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2 to 4 weeks after you've sent in your passport. If you've made it thus far, it's pretty much a done deal. Still wait for the official confirmation letter from ASC before making any major decisions.

Yes, apparently visas are given out on quotas. That being said, if yours wasn't secured, you wouldn't get this far. Just sit tight and enjoy your time before you come. Go to Cuba or something. I did. I cannot stress enough how it's best to come completely relaxed as possible. Sure, it's a big move along with the flight. However, once you're here, you will need to adjust, and that is in fact additional stess on top of starting a new job, as anywhere. Remember your boss and colleagues are all understanding and supportive. You will have time during office hours to get stuff done. They know you can't focus until you're settled.

Unfortunately, some expats don't get it, and insist on doing things the way they're used to. It doesn't and won't work. You will get frustrated and will want to leave, or worst case scenario, you won't clear probation.

Yes, I know a few guys who left and were asked to leave. It does happen in extreme cases, all because of atude.

It's not about Arab culture. There's no book to prep you for the Aramco way.

Learn the Aramco way, that is, everything has a process, and be patient. Some expats are not, and eventually they learn.. Some don't and insist on doing it their way because it worked before: it won't work here and won't be welcomed.

Every unit and department has its own culture. Keep an open mind, adjust, and ensure you make an effort to get to know your colleagues, all of them.

People conversations are essential here. Take the time for a coffee break or a longer lunch, and get to know the people you work with.

Yes, at Aramco some rules don't apply, such as women driving on camp. I go for breaks with colleagues who are women all the time. I'm fortunate to have a unit that is diverse with men, women, expats and of course Saudi.

It's as difficult for Saudi men and women to get into Aramco. Yes, many are conservative, moderate, and liberal. You will learn to navigate soon.

Ultimately, always remember you are a guest. Respect is a two way street, and as expats, you're expected to set an example.

Guaranteed you will always run into someone at the airport, on a flight, or in Dubai.

Hence, act professional. If you drink, don't get drunk, especially in a lounge, inbound to Saudi.

Bahrain, you will run into Aramcons everywhere. No need to discuss your weekend at work.

Some tips... If in a room with any woman, keep the door open, never closed.

Also, avoid talking about politics, religion, government and especially the Saudi royal family.

You can say sorry I can't comment, I'm an expat. I do it all the time. Regardless of how close you become with any Saudi, just avoid these three topics, as yes, it can lead to trouble. For the most part, people don't press these issues. If so, walk away.

Your career is more important than small talk.

Finally, never take any pictures on camp or in the office, unless you have permission or worse yet, post pictures on any social media, including other articles.

Breakfasts, lunches, are fine, but avoid taking pictures or videos of women in Abayas. Ask permission first, it's alright and respectable to do som

Look, as expats, you're not expected to understand all cultural norms from day 1. If your never sure, just ask.

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If it's not from Aramcos website, never repost nor comment. Only official news, publication, etc from the corporate website can be shared.

However, avoid that too. You don't want people commenting negatively or asking operational questions on your social media.

During orientation, they will tell you all this. The best social media policy is just don't.

I don't know about the technical department, however, layouts for employees are cubicles or open space. Managers have offices and in some cases glass.