Frequently Asked Questions - Saudi Arabia

Q: Who makes up the expatriate community?

The expatriate community in Saudi Arabia is made up of citizens from around the world: Americans, Canadians, Australians, British, German, Irish, Egyptians, Indians, Pakistanis, Sri Lankans, Bangladeshis, Filipinos, Malaysians, South Africans, etc.  In total, the expat population in Saudi Arabia is approximately 8.4 million individuals.

Q: Where will I live?

Most expatriate staff live in housing on the hospital grounds, or in a private housing complex (commonly called a “compound”).  A compound is an area of private property that is similar to a gated community.  The sizes of compounds vary.  Some will have only the residential facilities, while others will have pools, fitness facilities, tennis courts, salons, and grocery stores.  Like a gated community, you’re free to come and go as you please (bear in mind, however, that some have late-night curfews).  People leave the compound to work, shop, visit friends who live on other compounds, attend cultural events (e.g., concerts at embassies), dine out, go sightseeing, etc.

Q: What is the social life like?

Like anywhere else, the social life in Saudi Arabia is what you make of it.  There are organized trips to historical sites, sports competitions, and other recreational activities.  Dinner parties, desert parties, and beach parties are common.  There are concerts at embassies and expatriate-operated amateur theater and musical ensembles.  It must be noted, however, that unmarried couples may not travel or dine together off-compound without being in the company of a married couple (there are many married couples in Saudi Arabia).

Q: What types of sports are available?

There are endless opportunities to get and stay fit.  There are organized athletic events, such as tennis, running, rugby, and soccer.  There are also marathons and weekly “Hash Harrier” runs in the desert (see also: The Mother of Hills).  Fitness clubs are available but can be costly.  Most people stick with the pool facilities and tennis courts commonly available on the hospital grounds or in housing complexes.  There are grass and sand golf courses, such as at the Intercontinental Hotel (where both men and women play).  Additionally for women, there are women’s clubs such as the Canadian Women of Riyadh and the American Women of Riyadh.

Q: What religions are practiced in Saudi Arabia?

Islam is the official religion of Saudi Arabia. Prayer call occurs five times per day and during this period, shops and restaurants close for 20 minutes to allow workers to pray.  Many expatriates living in Riyadh are from Muslim countries.  Although there are also many Hindu and Christian expatriates, there are no churches or houses of worship of other faiths in the Kingdom.  The legal system is based on Sharia law.

Q: How should I dress when I am in Saudi Arabia?

For men, all clothing worn in public areas (e.g., outside the hospital grounds and housing complexes) should be conservative.  This means no sleeveless shirts, no shorts, etc.  For women, they are required to wear an abaya (a dark, lightweight cloak that drapes over your clothing) and a scarf that covers the hair when they are in public areas – and both should be black.  Non-Muslim expatriate women are not required to veil.  Abayas (and scarves) can be purchased throughout Saudi Arabia, and women are taken abaya shopping during the orientation period.  This doesn’t mean that you can’t work out or go to the beach.  Western-only private beaches and pools are available, where, of course, bathing suits can be worn. Sportswear can be worn at women-only and men-only fitness facilities.  And at home, you can wear whatever you wish.

Q: What languages are spoken in Riyadh?

The official language is Arabic.  English is commonly spoken, and Hindi and Urdu are also spoken by many of the expatriates who live there.  English is the language of operation of all hospitals and translators are available for communicating with patients who do not speak English.

Q: Can I leave the Kingdom on vacation whenever I want?

While you are waiting to receive your residency permit (i.e., Igama), which now usually takes a couple of weeks (but can take months), you may not leave the country.  Also, the first three months of employment is a probationary period, during which you will not be able to take any accrued leave days.  After you obtain residency permit, you will be able to leave and re-enter the country for a short trip that doesn't use leave days, e.g., for a weekend trip the UAE.

Q: When will I be able to take a vacation, and for how long can I go away?

Vacations are calculated as “calendar days.”  You will have between 40 and 54 calendar days of vacation per year (i.e., April 1st to 14th is considered to be 14 calendar days of vacation) depending on the hospital for which you work.  You will not be able to take vacation for the first three months of your contract, as this is your probationary period.  After this time, you will be able to make vacation arrangements with your supervisors at the hospital, as you would in any workplace.  Helen Ziegler and Associates, Inc. cannot guarantee you vacation time for any particular dates, or for any length of time.

Q: Is English-language reading material available?

There are three daily English papers: Arab News, Saudi Gazette, and Riyadh Daily.  There are several English-language bookstores, but the stock can vary.  There are book-sharing clubs among expats and small libraries at the hospital.  Books can also be ordered online from websites such as Amazon.com.

Q: Are there any types of books, CDs, or DVDs that are illegal in Saudi Arabia?

Do not bring books which are critical of Saudi Arabia or which are politically controversial into the country.  Pornography is strictly prohibited.  Travel guides about Saudi Arabia are completely acceptable.  If your books have covers or pictures that may be offensive, remove them. DVDs may be checked at customs.

Q: Can I drive a car in Saudi Arabia?

Women are not permitted to drive in Saudi Arabia, but there are free shuttle buses to and from your residence to common shopping destinations throughout the city, and taxis are available (the official licensed taxis in Saudi Arabia are white).  Men, on the other hand, can apply for a driver’s license when in Saudi Arabia (though there is a lot of paperwork involved) and can even purchase a car.

Q: Can I bring a pet?

People on single-status contracts who are in shared accommodations cannot bring any pets.  People on married-contracts who are not in shared housing may be able to bring one pet, but you are responsible for all expenses and arrangements for its transportation to Saudi Arabia. For information, see: How to Bring Your Pet ...

Q: I have tattoos/facial piercings/body piercings. Is this a problem?

No.  However, it’s best to keep tattoos covered, and piercings in non-traditional locations (e.g., the eyebrow, lips) may be frowned upon.

Q: I do not want to appear culturally insensitive. Other than dress, is there anything else I should be aware of?

Definitely do not take pictures of any government buildings, or Saudi adults or children.  During Ramadan (the annual month of fasting), don’t eat or drink in public places during daylight hours.  Women should not offer to shake hands unless, of course, the hand of the other person is offered first.

Q: What is available in the stores?

Most things that are available in North America are available in Saudi Arabia, with the exception of items that are prohibited, such as alcohol, pornography, and pork products.

• Pharmacies are open at convenient times, and many pharmaceuticals can be obtained over the counter.
• High-end designer clothing and sportswear is easy to find, but you can't always try it on! (And even if you did want to try on a piece of clothing, the sales clerk may be a handsome young man which makes some women uncomfortable.) The Kingdom also has many good tailors who can make items for you.
• It can be difficult to find bathing suits – even more so when there is a chance you might not be able to try it on – so bring a couple from home.
• Electronics stores abound, selling the latest in computer, audio, and video equipment. Videos and DVDs are also available, but many of these will have been censored.
• Jewelry shopping in the gold souqs is so popular with expatriates that most leave Saudi Arabia with a sizable gold collection.

Q: What is the food like?

Saudi Arabia allows expatriates to go on a culinary world tour.  In addition to sampling authentic Middle Eastern cuisine (such as tabouleh, hummus, pita, baba ghanoush, etc.), there is Italian, French, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Filipino, Mexican, Turkish, and Indian.  For a taste of ‘home’, the standard American chains such as McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Dunkin' Donuts, and Dairy Queen are available.  Many of the foods in the supermarket will be familiar to you, from ketchup to Twinkies to skim milk.  Although produce is readily available at supermarkets, fruit and vegetable souqs (markets) provide excellent fresh produce.  Alcohol and pork products are not permitted.

Q: What about education?

Adult education:  Expatriates who want to take degree courses (e.g., BScN or MBA) usually enroll in distance education or online courses at institutions in their own country. Only Saudi nationals are permitted to enrol in post-secondary institutions in the Kingdom.

Children's education:  If a person is eligible for a married status contract (generally only doctors and senior administrators), the contract usually covers education for two dependent children. The amount of coverage is capped, so the full cost of education is not covered. Also, coverage is only from grade one to 12. Preschool and kindergarten classes are available but are not covered by most contracts. The children of expatriates attend either private schools in the Kingdom or boarding schools abroad. Private schools in the Kingdom now go to grade 12.

Q: Will I be safe in Saudi Arabia?

There is relatively little crime in Saudi Arabia.  Yes, there has been an occasional terrorist attack on Western housing compounds, however, the level of violence is far less than one would find in a city of comparable size in the United States or Canada, and the security level is high. Generally, Western people say they feel safe.

Q: As a woman, can I leave the housing complex by myself?

Of course!  There is no requirement for women to travel in groups.

Q: What happens if I don't like living in Saudi Arabia and don’t feel I can complete my contract?

If after much thought you feel that you do not want to stay, you are free to return home. But if, at a later date you decide to re-apply, it will be very difficult to get another position in Saudi Arabia.

Q: Should I register with my country's embassy or consulate in Saudi Arabia?

When traveling abroad one should always register with one’s embassy or consulate.  Riyadh is home to all of the government ministries and foreign embassies, including those of the United States and Canada.  Jeddah is the site of many consulates, including those of the United States and Canada.  You can also register in advance of going overseas:

Americans: See the State Department's Travel Registration page

Canadians: See Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada's Registration of Canadians Abroad page

Q: What if I feel that I need to leave due to the international situation?

Following 9/11, the vast majority of employees decided to stay and "wait it out." Those who decided to leave had their airfare paid and they were offered the opportunity to return in the future. Also, each staff member has access to a volunteer embassy "warden" who is in direct contact with their embassy, and provides regular updates on the international situation and their government’s recommended response.

Q: Where can I get additional information about travelling abroad?

Canadians can review the The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade website.  This is a useful site, providing a variety of information (in English and French) for Canadians planning to go abroad. Some information includes: passports; travel reports; consular services; regional characteristics.

Americans can review the The Department of State website. This site provides information for Americans planning to go abroad, such as: passports; travel and health reports; consular services; regional characteristics; currency exchange.

Q: Who are the patients?

The patients are Saudi nationals, expatriates, and Saudi hospital staff and their dependents.  You will see all types of patients including heart disease, common cancers, and interesting genetic diseases. 

Q: How is the healthcare system in KSA organized?

The healthcare system in Saudi Arabia is roughly similar to the American system. Military hospitals treat members of the armed forces and their families.  University teaching hospitals treat the general public.  Ministry of Health hospital and tertiary-care referral hospitals treat the general public.  Private hospitals treat either specific populations or are strictly for-profit.  Saudi Arabia is also actively involved in medical research.

Q: Who are my coworkers?

Your coworkers will be healthcare professionals and support staff from Saudi Arabia and countries around the world:  Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Egypt, Jordan, the Philippines, Sudan, Somalia, South Africa, etc.

Q: What language is spoken at the hospital?

Although English is the working language at the hospital, your colleagues come from all over the world, so English may be a second language to many of them.  Some patients may speak English, but many speak only Arabic; translators will be available. Hospitals also offer free courses in basic Arabic.

Q: Do I have to have a Saudi license to work?

You must keep your American or Canadian (or other) license active and current while you are working in Saudi Arabia, and have it with you.  Nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals also must obtain a Saudi Commission for Health Specialties license. An exam is not necessary, but you will have to provide certain documents.

Q: Will my uniform be provided for me?

Yes.  At the King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre in Riyadh, for example, nurses get four sets of white scrubs and two jackets; respiratory therapists are issued green scrubs.

Q: If I do not wear a uniform, how should I dress at work?

If you do not wear a uniform the dress is professional clothing.

Q: Can I wear open-toed shoes at work?

No, closed-toe shoes are required.  Most people wear running shoes.

Q: Am I entitled to overtime pay?

Although your contract will state that overtime is paid at 1.5, Saudi Labour Law counts your days off as paid days.  Therefore, for practical purposes, the overtime rate is approximately 1.2.

Q: What kind of healthcare coverage am I entitled to?

The hospital will provide any medical treatment and emergency dental procedures you require.  In most cases, you will not be covered for basic dental care.  However, if you leave the city to go on vacation or for a day trip, you will not be covered for any medical treatment.  Thus, it is a good idea to purchase travel health insurance, when you leave the city in which you are employed, even if it is to travel within Saudi Arabia.

Q: I take prescription medication. Can I get it there, or should I bring it with me?

You can get prescription medication in Saudi Arabia (which is covered by your health coverage), but you may not be able to get a specific brand name.  Therefore, if you prefer a specific brand it is advisable to bring a supply that will last you several months.  Please bring prescriptions in the original container.  The label must clearly state your name and the name of the medication (this is especially important when you are carrying medication on the airplane).

Q: What is the currency in Saudi Arabia?

The currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal, commonly referred to as the “SR”.  The SR is pegged to the US dollar, and the US exchange rate is fixed at US$1 = SR3.75.

Q: What does "tax-free income" mean?

There is no income tax deducted in Saudi Arabia, and there is no sales tax.  However, your foreign income may be taxed in your home country:

• Americans are excluded from paying taxes on any amount up to US$91,400 (tax year 2009) if the person was out of the country for at least 330 full days out of 365 days of the year. Exclusion amounts are subject to change, so please refer to: Internal Revenue Service
• Canadians have a more complicated situation which involves severing residential ties to Canada (e.g., spouse, dependent children, non-investment property, etc.). For information, please refer to: Canada Revenue Agency

Q: How am I paid?

You are paid monthly, in Saudi Riyals, by direct deposit into a local bank, located either on the hospital site or within easy walking distance.

Q: How easy is it to open a bank account?

The hospital will help you open a bank account soon after you arrive.  Money in this account, however, does not earn interest, so you should transfer your money to an account outside Saudi Arabia.  Islamic law prohibits earning interest on money; Islamic banking, however, provides another method for making your money work for you without violating Islamic law.

Q: What should I do with my money then?

Since no interest is paid on accounts in Saudi Arabia, most people keep only basic spending money in their Saudi bank account.  Instead, people transfer most of their savings to offshore accounts.  Internet banking is common.

Q: Can I use my ATM card?

Yes. ATM machines accept cards from all over the world via systems like Cirrus and Plus. You can also get an ATM card for your local Saudi account.

Q: Can I use credit cards in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is generally a cash society, but credit cards are accepted in most major department stores, restaurants, and in the gold souks (markets).  Generally, other outdoor souks do not accept credit cards.

Q: Is Saudi Arabia expensive to live in?

Brand names and imports can be expensive, compared to the prices at home (where they may not be imports!).

Q: Do I need to have a visa to go to Saudi Arabia?

Yes.  As your recruiting company, Helen Ziegler and Associates, Inc. will request your visa (as well as those for eligible family members*) from the hospital and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  Obtaining a Saudi work visa is a lengthy and complex process which requires verification of educational and experience credentials, an extensive medical examination, and a police clearance.  The process is different for Americans and Canadians.  HZA has obtained Saudi work visas for approximately 4,000 candidates
*  Married-status contracts, which are generally restricted to physicians and senior administrative positions, include dependents.

Q: What is a residency visa and why is it so important?

In order to stay in Saudi Arabia long-term, you must obtain a residency visa.  Residency visas are arranged by the hospital, and once you receive your residency visa, you will receive an “Igama” which is a residency permit.  The Igama is similar in appearance to a driver’s license – it has an identifying digital photo of you and carries your personal identifying information.  You should carry it at all times.

Q: How long will it take to obtain my residency visa?

Initially, you will enter Saudi Arabia on a temporary work visa that is valid for three months, and which is sponsored by the hospital. Once you arrive, the hospital will ask for your passport to process your Iqama.  The Igama now usually takes a couple of weeks to obtain, but can take months.

Q: Why do I have to relinquish my passport to the hospital when I arrive?

You must give the hospital your passport, so that they can obtain your Igama.

Q: I have friends and family who would like to visit me. How can I obtain visas for them?

You will be allowed to sponsor only close family members (e.g., spouse, children, parents, and siblings).  You are responsible for all costs associated with their visit (e.g., visa, flight, accommodations).  You are not able to sponsor friends and extended family members.

Q: Who will arrange my flight to Saudi Arabia?

Helen Ziegler and Associates, Inc. works with the hospital to arrange your flight from your point-of-hire to the city where you will be working.  The hospital pays for your flight.

Q: If I book my own flight, will the hospital pay me back for it?

No.  Nor, for logistical reasons, can the hospital honor requests to fly specific airlines, or accommodate requests for additional or extended stops on your way to Saudi Arabia.

Q: Are interviews required?

Yes! We make it our policy to meet with our candidates face-to-face, not only for assessment, but so that we can provide you with updated information about Saudi Arabia, review hospital information, and give you a chance to ask questions. Additionally, you might also have a telephone interview with the hospital in Saudi Arabia.

Q: What is HZA's recruitment process?

Our comprehensive recruitment process is outlined on our Application Process page.

Q: Does Saudi Arabia allow tourists to enter the country?

Recently Saudi Arabia instituted some limited opportunities for tourists via organized tours offered by a limited number of travel agents. For information about who is eligible to participate in these tours, contact the Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate nearest you:

• Washington, DC, USA
• Ottawa, Canada: Consular and Visa Services telephone number: +1.613.237.4104

Q: Do I have to share my apartment/house?

Physicians and most senior administrative positions are entitled to non-shared housing.  All other contracts receive shared accommodations, with a maximum of two other housemates.

Q: What is provided in my apartment/house?

Cutlery, dishes, pots, pans, a kettle, and toaster come with the apartment, as do basic appliances such as a fridge and stove.  Depending on your accommodations, washers and dryers are either in the individual apartment unit or in a communal laundry room (there is no charge). Utilities are included, and basic TV channels are included.  If you want more channels you can purchase satellite packages that include stations such as ESPN, CNN, BBC, the Movie Channel, etc. Long distance phone calls are not included.

Q: What is the voltage in Saudi Arabia?

The voltage can be either 120 or 220 volts depending on the hospital accommodations.

Q: Is drinking alcohol legal in Saudi Arabia?

Alcohol and products containing alcohol are strictly prohibited by law.  (This includes liqueur chocolates!)  Bringing them into the country, and/or purchasing or drinking alcohol is prohibited in Saudi Arabia.

Q: Is smoking cigarettes legal in Saudi Arabia?

Smoking is legal in Saudi Arabia, but women cannot smoke in public.

Q: Will I be able to phone home as soon as I get to Saudi Arabia?

Yes. International phone cards can easily be purchased in the Mailroom or Communications Department of most hospitals, as well as at most shopping malls.  And most people now have cell phones, but phone cards purchased outside the Kingdom do not always work in the Kingdom.

Q: Will the hospital provide me with an email account?

It is recommended that you register for a free email account such as Gmail or Hotmail before you leave North America.

Q: How long does regular mail take?

Mail (each way) between Saudi Arabia and home takes about two weeks. You can mail letters from Saudi Arabia; you may also want to bring stamps from home with you, so you can have co-workers mail them from North America when they are home on holidays.

Q: Where can I access the internet? Should I bring my own computer?

You can access the internet from the hospital, and some housing, depending on time and availability. All internet traffic is processed through centralized servers that filter content that is contrary to Islamic values, so some sites will not be available (particularly those with content that is sexually explicit, religious, or violent). You can bring your own computer or you can purchase one in Saudi Arabia. You can use the computers at the hospital, depending on availability. And, yes, you can arrange to have internet access in your apartment; the costs ranges from SR250 (US$67) to SR350 (US$93) per month depending on speed.