabia?

Expats mostly move to Saudi Arabia for financial reasons and tend to congregate in Western-style compounds, while earning tax-free salaries. Saudi society is based on Islamic traditions. Because most locals speak English, there's no language barrier for many expats.

What EXPATS need to know - Life in Compounds - Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

What is life like for a woman in Saudi Arabia?

Under the male guardianship system, a man controls a Saudi woman's life from her birth until her death. Every Saudi woman must have a male guardian, normally a father or husband, but in some cases a brother or even a son, who has the power to make a range of critical decisions on her behalf.

What is the average salary in Saudi Arabia?

The average income for expats in Saudi Arabia varies depending on the expat's job and level of experience. According to the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency, the average monthly salary for expats is around 11,000 SAR (3,000 USD) per month.

What is considered rude in Saudi?

Avoid sitting in any position that allows one's shoe to face another person. This is considered insulting. Similarly, it is inappropriate to cross your legs when facing someone. Try to avoid situations in which you will be left alone with a member of the opposite gender (e.g. elevators, cars).

Can you wear shorts in Saudi Arabia?

There is also not officially a dress code in Saudi Arabia for males. If you're wondering “Can I wear shorts in Saudi Arabia” as a man? The answer is technically yes, although during my time there I didn't see a man wearing shorts at all, so you'd probably feel more comfortable in loose trousers.

Is it safe to walk alone in Saudi Arabia?

While it's generally safe, it's always wise to be alert and cautious at all times, especially when walking alone at night.

Is Saudi Arabia friendly to US citizens?

US State Dept Travel Advisory

The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to the threat of missile and drone attacks. Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to terrorism, the risk of arrest based on social media activity, and importation of prohibited items.

Is it safe for Americans to live in Saudi Arabia?

U.S. citizens living and working near military bases and critical civilian infrastructure, particularly near the border with Yemen, are at heightened risk if missile, drone, or rocket attacks reoccur. Terrorism continues to be a concern in Saudi Arabia. Attacks can occur with little or no warning.

Is Saudi Arabia friendly to the US?

The United States and Saudi Arabia enjoy a strong economic relationship. The United States is Saudi Arabia's second largest trading partner, and Saudi Arabia is one of the United States' largest trading partners in the Middle East.

Can you live with your girlfriend in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia does not allow non-married couples to live together, though laws and customs have relaxed in some respects.

What is considered poor in Saudi Arabia?

People are hungry." The Saudi government discloses little official data about its poorest citizens. But press reports and private estimates suggest that between 2 million and 4 million of the country's native Saudis live on less than about $530 a month – about $17 a day – considered the poverty line in Saudi Arabia.

Where do Americans live in Saudi Arabia?

Other American communities are located in the Red Sea port city of Jeddah, a major commercial center. There are smaller American communities in the eastern cities of Dammam, Khobar and Dhahran, serving the local oil fields. Saudi Arabia also has some 5,000 U.S. military personnel.

Can a woman wear jeans in Saudi Arabia?

Jeans are a must-pack for any visit to Saudi Arabia. They're warming, perfect for the cooler winters, particularly in the desert regions and can be dressed up or dressed down. When wearing skinny jeans opt for a top that covers your hips and bum or opt for a tucked-in t-shirt if wearing mum or a loose-fitting pair.

Is smoking legal in Saudi Arabia?

By law, smoking is prohibited in public places such as governmental institutions and public workplaces. Also, the law states that sales of tobacco and its derivatives are prohibited to minors. Tobacco advertisements, promotions, and sponsorship are banned in Saudi Arabia.

Is it legal to wear a cross in Saudi Arabia?

Items and articles belonging to religions other than Islam are not prohibited, as long as they're just used privately. These include Bibles, crucifixes, statues, carvings, items with religious symbols, and others, although the government's stated policy was that such items were allowed for private religious purposes.

Can you kiss in Saudi Arabia?

Do not show any PDAs (Public Displays of Affection) In Saudi Arabia, it's important to be aware that public displays of affection (PDA) are unacceptable and can be considered disrespectful. PDA can include actions such as hugging, kissing, holding hands, or sitting close to someone of the opposite sex.

What does kissing mean in Saudi Arabia?

This indicates trust, intimacy and respect in the friendship. It is not performed unless people are deeply loyal to one another. Greetings between Saudi women tend to be very affectionate, involving hugs and two or three kisses on each cheek.

Is eye contact rude in Saudi Arabia?

Eye Contact: When talking to people of the same age, gender or status, direct eye contact is expected. Strong eye contact indicates sincerity and trust, especially in business. However, males and females are expected to lower their gaze and avoid sustained eye contact with each other.

Which job is highly paid in Saudi Arabia?

Hospital and health sector jobs are the highest paid jobs in Saudi Arabia, and the most sought-after jobs in the health sector are: General Doctors. Nurses.

Which job is most demand in Saudi?

What are the working hours in Saudi Arabia?

Normal Working Hours. The standard working hour of an employee shall not exceed 8 hours a day and 48 hours per week (exclusive of overtime). The working days shall be 6 or 5 days a week according to the working conditions determined by the company.