I'm new in Riyadh.. is there anybody here to tell me about compounds. My company put me in a hotel for two weeks.. need to find somewhere else - a western compound.. swimming pools, good facilities.. how fast that can be. will appreciate any answers please.

Most compounds have long waiting lists,will be difficult getting accomodation now.should of made sure your company provided accommodation in a western compound before you took the job!

Welcome to Riyadh, you should have done your due diligence before signing up for a term here without guaranteed accommodation mate. Western compounds, as Moh.S has said, are seriously over-subscribed, and very expensive if are lucky enough to find one with space available.

If I was you, I'd think seriously about getting on the next flight back to blighty

I'm about to accept a job offer in Riyadh, my company will put me in a hotel in a western compound until there is an apartment available there. From talking to people who've done the same, it normally takes 2 to 4 months after being on the waiting list.

From speaking to people, it would appear better to visit the compounds and try and speak in person. Normally you can find people through this website or other ex-pat communities, try and get them to make an introduction.

Thank you all.. I've been visiting few compounds.. my company decided to let me stay in the hotel till I find something suitable. Any compounds you can recommend?. How about Arizona? Gordoba? any ideas?