Is it safe for Westerners in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Saudi Arabia is safe for tourists. As with travel to any other country in the world, be respectful of local rules and customs, be mindful of your surroundings, and carry out due diligence before traveling. Be sure to consult travel advisories before your trip.
How many Westerners live in Saudi Arabia?
As per the data from 2017-2018, more than 30% of the Saudi population are expats. The total number of non-Saudis in the country is estimated to be 10,736,293….Expat Population of Saudi Arabia in 2017-18.
| Country | Population (in million) | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Westerners | 0.12 | 1% |
| Total Expatriates | 10.74 | 100% |
Is living in Saudi Arabia worth it?
Saudi Arabia has a lower cost of living than many other Middle Eastern destinations. Most expats enjoy a luxurious lifestyle, especially if their employment package includes housing, transport and education allowances. Compound accommodation is expensive and international school fees are high.
Can a foreigner live in Saudi Arabia?
It has only been possible for several years for foreign nationals to buy real estate in Saudi Arabia. As a result, most expats rent apartments in Saudi Arabia in so-called compounds, where only foreigners live. The only downside of renting an apartment in the Saudi market is that the prices are exorbitant.
Can I wear shorts in Saudi Arabia?
Sleeveless shirts, short dresses, loose tops, short bottoms, crop tops and miniskirts are strictly not allowed. Night clothes, under garments or anything that is inappropriate to be worn in public must be avoided. Bikinis, which are common among westerners, are taboo in Saudi Arabia, even on the beaches.
Can tourists drink alcohol in Saudi Arabia?
Tourists are not exempted from the ban on alcohol in Saudi Arabia. Tourists are not allowed to consume alcohol while in the country even while en route to the country. You can be arrested if you cross the Saudi border while intoxicated, in possession of alcohol or even just smell like alcohol.
What is expat short for?
According to Wikipedia, “an expatriate (often shortened to expat) is a person temporarily or permanently residing in a country other than that of the person’s upbringing. The word comes from the Latin terms ex (‘out of’) and patria (‘country, fatherland’)”.
Where do most foreigners live in Saudi Arabia?
Most expats in Saudi Arabia live in Jeddah and Riyadh, both of which have the full range of Western amenities, a good selection of accommodation, and most of the Kingdom’s employers. Some expats may also find themselves drawn to Saudi’s Eastern Province, pulled by lucrative job offers in the hydrocarbon sector.
Can you wear shorts in Saudi Arabia?
What is forbidden in Saudi Arabia?
All Pornographic material such as books, DVD’s, magazines etc. *Women’s Fashion magazines with images of models in revealing clothing might be confiscated. Politically sensitive material. Articles and books contrary to Muslim or Saudi Arabian beliefs or morality will not be allowed into the country.