Mohamed Ahmed El Desouky - Expat in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Q: Where are you originally from?
A: Egypt

Q: In which city are you currently residing?
A: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Q: What do you do in your new city?
A: I'm working as a senior accountant in Saudi Archirodon Ltd. (Part of Archirodon Construction (Overseas) Co. S.A. - SWITZERLAND)

Q: How is the quality of life in your new city in comparison to that of your home city?
A: INCOME: around 400% more
WORK ENVIRONMENT: it is vary between companies, but labour rights conditions is better
HEALTH CARE: medical insurance coverage is very good
EDUCATION: extremely expensive, lower quality (except international schools is very good)
ACCOMMODATION: expensive and lower quality
FOOD: is quite same
ENTERTAINMENT: very poor (ex: no cinemas, theatres or public beaches. The overall entertainment activities are extremely restricted)
SOCIAL LIFE: Foreign cultures are not acceptable for citizens.

Q: How would you rate the healthcare system in which you are currently enrolled?
A: It is very good, I have international family medical insurance coverage including dental.

Q: How does the cost of living compare to that of your home city?
A: The cost of living is at least 300% more.

Q: Did you use a relocation company to help you with your move?
A: No, I used my friends previous experiences.

Q: How easy or difficult was the relocation process?
A: It was difficult.

Q: Did you move here with any family members?
A: NO, my family spend summer vacations only (04-to 05 months a year) with me.

Q: What is your favourite mobile app which you use to aid you in your expat life?

A: None

Q: What is one piece of advice you’d like to offer a new expat in your new city?
A: I advice to examine and compare carefully in a matter of gain & loss all aspects of life between here & home country with all family members before taking the decision.