Moving to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

"My advice would be to take it easy - your company should do most of the work although on arrival be ready for an information overload as well as not sleeping very well in the first few weeks and don't worry it takes a few weeks to settle but you will adapt very quickly and get out there ! join every club etc you can ! it is hard to meet people and always remember your manners as it stands to you for the next invite," said one expat in Riyadh.

"**Think ahead. Don't accept something that bothers you even a little bit! It will irritate you later if you get homesick. **Watch for location of Mosques, visit you "new" villa during prayer time so you can see how loud it is or how busy the streets become on a friday morning. ** Neighbours, I am not a stereotypical person and I love everyone.. until there kids are playing on your doorstep at 3 am or there parties have the police next door.. this is not scary at home, but here it may invite unwelcome complications. Though most officers are understanding," said one expat who made the move to Riyadh.

"Riyadh is a conservative city, so expats should be aware of the local customs and dress appropriately. Expats should also be aware that alcohol is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia. It is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, as well as the restrictions on public behavior. Expats should also be aware that Riyadh is a very hot city, so it is important to stay hydrated and dress appropriately for the weather. Additionally, expats should be aware that the public transportation system in Riyadh is limited, so it is important to have a car or other means of transportation. Finally, expats should be aware that the cost of living in Riyadh is relatively high, so it is important to budget accordingly," explained one expat living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"Riyadh is a great place to live, with plenty of options for housing. One of the best ways to find a place to live in Riyadh is to use online resources such as websites like Expat.com, which offer listings of available apartments and houses for rent. Additionally, you can also search for housing on classifieds websites such as OLX and Craigslist. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a suitable place to live in Riyadh. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Riyadh for recommendations on where to look for housing," replied a member in Riyadh.

"We found a larger private villa after being in a small compound. It cost the same and now we have our own pool without the harrassment of kids. (Parents allow them to run wild here, with or without supervision to all hours of the night.)," commented one expat who made the move to Riyadh.

"I live in a three bedroom villa. yes for my company it is as they provide their own accomodation," said one expat in Riyadh.

"We live in a large 5 bedroom private villa with drivers quarters. This is not typical for expatriates. Though a pool and stuff is essential for any expatriate family. But in this area (Al Maseef) it is the norm," said one expat who made the move to Riyadh.

"By comparison for the size of the house it is much cheaper here. Though for normal housing the price is virtually the same. (keep in mind you should ALWAYS have housing included in your package, this way you can upgrade if you don't like it with little out of pocket expense.)," explained one expat living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"The cost of housing in Riyadh varies depending on the area and type of accommodation. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Riyadh is quite high, with prices ranging from around SAR 5,000 to SAR 15,000 per month. Buying a property in Riyadh is also expensive, with prices ranging from around SAR 1,000,000 to SAR 10,000,000," said one expat in Riyadh.

"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Riyadh, it is important to consider the cost of living, the availability of housing, and the lifestyle you wish to lead. Buying a home in Riyadh can be a great investment, as the city is growing rapidly and property values are increasing. However, it is important to consider the cost of purchasing a home, as well as the cost of maintenance and upkeep. Renting a home in Riyadh can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to live in the city without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility, as you can move to a different area of the city if your needs change. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Riyadh should be based on your individual needs and preferences," remarked one expat in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"I didn't bring anything, but I wish I had brought my music, movies and an assortment of clothes (ladies items)," remarked one expat in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"When moving to Riyadh, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack light, breathable clothing that covers your arms and legs, as well as a scarf or shawl to cover your head. Bring comfortable shoes that are suitable for walking in the desert heat. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also essential for protection from the sun. Additionally, it is important to bring a few items that will help you feel at home, such as pictures of family and friends, books, and music. Finally, make sure to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport and visa," said one expat in Riyadh.

"I wish i bought more Barry's Tea :), books and music ..... I wish i left half my clothes at home SHOPPING IS ACE OVER HERE," remarked one expat who made the move to Riyadh.

"Only faux paux I've made was offer my hand in a congratulatory shake to a 'holy man' who I've come to know here. Now, I know these guys aren't allowed to touch women, but I'd gotten caught up in the moment and forgot lol," said one expat in Riyadh.

"In Riyadh, it is important to be mindful of cultural norms and customs. It is important to dress modestly, especially for women, and to avoid wearing revealing clothing. It is also important to respect the local customs and traditions, such as not drinking alcohol or engaging in public displays of affection. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, such as not taking photographs of people without their permission. Finally, it is important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices, such as not eating in public during Ramadan," remarked one expat who made the move to Riyadh.

"Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is an attractive destination for expats due to its modern infrastructure, low cost of living, and diverse job opportunities. The city is home to a variety of international companies, making it an ideal place for those looking to further their career. Additionally, Riyadh is a culturally rich city, with a variety of attractions and activities to explore. The city also offers a safe and secure environment, with a low crime rate and a strong sense of community. With its modern amenities, low cost of living, and diverse job opportunities, Riyadh is an attractive destination for expats looking to start a new life abroad," said one expat living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"Healthcare services in Riyadh, are characterized by a mix of public and private facilities, offering a wide range of medical services to both citizens and expatriates. The city is home to several large government hospitals, such as King Fahad Medical City and King Saud Medical City, which provide comprehensive healthcare services, including specialized treatments and surgeries. These public hospitals are well-equipped and staffed by highly qualified medical professionals. In addition to public hospitals, Riyadh also has numerous private hospitals and clinics that cater to various medical needs. These private facilities often provide more personalized care and shorter waiting times, albeit at a higher cost. Some of the well-known private hospitals in the city include the Saudi German Hospital and the Kingdom Hospital. Riyadh's healthcare services also extend to specialized centers for various medical fields, such as the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, which focuses on oncology, organ transplantation, and genetic diseases. The city also has several dental clinics, physiotherapy centers, and maternity hospitals. Pharmacies are widely available throughout Riyadh, with many operating 24 hours a day. These pharmacies stock a wide range of medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. The Saudi government has been investing heavily in healthcare infrastructure and services, aiming to improve the overall quality of healthcare in the country. This includes the construction of new hospitals, upgrading existing facilities, and implementing telemedicine services to reach remote areas. In summary, healthcare services in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, are diverse and well-developed, with a combination of public and private facilities catering to various medical needs. The government's ongoing investment in healthcare infrastructure and services ensures that the city's residents have access to quality medical care," wrote one expat living in Riyadh.

"If you need medical care, go back to the US or to Europe, if you can afford it. Both medical and dental care are substandard. If you can find doctors trained in the US, that is no assurance that they are qualified. The licensing program and qualifications are sketchy, at best," commented one expat who moved to Riyadh.

"Medical services in Riyadh, are generally of high quality, with numerous public and private hospitals and clinics available throughout the city. The healthcare system is well-funded, and many facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by skilled medical professionals. Both Saudi nationals and expatriates have access to healthcare services, although expats may need to secure private health insurance to cover their medical expenses. Some hospitals in Riyadh are internationally accredited, and many medical professionals have received training from prestigious institutions abroad. However, there may be long waiting times for certain treatments in public hospitals, and language barriers can be an issue for non-Arabic speakers. Overall, Riyadh offers a reliable and advanced healthcare system for its residents and visitors," remarked one expat in Riyadh.