Expat Advice: Relocating to Saudi Arabia from Dubai

Relocating can be both a daunting and exciting experience, especially if you are moving to a country or region which you have never visited or know very little about. However, with a bit of research and some first-hand advice, you will be able to make a well-informed decision.

I left London, UK at 24 years, and have lived and worked across the Middle East for the past 5 years. My initial move was to Dubai, the United Arab Emirates in 2014, and in July 2018 I decided to relocate to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to help deliver the Kingdoms 2030 vision. An aspiration to reduce Saudi Arabia's dependence on oil, diversify the economy, and develop public service sectors such as Healthcare, Education, Infrastructure, and Tourism.I know that a lot of people wonder what it’s like to live an ex-pat life in the Middle East, where women are seemingly oppressed, and men walk around brandishing AK47’s. This is far from the truth, and I would like to shed some light on the realities with the hope of providing insight for anyone wanting to live and work in the Kingdom.

General overview

Riyadh is located in the heart of Saudi Arabia and is the capital of the country. The population is estimated at 34 million, of which 8 million are foreigners. Supposedly, 70% of Saudi’s are under the age of 30, which means the country as a whole is pretty young. The climate in Riyadh is harsh, dry with great temperature extremes. I found winters to be a lot colder, however less humid in the summer months in comparison to UAE. I’d say lows of 10 degrees (Celsius) and Highs of 50 degrees (Celsius)! Don’t worry your body will climatize!

Settling in the UAE was a lot easier in contrast to Riyadh. This is largely due to cultural and language differences. Saudi Arabia as a whole has a comparably smaller population of western ex-pats than UAE, which means there are far fewer people speaking fluent English. However, most people are hospitable, welcoming and generally inquisitive especially if you have a thick English accent!

Tip- with improved technology and access to smartphone apps including Google Translate, Uber Eats and Careem (Uber of the Middle East) has really help to overcome day-day challenges. I also use Hunger Station (food delivery), Talabat (food delivery), My STC (mobile) and iPray (prayer times)... I think It's time to learn Arabic! :D”

UAE Visa

Like most countries in the Middle East, most ex-pats are required to be on a sponsored visa. Prior to leaving the UAE, I invested in a Freezone License which allowed me to retain my residency, bank account and Emirates ID. Should you be relocating alone and/or have family in the UAE this is the best way to retain your visa - (there is little or no impact on obtaining your Iqama (Saudi Visa)).

“Tip - There are many different companies who can offer you these services. I chose RAK Freezone, however, some of my colleagues have used TECOM (DCCA), Dubai Silicon Oasis, Fujairah Freezone, Ajman Free Zone etc.”

Living and Accommodation

Most ex-pats prefer living in compounds, which are enclosed and guarded with security, the facilities provide plenty of leisure opportunities. Pools, gyms, and various sports grounds are frequently standard features. Compounds are completely restricted to the public as such women are permitted not to wear abayas and there is no segregation between sexes.

Compounds provide an advantage if you are utilising all the facilities or with family. As a bachelor, I personally prefer living outside the compounds in a mixed (Saudi/Expat) residential/hotel community which provides value for money and aligns better to my lifestyle/budget.

“Tip- Here are several compounds which you may want to consider; Al Bustan Village, Al Ghadeer Compound, Al Hamra Oasis Village, Al Malga Village, Al Nakhla, Al Reem, Al Hamra, Oasis Village, Arizona Golf Resort, California Resort, Cordoba Oasis Village, Wadi Qortuba and Yamami Residence”

Socialising & Networking

While alcohol is completely banned in Saudi Arabia, life in Riyadh doesn’t have to stop! In 2018 Saudi entertainment chiefs lined up a calendar of more than 5,000 events in an unprecedented year of cultural and leisure activities. KSA has of recent lifted a ban on cinemas and have organised many events across the region including Formula-E, Saudi Comic-Con and Winter at Tantora.

The city caters for all cultures when it comes to food whether it is fast food or fine dining you will see most of the commercial food chains that you would find in Dubai, New York and even India notably ‘Cheesecake factory’, ‘Nozomi’ and ‘Farzi Café’…. It also caters for gym goers/fitness enthusiasts (Lean Meals, Zero Fatty or Diet Center), vegans (Freshii or Eataly) and coffee lovers (Draft Café or Urth Caffé)However, if you are new to the city, you’ll have to get used to ‘fizzy pop’ with your meals – i.e. apple juice mixed with lemon soda and sparkling water! When out shopping or dining, ex-pat men should take care to enter the “Single section” of shops and restaurants.Myself like most of my friends and colleagues have wasted no time exploring Saudi Arabia either to the desert (Edge of the World), travel around the region (Bahrain) or play golf (Dirab Golf & Country Club, Riyadh Golf Course or Arizona Golf Resort)

Tip- Vision2030 has created a huge demand for skilled workers from the UAE and surrounding regions so if you are thinking of travelling on weekends it’s best to book your tickets well in advance. Tickets to UAE can be in excess of SAR 3,000 if booked last minute. However, some may fly to Sharjah or Al Maktoum airport. If you can plan in advance (1 or 2 months ahead) you may find fares for as cheap as SAR 1,100! (BARGAIN)

Banking and Telecoms

One of the benefits of working in the region is tax-free salary, this makes Saudi Arabia one of the most attractive places to work in the world. Banking with SABB (HSBC equivalent) allows you to transfer money either to UAE or UK with ease through their intuitive ‘Global Baking Services’. This for me is the safest, quickest and most convenient way to transfer money (domestically and international). Transfers between SABB to HSBC are also FREE!

Here are several Banks to choose from including Alahli Bank (NCB), Alawwal Bank, Alrajhi Bank, Bank AlJazira, Emirates NBD, Riyadh Bank, SABB or The Saudi Investment BankThere are a few mobile providers in the region namely STC (Jawwy), Mobily or Zain. Prices are competitive, and coverage depends on where you live, however, most people I know prefer to use STC.Overall, like any emerging economy, Saudi Arabia is going through a massive cultural, economic and social change and I’m proud to be part of it. It is such an exciting time to be in Saudi Arabia. There is a massive focus on supporting and nurturing young talent through various employment programmes (PIF Graduate Scheme), leisure and tourism projects like ‘The Red Sea Project’ which will put Saudi Arabia on the global map for sustainable tourism and various other initiatives which will transform Saudi Arabia whilst staying strong to its traditions, culture and identity.I hope this article has provided guidance and rational advice to help with the decision-making process should you be considering the move. Any questions, please note the below!

Research

Conduct thorough research… and I don’t mean just ‘Google it’. I mean desktop research, I mean pick up the phone… don’t hide behind your emails… don’t wait for that person to accept your LinkedIn request. Be proactive my friend. Go to RICS events, CPD, social events, network with those who can give you rational and up to date advice. Things are changing every second, minute, hour...! There are tons and tons of information online. Only 5% will be relevant to you. Actually wait for maybe 1%.

“He who asks is a fool for 5 minutes, but he who does not ask at all is a fool forever”.

Network

Technology has absolutely revolutionised the way we share and disseminate knowledge and information. Social media tools like Twitter, Linkedin and Facebook have made it almost effortless to connect, engage and collaborate with people; globally. Speak to those within the industry, in that sector, that role, that position that company, those who can provide support and guidance, speak to family and friends. Free advice is sometimes the best advice (note from a source you trust!). Yes, 20% of people will ignore you but 80% will are likely to help you or point you in the right direction. Note, there is a difference between persistence/being proactive and being annoying. Make sure your communication is clear. Structuring emails and telephone calls are important

Academia

Before anyone says I can’t study towards a course because I don’t work within the industry… who are you kidding? During the first part of my RICS accredited course, I was undertaking voluntary work experience and was pretty much unemployed for a good part of 15 months. You can find RICS course providers here. Again, pick up the phone and have chat with these course providers. If you’re an accountant, pharmacist and or work half the year in a different country, you can study via a distance learning course remotely. You don't have to go to university full time, however, this can be an option.

Employers

Although it is great to have some industry knowledge and relevant experience, it is not compulsory. Employers are looking at candidates who are capable of delivering the role at the expected level. This means having the skills, competencies and capability to deliver. Understand the role before you hit the submit button. Have you tailored your resume? Do you understand the company’s values and business strategy? How do you fit into this? Sell your skills, not your experience. Most of the professionals who come to WorkPanda don’t really understand the process and this is why they are faced with rejection. If you understand EXACTLY what the employer is looking for in a candidate and you are able to give them this… well, then my friend… you’re onto something. Look at some of our testimonials to warrant such advice.

WorkPanda was set up for this very reason. Help inspire people, and in doing so get them to where they want to be within their career. We are a very positive, forward-thinking and innovative organisation. We may not be able to get you into your ideal position… however, you can be sure that we will try our damn best