Expat Advice: Living in Khamis Mushayt, Saudi Arabia
What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?
Khamis Mushayt
How long have you lived there?
5 years
What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?
There are a wide variety of things to do from bowling to scubadiving, computerclubs to western style party establishments.
In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.
When first in transit to Khamis Mushayt I was told by Saudi customs that this town is also known as Khamis Mistake. Compared to the main cities like Daharan, Jeddah and Riyadh, Khamis is somewhat "behind" in time, not as developed and not so rich.
What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?
Tourism (many Saudis spend their summer here, for the weather is very mild compared to the rest of the country), argiculture, defense contracts.
If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.
Be open minded, expect little, and keep in mind what you're here for; be it the money or quality family time.
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guestI was interested to read your comments on life in Khamis Mushayt. Pretty spot-on! I went to Khamis Mushayt for the first time in late October 1988. Really didn't know what to expect being an Independent Scottish woman in her 20's. No more walking freely in the street, no more cycling...no more freedom! Met an Australian girl on the areoplane en route to Khamis with same outlook on life as myself. "Whatever happens lets enjoy the experience at least for a short time". I can honestly say that the first 3 years were like no other I had ever experienced despite all "the restrictions". New culture, new language, new friends, new sports, new job.....AMAZING. Married a Syrian...friend married a Saudi. I had 6 children all born in Abha. Now they are teenagers with fantastic memories of their school years and youth in Khamis Mushayt. We are living in Syria now but are returning to Saudi this Summer...much to the delight of our children. So yeah ,,,your right be open minded...you never know what might happen! Something wonderful that will change your life for the better.
shahjahanHi I'm interested to know about Indian schooling there as planing to shift with family in april16. Family flat /month rent. We have to pay monthly or quarterly rent. Is it safer place to live with family. I mean social life, food etc. Climate & I heard there is lack of oxygen. Pls guide.
