u/Frosty-Dealer6666

Hi all,

Considering a move to Riyadh from the UK for a decent Finance role. I’m South Asian by background but hold a British passport, and I’d really appreciate some honest insights from those living there.

A few things on my mind:

1.	How does it feel being tied to one employer for residency? Does that dependency ever get stressful?
2.	For those with kids, how is life for them in terms of sports, outdoor activities, and socialising? Do you feel they miss out compared to the UK or the West? 
3.	Down the line in 3-5 years, opportunity to start entrepreneurship? Ofc I need the license and paperwork, but how is the market? Any case studies of such?
4.	And socially, how has your experience been? Do you feel settled or still like an outsider at times?

5. Also I get an impression from some that after working in ME, your experience will not be as valued in West?

Overall, just looking for real experiences. What have been your biggest challenges or regrets, if any? And does it ever feel a bit restrictive or like you’re more dependent than you’d like?

Appreciate any honest input 🙏

Hi All! So a bit of context, I have been at Big 4 UK office for 7 years - started as a Grad (4 years in Audit (qualified) and 3 years in Deal Advisory- made Manager here.

My sector is Govt. and our MENA team is quite active and recruiting for Manager level (Salary band - 30-35k SAR I guess) so keen to make a move to Riyadh as UK economy ain't too great (I feel). And we are from a culture that it doesn't impact our social life too much if we move (as in we are Muslims and don't drink / go out etc.). Lived in GCC as a kid too.

My questions were -

1. How do you see the work pipeline there (you reckon there is long term demand if you are good? Noting some consultants were laid off last year in B4s in GCC)

2. What is the WLB like? Is it constantly bad hours? How open is WFH?

3. How are the promotions in B4 like? Any politics/ subtle racism? We are of South Asian descent but British citizen.

4. How is/ was your overall MENA experience like (at work and outside work) compared to West or Australia? Asking as comparing UK vs KSA life.

5. Does job security bit add a lot of negative mental pressure? As in, your work permit is tied to your job so you could be kicked out any morning.

6. Is the work stimulating? Lots of consultants in UK aren't getting enough interesting projects due to state of economy so I feel if GCC is doing some greenfield stuff, may actually learn something?

7. I am a part time content creator (YT/ Insta) which I monetise. Can I do that on a Work permit/ Iqama lol? Heard it is illegal.

8. Any potential to open up a business down the line after 4-5 years in corporate?

9. Is UAE (DXB/ Abu Dhabi) any better of a choice? Can we save as much as KSA? Any pros/ cons?

Add: We are a couple with 1 kid. Wife happy for SAHM and continue studying online etc.

I do read a lot of general pros and cons of ME which make sense but was keen to hear on above in our context.