Job Discussion Forums

[JRCash]

Is it safe to live in?

[007]

[denise]

Oman is very safe, except for the drivers and the people running across the highways.

d

[Sheikh Inal Ovar]

[Bindair Dundat]

[Bindair Dundat]

[JRCash]

I mean with the stories of what happens in Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan?

[omanized]

Oh, well, since you put it that way...

Yes, of course it is safe, just use your common sense - don't walk alone at night and stay low in areas with little or no cover. Always have your weapon loaded and clean and remember to keep your socks dry and your feet clean.

Avoid the common areas where IED's are likely to be placed such as roads, markets, sidewalks, homes, offices and public parks. Never look a local man in the eye, especially if he is accompanied by his wife, daughter or armed insurgent. Drive against traffic and do not stop for any reason until you reach your destination - drive through fast-food restaurants are not recommended. Only eat pre-packaged food from your home country - if you must eat local food, or eat in the presence of locals, use your right hand only and check the food for odd discolouration or the hint of almonds. Masticate quickly and leave as soon as you have cleared 1/3 of your serving.

In the classroom, avoid eye contact ( see above ) and never turn your back on the class - it is advisable to use your standard issue prison cell mirror to write instructions and grammar presentations on the board without facing it - this will require some practice. Grading should be done with a red pen and avoid using the symbol of a cross like 'X' or 'T'

Vacations should be planned well in advance but be prepared for re-deployment in case of teacher shortages. Always have a sharpened pencil on hand for emergencies.

Otherwise, carry on as normal. And don't forget several copies of your passport photo for visa and labour card purposes.

omanized

[Bindair Dundat]

[denise]

[JRCash]

Thanks and shoukran

[BajaLaJaula]

Whether one feels safe or vulnerable depends more on perception than anything else.
I would not feel safe in Baghdad or in Kabul, right now...however when I lived in Jeddah I did feel relatively safe. I would imagine that life in UAE, Qatar, or Kuwait would feel even safer.
There is always danger anywhere in the world, not just ME. Generally, expats in KSA try to minimize the chances they take....(alter routes to work, don't travel by yourself, live in secure compound, etc.) in order to feel a bit safer.
I know expats that have lived there for 20+ and feel safer in KSA that they would in US....and others that would get stressed out about safety concerns after a short time living there.
You have to weigh the benefits versus the possible stress of perceived danger.

[Bindair Dundat]

[QatarChic]

[basiltherat]

lol. some of the comments on this thread are REALLY funny ? im having a good laugh. anyone else enjoying it ?
best
basil