How is the life of a Hindu in Saudi Arabia?
Life of a non-muslim woman in Saudi is not as bad as people exaggerate. My dad works there so I've been to Riyadh twice . People respect women a lot. Once, we had to inevitably cross a busy road, and while we were waiting, all the cars stopped. No matter at what speed they were driving, they didn't bother about the traffic jam it was causing behind, but patiently waited for us (3 women) to cross safely. Also once when our car broke down, they didn't let anyone except my dad get off and pushed the car all the way to the mechanic which was a few metres away.Only thing which I had to get adjusted to was wearing the Abaya whenever we went out. It was uncomfortable initially but I got used to it. In, Riyadh it is not compulsory for non Muslims to cover their heads except at some restricted places.There are seperate queues for men, women and families almost everywhere like cash counters, entrances in hotels and parks etc. We had to keep track of prayer timings as small shops completely shut down while bill counters in the larger shops closed down during the prayer time. Since I am a vegetarian, it is extremely difficult to find good vegetarian food. Food joints like KFC and Subway have nothing in veg except French Fries. There are some Indian restaurants that serve good Indian Veg food.We watched serials and movies on the net as there are no public cinema theatres. Language was a bit problematic as some people cannot converse in English and We don't know Arabic, but it is manageable.Overall we did have a good time in Riyadh.Edit: Forgot to mention that there are no trial rooms in the stores. Some places have trial rooms for men but none have for women. So we have to take the clothes home, try it on, come back and get it exchanged if not satisfied.
How is life in Dammam Saudi Arabia?
First of all , I am an Indian. Since I came to Dammam, Saudi Arabia about two and half years back. Now I am working here in electrical based company. then come to our topic, life in Dammam? Its pretty enjoyable life going on. You should be learn some important facts about Dammam city.Dammam city is located near to Arabian sea, so Humidity is very high compared to other cities in Saudi Arabia.Living cost is very low here compared other cities in Saudi Arabia.Due to the presence of sea, In Summer times and winter times hot and cold conditions are comparatively low in level with other cities in Saudi Arabia .Dammam city is the one of the largest city in Saudi Arabia after Riyadh and Jeddah.SEIKO Market located at the Dammam center, this market considered as the one of the oldest market located in eastern region of Saudi Arabia.Dammam is the city where explored the Oil reserves first in Saudi Arabia at 1938, March 3 by the help of American Geologists. The Exact Place where explore the oil ,known as Dammam 7.Two main Industrial areas located in this City, 1st Industrial and 2nd Industrial Areas. Many renowned multi national companies production areas working there. Dammam industrial areas considered as very large productive areas in Saudi Arabia after Yambu and Jubail Industrial Areas.Many beautiful beaches are located in Dammam city. Half moon beach located near khobar area,its very famous in all around the Saudi Arabia.You can find out good hotels, good leisure places,good show rooms and Good Markets in this beautiful City. and life is very comfortable in this city.Crime rates are very low here compared to other cities in Saudi Arabia.Peoples are very lovable and helpful mentality peoples.This city night lights are very attractive and blissful.Many tourist attractive areas are here.The Main thing about Dammam city is cost of food items are very cheap .but foods are very famous for their taste.These facts are all about Dammam city.Pictures: http://www.google.sa
What is it like to be an Indian living in Saudi Arabia?
Well I haven't lived there myself, but my boyfriend since two years , and a few other friends have lived there their whole lives. His parents are still settled there. Before meeting him I had the notion that people in countries like saudi arabia are extremely orthodox, who impose their rules on women (especially the fact that women aren't allowed to drive cars, or roam around without burqas).All of it was changed, when I met someone who came from that country.Men from Saudi Arabia respect women. The women there enjoy perks that even we don't. So for them, the burqa and not being allowed to drive is only a small price to pay. and although the Kingdom doesn't promote tourism, (for obvious reasons) it has some very beautiful destinations. Opportunities are ample, with lucrative packages and perks. Especially for expats from India.Also, MAJORITY of expats in saudi arabia are Indians, especially south Indians ( just a personal observation). There are some really good schools that are based on the Indian curriculum, and almost all students are Indians. I have friends from Jeddah and Riyadh, so my answer is specifically about these two cities. Another shocking fact for me was, Alcohol is completely banned!!! No Valentine's Day celebrations allowed, even wearing anything red or selling anything red ( roses, heart shaped balloons etc.) is strictly not allowed. And unlike India, Laws are firmly imposed, and punishments harsh. If you are a non-muslim, there are no public places for your religion, like temples,churches, nothing. You are not allowed to practice your worshipping in public. But from what all the Indian friends who hail from saudi arabia have to say for the country, I can only say that it's an amazing place to be.
What are the good and bad neighborhoods of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia?
It depends where is your work, North of Riyadh or South … etc.most of Riyadh good and of course different in rent prices, In general old downtown - Batha is favored for Asians , New downtown Olaya and Sulimaniyah is good too for multinationals , aria like Naseem & Nazeem mostly not recommended + JaradiahCheck with new colleagues and real estate office , they will give more advice depend on your company locationGood luck
What are the good and bad neighborhoods of Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia?
Depends on ur nationality & marital status. Most Indians and Pakistanis live in Khobar shmaleya. Thuqba is full of singles and workers.Raka, doha, olaya, bandareya, golden belt are best, yet more expensive in rental
Is it safe to work in soudi Arabia, Riyadh for an Indian?
The laws are sticrt so it is safe to stay and work in Saudi. But if you were to ask how comfortable you feel while in Saudi, the answer depends on several factors e.g. big city or a small town?Most of the cities have rules but followeres are few. Take for example driving rules are not followed at all. You only have to figure out how to come back home unscathed. It is downright scary to be caught by police because you do not know what to expect. I have stayed for many years in muscat and was driving there without undue worry. Police in muscat treat Indians like their own but the same can not be said about saudis. Saudi police do not speak English so its difficult to deal with them. I have taken a PR in Canada and the level of comfort and trust in the authorities is much more as compared to the feeling about them here.I discovered that sensitivity to all issues is lesser than in most of the developed countries be it social, political or econimical. There is a general apathy towards expatriates. Many locals do not treat expatriates with kindness and do not like that expatriates take money to their country. They feel we need to go back. With this undercurrent, love and respect which nourishes us is lost.Life is pretty uncomplicated. World’s best brands are available. Within your compund wall you can meet up friends, celebrate holi diwali and play dandiaAll ladies don burka with no exception. They close shops, malls during the prayer time 5 times during the day and it is bothersome as it takes longer time to finish shopping. They lifted ban on women to drive recently. You will not find many women venturing out alone like in other countires. They either go with a group or a male escort like father brother or husband.Excellent opportunity to earn & save money with not many social events. Cinema theatures recently opened. Many big cars on the road, public transport means are limited. You will not find many people walking, cycling. The concern for future or protection of envirnment, plastic etc appears to be less.But it is one of the family oriented countries where you can spend more time with your family.
7000 Saudi Riyals Per Month a Good Salary in Riyadh?
Is monthly basic salary of 7000 SAR good enough for a fine standard of living in riyadh? I am married and having 2 kids. The offer is 7000 SAR + 25% of basic as accomodation allowance + 10% as transportation allowance. Please suggest.
What would be the average monthly expenditure for a single guy working in Saudi Arabia?
First of all, the way you spend in Saudi Arabia depends on your job and salary. Considering you are titled to a decent job and live a not so lavish life style your monthly expenditure can be within 1000-1500. This amount is split for rent, transportation, food and clothing. It would be better to keep some amount apart for saving and hospital expenses.Out of the four food and clothing is the cheapest. Your total cost for this could be between 150-200 and this is if you buy food from outside every single day. If you plan on making it on your own then it will be anywhere between 100-150; including your spending on clothes.Transportation expenditure depends on if you own a car or not. If you own a car then you need to spend only on oil and it's very cheap in Saudi Arabia. On the other hand if you travel by taxi then considering your to and fro travel takes atleast 20 riyals then your total expenditure on travel alone will be 600 riyals. Remember this is by taking into considering the minimum rate. It could vary if your destinations are far from each other. For your travel by car it will be way lesser than this. Probably at the maximum of 400 riyals.Your accommodation rent will be lower if you share an apartment. Since you're a bachelor a shared apartment would be a better choice. Considering you share an apartment this will cost you a maximum of 700 riyals a month.At the end of the month, thinking you take the less expensive choices your total expenditure will be - 700 + 400 + 150 = 1250 SR. Giving you a balance of 250 riyals for any unexpected expenses and some amount as saving for any future expenses or for family.Hope this answer helps :)