Moving to Saudi Arabia

Expats seldom move to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the cultural experience, the weather, the food or any of the enticements other expat destinations offer. Westerners tend to come here for the tax-free salaries and while earning it remain sequestered in Western-style compounds far removed from Saudi life.

This is perhaps the most important thing to realise: you are not moving to Saudi Arabia at all, rather a transient western colony that amalgamates and magnifies the best and worst of life back home. Expat life is intensely social as fellow immigrants form strong, quickly-formed bonds and weekends are centred on compound get togethers, trips to the desert and diving excursions. The camaraderie and parties are second to none; but the artificial lifestyle is difficult to sustain for long.

Nevertheless, this is one of the very places on earth where expats outnumber tourists, except of course, during the Hajj when millions of Muslims from all over the world make a pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam.

Saudis take their religion very seriously. The country is governed by sharia law, and Islam is closely interwoven with daily life. It is essential that the expat becomes familiar with Islamic customs and laws to avoid transgression and the consequences thereof.

Most expats live in Jeddah and Riyadh both of which have the full range of western amenities, from Starbucks to Toys "R" Us, a wide range of accommodation, and the majority of Saudi Arabia’s employers.

Working and living in Saudi Arabia is best treated as an adventure and new life experience. The key is make sure one is going for the right reason – if it’s solely to make money, think again. Expats need to see a move to Saudi as a package of career advancement, cultural experience, and financial enrichment.