Riyadh?
Hi all, first post here and I would appreciate some advice. I've been "asked" to work in Riyadh for a period. My probable fiancée would not come but is prepared to wait (but is not thrilled).
Upsides - (i) I get to keep my job; and (ii) tax free living (probably - need to check with an accountant). I would be getting £100k+ per annum, possible small bonus, plus free accommodation, help towards car and a £10k moving allowance. My parents might like to come and live with me for a bit (they are both retired). I live a modest lifestyle and would primarily be aiming to save money and also looking for promotion on my return to the UK. Riyadh sounds like a "challenging" place to live and is not really my cup of tea (I have previously lived in the region so can speak from experience). I would not be getting much of a payrise (other than the tax free element) for going - is this usual from UK -> SA? And the biggie - should I do it? Opinions gratefully received! :confused: |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by jimster99
(Post 10021959)
Hi all, first post here and I would appreciate some advice. I've been "asked" to work in Riyadh for a period. My probable fiancée would not come but is prepared to wait (but is not thrilled).
Upsides - (i) I get to keep my job; and (ii) tax free living (probably - need to check with an accountant). I would be getting £100k+ per annum, possible small bonus, plus free accommodation, help towards car and a £10k moving allowance. My parents might like to come and live with me for a bit (they are both retired). I live a modest lifestyle and would primarily be aiming to save money and also looking for promotion on my return to the UK. Riyadh sounds like a "challenging" place to live and is not really my cup of tea (I have previously lived in the region so can speak from experience). I would not be getting much of a payrise (other than the tax free element) for going - is this usual from UK -> SA? And the biggie - should I do it? Opinions gratefully received! :confused: You get to 'keep your job'? You hope for a 'promotion' when you return to the UK? I think you've answered your own question........ that sounds like the proverbial 'offer you can't refuse'. And that's good money, even if you are earning something similar now. Not sure you'll be allowed to bring your parents over though....... and I wonder - do they know what Saudi is like? |
Re: Riyadh?
To be UK Income Tax and NI free, the period you mention will need to span a full tax-year (see HMRC6, Section 8.5). As a guide, I'd say the packge was about right for a construction professional, Chartered, with about 20-25 years relevant experience.
Whether or not to do it is a tough call. If you are facing redundancy and unemployment in the UK, then I'd say yes, but plan to be there for two years. [J] |
Re: Riyadh?
I like this.... 'probable fiancee'. Are you telling us you will propose before you've actually proposed? Or have you proposed already and she is 'considering'. :D
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Re: Riyadh?
If you do decide to come make sure housing on a decent compound is arranged for you. There are shortages of villa's and the prices high.
Don't know much about tax except the basic understanding you need to be here minimum 2 years and only spend 90 days of each year in the UK. Sadly, we have been here so long it doesn't matter for us. You can bring your parents out on a visit visa. My outlaws enjoyed sitting by the pool all day and soaking up the rays. Riyadh also has some decent restaurants (minus drinks of course). My parents, who already live in sunny, pleasant climes were somewhat less impressed with Riyadh. Good luck with your decision... |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by jimster99
(Post 10021959)
Upsides -
(i) I get to keep my job; and (ii) tax free living (probably - need to check with an accountant). /> |
Re: Riyadh?
If you already have a secure and well paid job, why on earth bother? You are hardly going to save much by working in Riyadh. My fear would be that, if you hate it and want to leave early, you may not be able to return to the same position. They say that you keep your job but how likely is that in the real world? If you were currently unemployed or earning a pittance, then that would be a different story. Also, you would undeniably miss your girlfriend.
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Re: Riyadh?
OK good folks, thanks for advice and I'm on board for the ride as company has offered me good terms and it seems to make sense. Eeek!!!
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Re: Riyadh?
Next issue...initial budget for accomodation seems to be 150k-170k SARs but I will need to find it (with assistance of a real estate agent).
I want a 2 bed apartment or villa on a solely western compound with bowling + tennis courts, plus a bit of a social life and welcoming of solo men (which I presume I will be classed as, even though I'm in a committed relationship back home). I've read every webpage I can find and it seems I could (just) afford a 1 bed in Al Hamra (not big enough) or a 2 bed in Kingdom City (would be fine but limited availability). The Arizona compound seems out of my league. I'm less keen on Cordoba, Grenada, Arabian Homes, and Seder Village just based on what I've read. California compound sounds good but not finished yet! Living off compound on this budget would get me a massive place, but I don't think this sounds very sensible. Any thoughts/advice? |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by jimster99
(Post 10067599)
Next issue...initial budget for accomodation seems to be 150k-170k SARs but I will need to find it (with assistance of a real estate agent).
I want a 2 bed apartment or villa on a solely western compound with bowling + tennis courts, plus a bit of a social life and welcoming of solo men (which I presume I will be classed as, even though I'm in a committed relationship back home). I've read every webpage I can find and it seems I could (just) afford a 1 bed in Al Hamra (not big enough) or a 2 bed in Kingdom City (would be fine but limited availability). The Arizona compound seems out of my league. I'm less keen on Cordoba, Grenada, Arabian Homes, and Seder Village just based on what I've read. California compound sounds good but not finished yet! Living off compound on this budget would get me a massive place, but I don't think this sounds very sensible. Any thoughts/advice? It's been a long time since you could simply turn up, stay in a hotel for a few days, then find several places to choose from. It WAS like that when I first went to Riyadh...... but that was 1992.......... |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by jimster99
(Post 10021959)
. My probable fiancée would not come but is prepared to wait (but is not thrilled).
:confused: There is no way she can visit as you are not married. |
Re: Riyadh?
-Fiancee cant come. you'd need to be married.
-parents, depends on what visa your company can get, but it seems unlikely -The filipinios manage to live off site without difficulty, and i'm in 'hospital accomidation' (read: an apartment block) and managing without difficulty... though arranging such a thing when you first arrive would be a hassle. Marry her today. |
Re: Riyadh?
welcome to Riyadh, I am sure you and your fiancee will enjoy living in Riyadh.
if you have any Questions I'd be happy to help |
Re: Riyadh?
With regard to compounds, the ones to consider are:
Eid Cordoba Arabian Homes All family friendly and good amenities. I know you mentioned both Cordoba and Arabian Homes as not being of interest but I would put Cordoba in the top echelon of compounds along with Arizona and Al Hamra. Of course it comes with a hefty price tag. Stay well clear of Granada as it is an Eastern compound and is down right awful because of the tenants. For a single guy you could also consider Ranco, pretty good social life! |
Re: Riyadh?
Poster seems an Amber light for a traffic light party
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Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by MaserMan
(Post 10072926)
Eid
Cordoba Arabian Homes Ranco |
Re: Riyadh?
Currently considering cars. My only concerns - (i) a very safe solid car and (ii) one that I can sell for minimum loss when I leave. Prestige is unimportant. Is it better to buy or to lease? Brand new or second hand? Can I get fully comp insurance or if someone rear ends me am I out of pocket?
And realistically do I need a driver or do people really drive themselves? (considering how unsafe the roads appear to be...) |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by jimster99
(Post 10073610)
Currently considering cars. My only concerns - (i) a very safe solid car and (ii) one that I can sell for minimum loss when I leave. Prestige is unimportant. Is it better to buy or to lease? Brand new or second hand? Can I get fully comp insurance or if someone rear ends me am I out of pocket?
And realistically do I need a driver or do people really drive themselves? (considering how unsafe the roads appear to be...) |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by jimster99
(Post 10067599)
Next issue...initial budget for accomodation seems to be 150k-170k SARs but I will need to find it (with assistance of a real estate agent).
I want a 2 bed apartment or villa on a solely western compound with bowling + tennis courts, plus a bit of a social life and welcoming of solo men (which I presume I will be classed as, even though I'm in a committed relationship back home). I've read every webpage I can find and it seems I could (just) afford a 1 bed in Al Hamra (not big enough) or a 2 bed in Kingdom City (would be fine but limited availability). The Arizona compound seems out of my league. I'm less keen on Cordoba, Grenada, Arabian Homes, and Seder Village just based on what I've read. California compound sounds good but not finished yet! Living off compound on this budget would get me a massive place, but I don't think this sounds very sensible. Any thoughts/advice? I tell you what will happen...after having spent 2 months in your "provisional accom" in Riyadh, you will be praying for any compound to let you in . Which they probably won't...because there is NOTHING available, especially for private people, on the compounds....but anyway, just sayin'. IF you read some threads about accom in Saudi here on BE, this will become vividly evident to you. You need to have an employer who either has villas on compounds, or has enough wasta and the serious wish to get you one. |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by Alexa
(Post 10074316)
My dear friend..far be it from me to burst your bubble...but you are "sorting compounds"???? Seriously???
I tell you what will happen...after having spent 2 months in your "provisional accom" in Riyadh, you will be praying for any compound to let you in . Which they probably won't...because there is NOTHING available, especially for private people, on the compounds....but anyway, just sayin'. IF you read some threads about accom in Saudi here on BE, this will become vividly evident to you. You need to have an employer who either has villas on compounds, or has enough wasta and the serious wish to get you one. |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by MaserMan
(Post 10074362)
Things are not as bad as it used to be, mainly because of greedy owners who are putting prices up. As an example my villa now costs almost 80k more than last year so people are moving out. There is also the bribe factor with certain compound managers
Alexa is right, and as I have posted many times before, you MUST sort out your accommodation before you arrive. |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by The Dean
(Post 10074856)
People are 'moving out'? Where to?
Alexa is right, and as I have posted many times before, you MUST sort out your accommodation before you arrive. |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by MaserMan
(Post 10073669)
The majority of people drive here and the style that best describes how to survive is "cautious aggression" It is not that bad once you start and your driving becomes as bad as the rest of the Saudi's
You'd think an American truck would command respect but no, the hare-brained taxi drivers and youth in small Hyundais are like ****ing WW2 Mitsubishi Zero suicide pilots. Changing direction without indicators is essential, because if you indicate that only inspires Saudis to speed up so as not to let you change lane. Roundabouts are Russian Roulette. |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by Desert Dubliner
(Post 10076434)
:D
You'd think an American truck would command respect but no, the hare-brained taxi drivers and youth in small Hyundais are like ****ing WW2 Mitsubishi Zero suicide pilots. Changing direction without indicators is essential, because if you indicate that only inspires Saudis to speed up so as not to let you change lane. Roundabouts are Russian Roulette. Ramadan was the worst time - everyone [except for the expats] hasn't eaten or drunk anything for hours so their driving is insane. |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by Desert Dubliner
(Post 10076434)
:D
Changing direction without indicators is essential, because if you indicate that only inspires Saudis to speed up so as not to let you change lane. Roundabouts are Russian Roulette. |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by saudiflares
(Post 10076940)
There are no lanes in Saudi. Just strange ceramic discs set in the asphalt that no Saudi has ever dared to think what their function is.
if in doubt just blast yer horn !!:thumbsup: |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by goonerseba
(Post 10077281)
drove the full length of Al Batha Road road up & down last night... (not for fun but had to visit Mobily shop at the far end)...not as bad as i thought but then I have been driving in the city for 2 years and have developed my Assertive & Defensive driving skills to the highest level....:sneaky:
if in doubt just blast yer horn !!:thumbsup: |
Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by Alexa
(Post 10074316)
My dear friend..far be it from me to burst your bubble...but you are "sorting compounds"???? Seriously???
I tell you what will happen...after having spent 2 months in your "provisional accom" in Riyadh, you will be praying for any compound to let you in Exactly. |
Re: Riyadh?
OK folks, thanks for humouring my random assortment of questions so far. Next one - my mum would like to stay with me in Riyadh on a semi-permanent visa. My dad wouldn't come. Any tips on how best to present this so that I can wangle a long term visa for her? Any prospect of her getting a working visa (teacher or nurse or similar)? I gather there may have been a recent change of policy by the Saudi government regarding this topic and such visas are now harder to get, but it might help if your parents are financially dependent on you.
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Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by jimster99
(Post 10135536)
OK folks, thanks for humouring my random assortment of questions so far. Next one - my mum would like to stay with me in Riyadh on a semi-permanent visa. My dad wouldn't come. Any tips on how best to present this so that I can wangle a long term visa for her? Any prospect of her getting a working visa (teacher or nurse or similar)? I gather there may have been a recent change of policy by the Saudi government regarding this topic and such visas are now harder to get, but it might help if your parents are financially dependent on you.
As always, my cooments are not meant to be harsh or critical of your thinking or plans - only honest. IF you manage to find a way to bring your mother out to Riyadh, I would urge you to think very seriously about doing so. Imho, this no place to bring a lady with no company (ie your father) to spend up to 12 hours a day on her own (you will be working after all). She cannot drive, there is no public transport (maybe a compound bus), or go out on her own. She will be totally reliant on you and the compound social hospitality to maintain any level "normality" - which is almost impossible in Riyadh. Some compounds do have very active social circles and so on but you need to ensure this is a feature of your compound beforehand. My compond experience was mainly indian & pakistani families and single men with little internal social interaction going on - totally western occupied compounds are very limited and have waiting lists. I understand the attraction of bringing her out to experience the region and spend time with you, but I would consider the idea seriously before putting her on that plane - IF you can sort a visa of course. Good luck with the move and job...:thumbup: |
Re: Riyadh?
Is this guy actually serious? I do hope not......for his own sake.
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Re: Riyadh?
Originally Posted by jimster99
(Post 10135536)
OK folks, thanks for humouring my random assortment of questions so far. Next one - my mum would like to stay with me in Riyadh on a semi-permanent visa. My dad wouldn't come. Any tips on how best to present this so that I can wangle a long term visa for her? Any prospect of her getting a working visa (teacher or nurse or similar)? I gather there may have been a recent change of policy by the Saudi government regarding this topic and such visas are now harder to get, but it might help if your parents are financially dependent on you.
Is everything OK with the two of them? Just asking.......... :( |
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