What is semi-closed apt complex? Is it similar to expat compound?

Last activity 02 November 2018 by jaythree

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mrm25Member02 November 2018 03:41:16

Hi! My boyfriend and I both got offered a job in Riyadh. I've read up a lot on gender segregation and was just wondering if there's a chance for us to see each other if we'll be living in separate apartments and working in different places.

Also, what is a semi-closed apartment complex? Is it similar to the expat compounds where we can freely visit each other? The accommodation they've provided is at Al Yasmeen Apartment complex. Thanks!

PS We're not planning to do anything that violates Saudi's customs. We want to respect the laws, but we're just wondering if we'll get to at least hang out or eat together maybe within the complex.

jaythreeMember02 November 2018 06:01:14

Normally being "boyfriend/girlfriend" isn't allowed. So you can't go most places together in public, but if you both live on the same compound, that would be the easiest way to continue your relationship.
I don't know what a semi-closed apartment is, but I would suggest asking the company to allow the both of you to live on a western-style compound.
Yes, you can hang out together in the complex, but you can't go out in public together. If for some reason you get stopped together and not have your marriage certificate you may get into trouble.
I spent about 6 months in Riyadh and there is no shortage of compounds in which you should be able to live. Just keep reading through these blogs, because this is nothing like western countries, and it's important to know what you are walking into.

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