With about 135 diplomatic missions and numerous oil companies, expats moving to Libya will find themselves in the company of a sizeable and close-knit foreign community, although Libya remains a largely unpopular posting.

Expats should note that Libya is a Muslim nation, and it follows that nightlife is limited, alcohol is banned and eating out is nowhere near as frivolous an experience as in Europe or the States.

Most expats moving to Libya are concentrated in Tripoli, nearby Janzour, or in Benghazi.

It is rare that foreigner’s relocate to the nation without confirmed employment, most of which is relegated to the hydrocarbon or construction industries.

As a result, many expats have the benefit of having their accommodation, visa, healthcare and even the education and schooling of their children arranged by a relocation agency or by their employer.

It is important to pay careful attention to possible perks when arranging your expat package, as services that would satisfy expat standards are often considerably more expensive than what’s normally available to the Libyan local.

Safety in Libya is not a major concern, though driving should certainly be a source of caution.

On the whole, expats moving to Libya find themselves fairly evenly divided between those that love living in Libya, and those that actively scheme to leave at the earliest opportunity.

As always it really comes down to one’s ability to adapt and be flexible and open to the new culture. One thing is certain though: Libya will not suit someone looking for a vibrant modern city, replete with cultural, retail and nightlife opportunities. Libya is a developing country, and living successfully here means relinquishing Western standards, and tuning into the more laid-back rhythms of Libyan life.