dragonladyoz
Australian expat in Qatar
Forum posts
158
About me
Australian
Lives in Doha
Registration: 23 May 2012
Questions on working/living in Qatar by Niz1984
Hi, 29 M from Ottawa, Canada considering a move to Qatar and I have some questions that would help clarify what I have read so far. Your feedback is greatly appreciated. How much roughly it costs per month to live in Qatar? (I am not into the bar ...
Probation would be a minimum of 3mths but could be as long as 6mths - again depends on the company - it is a question that is always worth asking over here. It is also important to ask if they will process your residence permit during your ... Read More
looking for an orthodontist
Family Dental Clinic has orthodontists - don't know about the French though - 44666227 Read More
School system in Doha by ramroumma
Hello I hope everybody is doing well. I will be moving soon from US to Doha. I have a daughter who is 4 and I am trying to find a school for her. At home we speak French, Arabic and English. So I don't know yet to which kind of school I should ...
There are several Newton Schools and most of the reviews on Qatar Living are about D-Ring campus, which doesn't technically exist as of this year, as they have moved to new school at Barwa, taking students from some of the other NIS campuses as ... Read More
School system in Doha by ramroumma
Hello I hope everybody is doing well. I will be moving soon from US to Doha. I have a daughter who is 4 and I am trying to find a school for her. At home we speak French, Arabic and English. So I don't know yet to which kind of school I should ...
All the English first language international schools (the ones mentioned above) have instruction only in English - unless you are in an Arabic or French class at least - then you would obviously be learning those languages and speaking them! Read More
School system in Doha by ramroumma
Hello I hope everybody is doing well. I will be moving soon from US to Doha. I have a daughter who is 4 and I am trying to find a school for her. At home we speak French, Arabic and English. So I don't know yet to which kind of school I should ...
There are two types of school - Qatari State and International Private and in the pre-K years there are also private nurseries that teach up to Year 1 (age 6). Qatari State - only teach in Arabic - separate sex schools - don't know much more than ... Read More
Theater Play
Mareeza there is an Orchestra in Qatar, they are based at Katara and have a full performance program each year. If you google Qatar Symphony Orchestra you will find their website - where you can sign up for emails or 'follow' them. Read More
Medical Test Req: for Resident Permit
What specifically are you wanting to know? But, yes, it would be similar to UAE. It includes a chest xray and blood tests. Read More
Cost of living with family-potential offer from Qatar Petroleum by jyotikar
Hi: I have a potential offer form Qatar Petroleum. I will be making a visit next week for 3-4 days to finalize the offer details. However, I was curious about life for a western expat from Houston, US with a family of 4, wife and 2 kids. Which is ...
not many schools teach American curriculum - from what I hear around the place I would steer well clear of Compass - DESS is apparently quite good, several of the kids from our compound attend there and parents are very happy. Other schools to try ... Read More
Ramadan by Adam j
Hello Friends, Hope you are doing great. As we know the month of Ramadan will start on the 10th of July, and my friends informed me that during the month of ramadan most of the hotels will close their outlets. am here from 4 months ago, and am ...
hotel restaurants/cafes will be open during Ramadan, with some areas cordoned off for non-muslim guests to eat during the day "unseen". All other restaurants/cafes will open in the evening, like the malls/souq unless their owners have decided to ... Read More
Cost of living with family-potential offer from Qatar Petroleum by jyotikar
Hi: I have a potential offer form Qatar Petroleum. I will be making a visit next week for 3-4 days to finalize the offer details. However, I was curious about life for a western expat from Houston, US with a family of 4, wife and 2 kids. Which is ...
Do you know the location of the office? Qatar is generally quite clean and neat in all areas, there is no 'better' area with that respect - so really you can live any any area. Generally it is the travel time/construction that you have to consider ... Read More
Cost of living with family-potential offer from Qatar Petroleum by jyotikar
Hi: I have a potential offer form Qatar Petroleum. I will be making a visit next week for 3-4 days to finalize the offer details. However, I was curious about life for a western expat from Houston, US with a family of 4, wife and 2 kids. Which is ...
Only one American school in Doha - so your choice is a bit limited!!! Most schools in Doha teach a British curriculum. Cost of housing will depend on the size and location - but for a 3 bed unfurnished a.t.m. you will be looking at paying at least ... Read More
Info for a tourism visit?
You have to apply for a tourist visa through the embassy in the country where you are living, or through the hotel where you will be holidaying in Qatar. The only exceptions are those who hold passports from any of the following ... Read More
potential move to doha by weschipske
I have an offer of employment in Doha, a very good package. my problem is that my wife is not on board because of what she read at the u.s. dept of state website regarding security risks, dicey police actions, and employer control over work visa ...
1. To be honest, there are security risks in this part of the world, with current threats and new ones emerging periodically, you have to accept that if you come here. But, the US Embassy will give you tips about 'how to be safe' (really its mostly ... Read More
are there teaching jobs in Qatar? by paul chilola
Hie friends, Are there teaching jobs in Qatar?
Plenty of Africans, as safe as anywhere else I suppose - although you are likely to be paid less. Read More
are there teaching jobs in Qatar? by paul chilola
Hie friends, Are there teaching jobs in Qatar?
Plenty of teaching jobs available - but most schools recruit via employment companies in UK. Try seekteachers or worldteachers. Read More
Moving to Qatar by Alex Smith
I have been offered a position in Doha what essential information do I require. The company I will be working for are taking care of work visa, accommodation etc
[Moderated] @ Jeff We've been here since Feb, but in Saudi before that - cost of living is difficult depending on where you come from and what you like - best to use one of the online calculators to get an ... Read More
Moving to Qatar by Alex Smith
I have been offered a position in Doha what essential information do I require. The company I will be working for are taking care of work visa, accommodation etc
Hi Jeff - the problem for you will be related to visas. You need a sponsor to get a visa - your wife will have one from her employer. There are no issues with husbands sponsoring wives, but it can be very difficult for a wife to sponsor a husband - ... Read More
Moving to Qatar by Alex Smith
I have been offered a position in Doha what essential information do I require. The company I will be working for are taking care of work visa, accommodation etc
Florin - you need to negotiate a wage that is going to make it worthwhile, most advice would be at least 1.5 times what you are currently earning as a ball park figure. But it will depend upon your circumstances, basically you want a wage that will ... Read More
Anyone knows how to extend a Business Visa?
The company that is sponsoring you will have to arrange this, as they did for the original visa, as it would (I assume) mean that they would have to justify why you need an extension and/or why the RP has not yet been processed as well as confirming ... Read More
Moving to Qatar by Alex Smith
I have been offered a position in Doha what essential information do I require. The company I will be working for are taking care of work visa, accommodation etc
RP can't be issued before arrival - you will arrive on a business visa - I would double check when they intend to apply for RP as you can't purchase a car, get an alcohol permit and will have trouble renting (if you decide to take the allowance ... Read More
Good private schools in Doha? by Noman68
Hi all, I'm new in Doha (less than a week). From Toronto, Canada but have been living in Dubai for the last 5 yrs. Looking to get some feedback/advice from people who've been there done that... Would be great if you can share your experiences ...
As above - you can be lucky - you might not be. Preference is usually given to siblings - but that may not be until the following year enrolment. Doha College is opening a new campus at Lagoon - but only primary - there might be a few places open ... Read More
Moving to Qatar by Alex Smith
I have been offered a position in Doha what essential information do I require. The company I will be working for are taking care of work visa, accommodation etc
You need a contract in writing that details EVERYTHING! i.e. What type of accommodation? Where? Transport provided? What level of health cover? Are they giving you health cover? Will RP be processed before or after probation? How long is ... Read More
Residency in Doha .. This is vital for me! by Alstroemeria
Hello everybody.. I'm a doctor and may join my husband to Doha. I was wondering if its possible for expats wives to work and if I can join a residency program there? Thank you very much!
In KSA family Iquama (sponsored by husband) doesn't allow you to work - you have to have your own iquama sponsored by your employer - In Qatar the family RP here (Iquama equivalent) allows you to work with your husbands permission as he is your ... Read More
From Saudi to Qatar anyone?
Yes we moved from Jeddah to Doha at the beginning of the year - moved our stuff with Namma Cargo, cost will depend on how much stuff you have. Doha has less scary traffic than KSA, although just as many problems with all the roadworks As a woman ... Read More
New in Qatar, Need Help, primary Grade 1 availability by amimi
Hi everyone, I'm new in this blog and looking for some info and your help/assitance about primary schools. I'm moving to Doha August 2013 with my family (2 kids: 2 and 6-y old) to work at Qatar University and I tried to contact several ...
As above - school places are short in Doha, most particularly in the Key Stage 1 grades. Most schools are currently finalising re-enrolments for their current students and then will move to look at filling places with the students on their waiting ... Read More
Residency in Doha .. This is vital for me! by Alstroemeria
Hello everybody.. I'm a doctor and may join my husband to Doha. I was wondering if its possible for expats wives to work and if I can join a residency program there? Thank you very much!
You have two options as an expat wife 1. Get a job with a company who will sponsor you on an expat package - they won't usually double pay things like accommodation etc that your husband already gets, but you can negotiate other benefits instead. ... Read More
Switching from Tourist Visa to Work Visa?? by anjieface
Hello everyone, I am wondering if anyone here has experience with switching from a tourist visa to a work visa in Qatar, as well as how likely it could be to secure a job there whilst on the tourist visa? IÂ’ve recently accepted a job in Doha. My ...
Hi Yes you can arrive and get a tourist visit on arrival as a Canadian - it lasts 1 month and it is possible to have it extended without leaving the country. Yes, there are no problems getting another upon 're-arrival' - I know of one lady that has ... Read More
New in Qatar, Need Help, primary Grade 1 availability by amimi
Hi everyone, I'm new in this blog and looking for some info and your help/assitance about primary schools. I'm moving to Doha August 2013 with my family (2 kids: 2 and 6-y old) to work at Qatar University and I tried to contact several ...
Doha College are opening a new campus right near the University at Lagoon - go to their website to fill out the application form - this places you on a waiting list - that is how they work Newton International School West Bay and Lagoon are also in ... Read More
car rent monthly by wagung
Dear all, I like to know how much price range for mini/family car rent in doha? and what common rule if as expat for rent a car in doha? cheers
most of the rental agencies only have new cars - there are lots of accidents in Qatar and so they update cars fairly regularly - if you want an older car you may have to purchase rather than rent. Read More
car rent monthly by wagung
Dear all, I like to know how much price range for mini/family car rent in doha? and what common rule if as expat for rent a car in doha? cheers
You will pay at least QR2000 - 2500 per month for a small car - more if you want a family size car. You can rent for 2 weeks on an international licence and then you have to get a temporary Qatari licence (which lasts for the term of your visa) or ... Read More
Considering a move to Doha- need advice urgently please! by Niamh17
Hi All, I am new to this, so please forgive me if I'm posting in the wrong area! I have been offered a great job in Doha, with a really good package etc. I have also lived in Bahrain and Dubai as a child and traveled there as an adult many times- so ...
Yes - I finish at 2.30 and it sunds good - but when the kids (and I) have to be up at 5.30- 5.45 in order for me to start work at 7am then it means feeding them at 5.30pm and having them in bed before 6.30........... so it really isn't that great ... Read More
To bring or not to bring....
Most things are available here (household appliances, kitchenware etc) at reasonable prices so it would only be specialty things that are not "international" that you might like to bring. Other than that I would suggest: a good VPN for your ... Read More
Need friends by osita
Hi i have spent about a month actually working here in Qatar am an engineer but for the past couple of days have been so bored(since i was on rest),dont know where to go to and how to find my way around...i need new friends
Jump in any Karwa taxi and head out and about! I suggest Souq Waqif or the Corniche - you could end up at the Four Seasons hotel for drinks/meal. Otherwise you could head for one of the shopping centres and take in a movie. Read More
Special needs school by Zyaan
Hi All, I am moving to Doha later this year. I have a 6 year old son who is non verbal autistic. I was wondering if anyone on the forum could recommend a good school in Doha. Best wishes Z
Special needs is not a priority in the ME (can't seem to have a problem as this could cause you to loose 'face') and generally across the region people have real difficulties with getting their special needs children into a school with qualified ... Read More
Considering a move to Doha- need advice urgently please! by Niamh17
Hi All, I am new to this, so please forgive me if I'm posting in the wrong area! I have been offered a great job in Doha, with a really good package etc. I have also lived in Bahrain and Dubai as a child and traveled there as an adult many times- so ...
When you are working in the ME they often want you to work quite long hours - many people here work a full 6 day week and "normal" hours in Qatar are 7 - 3.30....... as a single parent that may end up being difficult to manage or sustain with young ... Read More
Considering a move to Doha- need advice urgently please! by Niamh17
Hi All, I am new to this, so please forgive me if I'm posting in the wrong area! I have been offered a great job in Doha, with a really good package etc. I have also lived in Bahrain and Dubai as a child and traveled there as an adult many times- so ...
You may like to check out the Doha Mums Facebook page or website as they may be the group you want to join to meet other Mums & families. The only problem is that a lot of their events are during the day - so I don't know how flexible your hours of ... Read More
Information on Doha by DsrtStrmr
Hello All, I am an American thinking about taking a job in Doha for about 1 year. I am looking for general information on such things as food choices, recreation, communications (cell phone, new plans needed?)and just the general feeling of being ...
Plenty of americans here as well as a very large expat community so I would say OK - don't know too many americans personally so can't say with total assurance, but Brits /Australian / European are treated OK, but no one is treated as well as a ... Read More
Tourist/Visit Visa in Doha, Qatar by wildflower08
Hello there! I would greatly appreciate if you could help me find a very good travel agency that could prepare all the necessary things i need in moving from Dubai to Qatar. Please, oh please reply to me as i plan to leave as soon as ...
http://portal.www.gov.qa/wps/portal/services and search for Family visit visa Read More
Information on Doha by DsrtStrmr
Hello All, I am an American thinking about taking a job in Doha for about 1 year. I am looking for general information on such things as food choices, recreation, communications (cell phone, new plans needed?)and just the general feeling of being ...
Yes your phone will work - but you will pay international roaming charges - better to pay the phone out so it is unlocked by apple and you can then get a local SIM card pretty cheap - google qtel for the costs of their packages. Plenty of ... Read More
Information on Doha by DsrtStrmr
Hello All, I am an American thinking about taking a job in Doha for about 1 year. I am looking for general information on such things as food choices, recreation, communications (cell phone, new plans needed?)and just the general feeling of being ...
Not quite sure what you want - prices? availability? Read More
Qatar Temporary Work Entry Visa by haftamu
I have found this information to get Qatar Temporary Work Entry Visa: "the type of employment, nationality and applicants sponsor must be approved by the Qatar Immigration Department before the applicant can proceed". Could you explain me, please, ...
It is your responsibility to provide your sponsor with all the documents that they require or ask for - passport, training certificates if you need them, birth certificates etc... It is the sponsors responsibility to arrange for all other paperwork ... Read More
Cost of living in Doha
Companies are required to provide medical coverage and most expat packages will also include either accommodation or an allowance - utilities allowance - travel allowance (or car) and most include a return airfare home once a year. Other than that ... Read More
Good private schools in Doha? by Noman68
Hi all, I'm new in Doha (less than a week). From Toronto, Canada but have been living in Dubai for the last 5 yrs. Looking to get some feedback/advice from people who've been there done that... Would be great if you can share your experiences ...
We have friends that waited 4 mths to get a place and know of others that eventually sent their wives/families back to the UK as they couldn't get places. You might want to look into home schooling for a while - I understand there are a number of ... Read More
best place to live in Doha? by temtem
Hello everybody, Inchallah i will join soon a company in Doha located close mushreib. Im looking for a flat and i heard there is a lot of traffic jam. I m looking for a 2 bedroom flat either not far from Mushreib or i was thinking about west bay ...
Pearl to airport can be faster, but then again sometimes it isn't! 6000 is OK if you are looking to share an apartment with someone - otherwise its nowhere near enough - you can hardly get a 2 bd apartment anywhere in Doha for less than about 10K ... Read More
best place to live in Doha? by temtem
Hello everybody, Inchallah i will join soon a company in Doha located close mushreib. Im looking for a flat and i heard there is a lot of traffic jam. I m looking for a 2 bedroom flat either not far from Mushreib or i was thinking about west bay ...
Temtem the traffic is unpredictable. I am currently in accommodation near the airport and work at Lagoon not far from the Pearl, so I travel from one side of Doha to the other (North-South). The trip one morning this week took 25min and on another ... Read More
Good private schools in Doha? by Noman68
Hi all, I'm new in Doha (less than a week). From Toronto, Canada but have been living in Dubai for the last 5 yrs. Looking to get some feedback/advice from people who've been there done that... Would be great if you can share your experiences ...
Many of the schools you mention would ask you to put in an application because their waiting lists are 5 times longer than their current enrolment numbers! The process is usually that you apply - then at some point in time when you near the top of ... Read More
Good private schools in Doha? by Noman68
Hi all, I'm new in Doha (less than a week). From Toronto, Canada but have been living in Dubai for the last 5 yrs. Looking to get some feedback/advice from people who've been there done that... Would be great if you can share your experiences ...
Kenneth - read the thread - its about schools - if you want a job suggest you post an ad in the appropriate section of the blog. Read More
Family Visa
Some nationalities are able to get tourist visas on arrival - but you will need to check the government website to see if your family qualifies. They last 30 days, but you can apply for extensions and/or go for trip to Bahrain or UAE to renew whilst ... Read More
Moving to Doha by Mattey
I've an offer from HMC, my accommodations are provided, married three kids, what can I expect? Mattey
1. Contract Yes, you need to negotiate with the company for the deal that you will be happy with and that will be of benefit to you in the long run, so that includes education allowances, housing etc If they are paying 21K per child in education ... Read More
Moving to Doha by Mattey
I've an offer from HMC, my accommodations are provided, married three kids, what can I expect? Mattey
Can you give more detail - like what specifically do you want to know / have concerns about? Read More
2013/14 Academic year admissions
Phone is always better here - they ignore emails! Read More
2013/14 Academic year admissions
There is always a change over of people at the end of the teaching year, but waiting lists ARE very long, particularly in the primary years at all of the international schools. It would be best if you contacted some schools directly and enquired ... Read More
Converting US License in Doha by golamycine
Hi, Can someone please confirm that the US license can/can not be converted to Qatar license? I am finding mixed information even from authorities and government websites. I have a valid California USA license and I have been here for almost three ...
Most hire places will rent you a car for only 2 weeks on an international license - then you are required to go to the Traffic Office and get a temporary license (cost about QR150 and some mucking around) which will then be valid until your visa ... Read More
SEARCHING FOR INFORMATION ABOUT DOHA COST OF LIFE
It is such a hard question to answer as it depends on what type of life you lead, where you live, shop, what you do for leisure, what you're used to, transport etc.... If you search you can find some cost of living calculators for Qatar and they ... Read More
Help, Need Room for Rent ASAP
I can suggest that you head to one of the noticeboards in a local supermarket near where you want to be (Al Meera or similar) as the one near us (Al Hilal) always has lots of notices for people looking for Filipinos to share an apartment or who have ... Read More
Cost for accomodatio in Doha?
Yes - The Pearl is the upmarket, high-rise, built on the water, custom made super development....... have not seen any apartments there for less than 15000 and have seen others that go up to and including 50 000 per month........ It is the shopping ... Read More
Schools by whereinthegulf?
Hi again, Am hoping I can get some recommendations as to which private schools people feel are best in Doha, and why? I am shocked at the high tuition fees at some of the schools! Also, waiting lists sound very prohibitive, how long in advance ...
nahed raef the information I have lists the following schools as teaching the American curriculum - Not sure what you consider to be expensive so maybe you can google them / visit their websites as they often have their fees listed. American ... Read More
English program school with advanced French by Konrad6
Hello I will be moving to Doha with my 6 year son, and I am also looking into schools, as he will be enrolling for the 20113/14 season. I am looking for an English program school with advanced French as a second language, or one of the French ...
Hi Konrad Its my understanding that the Qatar government requires students to learn arabic as a condition of the school's registration (I may be wrong - haven't been here that long). The school I work in teaches the British curriculum and the ... Read More
Attempting to determine if this is a scam by ChanTwo
Hi. I received what is supposedly a job offer from a school in Qatar, but when I asked about the processing of the visa and for some other information, I received the following response: "The school will provide your flight ticket once you ...
Most of the schools here use British consulting companies to get staff - they are recruiting at the moment positions to start in Sept 2013 - if you are interested I can send you their websites. Read More
Attempting to determine if this is a scam by ChanTwo
Hi. I received what is supposedly a job offer from a school in Qatar, but when I asked about the processing of the visa and for some other information, I received the following response: "The school will provide your flight ticket once you ...
First info you posted could have been legit - but your second one is a dead give away as a scam. Key thing is the request to send money - that always signifies a scam in my mind. Would always smell a rat if asked to send money in order to accept the ... Read More
Cost for accomodatio in Doha?
Depends on where in Doha you want to be. Prices at the Pearl seem to start at around QAR15000 per month for a 2bd, other areas can be cheaper. Suggest you google search 'real estate doha' or try propertyfinder.qa to have a look at what you get for ... Read More
Help from people that would know! by britty16
Hi, My husband and I are very seriously thinking of moving to Qatar? My husband is a quantity surveyor, so has a skilled job that should work for us over there. I am a trainer/manger within the telcoms industry so I too would like to work. My ...
I'm a high school Maths/Science teacher, so given there is a global shortage of us I don't have any issues usually anywhere I go - most schools jump at giving me a job!! Depends on what you want - I am here on family visa sponsored by husband - so ... Read More
Help from people that would know! by britty16
Hi, My husband and I are very seriously thinking of moving to Qatar? My husband is a quantity surveyor, so has a skilled job that should work for us over there. I am a trainer/manger within the telcoms industry so I too would like to work. My ...
Accommodation is quite expensive - you will be hard pressed to find something decent for less than 12000 QR a month - so factor that in if its not included. Often car is not included, but there may be a travel/car allowance. I cant speak about ... Read More
Tips on travelling from Doha to others countries for holidays
I find expedia.com and lastminute.com are ok - if you search the "world" sections they will give you some reasonable deals on accommodation & flights. You might also want to look more closely at dates/days - in my experience you will pay more ... Read More
Attempting to determine if this is a scam by ChanTwo
Hi. I received what is supposedly a job offer from a school in Qatar, but when I asked about the processing of the visa and for some other information, I received the following response: "The school will provide your flight ticket once you ...
Some legit companies do work this way. We have also had to bear the costs of any visa items that are required in our own country with the company reimbursing us upon arrival with the production of receipts - costs in Qatar were met by the ... Read More
Possible for spouse to find work after arriving in Qatar?
Can also try the following groups who are recruiting for teachers in Doha a.t.m.: worldteachers.net seekteachers.com Read More
Regarding Accommodation by jk1984
Hi, I am new to this blog, and requesting your help for the below mentioned query regarding accommodation... My job place will be @ Jeddah international airport and I will be staying with my family (wife, myself and 6 month kid). I want to know ...
Jatin there are plenty of other threads on this if you want to search - in general: 1. The north side of Jeddah has many malls - so if near airport you are also not far from many malls 2. Costs- depends on lifestyle, what you eat and where you ... Read More
any kind of creative class for 3 yr kid by mountaineer8888
Im looking for an kind of creative class like art and craft, drawing or dancing or any such kind on Thursday for my 3yr old daughter. If any body know of such classes pls advice Regards Abbas
There is a place that I know of that is to run creativity classes for kids - due to open in January that may suit your needs. I'm away a.t.m. but will pm you details once I return back to Jeddah in a few days. Read More
I will move to Jeddah, need advice!! :O) by karlamelia
hello all! I will move to Jeddah in about a month. I am a mexican single female and will go to jeddah alone (no husband, kids or any family) I am going to work in KidZania. I am excited about this opportunity but I hav a lot of questions like what ...
mmm Abed1 I main be wrong - but in my experience and that of my friends your kind of help is generally not wanted by single females....... Read More
Hi to Jeddah Forum by chinabhoy
Hi to Jeddah forum, I've recently arrived in Jeddah,living at the moment on Herra Street,I'm originally from Scotland. I've been working in the Middle East for the last 6 years, I lived in Jeddah 4 years ago but old friends have moved on so I'd be ...
You can still do Friday brunch - there is a top 10 list of brunch places at Jeddah Food. Having done half the list during summer some are fairly reasonable. Read More
Animal trasportation requires a special permission? by katspyro
Hi, I will move to Jeddah in the summer and I would like to know if somebody is experienced with an animal transportation procedure in KSA. I checked with the embassy of Saoudi Arabia in my country and they told me that my cats have to issue a ...
You apparently don't have to claim anything about cats - they apparently couldn't give a toss about cats - which makes sense given how many are roaming around here. Dogs however, given they are considered 'unclean' animals have to have a purpose - ... Read More
marriage in saudi court by hazeldarleen
hi! i have a question.. if a man is muslim and a woman is christian and they want to get married in a saudi court, what are the requirements that they need to provide and what is the process?? and where they can go if they are here in jeddah?
No kidding Sushi.... duh - I'm not stupid you know. These western women were raised Christian Read More
Animal trasportation requires a special permission? by katspyro
Hi, I will move to Jeddah in the summer and I would like to know if somebody is experienced with an animal transportation procedure in KSA. I checked with the embassy of Saoudi Arabia in my country and they told me that my cats have to issue a ...
yes they bring cats and other pets in for people all the time - they come in thru the cargo terminal though not the passenger terminals - so your husband needs to contact and engage the services of an agent as they will know what paperwork is ... Read More
I will move to Jeddah, need advice!! :O) by karlamelia
hello all! I will move to Jeddah in about a month. I am a mexican single female and will go to jeddah alone (no husband, kids or any family) I am going to work in KidZania. I am excited about this opportunity but I hav a lot of questions like what ...
When using a private taxi service (slightly more expensive than the local dodgy taxis) earlier in the year I would pay SR30 (6 euros) for a 20-30 ride either to my kids school or one of the bigger shopping centres and the same return. From the ... Read More
marriage in saudi court by hazeldarleen
hi! i have a question.. if a man is muslim and a woman is christian and they want to get married in a saudi court, what are the requirements that they need to provide and what is the process?? and where they can go if they are here in jeddah?
you might like to try searching for this topic on the blogs of American Bedu or Blue Abaya - both are western women that have married Saudi men - so I'm sure they have written posts about the process that needs to be undertaken and their own ... Read More
I will move to Jeddah, need advice!! :O) by karlamelia
hello all! I will move to Jeddah in about a month. I am a mexican single female and will go to jeddah alone (no husband, kids or any family) I am going to work in KidZania. I am excited about this opportunity but I hav a lot of questions like what ...
Alliecat - No - but have been to Indonesia - young guys there do this sort of thing too....... my personal favourite is "You're beautiful":D Read More
Meet and Greet Services at Jeddah Air Port by shiningstar
Hi, Is there neet and greet service available at Jeddah Air port? Thank you for response. Rehman
Husband (who works in aviation) tells me that the only service of this type at Jeddah is for *real* VIPs - read that to mean royal families, top diplomats, high ranking officials etc. Jeddah airport isn't very large (either terminal) and at ... Read More
I will move to Jeddah, need advice!! :O) by karlamelia
hello all! I will move to Jeddah in about a month. I am a mexican single female and will go to jeddah alone (no husband, kids or any family) I am going to work in KidZania. I am excited about this opportunity but I hav a lot of questions like what ...
I only wear sandals around the place! Almost every second store here seems to be a makeup or perfume place so there is no problems wearing it if you want to - a fair few of the locals (whose faces you can see!) are quite heavily made up - the only ... Read More
Tips for a Red Sea dive & Jeddah Trip....
1. best to fly 2. book into Sheraton Obhur - this gives you beach/snorkel etc and somewhere to stay Read More
I will move to Jeddah, need advice!! :O) by karlamelia
hello all! I will move to Jeddah in about a month. I am a mexican single female and will go to jeddah alone (no husband, kids or any family) I am going to work in KidZania. I am excited about this opportunity but I hav a lot of questions like what ...
Hi - I'll support most of what has been said - you have received contrary advice on a couple fo things because a few of your decisions will be determined by your own personality as well as the requirements of your employer (they are your 'guardian' ... Read More
Arts and Crafts shops in Jeddah by AichaKhan
Hey! Do you guys know any arts and crafts shop here? Like the one with jewelry and thread stuff...I saw one but it was all about knitting!
Jarir has another section upstairs that has paper, stickers, beading kits, sewing stuff, pipe cleaners, polystyrene shapes and other general craft things - the painting stuff is on the ground floor. Read More
Arts and Crafts shops in Jeddah by AichaKhan
Hey! Do you guys know any arts and crafts shop here? Like the one with jewelry and thread stuff...I saw one but it was all about knitting!
There is no one 'go to' store in Jeddah but you can try the following: 1. Jarir Bookstore - particularly on Sari - they have craft stuff upstairs as well as painting (including fabric paint/stained glass/mosaic stuff) on the ground floor. 2. Al ... Read More
arabian homes vs amoudia compound - jeddah by myyams
What do you all think, is Arabian homes or Amoudia better? Can you tell why you think so? Sorry for all the bombarding of the forums these days. My husband also has an offer that would put us at Arabian Homes.
I haven't been to Amoudia so can't compare - but Arabian homes is possibly more 'western' in the people that are living there. Certainly they are one of the compounds that many expats want to get on to - and it is very difficult to get places there ... Read More
kids' schooling question
That is a question for the HR department regarding the terms of the contract conditions your husband will have. All I will say is that your contract should very specifically state any conditions you want it to include - or you will find that the ... Read More
can parents come visit? by myyams
Hi, My husband will be working in a physician position with a family contract. We are from the U.S. Does anyone know if my mom and stepdad would be able to come from the U.S. to Jeddah to visit us? If so, about how long do they give visas ...
Now you are married, in Saudi your husband is your mahram. 'Easy' and 'Saudi' are often mutually exclusive terms! Read More
Where to buy a buy Sony Xperia T
Go to the Jeddah International Mall/Market - on Madinah Rd just in behind the Raddison Hotel - there are *lots* of electronic stores/music stores in there including store for most of the major electronics brands like Samsung, yamaha and sony. There ... Read More
Microlight flying by johnkuriakose
Hi, I am living in Dammam as of now and was told there was some microlight flying happening in Jeddah. Can I have some update on that, like location, price, timings, dates and best time to do it. Thanks in advance. Cheers.
Susie of Arabia did a blog post about the ultra lights - here is the link http://susiesbigadventure.blogspot.com/2012_06_01_archive.html it might have some of the information you want or at least give you details to help you Google it. Read More
can parents come visit? by myyams
Hi, My husband will be working in a physician position with a family contract. We are from the U.S. Does anyone know if my mom and stepdad would be able to come from the U.S. to Jeddah to visit us? If so, about how long do they give visas ...
I wouldn't be so sure that it will all go swimmingly and without any hitches - this is the "Magic Kingdom" after all. I notice you say step-father - did he formally adopt you? There have been people here that have had great difficulty getting ... Read More
King Faisal Hospital Jeddah, Amoudia Compound Question by myyams
Hi everyone, I'm new to this forum and joined because it seems like everyone's so great here and really resourceful!! I've learned a lot by just reading threads. I was wondering if anyone can tell me about Amoudia Compound? I've visited the ...
Don't know much about the compound itself - but one of the streets that is the boundary of the compound is the main area in Al Khaledeyyah for beauty salons - there are at least 8 on this street and many others just off it. All of these salons are ... Read More
Nanny for my kids
I don't know the norm on that one - many Saudi's take their nanny on holiday with them - so obviously they get paid. Friends of ours didn't pay their driver during the summer - but did give him a little extra in the last month as a "holiday bonus". ... Read More
Nanny for my kids
There are agencies or often by word of mouth - a neighbour or friend's maid/nanny may have a friend looking for work. Usually you will pay around SR 20-25 per hour, although you could probably make a deal for a monthly amount - around SR2000-2500 a ... Read More
GOLF IN JEDDAH
Hi Les Hubbie played up at Kaust last week, said it was a really nice course - but I think you have to be a member or know a member - someone he works with organised it for them. Did you get a place to live in Jeddah yet? Cheers Di Read More
Special schools in Jeddah and Riyadh by Grumpy_rick
Hi We are currently talking to an employer about moving from the UK to Saudi - however our 8 year old is autistic (not verbal and some complex needs) that will require a special school. Does anyone know of any English speaking provision that is ...
The American School in Jeddah has a special needs department - and I think that both Jeddah Prep and the Continental School also make provisions for students with special needs. As to whether they would be able to provide adequately for your child I ... Read More
Cheap calling cards for calls abroad = ?
Why not call them thru Skype? You can buy credit and phone a regular phone much cheaper. Read More
polymer clay by jedmom
Am looking for polymer clay,cant seem to find any anywhere,the few I did find were dry...Please help,thanks
Al Shate'e is proper spelling - Google maps will find or GPS. Otherwise search for Sawary Mall - it is right next door. Read More
polymer clay by jedmom
Am looking for polymer clay,cant seem to find any anywhere,the few I did find were dry...Please help,thanks
There is lots of this type of stuff in Al Fanoos at the Al Shanti Souq - not sure if it is exactly what you are after though. Read More
Recommended Salons in Jeddah by Soomi1278
Hi I am about to go to Jeddah and I wondered which salon you would recommend:) I heard about a salon called Viva la Vie but I don't know the prices or the adress or anything:( Thank you
@ehtesham - its is a group of hair dressing salons from the UK - well known as having a reasonably high standard of staff and training. Read More
Car taken by NCB bank due to pending installment payments, plz help! by ms_siddiqui
Hi, I had taken a car on installments from NCB bank (al ahli) in 2010. I have been regularly paying the installments until recently. For the past few months i did not make the payment thinking that i would pay it this month completely, But to my ...
I'm struggling to understand why you are surprised by this move by the bank. If you borrow money and have the car as the collateral, so that the bank is assured that it will receive the money they leant you - what in the world made you think that ... Read More