Job Discussion Forums

[Travels]

Hi all,

I just received a job offer (without an interview) at a uni in Jeddah and they are offering 14,575 SAR salary and 17,000 SAR annual housing allowance. The allowance seems low to me - does anyone have experience of living on something like that? Are Jeddah rents high? I'll be in Saudi alone (my partner is staying in NZ) so I imagine it'll be hard for a woman to go looking for a place alone with no Arabic.

I'm not interested in sharing a place and I'd like a halfway decent kitchen.

It includes 60 days holiday so not sure if this is a factor.

Thanks.

[nomad soul]

Jeddah's cost of living is very reasonable.

In terms of housing, some teachers find the standard 17,000 SR housing allowance inadequate, while others don't mind paying an additional 2000-5000 SR a year out of pocket for a comfortable flat. Then there are those who, through luck and networking, find a decent place with that 17,000. But it really depends on your tastes. Just be aware the furniture allowance (usually 8500 SR) may have to cover a kitchen unit and appliances as well.

You won't be left alone to find housing considering there will be other non-Arabic speakers arriving and in need of accommodation. Plus, there's usually a realtor who can help find a place for you (for a fee). Besides, your Saudi and non-Saudi teaching colleagues will be a great resource for info on housing, getting around town, where to find XYZ, etc. (Women go out of their way to help other women.) Jeddah is also multinational, so English is widely spoken.

Regardless, if you don't want to deal with having to find a place, then only apply to employers that provide accommodation.

As for that offer and lack of interview, I responded to your PM.

[Travels]

Thanks, NS! I appreciate all your help.