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INTRODUCING YOU TO

KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

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Self-Help Guide for New Hires of Saudi Arabia

INTRODUCING YOU TO

KINGDOM OF SAUDI
ARABIA
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Table of Contents
Something about Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Little Facts and Figures
Agriculture and Water
Economy and Global Trade

School and Education

Health and Social Services
Government Ministries

Brought to You by:

Corporate Human Resource Department
Training & Organization Development Division

Picture Gallery Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Family Parks & Nature
Desert Lands outside Cities
Infrastructures & Roads

Riyadh City Pictures

Jeddah City Pictures
Other Cities Pictures

Shopping Experience in Saudi Arabia

Overview of Shopping Malls
Commodity Pricing Fresh Vegetable Items
Commodity Pricing Chicken, Meat & Sea Food
Commodity Pricing Electronic Items
Commodity Pricing Other Basic Items

Frequently Asked Questions

About living in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Your Social Life & Sporting Activities
About Culture, Limitations & Restrictions
General Thoughts & Raising Questions
All About Money & Finance

Something About Saudi Arabia

Note:
Please click on your desired interest

Health &
Social
Services

Govt.
Ministries
Agriculture &
Water

School &
Education

Economy & Global

Trade

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Little Facts
& Figures

Little Facts about Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The largest country in the Arabian Peninsula and
absolute TAX FREE Economy.
Saudi Arabias population is 27 million.
Estimated 8.4 million foreign residents (2010).
Forests, Grasslands, Mountain ranges and Deserts.
Climate varies from region to region.

Temperatures can reach over 110 degrees

Fahrenheit / 44 Celsius in the desert.
Winter temperatures in the north and central parts
of the country can drop below freeze point.
Capital City is Riyadh.
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Agriculture & Water in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Large areas of desert have been

turned into agricultural fields.
Saudi Arabias agricultural development
over the last three decades has been
astonishing.
These efforts collectively have helped
transform vast tracts of the desert into
fertile farmland.

Today, Saudi Arabia exports wheat, dates, dairy products, eggs, fish, poultry, fruits,
vegetables and flowers to markets around the world.

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Economy & Global Trade - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabias free market economy
has undergone remarkable changes in a
relatively short period of time.
Saudi Arabia is the worlds largest
producer and exporter of oil.
Exporting petrochemicals, plastics,
metal goods, construction materials and
electrical appliances to some 90
countries.
In December 2005, Saudi Arabia joined the World Trade Organization (WTO), a significant
development that gives Saudi products greater access to global markets, creates jobs and
encourages foreign investment. Today, industrial products make up more than 90 percent of
the Kingdoms non-oil exports.
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School & Education - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabias education system has gone
through an astonishing transformation.
Today, Saudi Arabias education system
includes 24 public and 8 private universities,
some 25,000 schools; and a large number of
colleges and other institutions. The system is
open to all citizens, and provides students with
free education, books and health services.
There are number of foreign schools in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that attracts children of
expats living in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Some British Schools, American Education Systems
and Local Schools from Asia, Far East and other parts of the world are the center of
attraction for expatriates.

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International Schools in Riyadh

Academic System for

Expatriate / Foreign Students in
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Note: In case if you wish to contact these schools for a

conversation, it is recommended to call during morning
hours between 8:00 AM 11:00 AM Local Time. You
may compare time zones at http://time.is/

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This list covers only few schools to give you a fair idea about academic system for
expatriates in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. All the details, Fee structure mentioned under
links are obtained from resources related to the mentioned school.
Please select your desired school.

#01 American International School

#09 Future Window International School

#02 British International School

#10 Manarat Al Riyadh International School

#03 Middle East International School

#11 Pakistan International School

#04 Sri Lankan International School

#12 King Abdul Aziz International School

#05 International Indian School

#13 Bangladesh International School

#06 Kingdom School *Intl Section+

#14 Ghana International School

#07 International Philippine School

#15 Japanese International School

#08 Taqwa International School

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Documentation Required

American International School, Riyadh

As a school committed to excellence and educating and inspiring students to be responsible,
productive and ethical world citizens with the skills and passion to think creatively, reason
critically, communicate effectively and learn continuously.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Website:

966-1- 4914270
http://www.aisr.org/

Fax:
Email:

966-1-4917101
info@aisr.org

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British International School, Riyadh

The British International School located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is a co-educational school,
catering for English-speaking children aged 3 to 18. Based on the National Curriculum of
England and leading to examinations at GCSE and Advanced Level.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Website:

966-1-248-2387 or 248-0386 or 248-1521

http://www.britishschoolriyadh.com

Fax:
Email:

966-1-248-0351
info@britishschoolriyadh.com

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Middle East International School, Riyadh

The mission at MEIS is to offer quality education focusing on all-round development in a
conducive environment to expatriates residing in Riyadh.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Website:

966-1- 4161201
http://www.newmeis.com

Fax:
Email:

966-1- 4627563
info@newmeis.com

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Sri Lankan International School, Riyadh

The aim of Seri Lankan International School is to provide a broad and balanced
environment which enables children to learn and grow academically, physically, socially
and emotionally.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Website:

966-1-4786664
http://www.slisr.org

Fax:
Email:

966-1-2920119
info@slisr.org

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International Indian School, Riyadh

The School is affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education (C.B.S.E), New Delhi,
India and is licensed under the Ministry of Education, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Website:

966-1-4912239, 966-1-2318092
http://www.iisriyadh.com

Fax:
Email:

966-1- 2391882
feedback@iisriyadh.com

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Kingdom School, Riyadh *Intl Section+

The mission at Kingdom School is to contribute to the preparation of a pioneering
generation that is capable of acting & interacting with other cultures, effective in the local
community, and capable of competing in the world community.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Website:

966-1- 2755555
http://www.kingdomschools.edu.sa

Fax:
Email:

966-1-2754444
info@kingdomschools.edu.sa

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International Philippine School, Riyadh

IPSR believes that the ultimate goal of education is towards self-realization of the
optimum development of the student's potential especially in the pursuit of academic
excellence.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Website:

966-1- 4545608, 966-1-2693612

http://www.ipsr.net/

Fax:
Email:

966-1- 4545156
info@ipsr.net
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Taqwa International School, Riyadh

The mission of Taqwa International School is to serve the humanity with excellence
in knowledge and character in obedience to the Creator. To impart knowledge that
builds a God-fearing personality is one of its objectives.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Website:

966-1-2330907
http://www.taqwaschool.org

Fax:
Email:

966-1-2392491
info@taqwaschool.org

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Future Window International School, Riyadh

With over 38 nationalities, providing an ideal setting in which our students can learn
and grow into the responsible citizens who will lead the communities in their
countries in the twenty-first century. Staff and the school community are committed
to ensuring the success of FWIS.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Website:

966-1- 2063324, 966-1- 2063371

http://fwis.edu.sa/

Fax:
Email:

966-1- 2063367
info@fwis.edu.sa

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Manarat Al Riyadh International School, Riyadh

Manarat Al Riyadh International School is an English-medium Saudi Arabian Ministry
of Education accredited private institution that serves a multi-national student
population representing about 40 countries, which brings cultural richness to school.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Website:

966-1- 4540444
http://www.maarif.com.sa

Fax:
Email:

966-1- 4564983
manarat.ksa@hotmail.com

Back to School Index

Pakistan International School, Riyadh

Pakistan International School provides good quality, modern education, including a
strong component of culture, inculcation of values, awareness of environment,
adventure activities and physical education.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Website:

966-1-4414428, 966-1- 4417979,

http://www.pisesriyadh.com/

Fax:
Email:

966-1- 4417272
info@pisesriyadh.com/

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King Abdul Aziz International School, Riyadh

Multinational co-educational, independent, English-medium day school serving both
the local and expatriate communities for students from the age of 3 to 18.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Website:
Email:

http://www.kais-associate-sabis.net/
tmississian@sabis.net

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Bangladesh International School, Riyadh

The Bangladesh International School, English Section, Riyadh (BISES, Riyadh) is a
private school located in Olaya, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It is a British Curriculum based
school. The school was established for students of the Bangladeshi community of
Riyadh in the year 1990.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given phone / fax numbers for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:

966-1- 4036303, 966-1- 4648183

Fax:

966-1- 4642449

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Ghana International School, Riyadh

Its a co-education unit. English is taught by native speakers.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given phone / fax numbers for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:

966-1- 2268360

Fax:

966-1- 2265018

Back to School Index

Japanese International School, Riyadh

The Japanese International School is located at Eastern Ring Road, Exit 15. Details can
be obtained through sending enquiry email to the given email address.
Fee Structure / Schedule of Payment
Enquiry can be raised on given email address for details related to Fee and Admission Criteria.

Phone:
Email:

966-1- 2412591
riyadhjs@nesma.net.sa

Back to School Index

Documentation Required
This depends on the school you have selected for the admission of your child.
Most commonly following documents are required by schools but not limited to:

A copy of fathers passport and ID/Iqama.

A copy of mothers passport and ID/Iqama.
A copy of students passport And ID/Iqama.

A letter from the parents employer/sponsor.

A copy of the Birth Certificate.
A copy of the Vaccination Record.
Recent Photographs.

All Original Academic Documents.

Students are required to provide the original report cards for the last two years, certified by the Ministry of
foreign Affairs of the country of origin and Saudi Embassy or consulate of that country.
Important Note: Most of the international schools ask for attested documents. You must ensure these documents
are attested by the issuing authorities, relevant ministries of country of origin, Saudi Embassy or consulate of that
country in addition/according to the schools policy of admission.
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Health & Social Services - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The establishment of a modern health
care and social services system has been
one of Saudi Arabias most stunning
successes.
The Saudi health care network
provides free care to the general public
and some of the most sophisticated
specialized care available anywhere in
the world.
Saudi hospitals have also been pioneers in other types of organ transplants. One
breakthrough record is the first uterus transplant in the world was performed in Jeddah in
2001.

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Government Ministries - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Interior
Civil Service

Labor
Municipal and Rural Affairs

Petroleum and Minerals

Commerce and Industry
Transport
Higher Education
Pilgrimage
Culture and Information
Justice

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Agriculture

Health
Education
Foreign Affairs
Water and Electricity
Communications & IT
Defense and Aviation
Islamic Affairs
Finance
Economy and Planning
Social Affairs

Picture Gallery
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

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Picture Gallery Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia

Riyadh City

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Jeddah City

Other Cities

Parks & Nature

Desert Lands

Infrastructures

Riyadh City

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Jeddah City

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Al-Khobar, Damamm, Jubail and Burraidah Al Qassim City

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Al Khobar City

Jubail Industrial City

Damamm City

Burraidah Al Qassim City

Family Parks & Nature

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Desert Lands outside Cities

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Roads / Infrastructure in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

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Shopping Experience in Saudi Arabia

Note:
Please click on your desired interest
Malls in
Saudi
Arabia
Fresh Fruit
Items
Vegetable
Items
Other
Basic
Commodity

Chicken, Meat
and Sea Food
Items
Electronic Items

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Prices are as of July 31, 2011. Variation can be

observed based on quality of products and selection
of stores. Some product prices are based on offseason product rates.

MALLS IN SAUDI ARABIA

Undoubtedly one can find world-class state of art

built shopping centers around the Kingdom. It will
not be easy for visitor to select between beauty,
and architecture of these modern shopping
centers.

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Overview of Shopping Malls

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FRESH VEGETABLE ITEMS

Onion Red From USD 0.25 / Per KG

Potatoes From USD 0.85 / Per KG

Egg Plant From USD 0.45 / Per KG

Lemon From USD 1.50 Per KG

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Cucumber From USD 01 / Per KG

Cabbage From USD 0.70 / Per KG

FRESH FRUIT ITEMS

Red Apples From USD 1.20 / Per KG

Bananas From USD 0.65 / Per KG

Grapes From USD 01.30 /KG

Pineapples From USD 01.20 /KG

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Naval Oranges From USD 0.65 / KG

Kiwi From USD 01.50 /KG

CHICKEN, MEAT & SEAFOOD

Ground Beef From USD 05 / Per KG

Beef Cubes From USD 05 / Per KG

Chicken 1000G - From USD 03 / Per KG

Ch/Beef Franks From USD 01

Sardine Fish From USD 01 /KG

Egyptian Tilapia From USD 2.5 /KG

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OTHER BASIC COMMODITIES

Rice From USD 01 / Per KG

Macaroni From USD 01 / Per KG

Whole Milk From USD 01 / Ltr.

Cooking Oil From USD 1.5 / Ltr.

All Purpose Flour From USD 01 / KG.

Water - 600ML by 24PC - From USD 03

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ELECTRONIC ITEMS

Nikon CoolPix L120 From USD 325

iPhone4 - 16 GB From USD 650

iPod Touch - 32 GB - From USD 340

Laptops From USD 300

Samsung Galaxy ACE From USD 300

BB Curve 8520 - From USD 170

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Frequently Asked Questions

Note:
Please click on your desired interest

General
Thoughts

Money
&
Finance

Social Life
& Sports

Culture,
Limitations,
Restrictions
Living in
Kingdom

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Frequently Asked Question

About Living in the Kingdom

Is it ok to come to Saudi Arabia if I dont know Arabic Language?
Who makes up the expatriate community?
Where will I live?
What Religions are practiced in Saudi Arabia?
What are some of the major Cities in Kingdom?
Do Camels walk on street inside the City?

Can I drive a car in Saudi Arabia?

Can I bring a Pet in Saudi Arabia?
Will I be safe in Saudi Arabia?

Should I register with my country's embassy or consulate in Saudi Arabia?

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Frequently Asked Question

Social Life and Sports

What is the Social Life Like?
What is the food like?
What type of Sports are Available?
Can I leave the Kingdom on vacation whenever I want?
Are there trips to Deserts and will I see Camels?
Where can I go in my Off Days?
Is English-Language reading material available?

Are there any types of books or DVDs that are illegal in Saudi Arabia?
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Frequently Asked Question

Culture, Limitations, Restrictions

How should I dress when I am in Saudi Arabia?
Should I really cover my face and just show my eyes?
Is that true that I am not allowed to speak with opposite gender?
Other than dress, is there anything else I should be aware of?
As a woman, can I leave the housing complex by myself?

Is drinking alcohol legal in Saudi Arabia?

Is smoking cigarettes legal in Saudi Arabia?

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Frequently Asked Question

General Thoughts
I have tattoos/facial piercings/body piercings. Is this a problem?
What is available in the stores?
How is the healthcare system in KSA organized?

What is the voltage in Saudi Arabia?

Will I be able to phone home as soon as I get to Saudi Arabia?

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Frequently Asked Question

Money & Finance

What is the currency in Saudi Arabia?
What does "tax-free income" mean?
How easy is it to open a bank account?
Can I use my ATM card?
Can I use credit cards in Saudi Arabia?
How can I send money home?

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Q: Is it ok to come to Saudi Arabia if I cant speak Arabic?

It is absolutely ok. Both Arabic & English are considered as official
languages in most of the offices. One can find English speaking people
almost everywhere including cab/taxi drivers, shopping malls,
government relations, restaurants, gyms etc.
English is the language of operation in most hospitals and translators
are available to communicate with patients who do not speak English.

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Q: Who makes up the expatriate community?

The expatriate community in Saudi Arabia is made up of citizens from
around the world: Arab Countries, Americans, Canadians, Australians,
British, German, Irish, Egyptians, Indians, Pakistanis, Sri Lankans,
Bangladeshis, Filipinos, Malaysians, South Africans, etc. In total, the
expat population in Saudi Arabia is approximately 8.4 million
individuals.

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Q: Where will I live?

Most expatriate staff live in hospital housing or in a private housing
complex (commonly called a compound). A compound is an area of
private property that is similar to a gated community. The sizes of
compounds vary. and go as you please. Some will have only the
residential facilities, while others will have pools, fitness facilities,
tennis courts, salons, and grocery stores. Like a gated community,
youre free to come.
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Q: What is the Social Life Like?

Like anywhere else, the social life in Saudi Arabia is what you make of
it. There are organized trips to historical sites, sports competitions,
and other recreational activities. Dinner parties, desert parties, and
beach parties are common. It must be noted, however, that unmarried
couples may not travel or dine together off-compound without being in
the company of a married couple (there are many married couples in
Saudi Arabia).

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Q: What type of Sports are Available?

There are endless opportunities to get and stay fit. There are
organized athletic events, such as tennis, running, rugby, and
soccer. Fitness clubs are widely available.
There are grass and sand golf courses, such as at the Intercontinental
Hotel (where both men and women play).

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Q: What Religions are practiced in Saudi Arabia?

Islam is the official religion of Saudi Arabia. Prayer call occurs five times
per day and during this period, shops and restaurants close for 20
minutes to allow workers to pray. Many expatriates living in Riyadh are
from Muslim countries. The legal system is based on Sharia law.

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Q: How should I dress when I am in Saudi Arabia?

For men, all clothing worn in public areas (e.g., outside the hospital
grounds and housing complexes) should be conservative. This means
no sleeveless shirts, no shorts, etc.
For women, they are required to wear an abaya (a dark, lightweight
cloak that drapes over your clothing) and a scarf that covers the hair
when they are in public areas.
Non-Muslim expatriate women are not required to veil. Abayas (and
scarves) can be purchased at low prices throughout Saudi Arabia.
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Sample Abaya Designs

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Q: Should I really cover my face and just show my eyes?

No, not as a rule.
Some more conservative towns may require women to cover their
face. In most of the cities, it depends on your own choice.
At work, staff are required to wear uniform. While shopping, females
have to wear an Abaya and cover their hair.

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Q: Is that true that I am not allowed to speak with opposite gender?

No, there are no such restrictions.
At work, of course you will have to talk to a lot of people around you.
While on off duty/shopping or traveling within the Kingdom, it is
recommended to talk to people only when required.
Socializing with the opposite genders without having (documented)
relations is prohibited.
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Note: You can talk to whomsoever you like to talk considering the cultural guidelines.

Q: Can I leave the Kingdom on vacation whenever I want?

While you are waiting to receive your residency permit (i.e., Iqama),
which now usually takes couple of weeks (but can take months), you
may not leave the country.
Also, the first three months of employment is a probationary period,
during which you will not be able to take any accrued leave days. After
you obtain a residency permit, you will be able to leave and re-enter
the country for a short trip that doesn't use leave days, e.g., for a
weekend trip to the UAE / Bahrain etc.
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Q: Where can I go in my Off Days?

Geographically, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the center of the world.
You may choose to go wherever you want to go in your off days.
Many people choose to go for a short trip clubbing one or two days
with their weekend. One can find many groups and travel agents who
offer short trips within Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan,
Qatar etc.
Many people choose to drive by car to most of the above mentioned
places for a short holiday.
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Q: What are some of the major Cities in Kingdom?

Riyadh - the capital of the Kingdom.
Abha a tourist mountain resort city in southwest near the Yemeni border.
Dhahran - home of Saudi Aramco, the world's largest petroleum company.
Jeddah - a large metropolitan city on the Red Sea.
Jubail - the largest industrial city in the kingdom.
Mecca - the holiest city of Islam
Medina - the site of the Prophet's (P.B.U.H) Mosque.
Najran - a Yemeni-influenced city with a remarkable fortress.
Taif - the moderate size mountain town and popular resort area
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Q: Are there trips to Deserts and will I see Camels?

There are many people who organize and schedule group trips to the
desert. You can join one of them or decide to organize your own trip.
Camels can be found along the road in the desert and Camel Markets.

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Q: Do Camels walk on street inside the City?

No, you will not find unattended camels inside the city.
You may see some of them traveling in huge cars but you will not find
camels walking in urban areas.

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Q: Is English-Language reading material available?

There are daily English papers: Arab News, Saudi Gazette, and Riyadh
Daily. There are several English-language bookstores, of which the
stock can vary. There are many book-sharing clubs among expats.
Books can also be ordered online from websites such as Amazon.com.

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Q: Are there any types of books or DVDs that are illegal in Saudi Arabia?

Do not bring books which are critical of Saudi Arabia or which are
politically controversial into the country.
Pornography is strictly prohibited. If your books have covers or
pictures that may be offensive, remove them. DVDs may be checked at
customs.

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Q: Can I drive a car in Saudi Arabia?

Women are not permitted to drive in Saudi Arabia. There are free
shuttle buses provided by the employer to and from residential areas
to common shopping destinations throughout the city. Taxis are readily
available.
Men, on the other hand, can apply for a drivers license when in Saudi
Arabia and can even purchase a car.

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Note: Those who wish to apply for driving license or buy a car can take courtesy help from the
transportation department of HMG.

Q: Can I bring a Pet?

People on single-status contracts who are in shared accommodation

cannot bring any pets. People on married-contracts who are not in
shared housing may be able to bring one pet, depending on the rules
of the housing complex, but the couple would be responsible for all
expenses and arrangements for its transportation to Saudi Arabia and
any damages the pet may cause.

Dogs, regardless of their breed, may only enter Saudi Arabia if their
paperwork describes them as watch dogs, hunting dogs, or seeing-eye
dogs for the blind and hearing dogs for deaf persons.
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Note: A number of Pet Stores with a great range of Birds, Pets and other animals are available in
Saudi Arabia in case if you wish to adopt one here.

Q: I have tattoos/facial piercings/body piercings. Is this a problem?

No. However, its best to keep tattoos covered. Piercings in nontraditional locations (e.g., the eyebrow, lips) may be frowned upon.

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Q: Other than dress, is there anything else I should be aware of?

Definitely do not take pictures of any government buildings, or Saudi
adults or children.
During Ramadan (the annual month of fasting), dont eat or drink in
public places during daylight hours.

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Q: What is available in the stores?

Most things that are available in North America are available in Saudi
Arabia, with the exception of items that are prohibited, such as
alcohol, pornography, and pork products.
High-end designer clothing and sportswear is easy to find. The
Kingdom also has many good tailors who can make items for you.
Electronics stores abound, selling the latest in computer, audio, and
video equipment. Jewelry shopping in the gold markets is so popular
with expatriates that most leave Saudi Arabia with a sizable gold
collection.
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Back to FAQ Home

Lifestyle in Saudi Arabia

Q: What is the food like?

Saudi Arabia allows expatriates to go on a culinary world tour. In
addition to sampling authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, there is Italian,
French, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Filipino, Mexican, Turkish, and Indian
etc. For a taste of home, the standard American chains such as
McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Dunkin' Donuts, and Dairy Queen are available.
Many of the foods in the supermarket will be familiar to you, from
ketchup to skim milk. Although produce is readily available at
supermarkets, fruit and vegetable markets provide excellent fresh
produce.
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Q: Will I be safe in Saudi Arabia?

Generally, People say they feel safe.
Security controls are very strong through out the Kingdom. Major
places / cities are covered by 24/7 Camera Eyes.
One can find local police almost everywhere. Other than the official
police car with security logo, a great number of security officers are on
rounds (24/7) in civil cars.

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Q: As a woman, can I leave the housing complex by myself?

Of course! There is no requirement for women to travel in groups.

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Q: Should I register with my country's embassy or consulate in

Saudi Arabia?
When traveling abroad one should always register with ones embassy
or consulate. Riyadh is home to all of the government ministries and
foreign embassies. You can also register in advance of traveling abroad.

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Q: How is the healthcare system in KSA organized?

The healthcare system in Saudi Arabia is roughly similar to
international standards. Military hospitals treat members of the armed
forces and their families. University teaching hospitals treat the
general public. Ministry of Health hospital and tertiary-care referral
hospitals treat the general public. Private hospitals treat either specific
populations or are strictly for-profit.
Saudi Arabia is also actively involved in medical research.
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Q: What is the currency in Saudi Arabia?

The currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal, commonly referred to
as the SR. The SR is pegged to the US dollar, and the US exchange
rate is fixed at US$1 = SR3.75.

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Q: What does "tax-free income" mean?

There is no income tax deducted in Saudi Arabia, and there is no sales
tax.

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Q: How easy is it to open a bank account?

The employer will help you open a bank account soon after you
arrive. Money in this account, however, does not earn interest, so if
you wish you can transfer your money to an account outside Saudi
Arabia. Islamic law prohibits earning interest on money.
Islamic banking, however, provides another method for making your
money work for you without violating Islamic law.

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Q: Can I use credit cards in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is generally a cash society, but credit cards are accepted in
most major department stores, major hotels and restaurants.
Generally, outdoor markets do not accept credit cards.

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Q: Can I use my ATM card?

Yes. You can get an ATM card for your local Saudi account.

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Q: How can I send money home?

It is very easy to send money back to your home country or wherever
you want to send. A wide range of money transferring services are
available through banks, agents and international money transferring
franchises around the Kingdom.

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Q: What is the voltage in Saudi Arabia?

The voltage can be either 110 or 220 volts depending on your
accommodation.

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Q: Is drinking alcohol legal in Saudi Arabia?

Alcohol and products containing alcohol are strictly prohibited by
law. (This includes liqueur chocolates!) Bringing them into the
country, and/or purchasing or drinking alcohol is prohibited in Saudi
Arabia.

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Q: Is smoking cigarettes legal in Saudi Arabia?

Smoking is legal in Saudi Arabia, but women cannot smoke in public.

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Q: Will I be able to phone home as soon as I get to Saudi Arabia?

Yes. International phone cards can easily be purchased at most
shopping malls. Phone cards purchased outside the Kingdom do not
always work in the Kingdom.
A SIM Card for cell phones can be easily obtained and used for
international calls and text messages.

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thats the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Corporate Human Resource Department

Training & Organization Development Division