Accepting a job in Riyadh help

Hello Camelia,

1 - Its as safe as Dubai if not more safer for women here. You can use Uber or Careem or the Ladies only Taxi (can't remember the name - Rakeeb I think)

2 - You'll need to come and then search compounds or through local real estate companies

3 - Yes, you need an exit re-entry visa which can be single or multiple in nature. Usually the company provides on per year for vacation and you'll need to negotiate for a 12 month multiple due to cost implications

4 - I think maybe they pay lumpsum once you are in Saudi

5 - No idea

6 - Yes, absolutely

7 - Cost of living is lower compared to Dubai, so it should allow for a similar if not better lifestyle

Hope this helps and Welcome to the Kingdom!

1) No issue

2) Saudi is not as developed online as UAE.  Practically speaking, the search is ALL legwork after arriving as most of the apps that do deal with real estate are mostly in Arabic like Akar (not sure if I am getting the name right)

3) Yes. Every expats needs ERE to exit.  This won't be included in contract as those are standard QIWA contracts but you can reach an understanding with the employer

4) Once you get an Iqama, you can open bank account.  Employers can either pay your salary in arrears when you arrive or transfer it as a "non-salary" payment to you in UAE (may or may not do it depending on employer so check with them)

5) For ease of transfer, get in touch with a pet relocation company

6) Yes

7) The big question here is, whether you will live in a compound or not.  If you are in a compound then cost of living is higher than Dubai.  If you live outside the compound, then it will be fine

@XTang

hi! thank you so much for replying.

all the answers are super clear an helpful thanks.

About the housing, I think I want to live outside a compound. i wonder if you know any good place in or around DQ that i should keep in mind.

thanks

@Ali_N

Hi Ali thank you so much for replying. all very clear and super helpful!

last thing, about the visa is this something rhe company will need to do for me if we reach an agreement? is it worth doing or you think I'll be fine with the normal visa. I heard that it becomes costly to keep paying  that amount every time, even more for me that I might be coming to Dubai regularly to visit my friends. but i don't know what is the name of this visa ?

thanks

It's called an exit re-entry visa and a one year multiple costs around SAR 2300 or so.  I don't remember exact cost but my company pays for it every year for me.  Most companies at max give you a 6 month - their way to control the employees I guess.

@XTang !!! thanks. ok I see, I'll definitely mention it to them.

thanks again for your help

@camivg

Depends on your negotiation and how badly the company needs you. If you are going to be an exception to other employees it'll be a hard task but do push for it and see what they counter propose.

All the best!