Job Discussion Forums

[ap4058]

Help.

Does anyone have information about housing situation for BAE Systems in Riyadh?

i understand that there is a waiting list for married guys? some say 18Months others say 4years?

I would like to get a feel of what the real situation is.

[desertdawg]

I know of single guys still sharing after 18 months in Riyadh.

I think the four year period might be closest for married.

In the new compounds, the single accommodation consists of two bedrooms (ensuite) and an open plan sitting room with a smallish kitchen/diner. So whilst living in single accommodation, you could have your family (albeit small) with you. However you wouldn't receive any married status benefits.

In Dhahran, the situation is better I think with empty places still available.

Rumours abound of opening up previously closed compounds to meet the demand in Riyadh. This might actually be happening. If I were you, I would take assurances from Wharton with a very large pinch of salt.

If for you it is a deal breaker, then explain your position to HR and look for binding promises. But you may find they aren't forthcoming.

[ap4058]

Sounds like accommodation is a big issue, if they don't sort it would be hard to bring out married people.

BAE have some many $$$ why cant they just build a few more houses or rent out more accommodation.

Looks like to me those that got in first have had it sorted, the rest that come after can fend for themselves!

[ap4058]

you say previously closed compounds???

is that in dahran or riyadh?

How comes, if the demand for married accommodation is so high why close existing compound?

[desertdawg]

I'm talking about Riyadh, the closed compounds and rumours of opening them up.

The new Compound in Riyadh was meant to house everyone. I'm a humble ELT so I don't know why. Security, logistics, economies of scale etc.

I am no longer in KSA and haven't worked for BAE for several years. But I still have friends there. The accommodation situation is complicated. There may be smaller compounds still available and open. But for whatever reason the reality is that "everyone" is being forced onto the big Compound.

The contract BAE have with the RSAF is single status. Married status is kind of a favour not a right. I would say as an ELT you'll be pretty low down on the list both for non-sharing housing and getting married status.

Have you heard of CMS? That I think will be you. "Contracted" to the RSAF and working directly for them. Non-CMS is the kind of support/admin people. They answer to BAE firstly. And perhaps receive better treatment.

I hope this helps, but please verify what I have said. I think you should always be able to speak to potential colleagues before making a decision over a new job. Those on the ground should be able to give you up to date reliable information.

[egyptfan]

Well, if accommodation / family status is an issue, you could look at Aramco as, if it really is offering direct hire positions, you might find it better in terms of salary etc.

[PattyFlipper]

[ap4058]

Does any one have info about accommodation on Salwa gardens. I hear that accommodation compound will be expanding?