houstonian
Saudi expat in the USA
Forum posts
229
Contacts
23
About me
Saudi
Lives in Georgia
Registration: 05 October 2011
resignation by Racso123
Assalam Alaikum Friends I just want to know what are the process of resigning here in KSA? I am 1 year and 2 months here in my current employer and my contract is 2 years but I don't like to work here anymore. And secondly Im not happy with my job ...
Those are the magic words, right? So what happens when thisis not the case? Read More
Saudi Expatriate's visa requirements for UAE. by harooon
Hi All, I have been to UAE twice in last 14 months once through Batha border by road and once by air, both times; I got on-arrival visist visa without a glitch. My profession type is not the question here. I have heard a new rumour that Saudi ...
The only thing I can say about the above comment is - be very clear on what your relatives actually have!!!! I am a bit leary about giving advise without clearly knowing what you have on hand. Hhat you do not want to have happen is to be stuck at ... Read More
Saudi Expatriate's visa requirements for UAE. by harooon
Hi All, I have been to UAE twice in last 14 months once through Batha border by road and once by air, both times; I got on-arrival visist visa without a glitch. My profession type is not the question here. I have heard a new rumour that Saudi ...
I realize you did not address your question to me but I will give this a shot. As you had mentioned on your earlier post, you will be going out of the KSA on a final exit. So building on that - if you want to go to the UAE, then as a Philippine ... Read More
Traffic in Riyadh by gonzrule
Hi Guys, I just want to know. How bad is traffic in Riyadh? Any estimated figure would give me a clear picture. I am planning to go there next week on the weekend, and I have quite a tight schedule. I would appreciate your help. cheers, Rei
OK - I have to say this comment made me smile. Suffice it to say that you need to add another hour or so to account for the crzies that are out there. :) Read More
Traffic in Riyadh by gonzrule
Hi Guys, I just want to know. How bad is traffic in Riyadh? Any estimated figure would give me a clear picture. I am planning to go there next week on the weekend, and I have quite a tight schedule. I would appreciate your help. cheers, Rei
I am not quite sure what "estimated figure" you are asking for. Traffic in Riyadh, especially along major streets - Olaya, King Fahad, Tahlia, etc can be very very bad - depending on the time of day. Certainly at 0300 you can breeze from one side ... Read More
internet restrictions? by texas rose
We'll be moving to Jubail by the end of the year. I have an adult son that will be coming with us. He has Asperger's Syndrome, which is on the autism spectrum, so socialization is difficult for him. To re-charge, he spends time online, doing ...
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. Here is a link to some information regarding VPNs. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_private_network In the context of what you mentioned regarding your son's condition, I am thinking that HFA stands for ... Read More
Will be in Riyadh this end of the month.. by ilivetorace
Hey guys! I just got my Saudi "Commercial Visa" today! Just wanted to know if I will have any problems on the Philippine Airport or in the Saudi Airport if I even pass there. Thank you and hope to get some responses soon. Warmly, Kris
Shukran - never heard it referred to as a commercial visa. :) Read More
Will be in Riyadh this end of the month.. by ilivetorace
Hey guys! I just got my Saudi "Commercial Visa" today! Just wanted to know if I will have any problems on the Philippine Airport or in the Saudi Airport if I even pass there. Thank you and hope to get some responses soon. Warmly, Kris
OK - I am biting. What is a "Commercial Visa"? I should have googled first. Hahaha. I now know what a "Commercial Visa" is. Anyway, if you obtained the visa legally (from the Saudi Arabian Embassy), there should not be any issues with it when ... Read More
First Month in Saudi Arabia - Riyadh by harrynowers
Hi all, I see all e-mails etc starts with Dear............ I am from South Africa and specially from Cape Town area. There we have a much more relaxed approach. My first month in Riyadh was one of getting my Iqama, my drivers licence and trying to ...
Dear Harry, (sorry - could not resist!!) Welcome to the Magic Kingdom!!! It does take a while to get used to everything here. I have been here almost 2 years now and the whole work week thing is still difficult to comprehend at times. I just ... Read More
Leaving states soon for KFSHRC by omamar1228
I am leaving Virginia Beach May 16 to start working in the ER at KFSHRC. Excited one min and scared the next. Trying to learn some Arabic. Looking forward to new friends and hash hound running. Just shouting out a hello to everyone. Any tips before ...
Welcome (soon) to the Magic Kingdom!! Some tips: 1. Keep an open mind 2. Keep your expectations (very) low 3. Bring lots and lots of patience Safe travels!! (Say hello to my uncle in VB for me!!) Read More
Where are best cakes and pastries in Khobar? by gonzrule
I am dying for some quality cakes and pastries, and all I can find are "crap". Krispy Kreme and Dunkin Donuts are the only exception. :-)
Try the store called LAVISH. Do not remember where it is located but the number is 03.867.6839 Read More
Newfies?
A good friend of mine is from St Johns. I was made an honorary newfie - that screech was nasty!!! Read More
Additonal cost to work on a Business Visa? by PMUSA
I've received more information about a position in Riyadh that I am being considered for. The plan would be to bring me on a six month business visa. This would basically be a probation period for the position. At some point during this time, if ...
If you are a US passport holder, then you will most likely receive a 5 year business visa with a duration of stay of 6 months. So no need to exit the country every 30 days. Read More
Hello Riyadh!! by onetree
Hi Im james from Ireland, been on this before but left saudi and now am back again to enjoy the delights of this great kingdom.....anyhow, im contactable anytime ...know the place quite well ....by! james
Welcome back to the Magic Kingdom, James! Read More
yellow parking ticket?? by Princess MA
over the weekend, my husband parked in king abdullah road in a queue alongside loads of other cars. when we eventually got back to the car, all these cars were issued a yellow paper. everythings in arabic but it seems to be a ticket for parking in a ...
I have been seeing this a lot lately (about time if you ask me!!). A friend of mine got ticketed for going the wrong way on a one-way street. I told him a few weeks back that his luck will run out one of these days - or the authorities will ... Read More
Book of five rings in Riyadh by KhalidOkiely
I have been longing to read this book for more than a year. I just can't find a version of it in here EVER! I get busy and can't have enough time to search thoroughly for it. If any of you have read the book or got it from some where in here, I ...
Call me old fashioned but I do like reading a "paper" book. I resisted for a very long time in buying one of those e-books and it was only when I decided to take this job that I bought one. It certainly is more convenient to carry. To each ... Read More
Week End proposal in February by NicoCh
Hello everybody, I am a new comer to this forum and a new comer in Riyadh. Ill stay here two months until mid march. I'm a 29 yo french guy, who likes to travel, discover countries, getting lost in unknown places, listen to music (when it's ...
By the way, you might want to check on the dates for the Janadriyah Festival. I just read an article where the King will be presiding the inaugural festivities on 04.03.2013. Read More
nz tax on income earn in Saudi by helenfromnz
Hi everybody, Just wondering if anybody has any idea if you will get taxed on income that you earn in Saudi. And, if you do, can you prevent it somehow?? Any nzers out there know anything about this?? Thanks, Helen :)
One of my colleagues is from NZ and he told me to google a document called New Zealand tax residence - Who is a New Zealand resident for tax purposes (IR292). The document he has is dated August, 2008 - there might be a newer version of this. Good ... Read More
Abayas by runnertattoogirl
So, the hubby and I made it to a rather large souq mall off Olaya before you get to Kingdom Tower. We found MANY abaya stores, but none of them had any abayas like the one pictured (with hood). Therefore, my question is... has anyone seen this ...
OK - I was intrigued by this so I asked one of the ladies in the office. She said that you did go to the right place - the souk on Olaya that sells the abayas. She said it is called a "Moroccan" style abaya. Most stores will not sell it this way ... Read More
Accommodation & Transport Issue by paxbritannia
Hello I've been living in a 4 bedroom apartment in a compound for a few months. The cost of the apartment is 7000SR per month to the company, my allowance is 3000SR per month. Suddenly, the company told me that I had several choices: 1. move out ...
I would think that your responsibilites and the company's responsibilities would have been written on the employment contract that you signed, no? In my contract, the total compensation package included salary, housing allowance, and transportation ... Read More
Hello I guess an introduction is in order.
Welcome to EB!! Ahhh Tampa ... I had some good memories commuting from Houston to Tampa weekly for almost a year!!!! Our offices were on Dale Mabry in the Northdale complex. The Cuban restaurant next door was AWESOME!!!! :) Read More
Info on Third Akaria Center & accomodations in the area. by PMUSA
Hello I posted earlier for information about living in Jizan and it appears things may have changed. The project management consulting company that was recruiting me for a large general contractor has now said that they would like me to come and ...
I live and work in the area. The Akaria complex of buildings is about 3 blocks from where I live. It IS pretty much in the city center. Olaya is a major street and traffic is horrendous pretty much any time - except maybe at 0200!! There are ... Read More
Harley Davidson by Enricoa65
I' m looking for friends who has The passion for harleys here in Riyadh
One of my women colleagues from NY was in town last week on a business trip. She stayed at the Four Seasons and after dinner one evening we were outside the main door when she saw these Harley's outside. One of bikes she recognized as a USD40k ... Read More
Plans for weekend.... by Ayesh_
well hi everyone, I just wanted to know what are your plans for the weekend? if any of you who has strong groups or communities and have planned something new for this weekend, please do let me know as well coz I am getting mad about this ...
It's just like being in Nawlins!! :) Read More
What's life like off-compound? by Upper Volta
Hi again, I've been reading through the forums and there's some great information. However, I don't see many posts from Westerners who live outside of the compounds. I'm going to Riyadh soon for six months and will stay in non compound ...
The only bad thing that can potentially happen is your neighbor not liking you and calling the cops on you. Sounds far-fetched but happened to a friend of mine a couple of months ago. They were having a birthday party - lots of folks coming and ... Read More
Offered SAR 15000/ month: moving from Singapore by Mikesing
All, I have been offered SAR 15000/ month ( inclusive of accom, transportation) + medical insurance coverage for self + 1 month paid holiday with air ticket by a company. My work location will be in Riyadh.I am into IT Profession with 7 years of ...
All, I have been offered SAR 15000/ month ( inclusive of accom, transportation) + medical insurance coverage for self + 1 month paid holiday with air ticket by a company. My work location will be in Riyadh.I am into IT Profession with 7 years of ... Read More
Salaams New to the Blog
Welcome to the blog and to the Magic Kingdom. One of my favorite places to visit is in Michigan - Traverse City! Read More
Offered SAR 15000/ month: moving from Singapore by Mikesing
All, I have been offered SAR 15000/ month ( inclusive of accom, transportation) + medical insurance coverage for self + 1 month paid holiday with air ticket by a company. My work location will be in Riyadh.I am into IT Profession with 7 years of ...
Before I decided to take this job in the Magic Kingdom I told my employer that I will not entertain anything less than a xx% increase in salary from what I was making in the US. The way I looked at it - I was uprooting myself from something that I ... Read More
How to fight homesickness in Riyadh by homesickboi
Hi to everyone! I am a newcomer here in KSA (almost 2 months). I am always experiencing homesickness/sadness. Need friends and opinions on how not to be homesick always. I am living in one room so when I am alone, I usually feel sad and wants to go ...
There are quite a few Filipinos in the Batha area of town - just go hang out at the Manila Plaza. I am sure you have coworkers you can hang out with. Get out of your room - walk around Batha - people watching in Batha can be pretty ... Read More
Help needed. Refund of Online purchased ticket from Saudi Airline. by doc.ryd
Hello Everbody, I bought an online return ticket to UK from Saudi Airline website. For some unavoidable reason, I have cancelled my trip. I called the number they had mentioned in their sms for cancellation and cancelled my booking. But I am not ...
I do not have any personal experience with Saudia but here are a few things to check into regarding the refunding purchased tickets from airlines: 1. Check the fare rules of the tcket that you bought. Believe it or not some tickets are actually ... Read More
Book Studies by anaexpat
Guys, who reads a book a week? I'd like to meet heavy readers (men only, no offense lovely ladies) and discuss books. Insights and thoughs are welcomed T
I am reading one of Christopher Hitchens' books now. :)Which one? How is/was it?Not sure if I will get in trouble for typing out the title. Lol But it is the one about not being great. Lol I am actually enjoying the read - my first foray into ... Read More
Looking to meet new people by scottshi2012
Hello, I'm arriving in Riyadh in a couple of weeks. I'm going to be living at the Arabian Homes compound. I grew up in England but have been living and working in the US for the last 20+ years. I enjoy staying fit / crossfit, hiking, eating, ...
Haha - it is bigger (not always better) in Texas!! Ok ok - I realize the folks from AK will have something to say about it .. Read More
Looking to meet new people by scottshi2012
Hello, I'm arriving in Riyadh in a couple of weeks. I'm going to be living at the Arabian Homes compound. I grew up in England but have been living and working in the US for the last 20+ years. I enjoy staying fit / crossfit, hiking, eating, ...
Let's hope your proposal is better than, "Hey, I'm moving to Riyadh and don't want to be bored so let's get hitched." lolWell darn - you stole my line!! Haha Welcome (soon) to the Magic Kingdom, Scott. Read More
Nice coffee shop
I went last week with one of my friend there and i like it, its really a good place for relaxing , use free WiFi , drink nice coffee and milk shake plus sandwishs and have a lovely outdoor chairs and table, i go there most of the days between 6 am ... Read More
I know they said it was boring in Riyadh... But damn!?!?! by jpm19
Is it better anywhere else in KSA?
no doubt i just thought after high school that mentality was overTrue enough to each his/her own. But I guess we are of the same mindset. :) I just came back from vacation and spent the new year in Bangkok - talk about a place to party!!! Some ... Read More
Book Studies by anaexpat
Guys, who reads a book a week? I'd like to meet heavy readers (men only, no offense lovely ladies) and discuss books. Insights and thoughs are welcomed T
I am reading one of Christopher Hitchens' books now. :) Read More
Newbie by Yobhtron
Newbie here. I've been living here in Riyadh for a year now and I just wanted to add spice to my life here. As you know, life here is kinda boring. Ahehehe Hope to meet new friends here at expat-blog.
Welcome to e-b!! This place (and any other place for that matter) is what you make of it. I constantly read comments here on the blog about people being bored ... well - I said it once ... my grandmother used to tell us kids when we complained ... Read More
Book Studies by anaexpat
Guys, who reads a book a week? I'd like to meet heavy readers (men only, no offense lovely ladies) and discuss books. Insights and thoughs are welcomed T
I read a healthy mix of fiction and non fiction. Read More
saudi airlines baggage limit??
I am not sure if you checked Saudia's webpage but here is a link to their baggage allowance: http://www.saudiairlines.com/portal/site/saudiairlines/menuitem.d9a467d070ca6c65173ff63dc8f034a0/?vgnextoid=f0eb9f6412852110VgnVCM1000008c0f430aRCRD Read More
I want to make native English friends in Riyadh
Here's a rule of thumb on how to speak with a Texas accent. Stretch every single syllable word into two syllables and add y'all at the end. You are good to go after that!! :) Read More
Social Events at Embassies by redgems
How can I find out about events going on at embassies in Riyadh? I've heard there are paid and non-paid events. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.
BTW, nice to see you're quoting me, houstonian. I'm the one who came up with the line about the janitor in one of my rants! :lol:And you are so dead on with that statement!! Read More
salary offer and accommodation by jefferington
Hello all, New to the forum, and have already come across some great info on accommodation, but still not sure which way to go. I'm planning to move to Riyadh, single expat in banking. Have been offered about SAR 40k a month with nothing included, ...
40k SAR a month is roughly 11k USD (USD127k/year). I can do a lot of damage with that amount of money!! Haha For expenses - it all depends on your lifestyle. You can get a decent 1br accomodation for the price range you specified. I am single as ... Read More
offered position in Riyadh - compound or not by endoftime
Hello All, Have been offered a posting to SR working for a Saudi company, they have offered to either pay a housing allowance of 11,000SAR per month or offer a benefit in kind of a 2 bed condo in a compound, which they say is worth up to 250,000SAR ...
When you read through the threads here, you will constantly see people asking to be invited into compounds - or asking if there are parties/gatherings in compounds. Living inside a compound does give you some freedoms that you will not necessarily ... Read More
finger printing at dammam airport by saimans
Immigration office at dammam intl airport are currently testing and veryfying their fingerprint system. accordingly random checks are occurring at DKFIA for outbound flights. this may result in extra processing time. Therefore to report earlier to ...
I have noticed some expats being finger printed when I flew out of Riyadh last month - so not sure if this is the same process you are referring to. I am also not sure if every expat goes through the process because I did not have to do it. Read More
Question Of The Day by Maya Maya
hey everyone ;;) hope yall doin great
If not now, then when?As Tracy Chapman wrote: If not today then Why make your promises A love declared for days to come Is as good as none :) Read More
Need website adress pleaaaaaaasssssse by gmalou1
Hi there, I am looking with nooooooo success the Olaya compound ´s website. Please help and if you have an idea of prices or already expericenced Thank you for leaving your comment. Cheers Myriam
I am not sure if this is the compound you are referring to - but here is a link to the management company: http://www.artar.com.sa/real8.html You can get the number to the management company using the Contact button on the top right of the ... Read More
Riyadh to Dubai by oraclefusions
Has any one driven from Riyadh to dubai by car? Any suggestions? Cheers
Just for future reference, here is a link to the timactic for requirements on entering the UAE for citizens of ... Read More
New to SA! by tmontane
Hello All, My name is Tracy Montanez, male of 24 years old. Soon to be 25 and will be celebrating my first international birthday. Don't think I will be going to the bars or anything like that! Anyway, I just moved here on the 5th of December for ...
Welcome welcome to the Magic Kingdom!! Go pokes indeeed!! :) I almost went to grad school there until one of my friends reminded me that you guys get crazy snow!! :) Read More
New to town by meem0
Hello fellow Riyadhis, I'm Maryam, i joined this morning...(and already got a contact request! awww aren't you all a friendly bunch!) Don't know what lead me to this forum actually..i think it was one of those interconnected Google ...
Welcome to the Magic Kingdom, meem-O!! :) Read More
New Visit Visa Procedures by mfaisal78
Hi.. Any one know about new visit visa procedure from jeddah. mofa website showing that you have to print and submit filled form to chamber of commerce and no need to visit Foreign office. Any one succesfully done kindly reply. Faisal
Hi.. Any one know about new visit visa procedure from jeddah. mofa website showing that you have to print and submit filled form to chamber of commerce and no need to visit Foreign office. Any one succesfully done kindly reply. FaisalOne of my ... Read More
Waaasssuuuup!!! by JST4FUN
Greetings everyone! I'm from Houston and will be staying in Jubail for about 6mos starting 1Q of next year. I'm a busy body and it sounds like there isnt a whole lot to do in Jubail aside from working out. I do like video gaming though..soooo is it ...
YES!! I have been watching the home team!! Thank goodness for live streaming on the internet!! Haha Read More
Waaasssuuuup!!! by JST4FUN
Greetings everyone! I'm from Houston and will be staying in Jubail for about 6mos starting 1Q of next year. I'm a busy body and it sounds like there isnt a whole lot to do in Jubail aside from working out. I do like video gaming though..soooo is it ...
Yay!!! A fellow Houstonian!! Unfortunately I am in Riyadh but welcome (soon!!) to the Magic Kingdom. I hope all is well in H-town - have not been back in a while. And, yes you can bring your xbox. :) Read More
Doctor's salary by mshaqal
Hi gys I got a job as a doctor in Jeddah salary 40000/month and housing is it good?I live in USA but Arabic in origin. Thank you
Hi gys I got a job as a doctor in Jeddah salary 40000/month and housing is it good?I live in USA but Arabic in origin. Thank youThat is roughly USD 130K a year - is that not good enough for you? Read More
yakisoba?
I know of a quasi-Japanese restaurant in town. It is called Tokyo Restaurant on Uruba St just west of King Abdul Aziz on the north side of the street. Their sushi is good. I do not remember if they have yakisoba on their menu. Read More
Argentina vs Saudi Arabia by ASHRAF 1
Dear Friends, The legendary & best football player in the world Lionel Messi has arrived with his team to play the match against Saudi Arabia by tommorow ( 14th November ). You don't want to miss what this incredible player can do with the ball.
Try this site out. One of my coworkers bought his ticket through this site this morning so I am guessing that there are still tickets available for ... Read More
Argentina vs Saudi Arabia by ASHRAF 1
Dear Friends, The legendary & best football player in the world Lionel Messi has arrived with his team to play the match against Saudi Arabia by tommorow ( 14th November ). You don't want to miss what this incredible player can do with the ball.
I guess good ole Abe (or was it Samuel Johnson?) has a point when he said ... "... better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and to remove all doubt..." Read More
Recruiting students by Fatsff1
Does anyone know where I could begin if I wanted to start recruiting saudia students to study abroad? I don't have any contact abroad, but hope that someone could shed some light or pass on some tips to get something like this started.
I am not exactly sure where you are going with this but this is what I know .... The US Embassy does quite a bit of advertising, especially in the social media (FB, to be specific), to encourage Saudis to go to school in the US. They even have a ... Read More
US Embassy Sponsors by magicfun2012
Hello, Can anyone sponsor me and my husband to one of the steak and wine nites in Riyad, American Embassy, I come and visit him in Riyad, and as some might agree it is boaring and not much to do. we are both american citizens thank you,
No, they're not. See, I get invitations to all the pricey USERA things. But the Happy Hours? Or 'Steak Night'? Nope. That's reserved for friends of friends. BUT when they are charging big bucks and their friends are too cheap, I get an email ... Read More
US Embassy Sponsors by magicfun2012
Hello, Can anyone sponsor me and my husband to one of the steak and wine nites in Riyad, American Embassy, I come and visit him in Riyad, and as some might agree it is boaring and not much to do. we are both american citizens thank you,
Hello, we are both american citizens thank you,Just out of curiosity - since you are both citizens, couldn't you sponsor yourselves?!?! It is just a matter of trying to figure out when the events are! Read More
I m a software engineer with 5 Years of exp and 10000 SAR (pm) offered by sentsen
Hi, I m a software engineer with 5 years of experience and got an offer of 10000 SAR PM without accommodation and transport facility. I just want to know, Is it good salary for a software engineer with 5 years of experience and is it possible to ...
Hi, I m a software engineer with 5 years of experience and got an offer of 10000 SAR PM without accommodation and transport facility.Just out of curiosity - will the company provide accomodation and transportation OR are they expecting you to ... Read More
Hi & Ty by alpha89
Hi all, I'm new on this forum (long time reader first time poster). I'm a Canadian who just moved to Riyadh for a a year or more, anyway, I would like to thank all the posters and contributers on this site, It really helped me when my curiousity ...
Welcome to the Magic Kingdom!! I have friends who live in your compound and I play tennis there on occasion. :) Read More
just new here in riyadh! by jportucela
looking for some friends who can come with me to explore riyadh hope to hear from you soon guys! :)
Welcome to the Magic Kingdom! Read More
What is your favorite Arabic Food? by ronald.domingo17
Just want to know your favorite one.
Mashed eggplant with olive oil and spices.I love this dish too. It goes well with Kubbus. We call it Hommoos or Salad here. Never heard the real name before. I was told that it is Lebanese food, but it's a Levantine dish. Best part is this is ... Read More
What is your favorite Arabic Food? by ronald.domingo17
Just want to know your favorite one.
Thanks Alliecat for your reply. But in all honesty, it is my first to heared this food "babaganush". What is this food all about and what are the ingredients basically.Mashed eggplant with olive oil and spices. Read More
going to Bahrain for the weekend by plouis
Hi everyone, This is my first post, I am here indeed since only few days and staying for two weeks. I would like to know if someone could advise me on the possibilities for going to Bahrain for the weekend (next weekend actually) -avis rental was ...
Hi everyone, -are there like bus lines or drivers with vans? do you have some contacts to recommend?There is a VIP Express Bus that goes to Dammam. You can then catch the bus from Dammam to Bahrain. There used to be a bus that goes to Bahrain ... Read More
book lovers . what do you think of these books
my dad had one of bourne since the 80's . but idont know how many are they ?The book you posted is the 10th in the series. Also, the original author of the book (Robert Ludlum) passed away a few years back. If I recall correctly, he only really ... Read More
book lovers . what do you think of these books
2- http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z444/cool_boy1232/14102012728.jpgI have read this book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I do have to caution you that if you have not read any of the previous Bourne novels then some of the references in the book ... Read More
Hi... I'm Back by Lion R.E
Hello dear all, hope you are good and enjoying your time. I've return back, thanks for all who asked.
Hello dear all, hope you are good and enjoying your time. I've return back, thanks for all who asked.Welcome back!! Hamdella alla alsalama (I know I am typing this incorrectly!!) :) Read More
Where can I buy Sri Lankan currency? (LKR)
(the Riyal is pegged to the US Dollar)Although this statement is technically correct, in my experience, when you buy USD you will usually get less than the pegged rate. Read More
One less thing to do in Jeddah starting Saturday ... by Alliecat
Jeddah shisha smokers forced out of the Saudi city's cafes RIYADH (Reuters) - Smokers of the hubble-bubble water pipe have until Saturday to indulge their fondness for sweet flavored tobacco in Jeddah's cafes as the Saudi city prepares to enforce ...
Hello Alliecat. Thank you for sharing these informations with us but can you please post the source of this article (preferably a link)? :) Thank you, AurélieHere is a link from Arab ... Read More
Life of a woman in riyadh by m.b.m88
Salaam, I would like to know the life of a Muslim Saudi woman or Muslim converted woman (foreign). How is the life of a Muslim wife, middle class or upper middle class? How is the life of a couple? 1. they can hang out with friends, as also ...
I work for the Saudi credit bureau and men and women work on the same floor and there are no barriers. We are free to interact with each other while at work. Read More
Social Events at Embassies by redgems
How can I find out about events going on at embassies in Riyadh? I've heard there are paid and non-paid events. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.
Hi. Anyone with any ideas about when/where/how to get invited to any embassy part, please let me know. Im fun to hang out with I swear. Thanks, JimI kid you not - you gotta know the right person who knows the right person who knows the janitor!! ... Read More
DIGRESSION THREAD!! by Alliecat
So ... this is my thread for digressions. Any digression will therefore be ON TOPIC! Welcome my friends.. and digress to your heart's content! :lol:
To my fellow Americans - election day is coming up pretty soon. If you have not already done so, please request for your ballot from your respective states. I received mine over the weekend, filled it out, and will be sending it back today!! Read More
DIGRESSION THREAD!! by Alliecat
So ... this is my thread for digressions. Any digression will therefore be ON TOPIC! Welcome my friends.. and digress to your heart's content! :lol:
http://sphotos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/644670_10151283147190934_760076969_n.jpgThis made me laugh! Thank you. Read More
Considering move to Riyadh by melone
Hi, I am currently living in the UK, and have been offered a job opportunity in Riyadh. I would be moving with my wife (no children). I have been offered a total package of £85k. All my living costs will need to be covered by this amount (rent in a ...
I think you should ask yourself - can you live comfortably with GBP85K in the UK? In general, the cost of living in the Magic Kingdom is lower than most major metropolitan areas. In my opinion, your biggest expense would be housing. Like Bruckner ... Read More
New PinoY in Riyadh looking from some friend by wendell_angelo
I will be travelling to Riyadh for work next week can you give me some tips about Riyadh and some place that i can visit. Im also looking for some Filipino Friends...
Not sure how adventurous you are - there is a place in Riyadh called Batha. You will meet a LOT of Filipinos there. There is even a Manila Plaza where there are Filipino restaurants - good food at very reasonable prices!! Read More
DIGRESSION THREAD!! by Alliecat
So ... this is my thread for digressions. Any digression will therefore be ON TOPIC! Welcome my friends.. and digress to your heart's content! :lol:
Damn.. that always makes me think of the scene with Michael Madden in Reservoir Dogs. Tarantino has a way of making you remember things ... (even if you don't wanna remember them lol).I love that movie ... hahaha ... you shoot me in a dream, you ... Read More
DIGRESSION THREAD!! by Alliecat
So ... this is my thread for digressions. Any digression will therefore be ON TOPIC! Welcome my friends.. and digress to your heart's content! :lol:
Clowns to the left of me .... Jokers to the right .... Here I am stuck in the middle with you .... That about sums up my day in the office!!! Time for a drink!!! LOL Read More
wiring money from US bank to Saudi bank by siddig
Hello felllow expats, I know expats would normally wire money out of KSA, but dose any one have experience in wiring money from US to local banks in KSA (Alrajhi, SABB,etc) ? I'm having a hard time doing this. SABB is affilliated with HSBC, but when ...
I have seen some Western Union offices scattered around town - have you tried that? Read More
im really bored by Rebel women
im really bored , what should i do ?
You know, my philosophy is 'Only the boring are bored.'Hahaha - this reminds me of what my grandmother used to say when all the grandkids would come visit and say ... "grammy, we are bored ... " To which, her response was ..... "You kids are bored ... Read More
guess who's coming to riyadh? by Btwn-Fear-N-Hope
lol, yes after almost a year of talking its finally happening, i arrive sunday and will be in the suleimaynia district, whooop whoop!
Checklist ........ 1. Passport - check 2. Visa - check 3. Clothes - check 4. Things to entertain me so I do not ask people what to do this (or any) weekend - check 5. A hefty sense of humor - check 6. A great sense of adventure - check Safe ... Read More
guess who's coming to riyadh? by Btwn-Fear-N-Hope
lol, yes after almost a year of talking its finally happening, i arrive sunday and will be in the suleimaynia district, whooop whoop!
Welcome (soon) to the Magic Kingdom!! :) Read More
have u shopped at american eagles outfitters ? by ex_pa
how much does it cost there for males
Where is the location?There is one on Olaya - right next to Jarir Bookstore. Some of the malls have a branch inside as well - Kingdom, Faisaliah to name a few. Read More
How do I Watch American Football? by Mojomark
I'm a huge Miami Dolphin fan but I find myself in Riyadh and can't figure out how to watch their games. I have downloaded ESPN, NFL.com, installed VPN but they still require an american cable provider. Would love to see the game today. Does anyone ...
I have cable in my apartment and I have seen some football games on ESPN. Read More
Riyadh Fight Club by Safehands601
Hey guys I guess this has probably been raised before but can't find anything so thought it would be worth a post. I used to box in Britain and have a few friends who have done a variety of MA at different levels out here - mainly amateur and ...
When I saw the title of this thread, the first thing I thought about was the line from the movie ... "... the first rule of fight club is ... you do not talk about fight club ..." Read More
Riyadh to Khobar by dontclickme
Aloha people! I plan to go to Al Khobar from Riyadh over the weekend. What is the best way to go there? I am up for travel via train/comfortable bus/cab. Please suggest. Thanks!
The VIP Express bus leaves 2 or 3x a day right outside the Sahara Compound on Olaya. The ticket office is right next to the Fred Perry shop. Here are the google maps coordinates: 24.699829,46.681359 Read More
Trying to make an Entry by MShack
Hi everyone .... I am new here this blog as well as this place. I have been here for 3 weeks and those were the worst of my life. It is difficult to go out and meet people. The malls are monotonous (was never interested in anything like that). the ...
Welcome to the Magic Kingdom!! :) Read More
WiFi at Riyadh airport by RehabDoctor
Is WiFi available at Riyadh airport in Arrivals lounge
Just out of curiosity - is there an arrival lounge at the Riyadh airport? Read More
Replacing name of the main manager on registration certificate
You might want to check with the Chamber of Commerce about this. They might be able to give you guidance. Read More
Fly Dubai tickets by gashead
Where can I buy Fly Dubai tickets? Which Riyadh travel agents sell them to walk in customers? [b]I know their web site but I cannot buy on line as I don't have a credit card.[/b] Thanks.
There is also a TA on Uruba just east of Olaya that you can use. Another TA on the shopping strip just south of Kingdom Tower and a block west of Olaya. Another thing to think about - even if you do not have a CC, you can still get on their web ... Read More
need help to travel neighboring countries by dontclickme
Hi I am on a business visit to KSA right now and I am liking it so far. I Would like to know which countries/places where I can go over the weekends to travel? I have an Indian passport and no other visa other than business in KSA. Please suggest ...
Whether a citizen of a particular country (in your case - India) can enter another country will depend on the established diplomatic relationship between those 2 countries. Some countries require visas prior to arrival while for other countries you ... Read More
human rights by waalaa25
what do you think about human rights in Saudi Arabia???
it has a certain thing about it that keeps me entertained+1. I keep telling my friends back home about my experiences in the Magic Kingdom and they keep telling me I am making the stuff up!! :D Read More
New Member by Volkan
Hello Everybody, I'm Volkan.. I'm new to this forum and in Saudi Arabia. I'm happy t be here.
Welcome to the Magic Kingdom, Volkan. :) Read More
No Hijab in a Western Compound??!! by fotos&butterflies
..sooo....let me get this straight. I'm not allowed to reside in a Western compound even though I'm from a Western country and wear the hijab? I enjoy the freedom of hijab in the US & Canada...but the rules are different inside the compounds? I ...
I live at the Sahara Compound on Olaya St. I see women in the compound wearing hijabs - does not bother me. I say hi to them, they say hi back then we both go our separate, merry way. :) Sahara Compound is one of the older compounds that I know ... Read More
Compounds where Saudis are allowed to visit
I have Saudi friends who come to my compound - Sahara Compound on Olaya. They usually hang out at the sisha bar there. Read More
salary and living by vijay490214
hello all im offered a job as a asst store manager in Riyadh,i m offered a salary of 3900 SAR pm . 1 is this a good salary for qualification im a post graduate in management and a fresher 2 how much will i save 3 wat is the cost of rent, ...
@ houstonian indeed 39,000 sounds too much but what do I know what they pay? But 3900 per months is INDEED also not possible, or it is?? Tell meAnything is possible - this is the Magic Kingdom after all. :) Not knowing anything about the job ... Read More