Job Discussion Forums

[rjsmith2121]

While reading, reading, reading the posts about Saudi Arabia, I've heard mention Al Faisal Academy (not all positive), and since I'm in negotiation with a recruiter to work for Princess Noura University, which I believe will be overseen by Al Faisal Academy...any comments would be welcomed.

[scot47]

Do not go.

[tefl2010]

If you do not want to work/deal with unprofessional and arrogant people, stay away! Al Faisal Academy managers are mean. They want you to work for them for long teaching hours with less salary and less respect!

[Linda467]

Scot,

Could you please substantiate what is your opinion based on? There is quite a few of us on this forum going there and I�m my case I have been treated with nothing but courtesy and extreme dilligence, even after I declined the offer first time.

Thanks very much

Linda

[hope3809]

I agree with you Linda. Albeit this journey has been one heck of a roller coaster ride and it's been with AETG it doesn't take away the fact that other places are given other future teachers that same roller coaster ride so before one makes a decision based on anothers negative input also take the time to make an 'informed' decision as well....which would involve getting more than just one or two opinions. From everything I've been reading on this forum...and I think I've read all posted by now (way too much time on my hands while waiting) there doesn't seem to be 'one' perfect outfit in the KSA. I'm by no means telling people to go with the shady of shady folks but rather to just keep an open mind and ask around verses going solely with one or two naysayers. Last I checked we are all in the same profession and adults to boot so let�s do our best to keep it respectful.

Cheers!

[allthatand]

rjsmith:
I work for alfaisal at the moment. Princess Noura is a university, so you can probably expect university working hours: 8-12, with office hours 8-5.
It's true that working at the main Academy (which is up the road from Princess Noura) Operates split shifts 8-12 and 5-9, both which u must work if at the main academy and that's tiring.

let me know what else u want to know

[rjsmith2121]

Allthatand,

Is construction of Princess Noura completed? I have the impression that it isn't built yet. Has the semester started? If not, when? Describe the accommodations - and is it feasible to pass on the accommodations/transportation package? I'd like to have a car, and possibly rent an apartment, but I've read in other threads that it's impossible without an iqama. What do you think about taking the package or not taking it? AND how do expats get connected with each other in Riyadh - is there a website or a place - how do people meet each other if they aren't in your living compound? And what do they do?

Thanks for the info.

Rebecca

[veiledsentiments]

[rjsmith2121]

Please be specific. I'm trying to figure out what my options are. Do foreigners drive cars in Saudi Arabia? Is it possible to get a driver's license. Are you advising against it? Why?

Rebecca

[007]

[Linda467]

Rebecca,

As as woman you cannot drive in the Kingdom, you�ll get transportation to and from wherever you need to go so unfortunately we have to depend on someone else, I know I have been driving for over 31 years and love my car but, hey, that�s how it is.

Also I will not venture in a taxi by myself anywhere, not even in the capital, let alone anywhere else.

[007]

[Linda467]

007, you are not a woman, are you?

It only takes one time and I have been strongly advised not to. I have not fear but I�m pretty cautious

[007]

[Linda467]

007

It gets very confusing as some people from your island like to disguise themselves is some other type of clothing ...................