Job Discussion Forums

[joe_soccial]

How much cash should I bring with me to Riyadh? How much in $, and how much in riyals?

I will be a university instructor, and housing will be provided. I'm assuming that reps will be waiting for us at the airport. I don't know when I'll get my first paycheck.

[I-forgot]

The answer depends on your comfort zone. You can live very easily on very little in Riyadh.

I would bring riyals rather than dollars purely to avoid having to find a place to change money. You can change money here easily but, when you are new, there are better things to do with your time.

Personally, I would bring SAR3000. You are unlikely to spend that much but it gives you a cushion. It is enough to buy the essentials. It also ensures that you have enough money to say 'yes' to any social invitations that come your way in your first few weeks. You don't want to feel you can't go out snd make friends because you are watching the pennies when you first arrive.

This is a generous amount and it is what I would be comfortable with if I were a new arrival. I don't spend that much now. In fact, I didn't spend that much when I first arrived. But that would be my 'peace of mind' amount. Others may be happier with much less. Some people could survive on SAR500.

I would plan on 6 weeks without a pay cheque just in case there are any delays.

Edited because I can spell but I can't type.

[nomad soul]

Probably at least $2000 US --- more depending on you and your wife's spending habits. Riyadh is a modern city; there are ATMs everywhere that will dispense your money in riyals via your US bank or credit card. There are also money exchange services in the airport.

By the way, you mentioned on your other thread that you don't plan to ever return to the States. I suggest you think twice about completely closing your US bank account and putting all your money into a Saudi bank. See "IQAMA expired, bank account blocked" (http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=108920).

Never assume anything --- check with PSU to confirm that a rep will meet you at the airport and if you'll go directly to your flat versus being up in a hotel for X number of days.

Lastly, here's a short video clip about PSU in general: https://vimeo.com/113708605

[cultofpersonality]

Surely you have expensive tastes Nomad Soul...

I would say half that would be enough, but I guess you can't predict certain spending habits.

[nomad soul]

My point was that he should at least have that amount (and more) available in his US bank account rather than carrying it in cash.

[plumpy nut]

Something like $900 US a month for a hotel apartment and the Saudi ESL employer propensity to hold off on any pay for a considerable time. How much money do you think you should come with?

[nomad soul]

[scot47]

Do not assume that someone will meet you at the airport. Be prepared to arrive and start fending for yourself right away.

SAR2000 would be good. More if you can. Why US$ ? People want SAR.

In the past I arrived with much less ! You should be able to get an advance from your employer.