Some significant changes have happened in the kingdom in recent decades. Change indeed can be difficult, but it seems like Saudis have embraced it better than expected. The best proof of how living in KSA has changed over the last two decades is the rising number of expats. It can be challenging for expats though, due to cultural differences. However, if you consider moving to Saudi Arabia, the national shipping company of Saudi Arabia is a great choice for you.
HQ logistics – puts your mind at ease
Moving is a rather difficult and stressful process. It is not only about crossing the items off your to-do list, but it is also about keeping your peace of mind. So, to dedicate yourself in peace to all small personal and family details, you should hire a high-quality team of professionals. You need logistics Saudi Arabia to help you with your moving process. Living in KSA has changed in the last two decades indeed and that is why you need a company that is always up to date with everything that is going on. You need someone reliable, practical, and professional. So, be smart when you are choosing the logistics company. Choose it wisely and think about the pros and cons.
Custom clearance – avoiding the headache
The word “customs” has caused a lot of headaches to humankind. Custom clearance together even more. When you are moving internationally you have to think in advance about your exports and imports. You may find yourself even thinking about how you can do it yourself and it is not that difficult. If you are that type of person, then congratulations! However, what the experience showed in recent years is that it is better to hire a team of professionals to do it for you. There are a couple of top-notch custom clearing agents in Bahrain you can hire. Since living in KSA has changed a lot over the last decades, it will save you a lot of time and nerves.
Living in KSA-Everyday life and challenges
So, now you are all set and it is time for you to start living your life. You are embracing the change. Your employer is friendly and your family is slowly adjusting. Moving to a new country is really an adventure. We have only one life and we want to make the most of it. Also, we want the best for our family and our quality of life. Saudi Arabia is very controversial, but also offers plenty of possibilities for expats. In addition, it is one of the most beautiful and very special, and unique countries in the world.
However, although living in KSA has significantly changed in the last two decades, there are still some challenges you need to face when living in Saudi Arabia as an expat.
- renting and buying houses
- traditional values-everyday lifestyle
Renting and buying houses
Most of the time your living situation depends on the company that hires you. If you are completely “on your own”, you need to know that almost 1/3 of your salary will go to your rent. An important piece of information is also that you may find two and three-bedroom apartments rarely.
The most popular accommodations are single apartments and villas with four or 5 bedrooms. However, the good thing is that Saudi Arabia is the country that still offers rent apartments to its workers. Besides rent, it also offers education covering fees and transportation costs. Although the situation has changed, KSA is still not so willing to rent a house to strangers. That is why the companies do it in the majority of cases. Due to prices and traditional policy, it is better not to consider investing in housing. However, since renting contracts are annual, renting process is very practical and efficient.
Traditional values- West vs East
Especially when you belong to Western culture and civilization, the KSA lifestyle can be very challenging for you. The best is to forget everything you know and start adjusting. you should learn immediately because if you don’t know certain rules you could end up in jail or being severely punished.
Religious rules
First thing first, you need to be informed about general religious rules. As soon as you understand better the Islamic way of life, it will be easier for you to live by their rules and avoid punishments. Using alcohol is strictly prohibited. You will literally never see dancing or kisses in the street. Until 2018 women could not drive. Today, women still cannot walk the street uncovered. Even though women’s rights are a more popular topic in KSA these days, culturally speaking it is not so ideal. Therefore, if you are a female expat, be careful and prepared for everything. Furthermore, single men are not allowed in malls, while restaurants are divided into man-only and family sections.
All in all, we can conclude that the moving process is both physically and emotionally demanding. It will cost you a lot of money, time, and nerves. It can also be especially challenging when you are moving to a country that is the total opposite of what you already know. At some point, you will probably ask yourself whether you are doing the right thing. Of course, you will ask yourself all those questions and of course, you will doubt yourself. Moving to a foreign country is by far one of the biggest transitions you will ever have to experience in life. However, when you make that first step and use the services available to you, slowly you will be in peace. You will realize that you have made the right choice and that this indeed is the opportunity of a lifetime. Having in mind how living in KSA has changed over the last two decades, you will wake up one day and realize it was all worth it.
