Expert Info
on 18 May 2011
we have been appointed by ministry of health saudi arabia. they are not providing us accomodation. we were told that finding accomodation is easy but in the article in this website it is mentioned there is long waiting list in compounds. we have not been promised any transit accomodation even. will it be wise to stay in the city so as to avoid traveling to the hospital in which we are working or travalling distances are not of much concern ? is housing easily availaible in the city ? is life really tough with locals ?
In which Saudi Arabian city are you looking for accommodation? There are long waiting lists for the best compounds in Saudi Arabia, and you should definitely try and negotiate an accommodation allowance in your contract if your company in not providing anything. Ask about hotel accommodation while you search for an apartment as well. There is certainly availability, but the trick is obviously finding something within your price range.
Most expats live in compounds, and this makes it easier to meet people, but it's certainly possible to live in a villa or an apartment. Life is not tough with locals, but they tend to keep to themselves. It's harder to meet people outside a compound, though there are certain groups to join and if you have kids, you'll meet people through their schools.
If you indicate which city you're moving to, I can try and recommend some real estate sites.