Teaching in Saudi..I feel VERY iffy. I've worked in the UAE...

I have been working in Saudi for 3 years. The difficulty of getting an exit visa depends on your company. My company makes it very difficult and puts in a lot of conditions because some teachers ask permission to go for a quick weekend to Bahrain or Qatar and they "do a runner". Many companies also deduct wages for this time spent outside of the kingdom even though this is against the law. The govt has recently clamped down on this practice by companies so there might be some change in this regard. The cost of these weekend trips can wipe away your savings and an Australian colleague of mine can attest to that. I guess you need to prioritize what is most important for you. Many teachers have been able to successfully adapt their lifestyles to fall in line with the Sharia law enforced in the kingdom and they have also managed to save a lot of money in the process.

Have you decided to go with a job there..?? If so, how is it?? Do you live in a nice compound, etc...?? I am curious to hear about your experience !! Thank you ! : )

Hello S.E. Yearout: I am also interested in finding out about it. Do please stay in touch if you find out anything interesting. I'l do the same. Best, M Coetzer

I recently completed two and a half years in Saudi, the last eight months teaching female clerical workers. Look for ads that specifically ask for a female teacher. Currently, Al-Hasa and Riyadh are hiring. Leaving the country for short breaks is determined by your exit visa. Specifically request a multiple entry visa from your company, that's good for six months. As a female you'll be far more comfortable in Eastern Province or Jeddah than you will in Riyadh. Good luck.

Hi As you say, Saudi is quite restricted for females and you wont have the same freedom as the UAE. The more liberal areas are most definitely the Eastern Province and Jeddah ..but when i say liberal, you are still expected to wear the abaya in public. Location wise, they are also within a short flight /drive of other countries ( Bahrain, Egypt , Turkey, Oman) if you want a weekend break and Western comforts :) Its not a cheap option but if you put aside say 25% /month of your salary to get a trip in.. you can still save a fair amount .. and keep relatively sane :) Groceries , eating out is relatively cheap compared to the UAE and most contracts will provide free accom / utilities or give an allowance .

Hey Christina! I know you! Try OMAN! I hear Muscat is great!

just to correct ya, Persian Gulf is the right name.