Continuing our deep dive series into each of the locations in which we operate, we spoke to our expert consultants in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Our goal with these articles is to find out what is involved in the process for incoming expatriates, what to expect from their new home and how the team’s invaluable local knowledge of the area, its customs and cultures can be a vital asset for assignees. So, if you are interested in finding out more about moving to Saudi Arabia, here is our insider guide to Jeddah relocation.
First off, what does a typical day look like for our expert Jeddah consultants?
As Jeddah relocation consultants, one of our key responsibilities is to make sure we are always up to date with the resources and features of the city. It is so important that we can advise our clients on the best places to live, the top schools to explore and where to find things around the city, like the best cup of coffee! When we aren’t with clients, a lot of our time is spent doing research on compounds, real estate, educational institutions and healthcare options. We also make sure we can make relevant lifestyle recommendations and highlight the city’s best attractions.
What is unique about the Jeddah relocation process?
Even in Saudi Arabia, you can often hear the phrase ‘Jeddah is different’ and it really is. Jeddah is such a unique destination. It has such a rich heritage and is deeply steeped in the nation’s traditions, particularly since it is so close to Mecca, but it is also incredibly welcoming with a friendly community that are delighted to receive people from all over the world with different backgrounds, cultures and hobbies.
What are the top benefits to living and working in Jeddah?
Most significantly, it is a very multicultural environment. The expat community is huge and blends well with the local community. There is also so much to learn and experience. It is a great place to learn a new language like Arabic or to discover the story of Saudi, its historical milestones and its amazing cultural heritage. Jeddah is also a coastal city, so being close to the sea adds a special atmosphere to city life, with plenty of opportunities for boat trips, snorkelling and diving on your down time. It is a very lively city, with so many fantastic restaurants and cultural attractions, not to mention numerous events and sports like Formula 1 going on throughout the year.
What are the most important things for assignees to know before getting started on their relocation journey?
Probably the most important is cultural awareness. Saudi Arabia, like many Muslim countries, can be very different than other countries and expats should be prepared on what to expect. That is why our team at EER Middle East work so hard to provide as much information on cultures and customs as possible to each of our incoming assignee expats. Even elements like the dress code could be a big change for some individuals. Though the Abaya is no longer required for women, both men and women in Saudi are expected to dress respectfully when outside of their home or compound. The weather in Jeddah can also be a bit of a shock – we don’t really have a winter, it really just moves from warm to hot, so that can take some getting used to, but is great for those who love the sun!
What are your favourite things about Jeddah?
Since Jeddah is a coastal city, it has a lot of elements you can’t find anywhere else. It has a huge promenade on the corniche where you can jog, walk and cycle with the sea breeze. You can also go diving or snorkelling around the coral reefs in the Red Sea and explore its abundant and unique marine life. Jeddah also has a fascinating historical district where you can stroll the small streets and explore the traditional souks, shops and architecture. Desert hiking and camping is also very popular and there are some incredible landscapes to explore surrounding the city. Being somewhere were you can hike, shop and dive all in one day is a very special experience, and then you get to end the day in one of Jeddah’s exquisite restaurants, where every cuisine you can think of is on offer.
What are assignees usually most surprised to discover about Jeddah?
Most commonly we hear that it is ‘not at all what they expected’. Many expats who first come here imagine a community that is overwhelmingly conservative with not a lot to do. It couldn’t be further from the truth, it is such a multi-cultural environment that is so welcoming to new people and there is so much to do, you could have trouble fitting it all in!
If you would like to speak to one of our expert consultants about Jeddah relocation or explore our range of relocation and corporate services available in Saudi Arabia, please get in touch today on info@eerme.com or +971 (0)4 421 1819.
