As they say, Jeddah is different.. Change in Saudi Arabia..
Long time since I wrote in my Blog.. I know, it’s sad.. But I had some issues going on in my life.. I was assigned my first project in KPMG.. Guess where? Jeddah.. Gush, I started my real work day first of Ramadan.. Travelling every week back and forth to my lovely country..
Jeddah is an interesting place! I think it’s much better than other places in Saudi; people here are much open-minded than those of Riyadh.. At least, women don’t have to cover their faces!! So many boys are just holding their cell phones and walking around, driving, sitting in cafe shops and malls, trying to catch those same girls using the Bluetooth technology.. Here you just turn on the bluetooth, and search for devices…Nicknames like “The beautiful Girl,” “Die for your love,” “come huge me,” etc. and many others are used by those sexually frustrated boys and girls… This is the only thing you can do to catch a girl without being caught!!!
Living in the La Meridian is an astonishing experience; on the Tahlya road, where you’ll find Europian-style malls, HUGE, I loved it.. Likewise other places in Saudi Arabia, all you can do is Eat and Shop.. Never to forget, SLEEP!!
Living in a male-dominated culture, I bet you can live for a whole month without thinking about sex, because it’s all men that you see!! Gush, it’s crazy; on the road, all you see is men; in work, all who you deal with are men; 911?1100? etc. of information disks, all men’s voices you’d hear! Alerts in Malls? Men.. NO WOMEN AT ALL!
Single? you are always suspicious; you’d have less options, because so many places are only accessible by married people! If you are married, it’s a very good place to visit, because you can enter everywhere, and get bothered not..
There are so many strange things here, I cannot comprehend it… Prayers time, 5 times a day, each of 1/2 hour, everything get closed! Whether you wanna pray or not, if you’re are eating in a restaurant, and it’s prayers time, you just get out!! If you’re in the middle of the mood smoking Sheesha/Hooka, you get KICKED OUT! That’s why, it’s like a dead city before 8pm, the last prayer… After that, everybody is out shopping!! Eating!! that’s it!
Saudi Arabia is changing by time. You see well educated people, who you can argue with; yet this change is very slow.. King Abdullah is doing so much to change people’s mentality, but he’d need 20 years of hard work.. Start with education and move on.. Millions of $$ are just stolen, and this needs control… I would love to visit this place one day, when I can drive and nobody jumps all over me!!
An honest advice, Don’t ever drive in Saudi Arabia, It’s like a racing track, with no rules..
I would like to share some pics with you, but now it’s time to go, I gotta go get my Sahhor and sleep… Enough of this business center!
I’m gonna talk more about my experience in Saudi, and I would do more comparison with life in the west.. So, see you some time soon;)
roy said,
October 3, 2006 at 1:24 am
Thanks for telling of your trip and encounters. It is facinating hearing about these places and cultures from you. Keep doing so, when you can – if you are inclined. May God bless you in your travels and experiences.
roy said,
October 3, 2006 at 1:31 am
I forgot to mention – sure is different than Murray, Ky. I know that town. I hope you had a good experience there, and at the University. I went to WKU in Bowling Green, Ky – many years ago. Take care.
monline said,
October 3, 2006 at 8:04 am
Thanks roy for your interesting comments,
I would sure do it!!
Yeah, it’s different than Murray; but I will tell you what? Here, the food is much better than Murray!! I would say, It’s really good in Jeddah, and Saudi in general..
Becauase there is NO bars or cinemas; one of the main “things to do” is going to a restaurants! You will find all kind of fancy arabic and international food..
Murray is much quite.. life is easy and no tension.. Lifestyle is “simple.”
Here, you’ll find high-tech products, best cars, big villas, latest cellphones with 3.5G vedio calling, etc… Most adults, of new generations, here are always wearing the best clothes and always stylish… Jeddah is considered “far-left” in Saudi, though Jeddah is 1 hour away from Mecca, the Islamic center of the world… It’s not Jeddah that’s open minded, it’s other places here that are close!
roy said,
October 3, 2006 at 9:42 pm
monline – That is facinating. It is so strange how perceptions are different than real life in many instances. I would have thought it would be less modernized. For a country like the US with all of the tv stations and shows (which so much is just plain crap) we don’t get enough good and real information too often, or have enough shows, specials on places like you are in.
But, you are sharing your information, and I really appreciate your perspective and information. It sounds like you are really enjoying the experiences – I am jealous – I’ve never even been out of the US. Not because of any bias – it’s always work, work – and when you get some money saved up – something happens that makes you have to use it all up – then it’s back to starting over again trying to save. But, that’s life sometimes, I guess.
To be at the center of the religious places must be an awesome, and humbling experience. I am moved (as I know you are from your comments and passion in your words regarding your religion) by just the Holy text – to actually be there is beyond expression in my mind.
But, I / we are getting first hand travel and culture information from you – and I thank you for it. I look forward to more from you as you have the time to update your web page.
Take care, Roy
asalahmohamed said,
October 27, 2009 at 2:25 pm
From Mrs Asalah mohamed Shaheed.
Postal address, Abidjan Cote dIvoire 01 bp 107 Abidjan 01
House Address, Avenue 13 Rue 7
Cocody bloocos, Lot 67 Abidjan Cote dIvoire ..
Assalamu Alaykum,
With Due Respect and Humanity, I was compelled to write to you under a humanitarian ground. My name is Mrs Asalah Mohamed. From Indonesia, I am 68yrs old; I am married to late Engr.Alahaji Mohamed Shaheed who has worked on Oil Company in Cote dIvoire.. Before he retired in the year 2003. He died in the year 2006 after a Cardiac Arteries Operation.
We were married for 36 years without a child. And Recently, My Doctor told me that I would not last for the next six months due to my cancer problem (cancer of the lever and stroke).
When my late husband was alive he deposited a trunk box in one of the best security company here in coted’iviore which contained the sum of $12. 5. Million for safe keeping. Presently this trunk box is still in the Vault of the security company.
Having known my condition I decided to hand over this money to your care and if you know that you will utilize this money the way I am going to instruct you herein, I will be very happy to do so ensh Allah.
I will want you to use this money according to the desire of my late. Husband, to use it for the help of the Less privileged, orphanages, and using it to propagating the word of Allah.. I want you to know that I took this decision because I don have any child that will inherit this money, and I don? want this money to be used in an ungodly way.
This is why I am taking this decision to hand you over this money to your hand. I am not afraid of death hence I know where I am going. I want you to always remember me in your daily prayers because of my up coming Cancer Surgery. Please assure me that you will act accordingly as I have stated herein. Hope to receive your urgent reply.
Due to the present condition of my health, I was warned by my doctor to avoid receiving or making any call. You can always reach me through this my
Private email address. asalah_mohamed0123@yaho.co.jp
Yours Sister in Islam,
Mrs. Asalah mohamed Shaheed
Jay said,
September 24, 2007 at 12:08 pm
Hey… I just got a hold of your blog…am wondering.. I just got an offer to move to Saudi Arabia (Jeddah) … and am hesitant.. I lived most of my life in USA and now working in Beirut…. Beirut is amazing, the night life, the beaches, the girls….etc…. I know Saudi is nothing like that .. but how bad is it really? which city in Saudi is the most “relaxed” in rules & regulations… would it be different if i were to live in a compound with non-saudi ppl. with just expats?
I appreciate your help and advice in this for I have to make a decision soon.
monline said,
September 27, 2007 at 11:41 am
It’s known that Saudi provides one of the highest pays in the region.. that’s why many westerners go there.. Jeddah is the most relaxed; there, people are more understanding and openminded.. Yet forget about drinks & night-life.. Only if you get to live in a compound, there might be parties u can attend.. And yes, usually drinks are alowed inside embassies; so the dutch embassy for example might be able to provide such in closed parties.. things u’ll enjoy in Jeddah are: Eating, Sleeping, Shopping, and if fortunate, working!
If you get to know people there, u’ll enjoy Jeddah.. it’s a nice place to visit, but not to live in… That’s only my opinion!
all de best…
be free to query if u want more info.
Rajendra said,
October 4, 2007 at 12:10 pm
Hi Moline
is soudi arabia a good place to work. Please tell me … i am married
have an option in between Qatar and Soudi arabia
which place do you think is the best one ..
Please mail me …
Nadia said,
November 6, 2007 at 1:31 pm
Hey, i like reading all this about Jeddah. I am actually an italian girl and i’d love to visit Jeddah but it seems impossible.
The only way i found is through a diving trip, but the bad part of it is that i would be in the city only for an afternoon and of course i won’t be able to go out by myself.
Do u know if foreign women can look for a job in Jeddah? If yes, through which website and what kind of job?
It must be a beautiful country but it is just impossible to enter it if u are a woman.
:=(
cheers,
nadia
mohammed said,
May 28, 2009 at 1:48 am
hey
i just read what did u write about jeddah?
sooo did u move there or not yet
im actullay from jeddah
Nadia said,
November 6, 2007 at 1:36 pm
Forgot to say…please send me an answer if u get a chance.
cheers
rachel said,
January 5, 2008 at 4:06 am
can i ask u in jeddah they have a girl work there and they have a alcoholic drink there?tnx
Santosh said,
January 23, 2008 at 9:34 am
Hey,
Can anyone explain the life style in jeddah..What about compound life style…I’m from India,may be deputed there on job..If we want to save the money how much minimum we should earn…?
Mohammed said,
March 19, 2008 at 8:35 am
hello all
am 22years old and live in jeddah university students
my english is nt thats good but ill try to help u guys with an answers
umm about drinks its nt allowed here but u can get some if u live in compunds as Roy said . and yes jeddah is the most relaxed and opend minded in saudi arabia .
jeddah is a nice place to live if u know many people u will be able to get to manythings . like parties social acts..etc and for the nightlife style normaly resturant cafes malls theres also somthing called ( Kabayin) which is small componds around or on the beach where u can relax , by swimming or diving etc..
foreign women can look for a job in Jeddah , u can work at banks , hospitals also international schools or institute depends on ur Educationl degree .
hope this help u guys and wish u all the good luck
Mohammed
Rajeshwar said,
March 29, 2008 at 7:37 pm
Hi All,
I am into Software field and iam married with a kid. I got a job in Jeddah. I am from india. I would like to know whether Jeddah is nice place for family people or not. Since i dont know much about Jeddah. I have US visa and i have being to USA 3 times. Even Mauritius also. Please suggest me.
Will i should move to Jeddah or not.
Awaiting for kind reply.
thanks in advance.
Regards,
Rajeshwar
Hina said,
April 22, 2008 at 6:33 am
can anyone tell me any companies who hire IT professionals in Jeddah or any multinationals there that I could apply to work for? I am a business analyst, currently working in London. I’m British.
Please email me at hina7@hotmail.com.
THank you very much!
marj said,
June 20, 2008 at 12:38 am
hi,
i dont really know so much about jeddah except it is a muslim place.
my sis had recently moved in to join her hubby who is working there.
i was wondering if my sis will be allowed to work or?
thanks for any reaction…
Yogesh Bisht said,
September 15, 2008 at 7:18 am
I am writing to ask what everyone has above. I have a family with Kids, I Jeddah a place to moev with family, what’s with education of kids etc.
Please revert.
thanks
YB
yahya said,
December 19, 2008 at 10:17 am
hello everyone, well i was reading through all your questions and I may have some answers that can help you all. I lived in jeddah for more than 12 years. Many people wonder if they should go to Saudi for work, holidays, raise a family, or more. How is it working in Saudi? There are advantages to work in Saudi such as, you don’t pay taxes, probably a high salary depending on the job, cheap cars, and many more. However, there are some disadvantages too. There are limitations to what you can do and there are not many attractions. I have much more to say about Jeddah, for any furthur questions, please feel free to contact me.
Chandrakant said,
January 4, 2009 at 9:28 am
how is the place ? i am planning to move from mumbai shortly with my wife and one kid . low is life style how friendly are local people with expacts . being a hindu will i face any problem their ?
some one pls reply …..
ibra said,
March 8, 2009 at 9:08 pm
Jeddah is simply the best place ever !!!
asma said,
March 26, 2009 at 1:38 pm
hi,
very soon we will shift ti jeddah .in april we will vist jeddah .can any body guid us the compounds over there with rates. we r looking for 3 bedroom villa..
thanks
Hamza said,
May 22, 2009 at 7:22 pm
For Food News in Jeddah its worth checking out Jeddah Food Online
great guide to restaurants and openings in town.
Mohan said,
June 14, 2009 at 3:41 pm
Is there any brokers to find the accomodation
Papai said,
June 27, 2009 at 8:14 am
hi every one,
i hv a problem. realy big prob. in my life.
i luv a girl (age-20), frm my soul..she is my life.we love each other too much.
but she live in jeddha,saudi arabia. and i live in kolkata,india.
we wanna marry each other.
but the problem is the arabian society. i hv no prob, in my family in india.my family know the girl is muslim.
any one knows, if i’ll go in jeddha to take her india then which kind of problem i’ll face.i know there is nothing is impossible in earth. please tell me how i’ll get her?. we cant live with out each other.
please
Josh said,
June 30, 2009 at 7:20 pm
If she lives in Jeddah and you in India how did you meet then? Online? If you are not a muslim and she is then basically you will have to suffer pain and forget about her. If you are both muslim and she has an Indian family in Jeddah then you might have a chance but she can not just leave with you to India. She needs an exit visa and as you are not a relative you can not travel with her. If her family does not allow then you are out of luck. If she is a Saudi national….forget it, suffer the pain and get on with your life. There is no way her family will allow her to go to India and marry you then.
You are now in love and probably not all that rational. Love is not all that is needed. First have a good look if this love has any chance of succeeding and what problems there might be. Going to Jeddah and then trying to get to this girl might be a very dangerous proposition. Keep your mind together man. You would not only harm this girl but yourself as well and depending on the family you will have to be aware of the honor of your and her family as well.
Josh said,
June 30, 2009 at 7:25 pm
Also keep in mind that if you would be in Jeddah and caught with her together you will suffer serious consequences. Depending on in which position you would be caught it can go from whipping and deportation upto a death sentence for both of you. This is a very religious country and frivolous behavior before marriage is a big sin. You do not want to be sentenced by a Sharia court. If you are a Hindu prepare for some serious punishment if caught with a muslim girl. Death sentences are not uncommon.
Revathy Raman said,
July 1, 2009 at 5:49 am
Please help in getting information about India’s (esp Hindu’s) working and living conditions in Jeddah as my husband is going to work for a top university there as a professor.
I am working in india and will i get a job there?? I am basically a stenographer now working as a Secretary to top level management. Please advise me on the following :
1. Work culture
2. Saving potential
3. Cost of living
4. Should ladies wear pardhas irrespective of their religion?
5. Climate
6. School education for my daughter (who is going to 10th std)
7. Safety for girls and ladies
Please help me out in giving answers to the above queries, i will be much much grateful for you all helping me
regards
Revathy Raman
Josh said,
July 1, 2009 at 8:44 am
Hello Revathy,
Saudi Arabia is a society that adheres to as strictest possible separation of the sexes. This means that there are few opportunities for women to work. Jeddah is somewhat more free and women do work but finding a job will be difficult. If you can not find a job try to start your own business. Language will be a problem. Also keep in mind thast public display of any religion other than muslim is not allowed so no Dhivali celebrations or things like that. The religious police will not be very lenient.
If the University provides housing and pays a decent salary you will be able to save substantially as the cost of food is very modest. Clothes etc. are also reasonably cheap.
Your biggest expenditure, provided housing is included, will be a private school for your daughter. I would not recommend her to attend a Saudi public school as the difference with her current Indian curriculum will be too big. You will have to browse the web and check the websites of private schools in Jeddah.
All women are obliged to wear the Abaya when they go outside, no exception. As Jeddah is a port for the millions of pilgrims you will of course see women with other outfits according to their national dress but for those living here the Abaya is the garment of choice.
On the climate: The months of June, July and August are very hot, winter can be very pleasant and even a bit chilly in the evenings. Expect no rain whatsoever and if there is expect flash floods in many parts of the city as there is no drainage installed.
You will have to look for a private school and check for the rates. As she is already in 10th grade a Saudi school might not be a good idea.
Jeddah is generally safe except for the traffic which can be crazy. However this does not mean you can just go anywhere. There are places you have to take care for pickpockets. As a women alone you are not supposed to walk around without your husband, brother or cousin but in the malls and these kind of places you have no problem shopping around. You will have to get used to a male dominated environment and obey the rules. This is a society where the sexes are segregated.
Besides this segregation the society is build up also along lines of ethnicity. Saudi’s and Arabs form the top layer of society, then the western expatriates, then Chinese, Japanese, Indonesians, Phillipino’s, then Indians, Pakistani, Sri Lankans and Bangladeshi and Africans. You will see this back in the job market but also in the treatment received. As your husband will be a university professor his job puts you in a better position on. I am generalizing a bit here but you’ll find out that different groups are treated different.
Josh said,
July 1, 2009 at 9:51 am
One mistake: I mean as a women you ARE supposed to be out with your husband…..
Revathy Raman said,
July 2, 2009 at 5:54 am
Mr Josh,
Thanks a lot for your value inputs. I am really thankful to you for the informative messages.
All the points are well noted.
sully said,
September 18, 2009 at 4:58 pm
jeddah is sweet. im saudi american and live in the us most the time but when im in saudi its amazing. its like no rules anything goes you can do things you never knew existed. its got alot of problems tho because everyone being seperated made everyone go nuts and the hormones are overflowing here. there are parties. crazy ones. but good luck getting on the list to get in. if you even hear about there being a party. ive heard of huge lesbian sex clubs. he he he. but yeah the gay community is huge i believe because of the way kids are raised in a gender split culture. ha alot of saudi men will be attracted to what most westerners would find repulsive. when your in saudi you have to lower your expectations some. if you take the time to really look into peoples lives you will want to leave. women are treated as objects and the men are ruthless. and every guy here wears gucci a omega and drives a 6 or 7 series. ive seen guys crash bmws thinking itd impress a girl. imagine the ‘cock blocking’ that goes on. ive heard of friends killing each other over girls.
girls have it the worst. you actually must protect all the women. i know more girls here who have been raped than not raped. and people say they bullshit because they were ‘whores’ and lost their virginity. but im no idiot i know that alot of guys rape girls here. gang rapes and such. they victimize men as well i knew a guy that got it from 15 guys in the desert. you have to be careful because the freakish sex things here are disgusting. mothers wanting to sex up their daughters fathers doing their daughter. like a bunch of really messed up stuff. i swear on it. i am talking about how everything here is so hush hush that you will never know. but im positive there are still slaves here. and worse snuff films and sex slavery. dog fights lion fights crazy animals. houses you can drive cars inside, infinite money almost. 12 yr olds who buy lamborghinis.
i got alot of stories and stuff. should i keep going?
ahmed said,
October 9, 2009 at 6:27 pm
I am a newcomer and looking for a house, mostly a villa or duplex house with parking place – preferably covered parking in an area not very expansive= I wonder there are no real estate agents here whom I can approach and all say it’s only the “haaris” who does the lob for a few pennies- but to hunt for these guys is another problem- language and visibility? I’m not keen on compounds and wish to breath free air instead surrounded by 4 walls- incidently I’m now in a compd but like to move out for fresh air- can you suggest?