Saudi Arabia, a welcoming destination to expats?

Cheryl Moderator

Member since 15 October 2018

CherylModerator16 April 2025 06:40:02

13240

Hello everyone,

Settling in Saudi Arabia, like every new environment, can feel like stepping into the unknown and brings many questions: how will it go, how to integrate successfully, etc.
To help smooth this transition, we invite you to share your experience since you landed in Saudi Arabia, whether recently or a long ago:

What was your first impression when you arrived?

Did you face any challenges while integrating? Any advice on how to overcome them?

Are there any support programs, groups or events to help newcomers settle in?

Do you find it easy to make friends or connections with locals and fellow expats?

What makes Saudi Arabia a welcoming destination for expats?

Share your insights and experience.

Thank you for your contribution.

Cheryl
草榴社区 Team

Sheltonacla46 New member

Member since 27 March 2025

Sheltonacla46New member24 April 2025 14:36:57

I spent the last two years working in Saudi first in Riyadh and ended up in Daharan. Working with the Ministries was difficult since there are no direct hires for expats. You are required to go through a third party service.聽 The service did not have English speaker so I had problems with expired visas, travel out of country was difficult and banking was unpredictable. My last paycheck was for 20k Riyals was deposited into my Riyadh Bank account the day I departed. The next day I tried to retrieve my funds but my account had been closed without my knowledge. I have several thousand U.S. Dollars lost.聽 Will never work in Saudi again.

Pintusharmag14 New member

Member since 01 December 2024

Pintusharmag14New member26 April 2025 02:55:43

@Cheryl

During starting you may feel fear regarding language issue. But people are good in saudi. If you are staying in riyadh, thats the good city who don鈥檛 feel alone there. You will find all over the world community working there. Hope you enjoy..