Digital Nomad Life in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

"Hijaz choir Drama group puts on plays at Sierra ( O R P) Al Bilad beach, Sheraton beach, Silver sands beach Buffet meal weekend at Al Bilad hotel Buffet lunch at Hilton also walk around gardens Any concerts /events on at Sierra Parties at Sierra eg Rhino ball ABJ or BBJ the two groups American business of Jeddah (great social and mixing as well as sports, balls, parties, etc also if full member invites to weekend nights at embassy). Must be US citizen or work for US company- all nationalities though. British businessmen ( I think you have to be British) Hash- running and walking group well organised great social in mountains and hills near Jeddah Rugby club- excellent social - beginners welcome ( at American school) Diving/ boat trips/ snorkelling- ring desert sea divers A MUST DO do not leave Jeddah without seeing the fish on the reefs- snorkel if necessary. Diving lessons also available. Meet people amazing experince. Walk along the Cornishe- absorb Jeddah life- visit Aroma restaurant. Malls- all worth a visit for architecture alone (I do not shop) - Red Sea Mall, Mall of Arabia, Oasis Mall, Megamall, Roshan Mall (also got nice Fudruckers) Thalia street and GOODIES- the best restaurant at the back of Talia. Islamic museum. Old Jeddah (near Ballad - read up history - first amazing old buildings now international heritage site) Souks- Ballad Petromin (great for bargains and second hand - we would call it a flea market) Old airport- great for antiques and coins etc Al Bawardy the new part Mall as well- best gold place. Natural history society- great for info about Saudi- held in national geology society," said one person in Jeddah.

"Expats living in Jeddah can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, book clubs, and language exchange groups. Expats can also meet people by attending events hosted by the local expat community, such as movie nights, potlucks, and game nights. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Jeddah," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Jeddah.

"People lives are surrounded by their families and GrandParents which means much socialising," explained one expat living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Jeddah can be quite enjoyable. The city is known for its vibrant culture, modern infrastructure, and diverse population. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of activities to do, from exploring the city's many historical sites to enjoying its many restaurants and cafes. The city also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to more affordable apartments. Additionally, the city is home to a number of coworking spaces, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads. Despite the conservative culture, expats and digital nomads can find plenty of ways to enjoy their stay in Jeddah," said one person in Jeddah.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Jeddah is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings of apartments, villas, and other types of housing in Jeddah. Additionally, you can search for real estate agents in the area who can help you find a place to live. You can also ask friends and family who live in Jeddah for recommendations. Finally, you can look for housing ads in local newspapers and magazines," explained one person living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

"Expats considering retiring in Jeddah should be aware that the city is a conservative Islamic society and that they should respect local customs and laws. It is important to note that alcohol and pork are strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia. Expats should also be aware that the climate in Jeddah is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C in the summer months. Additionally, expats should be aware that the cost of living in Jeddah is relatively high, and that they should budget accordingly. Finally, expats should be aware that the healthcare system in Jeddah is of a high standard, but that they may need to pay for private healthcare if they require specialist treatment," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Jeddah.

"Only accept a job that provides accommodation on a western compound (key to access of facilites/ friends/ parties) especailly for women- it would be a nightmare for a western woman to "live out." If you have kids, ensure school fees will be paid," explained one person living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

"Expats in Jeddah appreciate the hospitality of the local people, who are known for their generosity and kindness. They also enjoy the city's rich cultural heritage, which is evident in its traditional architecture, cuisine, and art. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's vibrant nightlife, which includes a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs. Finally, expats enjoy the city's diverse religious landscape, which includes mosques, churches, and temples," remarked one member in Jeddah.

"One of the most challenging aspects of living in Jeddah for expats is the strict adherence to Islamic law and customs. This includes the dress code, which requires women to cover their hair and body, and the segregation of men and women in public places. Additionally, the conservative nature of the culture can make it difficult for expats to adjust to the local customs and norms. Furthermore, the lack of freedom of speech and expression can be a challenge for those used to more open societies. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge for expats, as Arabic is the official language of the country," said one person in Jeddah.

"If you plan to stay in Jeddah for a while, you will need to obtain a valid residency visa. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to obtain a valid work permit or other documents in order to stay in the country. Additionally, you may need to register with the local police station and obtain a valid ID card," explained one expat living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

"In Jeddah, it is important to be mindful of cultural norms and customs. It is important to dress modestly, especially for women, and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to respect the local religion and not to criticize or make jokes about it. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and customs regarding alcohol and drug use, as these are strictly prohibited. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and to avoid making any comments that could be seen as offensive or disrespectful," said one expat who made the move to Jeddah.

"Healthcare services in Jeddah, are a mix of public and private facilities, offering a range of medical services to both citizens and expatriates. The city is home to several well-equipped hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers, providing high-quality healthcare services in various fields such as general medicine, surgery, dentistry, and maternity care. The public healthcare system in Jeddah is managed by the Ministry of Health, which operates numerous hospitals and primary healthcare centers throughout the city. These facilities offer free or low-cost medical services to Saudi nationals, while expatriates may also access these services at a subsidized cost. Public hospitals in Jeddah are generally well-staffed with qualified medical professionals, and they are equipped with modern medical technology. In addition to public facilities, Jeddah also has a thriving private healthcare sector, with many private hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of medical services. These private facilities often cater to the needs of the expatriate community and are known for their high-quality care, state-of-the-art equipment, and English-speaking staff. However, private healthcare services in Jeddah can be quite expensive, and it is recommended that individuals have comprehensive health insurance to cover the costs. Jeddah is also home to several specialized medical centers, focusing on areas such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. These centers offer advanced medical treatments and are staffed by highly skilled medical professionals, many of whom have received training and education from prestigious international institutions. Pharmacies are widely available throughout Jeddah, with many operating 24 hours a day. They offer a wide range of medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, and pharmacists are generally knowledgeable and able to provide advice on minor ailments. Overall, healthcare services in Jeddah are of a high standard, with a combination of public and private facilities catering to the diverse needs of the city's population. However, it is essential for expatriates to have adequate health insurance to ensure access to the best possible care and to cover the costs of private healthcare services," said one member in Jeddah.

"I like Jeddah just fine. As a middle aged female who doesn't wear an abaya or scarf, I have not had any challenges. I also tip very generously (an Egyptian experience carry-over) and workers, like at the grocery, remember this and my service is always exceptional," explained one person living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Jeddah, often appreciate the city's rich cultural heritage, with its historical sites, museums, and traditional markets. They also enjoy the warm weather, beautiful beaches along the Red Sea coast, and the opportunity to explore the nearby natural wonders, such as the coral reefs and desert landscapes. The cost of living in Jeddah is relatively low compared to other major cities, which is attractive to many expats and digital nomads. The city also offers a variety of international schools, making it a suitable destination for families with children. However, there are also several aspects of living in Jeddah that expats and digital nomads may find challenging. The strict cultural norms and conservative lifestyle can be difficult to adjust to, particularly for women, who are required to wear an abaya in public and may face restrictions on their mobility and social interactions. The ban on alcohol and limited entertainment options can also be a downside for some. The traffic in Jeddah can be chaotic and frustrating, with many expats and digital nomads complaining about the lack of public transportation and the prevalence of reckless driving. Additionally, the city's infrastructure and services may not be up to the standards that some expats are accustomed to in their home countries. Language barriers can also be an issue, as not everyone speaks English, making it essential for expats and digital nomads to learn some basic Arabic to navigate daily life more easily. Finally, the bureaucratic processes for obtaining visas, work permits, and other necessary documentation can be time-consuming and complicated, which may deter some from choosing Jeddah as their destination," wrote one digital nomad living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.