hagen1213
6/1/2011 17:59 EST
Okay, so I'm having little luck finding some answers. I want to know all the rules I need to follow while living in Saudi. I'm and American.
Here's what I already know:
I have to wear an abaya in public
No driving
Don't talk to men unless for business (buying food/clothes)
No displays of public affection
I'm getting mixed reviews about the driver thing though...am I allowed to hire a driver to take me (and my children) to the stores, shopping, school, etc? Some say I can't be in the car with anyone but my husband (but he works!) Others say you can have a driver at your disposal. Who's right??
What else do I need to know? I want to make sure I don't make any mistakes and tick off the religious police (or anyone else for that matter) What about etiquette when out and about?
Thanks!
Post a Reply
 0 0 abuse
|
|
kikker
6/2/2011 13:12 EST
I've been in Saudi for about 16 months now. So... I actually think you got most of it.
- abaya
- No driving
- No talking to "strange" men
As for the driver bit ... you can have a driver for yourself and the children. You can also order a taxi if that is more convenient.
If you move onto a compound then most compounds have daily shopping busses to different shopping centres. Also, there are probably school busses for the children.
Make sure that when you go out you take a scarf with you so that if you get asked to cover your hair, you have something to do that with. It does not have to be a black scarf. Your abaya can also be decorated. It doesn't even have to be black, although that is the colour generally worn.
When you get an abaya, it's probably a good idea to get one that covers your ankles as that is an extremely sexy pat of your body. Alternatively make sure you are wearing leggings or trousers under the abaya. Sandals are not an issue, neither is make up. Shoes and handbags are huge fashion accessories, for obvious reasons.
There is nothing you can't get in Saudi. Riyadh is stricter than Al Khobar or Jeddah. The climate in Riyadh is more pleasant as there is virtually no humidity. Everywhere is air-conditioned, although some of the taxis aren't.
Join all the women's groups you can in the first year and then make your choices once you've been around for a bit.
The summer months are very quiet. Life picks up again after Ramadan and when school stars. Lots of compounds have monthly coffee mornings. Get on the mailing list of Women's Skills Bureau - they have monthly newsletters with lots of info and contacts.
Any other questions - send me a mail.
Don't forget to have fun, because there are lots of good things in Saudi - you just need to give yourself a chance to settle in. It's all a big adventure!
Post a Reply
 0 0 abuse
|
|
|
|
wallacme
6/9/2011 06:38 EST
It is my understanding that the rules concerning women and vehicles is as follows: A woman is not allowed to be alone in a vehicle with a man who is not her relative UNLESS the man is a licensed commercial driver (bus, taxi, limo, etc.). In that situation, the woman should be in the back seat--just like a taxi in the western world. She (or anyone for that matter) should always carry ID--either a passport if not a resident, or an igama if a resident.
Post a Reply
00abuse
|
|
hollyhj
6/8/2012 01:19 EST
i am moving to Riyadh in July.Please tell me what you wear on your feet/sandles,tennis shoes..only want to bring what is absoutly necessary can you give me a basic "clothing"list.
what is worn under the abaya?One Piece at the pools???
Post a Reply
00abuse
|
|
AAJ
6/8/2012 04:16 EST
welcome,
As long as you are wearing an abaya in public nobody bothers with what you are wearing underneath. wear whatever you like including sandals tennis shoes. And in compounds you may wear your regular clothes, bathing suit etc. Everything is available here in the malls just bring your personal belongings the rest you can buy...
have a nice stay...
Post a Reply
00abuse
|
|
natalya
3/5/2014 07:45 EST
Good day girls.
My name in Natalya.
We are currently leaving in Bahrain and planning to visit Saudi Arabia.
I would like to ask you if there is expat woman’s gathering in Saudi Arabia.
Like morning coffee or bazaar? Preferably in Khobar or Dammam.
Any feedback will be highly appreciated.
Thank you
Post a Reply
00abuse
|
|
|
|
Honey1155
3/23/2014 04:28 EST
Dear this rules are not only for western women but for all women. Dear you can hire driver for trips if you need to go market you can call him and he will pick and drop you for all purpose.
Post a Reply
00abuse
|
|
|
|
