Susie's Big Adventure

american in saudi arabia

Expat woman Photoblog

An American woman moves to her husband's native Saudi Arabia

Tags: Life in Saudi Arabia, Jeddah, Red Sea, Sculptures, Culture

The author

khsusan

I'm an American woman who moved to my husband's native Saudi Arabia in Oct. 2007. The move has been both interesting and challenging. Adapting to the new culture and way of life here has been difficult because although parts of this country are very modern, many things about it seem ancient. It's hard to understand the reasons for a lot of things here and I don't know that I ever will.

Comments

welcome at saudi
by Golden Hope on 14/11/2009 at 22:15:34

Dear Susie, Greetings from Qatar! I came to Qatar 1 year back and just last week, I have been asked by another employer (Kanoo Travel) if I wish to associate with them at Saudi. I am sure pay-package would be decent (still to be discussed). But, being a Hindu (also knowing big (presence of Indians)in Saudi, as well as reading your blogs (7 - times repeatedly :)), I am thinking whether I should relocate to Saudi or no.. I must live with my family (wife, 1 son of 5 yrs & a daughter of 1 month), but dunno know if wife can adjust this kinda weired way of daily living. I am still trying to find out how much monthly salary is required to live a decent Life-style. Your input shall certainly help me plan accordingly. I would be glad if you reply to my Gmail :) Many thnx in advance, Please do take best care, Yogesh Pagar
by Yogesh Pagar on 16/06/2009 at 17:00:41

Susie I love your blog! Its so nice to hear the comments of another American Expat. My heart goes out to you – I’m not sure that I could live like that for the rest of my life. My husband was recently offered a job in Riyadh so we are going to visit the KSA in early July. I believe the Company is going to house us in the Kingdom City Compound and Wayne will work down the street. I have to tell you, I'm excited because I love learning and experiencing different cultures, but also quite anxious. I’m pretty independent. In fact my kids told me I’d never survive. But being in the compound must be a little better than you describe life outside the compound. Do you know anyone from Riyadh who lives in KC or any other American Expat in that area that I could talk to to get information about the move? Any advice from you too would be greatly appreciated. Please feel free to email me anytime. Take care of yourself! Regards, Carol
by Carol on 16/06/2009 at 18:23:57

Hi Yogesh - Most expats who come here to Arabia to work are able to live nicely and also to save up money. I would suggest that you find out about housing costs and compare that to the salary you'll be making. In general, the cost of living is cheaper here compared to the US, but I don't know how it compares to Qatar. Thank you for your kind words about my blog and I wish you and your family the best!
by Susie of Arabia on 22/06/2009 at 02:42:26

Hi Carol - Living in a compound will definitely make things much easier for you! I wish we lived in a compound. I would recommend that you get in touch with Carol at American Bedu. She lives in Riyadh and is very knowledgeable and she writes a terrific blog! http://americanbedu.com/
by Susie of Arabia on 22/06/2009 at 02:38:30