Digital Nomad Life in Dammam, Saudi Arabia

"Finding a place to live in Dammam involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a small apartment to a large villa, depending on your needs and financial capability. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Dammam to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Some popular residential areas include Al Faisaliyah, Al Adamah, and Al Badiyah. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, availability of amenities, and the overall safety and cleanliness of the area. Once you've identified potential neighborhoods, you can start looking for available properties. There are several online real estate platforms that list properties for rent or sale in Dammam, such as Bayut, Propertyfinder, and expatriates.com. These websites allow you to filter your search based on location, property type, size, and price range. Alternatively, you can engage the services of a real estate agent. They can provide valuable insights about the local property market and help you find a place that meets your criteria. Make sure to choose a reputable agent who is registered with the Saudi Real Estate Brokers Association. Before finalizing a deal, it's important to visit the property in person. This allows you to assess its condition, check the functionality of utilities, and get a feel of the neighborhood. Don't hesitate to ask questions about the property's history, maintenance fees, and any other concerns you may have. Once you've found a place you're satisfied with, you'll need to negotiate the terms of the lease or purchase agreement. In Saudi Arabia, it's common for landlords to ask for a year's rent in advance. Make sure to read the contract carefully and understand all the terms before signing. Finally, once the agreement is signed, you'll need to register the contract with the local municipality. This is a legal requirement in Saudi Arabia and helps protect your rights as a tenant or homeowner. After this, you can move into your new home in Dammam," said one person in Dammam.

"Expats in Dammam often appreciate the local hospitality and friendliness of the Saudi people. They are known for their warm and welcoming nature, often inviting newcomers into their homes for meals. The rich history and cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia is another aspect that expats appreciate. From traditional music and dance to art and architecture, there is a deep sense of pride and respect for the past. Expats also appreciate the importance of family in Saudi culture. Family gatherings are a common occurrence and are often large, festive events. This emphasis on family can make Dammam feel like a close-knit community. The local cuisine is another highlight for many expats. Saudi Arabian food is flavorful and diverse, with dishes like kabsa, jareesh, and mutabbaq being popular favorites. Lastly, many expats appreciate the slower pace of life in Dammam. The city has a relaxed atmosphere, with a focus on enjoying life's simple pleasures. This can be a welcome change for those used to a more hectic lifestyle," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Dammam.

"Abnormal (lack of) male/female interaction that led to a huge number of homosexual advances being made by the obviously sexually frustrated men," explained one person living in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

"Expats in Dammam often find the strict adherence to Islamic customs and laws to be challenging. This includes the mandatory prayer times during which many businesses close, the prohibition of alcohol, and the dress code, particularly for women. The language barrier can also be a significant challenge, as Arabic is the primary language spoken and not everyone may speak English. The extreme heat, especially in the summer months, can also be difficult to adjust to. Additionally, the segregation of genders in public spaces and the restrictions on women's rights, although improving, can be a culture shock for many expats. Lastly, the slower pace of life and the bureaucracy can be frustrating for those used to more efficient systems," said one expat in Dammam.

"If you are planning to stay in Dammam for an extended period, you will need to secure the appropriate visa. The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your stay. If you are going for work, you will need a work visa. This requires a sponsorship from a Saudi company or individual. The sponsor will send you an invitation letter, which you will need to submit along with your visa application. If you are going for business, you will need a business visa. This also requires a sponsorship from a Saudi company. If you are going to study, you will need a student visa. This requires an acceptance letter from a Saudi educational institution. In addition to the visa, you will also need a valid passport. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay. You may also need to provide proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation or a letter from a friend or relative who lives in Saudi Arabia. Finally, you may need to provide proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay. This could be a bank statement or a letter from your employer. Please note that the requirements may vary depending on your nationality, so it's best to check with the Saudi embassy or consulate in your home country," explained one expat living in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

"Yes, my first day there I urinated in the urinal only to find that was where men sat to wash their feet," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Dammam.

"In Dammam, it is considered disrespectful to show the soles of your feet or shoes, as they are considered dirty. Avoid using your left hand for eating or greeting, as it is considered unclean. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, especially between men and women. It's also important to dress modestly, covering arms and legs, and women should cover their hair in public. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and women's rights, as these can be seen as offensive. During the holy month of Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those who are fasting. Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia, so do not consume or carry it. Also, avoid taking photographs of people without their permission, especially women, as it is considered invasive. Lastly, punctuality is not highly valued in Saudi culture, so don't take it as a sign of disrespect if someone is late for a meeting," explained one person living in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.