Beyond The Veil

Saudi Arabia, the country of lavish palaces, incredible deserts, and jaw-dropping attractions, is a dream location for many adventure seekers. But before you pack your bags and head to this overseas destination, you should be aware of the dangers, risks, and rewards of living and working in Saudi Arabia.

Here are four examples of the risks and rewards in Saudi Arabia:

Risks:

Stringent Laws: Saudi Arabia’s laws are notoriously strict, and it’s essential to follow them to avoid hefty fines or jail time. For example, alcoholic beverages and pork products are forbidden in Saudi Arabia, and anyone caught consuming or possessing them can face severe penalties.

Cultural Differences: Another challenge of living in Saudi Arabia is the cultural differences. Many Westerners may have a hard time adjusting to the strict gender segregation laws and dress codes. Activities that may seem innocent in your home country may be viewed as offensive in Saudi Arabia, such as displaying affection in public or dressing provocatively.

Heat Stroke: Saudi Arabia’s hot and dry climate can take a toll on your health. Heatstroke is a common occurrence if you don’t take proper precautions, such as staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun. In addition, sandstorms and occasional floods can arise, making it dangerous for vulnerable individuals.

Terrorist Threats: Terrorist attacks have happened before, and it’s important to remain vigilant and avoid attending crowded events.

Rewards:

Lucrative Job Market: Saudi Arabia has a growing economy and an abundance of job opportunities, making it a popular destination for people seeking employment abroad. Many companies offer high salaries, tax breaks, and other incentives to attract skilled professionals from around the world.

Cultural Diversity: Living in Saudi Arabia exposes you to a melting pot of cultures and traditions. It can be enlightening to learn about the country’s rich Bedouin history as well as explore the cultural diversity within the country, like attending festivals, exhibitions, and social gatherings.

Adventure and Travel: For nature enthusiasts, Saudi Arabia has impressive natural beauty like the Al Wahbah Crater, the Red Sea, and the picturesque Farasan Islands. There is a range of activities from emerald green oases to desert safaris in luxurious 4*4 jeeps.

Expat Community: The Saudi Arabian expat community is dynamic, friendly and inclusive. It’s easy to make new friends, network with other professionals, and join social clubs. Being part of this diverse group can make it easier to adjust to a new culture and provide opportunities to learn the ins and outs of the country.

-----

The rewards and risks of living and working in Saudi Arabia are subjective to each individual. Your experience will depend on your personal preferences, financial situation, and family dynamics. The key is to do your research and weigh the pros and cons before committing to a long-term stay or accepting a job offer.

In the end, challenges aside, living and working in Saudi Arabia can be a rewarding and enriching experience. You will have the opportunity to see the world from a different perspective, learn about a new culture, and develop new skills. But remember, no matter where you go, life is unpredictable, and it’s essential to have a sense of humor to get through the rough times, like trying to order a burger in a Saudi Arabian restaurant and getting a pile of fries instead of a sandwich!

So, if you’re ready for a new adventure and willing to take on the challenges of living and working in Saudi Arabia, pack your bags, put on your open mind, and get ready for the ride of your life! After all, life is short, and its little moments of humor and laughter which make it worth living.

-----

Original story (created by me) published on Medium.com. Any changes and/or updates that have been added on Vocal.media are for content consumption purposes.

Thank you for your time, I hope you thoroughly enjoyed what you have read today. Please subscribe. I have plenty of upcoming articles on varying topics, if you so choose to check them out. Also if you would be so kind, I would greatly appreciate a heart. Lastly, if you feel inclined to do so, tips and of course pledges (currently only $2.99 a month) are greatly appreciated. Our monies collected in Vocal help support the Bunong tribal people in Cambodia.