What EXPATS need to know - Life in Compounds - Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

[@sharybaa]

I'm an expat living in Jeddah since i wss born. Thank you for telling ppl it's safe and amazing to live here, cause it really is AH MAZING

[@petedoessaudi]

🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@SeanDonnelly-wc3bk]

Brilliant videos, mate; thanks for posting such useful, practical info on daily life. By far best info I've come across. Weighing up a job offer at the moment so it's a big help. Fair play on making such a nice life for yourself out there - takes courage. Hope to hit you up for some training if I make the move!

[@norareyna7154]

Hello I willbe visiting jeddah in october can you pls orient me where to stay thnks

[@petedoessaudi]

Thanks for the kind words Sean. Appreciate it 🙏🏼🙏🏼 Have you decided on the job offer yet?

[@rippingale100]

Lived in jeddah forty years ago hardly anything there,

[@johnfranklin8319]

He has one thing right “people are afraid of different”, so true, most people are creatures of habit and change makes it uncomfortable for them.

[@petedoessaudi]

And that was / still is me to some extent! I like my routine and habits

[@rimesherif5775]

This change is not forvthe better. We are going backwards. The hour is indeed near

[@abdurahman49]

Hi Pete, so glad to see you making more vlogs about Jeddah/Saudi in general. Here in the north, Ha'il, humidity, thankfully, is not an issue, and the heat is starting to let up; it's actually quite nice during the late evening/early morning hours.

[@petedoessaudi]

Ahh you’re too kind! Many more of those sorts of vlogs coming in the future. Aiming to do one a week! Ha’il is menat to be amazing?!

[@Prepper319]

I moved to Jeddah from Chicago & I love it !!

[@petedoessaudi]

Awesome to hear! What is it you’re doing hear?

[@fairtreatment2284]

Please can you help me with how to buy a property in Jeddah, I am a Canadian citizen and want to move to Jeddah, plan to buy 2 properties one to live and one to rent can I?

[@BavarianMachines]

Hey Pete, Thanks for the insight and sharing your experience of living in Saudi Arabia. Couldn't agree more about Saudi being unrecognisable in a few years. It's going to take some time for them to get to where they need to be but they are throwing money at the notion of making it happen sooner. Vision 2030 is amazing and that's only the beginning, right?!

[@petedoessaudi]

I hope it was at least mildly informative and entertaining! It’s a great time for the country and the people here - opportunity and potential is everywhere, let’s just hope it all follows through

[@rimesherif5775]

It's not amazing man. The so called openness is going to ruin land of Arabia and its sacred locations. You're losing your identity. An example of a Saudi who is brainwashed by the west.

[@mazenalharbi7824]

Hi, my house and my old car in your video, helloooo neighbour 🍾🤣

[@petedoessaudi]

😂😂😂 Hello to you too Mazen 👋🏼

[@yasmineelkharraz9609]

Hey Pete, Please I am moving to Jeddah soon and I would like to know names of compounds that are worth checking, you actually said In the video you will be mentioning them, I can't find in the description. Please I would appreciate that. Cheers x

[@diorocks5858]

your company will sort it for you

[@Diana2Chi]

I'm glad to found you channel. I want to visit Saoedi as a tourist, but alone in the coldest month.😅

[@petedoessaudi]

January would likely be the best time for you then!

[@Diana2Chi]

​@@petedoessaudi many thanks for your answer and you'r a lovely couple!!

[@sheriffmcamara4200]

Thanks a lot, Pete, I'm also living in Saudi Arabia as an international student. Currently studying the Arabic language for 6 months. I love the calmness and peace here. I've Been thinking of what Program to do, thus I can have a job and settle in Saudi after my studies. I'm thinking between Computer science and Electrical engineering. So which one do you think is more demanding in Saudi Arabia, Jeddah specifically?

[@petedoessaudi]

That’s awesome, your Arabic is no doubt better than mine! I agree, I don’t really miss the hustle of London. I wouldn’t really be in a position to advise as I’m not involved in these industries I would imagine both are pretty in demand given the change the country is going through. Perhaps best to ask people who have a more solid point of view?

[@lli-7x]

Hello, I don't know much about computer specialties, but what I know is that programming and so on is very much needed.

[@haniyahussain3193]

Where are you studying Arabic?

[@bobbuildin01]

Do they have arabic language classes during weekends…i would love to using it an excuse to get out of my routine and meet other people who are keen on learning arabic.

[@ianwright963]

I lived in Jeddah way back in 1973-75, I was ten-eleven years old. I've watched a few videos that show the city, including one that drives up the Medina Road, past where I used to live....I don't recognise it at all, not one bit! The drive from the city to the creek to the north was "Miles out in the desert" back then. As for hot...Ha! you've got AirCon! We didn't. Our compound was (at the time) on the edge of the desert to the north east, two single-story houses inside a wall, with a garden, car port and a large paved area, there were NO high rises unless you looked south about a mile or so. I don't think I'd like to live there now, the magic seems to have been built on...

[@petedoessaudi]

Oh wow, so it must be quite the difference, crazy for you to see. Tempted to come back, no..? The north of the creek is where all the new developments are so no longer just desert. I can’t believe you survived without AC 🥵🥵

[@ianwright963]

@@petedoessaudi I've thought about coming to visit as a tourist, but watching videos on YT has made me less inclined. The city is NOT what I remember, all my reference points are gone, as is the house we lived in. To give you some idea of the scale of change, the area they are flattening on the south side had only just been built when I was there. I have some good memories of living there and part of me worries that those memories could be distorted by seeing the city in person now, I have the photos of how it was, maybe I should just let them keep that part of my life alive. AirCon was available but so unreliable as to render it useless, so my father decided to do without and just acclimatise, a week to ten days later we didn't even notice. I liked the desert, snakes, scorpions, desert dogs and camels everywhere, it was our playground. ;)

[@petedoessaudi]

I understand, remember it fondly. And where do you reside now?

[@ianwright963]

@@petedoessaudi South West of the UK. BTW what you call 'Silver Sands' we used to call '29 Palms beach'.

[@mapayapalutoatkain9044]

Hey mr.pete! Nice location you got there accessible to hospital and shopping malls and especially when you travel to airport. God bless.

[@petedoessaudi]

Exactly, I must admit, a super convenient location

[@VladimirDolgih]

Hello Pete! love your videos! especially interviews - thank you very much for that. I’m about to move to Jeddah in a few months and Now trying to find a nice place to live. I found out that big famous compounds are quite expensive and cheaper ones are really poor. Could you please recommend any middle range compounds.

[@petedoessaudi]

That’s very kind, thank you! I’ve actually today about to hours ago filmed a review of my time living in J One. With the good, the bad and the ugly… Keep an eye out for it - hopefully it’ll be up in a few days and will give you some extra guidance!

[@VladimirDolgih]

@@petedoessaudi perfect! Thanks a lot! I look forward!

[@VladimirDolgih]

Pete, you mentioned some new compounds. Could you give the names please? And how much is 1 bedroom in J one?

[@beigelover95]

I am moving to Jeddah in late July. This was informative l. thank you!!

[@petedoessaudi]

Awesome! Exciting times, we wish you the best of luck 🙏🏼

[@Mohammedsj786]

I’ve been to Saudi Arabia Mecca and I went to madina it’s really nice there

[@vibekechristensen5451]

Thank you very much for your insights... I'm currently contemplating a very interesting job-offer, in Saudi (though on the other side from Jeddah, namely Dammam)... So am really trying to get as much info as possible. Can you describe the cost of living in Saudi? How does it compare to GB for example? (I'm from Denmark, so that last comparison is more easy to equate for me) and is there a long waiting list to get houses in the compound as a rule? What about language barriers - do you speak arabic? How fast should one proceed to learn arabic?

[@Meli151-r9z]

What did you decided?

[@diorocks5858]

all Saudis speak perfect English and better then us English, they dont swear or argue its not acceptable in the gulf. there is no crime we don't even lock the car doors

[@vibekechristensen5451]

​@@Meli151-r9z i moved here, for the job, just over 5 months ago now...

[@oxchristan]

nice video, love your attitude of getting over the different cultures, life should be more diversified before we finally settle down.

[@petedoessaudi]

Absolutely agree 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@fafagreentv]

I just leave Jeddah last January. Now im back here in Jizan.

[@Mashael199op]

Welcome to Saudi, and enjoy your time here.

[@petedoessaudi]

Thank you! I’ve been enjoying it for 2.5 years so many more to come 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@fmblz]

Awesome review! not gonna lie at 06:41 thats exactly how i expected a luxurious middle eastern pool would look like, minus a belly dancer delivering your beverage to you. 😄

[@petedoessaudi]

Thank you for the kind words 🙏🏼🙏🏼 No belly dancers I’m afraid, beverages have to be got ourselves 😂

[@الجوهرهاليامي-ن6ص]

@@petedoessaudiالسيدات في السعوديه لديهن سلوك الاميرات وليس الراقصات … انت مخطئ تماما

[@mariaciupac3522]

The west always talk negatively about Arabic countries and I know it is not true . Thank you for sharing the beautiful side of SA

[@petedoessaudi]

I’m more than happy to, I hope you enjoyed it!

[@calvinraju4985]

Hi Pete...I'm relocating to Riyadh..secured a new position there..is there a way to contact you as I need more information please? Calvin from South Africa

[@rehanaim8343]

Lol, it's called criticizing in a sweet way

[@rehanaim8343]

I was wondering, why you don't live in your own countries if you have a problem in the middle east or is it you love the money but want to criticize others, and break the laws, is the what you do in Britain too.

[@diorocks5858]

I think the West gaslights its people as the West is horrible the way people live

[@anumahmad9656]

Hi Pete, can you pls mention other new-ish compounds like Sakeena that you mentioned? I'm not a fan of old ones but I'd also really like to rent a villa as I have kids. Would be really helpful to know some names, google is only showing up reviews of old ones. Thanks!!

[@meryam9880]

I really start to think about moving to Saudi Arabia ,I don't know why I love this country

[@petedoessaudi]

Absolutely, get moving! 🙌🏼

[@charitypiwana5086]

Hi Pete, I know you posted this video a while ago and you’ve mentioned on one of the comments that you have moved from the apartment you shown in this video. Where was it exactly if you don’t mind me asking we need a place ASAP and it’s so difficult as you would know

[@petedoessaudi]

Hey! This apartment here is called J One, I actually did a full review of it which may be helpful?

[@masmasindo1193]

Hi Pete, came accross your chanel, I like your answer " where there is a demand there will be a supply" I guess I will be okay in Saudi... Neom, RedSea Global please take me IN!😆

[@petedoessaudi]

Absolutely, humans will be humans!

[@artofverity8791]

I'm curious about Saudi. I've never been. How's the food delivery apps/service? Is customer service nice? Is online shopping in English?

[@mishaelalsaud406]

Hi there I don't know about the customer service ur asking about, but the food delivery apps we have several apps which all in both Arabic/English language. Online shopping u can shop almost everything and get it delivered to u. I've been shopping from Harrods and Selfridge for years online. Amazon accounts in US since 2012 till now and Saudi opened recently but u can have an aramex account to get u things that only delivered inside US or UK. I don't know what u r looking for exactly but Saudi is very modern country that u will find most anything in except pork & alcohol but u will find them in big western compounds

[@simonkhayat4545]

Thanks for the video. Do you have an update? :) I am moving soon and looking for PT as well.

[@petedoessaudi]

What’s the update in relation too? It’s been a while since I did this video 😅

[@simonkhayat4545]

@@petedoessaudi I know :) I am looking to relocate from Kuwait to Jeddah and was wondering about best area to live in (Compound) etc...cost of living nowadays? Best gyms...i do Hyrox and running. Thanks

[@petedoessaudi]

@@simonkhayat4545I’ve actually done videos in relation to the Cost of Living and also 2 weeks ago about the Lifestyle/Training/Nutrition options here. These will be ideal for you. Check them out, will be super helpful 🎉

[@123.earlystart]

Are dogs allowed in the compound and able to live with you? Anfy restrictions with pets?

[@BigWoodzCBCL]

Do you see a lot of international people on the compound? I have to come there for work next month. Will be my first time on that side of the planet so don't know what to expect. I will be in the north west portion of the country working on the new smart city.

[@petedoessaudi]

Lots of international people here - from my experience in the compounds I’ve been in mostly from the GCC or Europe. I’m sure it’ll be even more diverse where you are given that Neom is going to be an insanely cool project. You staying out for long?

[@BigWoodzCBCL]

Yea I will be there for 3mths to start. Sept, Oct, and Nov. Then I think they will allow me to come home for the holidays then depending on how the project goes they might ask me to return in Feb.

[@petedoessaudi]

@@BigWoodzCBCL very nice, what’s the project in? I’m sure if anyone can make it run on time you can 😉

[@phimultiplypi]

Hi Pete, hows it going? Didi you just up and move there? or did you get a visa or job offer first? thanks!

[@petedoessaudi]

Nope, I had a job offer and moved here. Back then it definitely wasn’t even a case of turning up - tourist visas weren’t officially launched back then. Now it’s much easier to simply come and visit, but to work you still need a business visa or IQAMA sponsorship / residency

[@tennismonix6060]

Are you familiar with the Ras Tenura compound? Can you give me your personal perspective? We are leaving a Houston, Texas suburb..

[@petedoessaudi]

Unfortunately not, I just gave it a google and it looks like it’s an Aramco compound which is on the total opposite side of the country to Jeddah. Sorry I can’t be of more help!

[@NursovaConsultancy]

Hi Pete, i am an ICU Nurse Manager in UK. I am looking into Saudi quite keenly. Do the sponsors provide the accommodation?

[@SimV239]

The style of houses in Jeddah looks a lot more conservative than houses in Riyadh.. is there a reason for that? I live in Riyadh but I’ve never really been to Jeddah.

[@petedoessaudi]

I wouldn’t be able to give you a clear answer, but I’ll have to find out!

[@whoneedslovewhenyouhaves..859]

I stupidly turned down a job because of my ignorance! I am in kuwait now but I am looking to move to saudi this year, hopefully

[@petedoessaudi]

Good luck! It’s the perfect time to come, honestly getting better by the day

[@الجوهرهاليامي-ن6ص]

@@petedoessaudiالسعوديه جميله جدا في السابق والحاضر وفي المستقبل باذن الله

[@Muwahid999]

Isn't kuwait better in terms of salary?

[@coachnicole7517]

Thanx so much for this. I am thinking of Personal Training there as well

[@petedoessaudi]

That’s great news, lots of potential to help elevate an industry which has a bit of a bad rep

[@3mer4max16]

Seeing you for the first time my friend, and I like it, subscribe and like 🇸🇦

[@petedoessaudi]

Ahh you’re too kind. Thank you 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@judithyirifere549]

Did I hear you say girlfriend. How did you do that in saudi please.

[@MunazaJamil]

Which is the cheapest compound? Is there Uber Careem in Jeddah? Cheers

[@tristancharbonneau5241]

Sounds exciting

[@petedoessaudi]

Absolutely!

[@aaraim]

Hi Pete, thanks for the great and informative video. How do people go about finding accommodation like the compounds you mentioned, would they have estate agents like we have in the UK? Is there one you can recommend? Cheers mate.

[@petedoessaudi]

Hey! Thanks for the message. In short, it’s one of the most frustrating things about living here. I’m actually just about to move so am thinking of doing a video about the experience. There’s not really any legit estate agents here in Jeddah at least. Bizarrely. There is kind of a listings app - called Aqar - check it here - apps.apple.com/gb/app/%D8%B9%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%B1/id879992882 A lot of expats tend to get help from their employer as if you’re a non-Arabic speaker it can be difficult. Also, if you know the compounds you can find numbers on their Instagram page and hope someone picks up. Other than that, people just drive around and knock on doors. Another good route is to simply just ask around - that’s how I got in this place is through a contact of a client. Hope that helps a bit. I appreciate it sounds super daunting if you haven’t experienced things here - it’s a pain, but it’s certainly not impossible…

[@fatema555]

Thanks, Pete.

[@greveeen]

Props for taking the risk and going. How much do you earn doing PT? How much money do you need to earn to live a good life in Saudi? And you live in Jedda? How do you find jobs and places to live the easiest in Saudi if you want to come and live there?

[@petedoessaudi]

Salary is very good, but same as anywhere - totally depends on the clients you’re working with. Living cost is Saudi is very cheap, especially compared to somewhere like London. Plus, there isn’t really much to spend your money on unless you’re into all the branded stuff…

[@dalesanton4336]

Thanks mate very useful info

[@petedoessaudi]

Thanks Dale, I appreciate the comment 🫶🏼

[@عبدالهاديالحربي-خ8م]

Hi pete , you remember now or Future you always welcome in my country and i hope you enjoy here 🙏

[@petedoessaudi]

You’re too kind, thank you 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@naturandmor]

What about visa, work permission? From Slovakia could I go there and work?

[@petedoessaudi]

Check out my latest video as that will have a lot of answers to your questions. I wouldn’t imagine it’s a problem getting a visa for Slovakia. Perhaps worth getting in contact with the Saudi Embassy in your country?

[@richierich1754]

Hi Pete i just seeing your video, i will move soon to Dur AlYasamin Compound by Dur Hospitality how is it? thank you is great to see yours videos

[@boeingceo]

How much does an apartment in your compound (the one open to saudis and expats) usually cost? I think in the middle-east it's usually an annual lease with payment up front, ty!

[@petedoessaudi]

For a one bed it’s about 65k - a bit more pricey to others, but you’re paying for the fact you’re in a compound, but all the extra perks of the facility etc. That’s right, you commit to a year contract, but can pay 6-monthly instalments. This is becoming much more common as expecting people to pay for a year upfront is just crazy…

[@nicusorungureanu3105]

@@petedoessaudi is it possible to commit for, e.g., 7 or 8 months only?

[@petedoessaudi]

@@nicusorungureanu3105 usually rent is committed to for a year contract. Can either paid in full, or every 6 months. I have not heard of any places that do shorter rentals periods, other than hotels / apart-hotels, but that’s not to say that there aren’t any… Just that I haven’t heard of any. It’s possible your employer has accommodation or at least preferred links with places. It’s worth asking.

[@الجوهرهاليامي-ن6ص]

@@nicusorungureanu3105 نعم توجد هناك العديد من الخيارات المتعدده من الفترات الزمنية التي ترغبها انت سواء يوميه او اسبوعيه او شهريه او سنويه .. وجميعها تلزم العقد .. اهلا وسهلا بك

[@bobbuildin01]

I would prefer to ideally live in a 1 bed apartment with access to a swimming pool & gym. Flat sharing is cool too. Im an architect who studied from university of Nottingham & expected to work on King Salman Park in Riyadh from the building contractors side. Im an Indian from Mumbai and currently live in a multistorey apartment which has a terrace clubhouse with pool, gym & views of the city’s eastern coast. Not intending to be boastful but im just a lad who can be extremely frugal but would prefer to live well & cycle/ walk to work n back. I use my electric scooter 🛴 to go to work n back. Not sure if i can put it on the flight and bring it to Riyadh.

[@petedoessaudi]

Ahh nice, Uni of Nottingham alumni here too 👋🏻 Whatever you decide I suggest you get a place that you like as it’ll be home and so your escape from everything. I feel like it would suck if you were in a place you didn’t feel comfortable in, even if that mean spending more…

[@zu1502]

Is it easy to find a job? Also is the pay from job & rent ratio good ?

[@jadehoward5534]

Hi Pete! I’m moving to Jeddah in August. What are the rules on living in the same residence as your partner if you’re not married? My partner plans on coming with but we don’t really know where the law stands on that at the moment 🤷🏻‍♀️ Thank you!

[@petedoessaudi]

Replied on Insta 🙏🏼

[@aristabotha112]

Please share this with me as well, as my partner is looking into oekring in Saudi - myself and our son would like to go with him?

[@gemlifestyle]

Pete any advice on how to secure a position in Saudi. American expats with experience in the gulf. I sent my husband your IG to dm you. Any advice is welcomed. The gate keeping is very real. We have applied everywhere with no success

[@kamranzeynalov968]

Hi Pete. Thanks for clear explanations. Do you know smth regarding NEOM project or somebody who works there? Just to want gather infor as much as I can, as web resources are very poor..

[@petedoessaudi]

Hey! Thanks for the message. I know only the basics, but nothing too in detail. Sounds like it’s going to the most futuristic city in the world.

[@catrionathepoet130]

You live with your girlfriend? I thought you weren't allowed to live with a woman you're not married to. There's so much mixed info out there! That comment alone shifted my view, so interesting! My husband is going to work in Saudi Arabia and going to live in a compound so this is really interesting. Me and my son might be joining later. Thank you for making this!

[@diorocks5858]

are you joking? In Saudi I lived with my girlfriend who I brought in from the Philippines and her girlfriend who she met in Bahrain. I'm young that time so I had a Harem. Visa is easy as your Saudi Boss will sort it for you and immigration will make you a marriage certificate in a minute.

[@diorocks5858]

watch him as there are to many girls in ksa

[@catrionathepoet130]

@@diorocks5858 I genuinely had no idea, just learning about the country 😊

[@catrionathepoet130]

@@diorocks5858 I trust him completely, he's not that sort!

[@aboutislam1379]

How much is the rent for two bedrooms

[@petedoessaudi]

That’s like asking how much is a two bed in London. There’s a huge range. Anywhere from annual 30k for a basic apartment to 100+ for more of a villa. In the same place the video was shot - they got for 80-100k

[@Kayla-ey7zg]

This seems like a much different pace of life than we see in the UK and America and I love it! Kind of an insensitive question but does your girlfriend experience any troubles being in Saudi or pretty much the same opinion that it's great? I see a lot of men around KZbin saying they love it but not much in general from women. I've lived in much of America and pretty much don't feel safe going out as a woman anywhere there so I'm curious. Thanks!

[@petedoessaudi]

Thanks for the comment. Yes, it’s very different! But different definitely doesn’t mean bad. She shares the same opinion - she’s never had any issues of any sorts relating to her being a woman. It’s probably one of the few places in the world where safety isn’t really a daily consideration - except for the driving..!

[@Slava_2425]

Does us citizens that work in ksa get housing allowance or stay in a dorm to work ?

[@saiid1234]

Hello Pete Thank you for the great info, I have a question and really hoping you can help as I've seen it asked a couple of times but with no answer. I am from Australia and planning to move to Saudi with my fiance (also both in fitness) but I've heard the laws prohibit us to live together. Is this true? After seeing you say your living with your girlfriend i'm looking for a ray of hope🤣Can you please give me any information you have on this , honestly it will be such a great help. If you don't want to disclose your own information about this I understand, but just want to know if there is any hope in us moving over there without marriage or if you have any general knowledge on the matter. Thank you🙏

[@Sezfluffy]

hey, I've just been offered a teaching job in Saudi would it be safe for me as a woman, also is it a good chance to save?

[@petedoessaudi]

Absolutely! Honestly don’t worry about being female here - life is good regardless of gender. Do you know the school you’ll be at? I came over as a PT and I saved more in 6 months than I did 10 years living in London 😅

[@Slava_2425]

Will you please send a apartment site for 1 bed room in Jeddah/Riyadh please 🙏

[@sayninspire7547]

Cheers for the insight, I guess my only issue is on how to make it there, i don't know how much i would need in my savings plus ive got 2 kids and i'm also a personal trainer/football couch. How did you decided to move there and why move to saudi?

[@petedoessaudi]

Well, for starters you need to be sponsored by an individual / company, so if you wanted to look at making a move I’d look for companies who are looking to hire from outside the Kingdom.

[@sayninspire7547]

@@petedoessaudi that makes sense, Cheers Pete appreciate it

[@abdulhamidbinraldin8701]

I'm Malaysian, it's easy to found any jobs there,? Looked different, not many peoples walk outside in the morning

[@umedina98]

Hey Pete! Just moved to Saudi Arabia. I am living at KAUST university, 40 minutes from Jeddah. Any recommendations to someone that has just arrived to the country?

[@petedoessaudi]

Ahh so you’re just outside of KAEC right? Firstly welcome! How are you finding it so far? Here for work or?

[@umedina98]

@@petedoessaudi yess, KAEC is just 30 minutes away. Thanks for the welcome! I live at the University campus and I am loving it. So many people for so many differents part of the world is amazing. I am studying, currently a masters student.

[@petedoessaudi]

That’s awesome, so happy you’re having a good time. My advice to newbies is to be social and get out and meet people, but I imagine that’s not too difficult if you’re surrounded by students!

[@umedina98]

@@petedoessaudi haha that is right! Thankss

[@fireplace6912]

whats the names of the other modern compounds like Sakina ?

[@timmyhiggins5220]

I just turned down a job there. It was gonna be working on a business visa. My colleague is working there currently and jeddah is a dirty expensive hole.

[@petedoessaudi]

I wouldn’t say it’s any dirtier or more expensive than other cities in the world… Cost of living is reasonably low in comparison and at least it’s possible to save, unlike London. I’m sure you had your reasons on turning down a job here - it’s not for everyone and unfortunately depends on who your employer is. Working on a business visa without an IQAMA would not be the most enjoyable experience, plus it’s not actually allowed (!)

[@timmyhiggins5220]

@@petedoessaudi salary was 10k per month and I still turned it down. I just sense that it's an awful place. The main reason is because I need to watch my diet carefully. Being stuck in a hotel youd end up eating over salted, non nutritious food. I needed a proper apartment with a proper kitchen. On a business visa you can only access expensive apart hotels. Furthermore, I couldn't set up a local bank account meaning exchange rates would be brutal. I'm lucky I looked into the finer details.

[@petedoessaudi]

@@timmyhiggins5220 sounds like a good call. For the first three months I had something similar where I was stuck in an aparthotel which was mad depressing. Equally, my gf didn’t have a bank account for 2 years with her first employer. A lot of the times they don’t realise how important it is for an expat to feel settled and not just be living out a suitcase. I wouldn’t say give up on Saudi, it’s just you may not have been given the best chance of success unfortunately.

[@timmyhiggins5220]

@@petedoessaudi I agree with you. My colleague working there is happy to eat rubbish from hotels and not prepare his own food. I was gonna do the Jeddah 6 month contract as a stepping stone to a better role in south east Asia. However, that isn't even guaranteed. As a 40 yo single male, I have basic needs and being able to cook and prepare my own food is v important. Also I need access to a good dating market. I dont think jeddah would be good in that regard. I would probably fall into an abyss of unhealthy living and erotic massages. I dont want that for myself.

[@juic-boxnewbie2972]

Just trying to start a whole new life and i wana move there for sum reasons and i wana live in a village or sumthing

[@aishahpatel7040]

A lot of the jobs I found said they would provide accommodation. I was wondering if they'd be any good or just run down... any idea?

[@petedoessaudi]

It totally depends on the business - I’ve seen some really nice ones where the company treats it’s employees very well, but equally some awful apartments. I would say it depends on the level you’re coming in at and should be a point of negotiation in your contract.

[@samory2020]

Hey pete! Thank you for the video it helped me a lot! However, I was wondering if you know how to get a job from the UK in Jeddah? And thank you in advance ✨

[@petedoessaudi]

Hey Sam, hope you’re good, glad it’s helped! I imagine it would depend on what field you’re looking at. Best thing I would do is look at companies you want to work through and go via LinkedIn to see if they have an HR person to contact or if they have any vacancies open. I’m sure they’re are recruiters too depending what field you’re in who would only be a Google search away. Good luck!

[@lorylorika4940]

Hi there , whats the name of this compound

[@petedoessaudi]

It’s called J One - I’m actually filming a review of it today, so maybe worth waiting for that before making the decision 😅

[@spacejam2316]

Bro I have an asian girlfriend she's working but is it safe to visit her there or check in 5 stars hotel?

[@petedoessaudi]

Assuming you can get a tourist visa it’s absolutely fine! You can now stay in the same hotel room if you’re not married - that law was passed a couple years ago 👍🏼 Good luck!

[@spacejam2316]

@@petedoessaudi one more ask she's working there in saudi and I wanna visit her...

[@petedoessaudi]

@@spacejam2316 that’s absolutely fine, just get yourself a tourist visa and you’re good to go 👍🏼

[@warrenwillshaw2015]

Hi, have just moved to Jeddah, from UK and would appreciate pointers on where to meet other expats and what people do for fun at the weekend etc is there anything like an international commit club or something? Thanks

[@petedoessaudi]

Hey Warren! How are you finding it so far? Generally the three ways I’d suggest… The compound you’re in is probably your best bet. Assuming you’re in a compound. Just spending time out and about will give you the chance to say hi and meet new people. You should also reach out to the British Embassy, let them know you’re here and then ask if you can be put on the mailing list for events. They throw parties every now and again at the embassy so a good option here. Lastly, get out and explore. Whether that’s with a hobbie or just spending more time out. Much higher chance of meeting people. For example, I’ve met a few Westerners at the gym I’m at. Hope that helps?

[@warrenwillshaw2015]

Hi Pete, Thanks for the tips, particularly the one about the embassy. Not my first time in the gulf but my first time in KSA and whilst it’s vastly different to other gcc countries, certainly not as thought of by many others back home. Having just landed 10days ago I am still scouting accommodation and it seems like there are some decent apartments near the corniche with good access to running/ cycling tracks. (Looking to minimise my time spent in cars/ on the roads…)Gyms seem to be built into all the accommodation and of a pretty decent standard for my needs. Looking forward to exploring Jeddah over the coming months, definitely been a unique experience so far, especially acclimatising to the humidity 😅 Thanks again for the help.

[@petedoessaudi]

@@warrenwillshaw2015 that’s right, around the corniche has some good ones which make life easy when it comes to being more central to malls and restaurants etc. Don’t worry, the humidity will soon fade, Nov/Dec/Jan are wonderful months here - the best winter you’ll ever have! All going okay otherwise?

[@warrenwillshaw2015]

@@petedoessaudi all good so far. Settling back into the tomorrow god willing style of getting things done, which has its benefits as well. Moving out of my hotel in a couple weeks so really looking forward to that. I work in sustainability providing strategic advice on projects, as I mentioned, a real eye opener…. Grateful for all the gym facilities. Next step is to sort a car and take my chances on the road and maybe getting out the city for some exploration. Any gyms you would recommend? Cheers

[@petedoessaudi]

@@warrenwillshaw2015 oh yes… once you accept you just have to ‘go with the flow’ life is a lot less stressful. The car is a game-changer - the freedom it allows without having to rely on Uber… I was about a year in Ubers and it was just such an unnecessary stress. My advice for when you get a car - expect that everyone on the road will do the most stupid thing… That way there are no surprises… Hmm for gyms, it depends what you’re into. I’m at Arena which has everything covered. The others like FitnessTime and B-It get super busy. Where abouts are you staying and what style of training do you like?

[@aag7274]

Welcome Pete to Saudi Nice video

[@petedoessaudi]

Thank you! 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@abhinaybn4431]

Is nursing demand in saudi sir

[@petedoessaudi]

I’m afraid I have absolutely no idea, sorry!

[@Abdullah-ri7ez]

How is life there on a none Muslim part perspective

[@petedoessaudi]

I would say all of my videos testify to life here as a non-Muslim is fantastic. Embracing the culture is part of the experience - at times is fascinating to witness and also be a part of.

[@Abdullah-ri7ez]

@@petedoessaudi ان شاء لله ستكون من المسلمين

[@Abdullah-ri7ez]

@@petedoessaudi I hope you and your wife find Islam and taste its richness I hope it for you guys sincerely good luck

[@Rubesss77]

are you still in jeddah?

[@petedoessaudi]

Yep, still here

[@jamainebrown]

Love to get out there I do air conditioning and tired of this 🇬🇧 living works up and down and need to be in a hot climate anyone who knows anyone for Air conditioning engineers please let me know fully competent HVAC engineer 😊

[@petedoessaudi]

Hey Jamaine, definitely a big need for AC in Saudi..! Have you tried searching for jobs out here?

[@jamainebrown]

@@petedoessaudi No not sure where to start really I’m in need of contacts for contractors or agencies if you no of any please let me no thanks in advance 😊 🙏

[@TM-vg4mx]

Do you recommend any hotel or place for someone want to visit Jeddah for a week, e.g. with a swimming pool where women are also allowed. thanks

[@petedoessaudi]

Hmmm I’m not too sure about this to be honest. The best thing to do would be to contact some of the international hotels here and ask if they have mixed pools. My guess is they would not unfortunately, but always worth asking.

[@hamedkarma2602]

Hello brother I am from Canada I was wondering how’s life career job like jeddah for example I want to travel for Dental assistance job there could give me clue

[@elliebabbiii]

Heyy, I love yours and Thea's videos! I am moving to Sharbatly Village in January, is it not good? It's really old? Have a nice dayyyy :)

[@petedoessaudi]

I was actually there a couple Fridays ago enjoying the poolside. A really good crowd there too. You’ll love it. Admittedly I’ve only been in one villa there and hear mixed reviews. All depends on what you like and ultimately you can always make a house a home 🙂

[@elliebabbiii]

@@petedoessaudi Nice, the pools look great! Ok that makes me feel better, thank youuu :D

[@petedoessaudi]

@@elliebabbiii may even see you down there at some point too!

[@elliebabbiii]

@@petedoessaudi maybe see you both soon then haha

[@roshinimadushani6997]

Hi please describe about the health care system in jeddah for expacts. Esp for children

[@petedoessaudi]

Your sponsor has to include health insurance for you and your family, so this would be a question for them as to what they choose. The system is pretty simple here and I’ve never had any issues

[@milesthomas1075]

Dude! How do I look you? You need to upload some personal training videos

[@haych27]

lol, the view absolutely lovely....so when you go for a walk you have the whole streets to yourself. I expected it to be dry heat. How is it for cycling? hahahaha

[@petedoessaudi]

You kinda do, but you have to be careful. A couple days ago a colleague was walking at night and got hit by a car. Fortunately she is okay, but lots of cuts, bruises and stitches needed. That’s one thing you’ll learn is that you need to be super careful and you can never assume that people are doing the right thing - I.e. paying attention when driving! In Jeddah it’s super humid for most of the year other than a few months in the winter, so it makes it feel even hotter! There are lots of cycling groups but they tend to go at 6am to avoid the traffic and the heat. Hope that helps!

[@haych27]

@@petedoessaudi woah that's rough for your friend. Yes I know humidity, it's not great for cycling. Thx for the info

[@Ibrah-ibrah]

how much to buy a nice apartment or house with 3 bedrooms there ? pls help me

[@petedoessaudi]

I’m not entirely sure, but based off the price of a two bedroom, it’ll be somewhere between 110-130k I would think

[@rorozoro8448]

Hi Pete, thanks for the videos - they’re awesome. I have a few friends going to work in Neom from the Midlands and Lancashire. How did you find the paperwork process for the move ? Thanks.

[@petedoessaudi]

Hey! To be honest it wasn’t too bad - I think being British helps just in terms of the smooth process. Pretty straightforward in my experience, but I know people from other parts of the world who really struggled with the visa process and unreliability of embassies.

[@fayadbozan3321]

$1500 is good everything is paid for you😂

[@birdy7021]

Do u think 12k SAR per month is a good package to be able to live a good life in Riyadh? Including rent, car, fuel and everything.Thanks in advance

[@petedoessaudi]

It’s hard to comment because I do not know what line of work you’re in, so unsure as to what the standard might be. You could definitely make it work.

[@tolqv1123]

it is good, you can live a normal lifestyle if you dont have a family or someone to provide for

[@الجوهرهاليامي-ن6ص]

نعم .. ويمكنك الادخار في حال كانت لديك اداره ماليه جيده

[@Jason-rf3lv]

Hi Pete, love the vids 😊 I’m hoping to come next year for work. What are the monthly charges for utility bills eg water/elec

[@petedoessaudi]

Hey Jason, do it! What will you be doing over here? They’re not too bad to be honest. The AC ramps up the electric, but I’d say about standard. The pricey one is the internet, about 400 SAR per month.

[@Jason-rf3lv]

Wow that’s very expensive compared to UK!Graduated in Accounting and finance 5 years ago so something along those lines now I have the experience 🤞

[@whatup307]

Wow. You live with your gf there?? I’m very surprised that they allow unmarried people to live together there. I feel like someone would always be watching me there. I’m guessing there’s not the whole sexually crazy lifestyle there( which is a huge relief) unless that’s a “behind closed doors “ situation, which then whatever. But do people go out on dates there? Like, could I?….Very interesting…. I left you a message on your Instagram as well. Great hearing your perspective

[@selsoft]

How much do you pay for compound, per month?

[@petedoessaudi]

For a one bedroom that I’m in its 65k a year, but this is quite high compared to what is out there

[@justsam8029]

Hey Pete* im moving soon to Saudi, Riyadh to be specific. What do we wear in compounds? Can women dress freely?

[@petedoessaudi]

Exciting! Looking forward to it? Yes, you can wear whatever you like in compounds - so you don’t need to worry about that.

[@inigojuancarlos]

If you’re western expat, you might consider Riyadh’s DQ or diplomatic quarter where majority of the folks that live there (I used to lived there) were westerners and East Asians working in big companies, consular offices, western govt satellite offices, etc. inside the quarter has tons of activity areas, pools, trails and entertainment complex, concert halls, yoga & fitness studios, etc. and you can wear pretty much ‘normal’.

[@futurespaceship3000]

@@petedoessaudiSharia law of the dress code.

[@gsha5477]

hi mate, is it possible to get beers as an expat??

[@petedoessaudi]

Well alcohol is illegal, but like anywhere if there is a demand there is a supply

[@Slava_2425]

How much SAR. Per month Does a single person need for studio apartment rent /utilities/wifi/1 month metro bus card/food Money to eat at the house? /Jeddah

[@sharybaa]

Btw Jeddah has malls and restaurants since more than 18 yrs. It's nothing new

[@petedoessaudi]

Yes, I’m aware, but the regulations around those establishments have recently changed

[@inigojuancarlos]

Malls are not new but policies entering it for some malls has been tricky, like if you’re a single guy you can’t enter some specific days. Friday’s used to be reserved for families and women, stuff like that and I had several experiences here I wasn’t allowed to enter because I was wearing above the knee shorts, even IKEA refused to let me enter as well. Then religious policies were riveting constantly. So things began to change around 2015 and 2016 when mutawas slowly stripping off their powers. Also, the visa, I remember I had to exit the country just for a visa run then fly back again good thing now they’ve offer tourist visa and pretty much relaxed the whole visa requirements.

[@mbukukanyau]

Hey Pete, thank you for the update. I just don’t get your dislike for kids. Why your girl is going to pop a little one for you, and then you will immidietely like them some more and have another one. I hope you have 6, and love it. Unless of course you don’t like sacrifice.

[@petedoessaudi]

I’m curious as to why my dislike for children affects you and is a reasonable question to ask? Not everyone has to like kids. Not everyone likes kids. Much like not everyone likes broccoli… It’s some sort of life requirement..?

[@tariqh8699]

I have kids but I'm with Pete on thus. Its 12.05am and there are several kids in the corridor making noise as though it's afternoon time. It's a 5* place but not enjoying noise being imposed on me. Kids that are not well-mannered absolutely annoy the **** out of me.

[@rizwanwaris3587]

What's the rent?

[@petedoessaudi]

For this apartment in Jeddah it was annual rent of 75k SAR

[@mariano37531]

ty so much for the info. i have a job offer to move to saudi arabia, the salary its 6000 sar. with flight tickets working visa, meals, uniform, medical insurance and accomodation. is this salary ok?

[@petedoessaudi]

It’s difficult for me to say as it’s all relative and contextual. I’m not sure what industry you’re in, what role and what your previous experience is. My first question would be how does that salary compare to what you’d be earning in your home country?

[@mariano37531]

@@petedoessaudi its way way way more of what i earn here in argentina.

[@petedoessaudi]

@@mariano37531 plus it’s tax free earnings, so there’s your answer 😉

[@whitelion1577]

Please come or shift to Riyadh .. you will love it

[@petedoessaudi]

One day perhaps… I do like the beach though!

[@Phantom-ez4zv]

@@petedoessaudi DO NOT COME TO RIYADH, im from riyadh (Riyadh native), people here are too snobbish and self absorbed, stay in jeddah please lmao, or maybe go to dahran or khobar and damam (all cities next to eachothers and they have a beach too but its on the other side of map lol)

[@Sam-fn5ue]

It's a strange thought, in choosing to live in a "compound". I suppose, If I was in charge in Saudi, and I needed to store some foreign idiots, a compound would be preferable for the local population's benefit.

[@petedoessaudi]

Is it though..? I’m not sure you understand the context and background to it… But you’re free to think what you want 👍🏼

[@Sam-fn5ue]

@@petedoessaudi Yes sorry I was being churlish, Compound living reminded me of Osama. You video was really good to see the local area, I think I was looking at the crass glass buildings and developments that resemble western cities. It was great to see the tradditonal Saudi buildings rather than just the glossy tourist bits. cheers for the video showing life there.

[@luckycat-tarot]

Thats exactly what it is ...place foreigners way out 😅 sad and depressing which most wont tell you

[@andreagreene2830]

Was about to ask if you knew anyone that knew about things to do with kids but seems like you don’t like them since you mention it a bunch of times. 😢

[@petedoessaudi]

Whoops my bad 😅😅 Sorry I can’t be off more help in that department!

[@judithyirifere549]

Are you permitted to live with a man or woman whom you are not married to please

[@raymartfullente6667]

Also in Jeddah

[@christinawong7367]

Hi Pete, we are moving to Jeddah soon, can you recommend few apartment complex like urs. Also maybe an idea about rent for a 2 bedroom apartment. Tx so much.

[@petedoessaudi]

Hey! Of course, more than happy to help - these are by no means a full list, but should hopefully give you a place to start. A two bedroom would range from 60-80k for one of the nicer places. Mine is a one bedroom and I pay 62k per year instagram.com/sakinacompound? - pretty much brand new. I haven’t been, but from what other colleagues say it’s super nice living. instagram.com/saraiaksa? - a friend stays here and seems very nice from what I’ve seen. Big spacious rooms and relatively modern. joneresidence.com - where I am! instagram.com/67.estate? - new, clean and more premium. Very good facilities. Its very quiet and chilled here. Hope this helps!

[@UnknownUser.ar1]

Regarding the salary, a SAR10,000-15,000 per month is considered to be really good and that what most Saudi graduates aspire to.

[@abdullahamir2940]

Whats lovely in that view, its literally dirt everywhere

[@petedoessaudi]

😂😅 Fair observation