|
|
Post by lonelyplanet on Mar 30, 2018 4:27:18 GMT
I am moving to Saudi next week. I am wondering if I can take my unlocked cellphone and my laptop with me? I have made sure there is no illegal material on my laptop or cellphone. I am just wondering if those devices need to be gone through a thorough examination when I pass custom. What will I expect at custom when I take my personal cellphone and laptop with me?
|
|
|
|
Post by vpainter on Mar 30, 2018 12:51:04 GMT
You may bring them, no problem. Just be sure they are dual voltage for charging if coming from the U.S. Electricity is 220v now, even in Aramco communities.
You can expect to carry them through customs, in your pocket, briefcase or carryon luggage.
|
|
|
|
Post by StarboyX on Apr 3, 2018 16:59:03 GMT
On your initial arrival, don't worry about it: you'll be greeted and escorted by an Aramco rep who'll assist in your processing, you'll grab your luggage, have it x-rayed, and this is standard for all passengers upon arrival: all luggage is x-rayed (not opened and inspected unless deemed suspicious) and then you'll go to the Aramco lounge for further instructions.
It's in your best interests to never have illegal material of any kind on any device, even random images/videos family and friends may send, think twice if you really want to save the media or delete it.
In all honesty, and perhaps given the changes as of late, I don't see this being an issue; I personally have not heard of anyone having issues of any kind with any devices. However, be respective of the rules and law of the land, that we've all signed off on.
Now, what's deemed suspicious in luggage?
Well, if you come with sealed, unopened bottles of Tylenol, vitamins, such as Centrum, and even labelled prescription medications in reasonable quanies, ie) you have cholesterol, etc, you're fine. I've done this on first entry and several times after, and in fact, make it a point to have it visible and easily accessible in luggage.
Again, no issues ...
When you hear about people being arrested, especially in Dammam, it's because of plain stupidity and ignorance.
Any country, including Saudi, will pull you aside and take you away if you come with hundreds or thousands of pills that are loose, and not prescribed.
These are the people you hear that have been detained b/c this is in fact what they do.
On a side note, on my first arrival, a returning Aramcon from Canada had his luggage opened and inspected b/c he had 1 suitcase full of chips, as in, he took it out of the bags and they were all over the place.
Now what's a customs guy supposed to think when he sees this?
Do normal people bring 1 suitcase full of chips, especially when you get chips here too?
Perhaps he liked this one brand and he cleaned out Dollarama ... lol ...
|
|
|
|
Post by rodapril2018 on May 16, 2018 12:29:18 GMT
I'm shipping over on June 2nd. A few questions:
- How much cash should I have on hand? I had planned to bring 500 SAR and US$250, then supplement with credit card when needed. Is that sufficient?
- Was bringing my iPhone (unlocked) and Surface Pro 4. I have 2-3 external hard drives because lack of stoe on the Surface. All stuff on the external hard drives are personal or work stuff. Pictures have been screened and nothing consider PG13. Any issues foreseen?
- Assume I can grab a converter to charge these devices easily. True?
- I have picked up a few extra inhalers for my asthma. I will put them in a checked bag with the prescription boxes. any issues foreseen?
- Have purchased ExpressVPN subscription. Should I bring a VPN enabled router or purchase after arrival?
- Bringing a couple suitcases with stuff to get me going for several weeks. I have packed a few diskpacks with more clothes, framed family pictures, personal office deco (nothing religious)... my wife will ship via DHL when I have an address. What else should I pack in those packages? Any issues with the contents this far?
|
|
|
|
Post by StarboyX on May 22, 2018 0:41:44 GMT
How much cash should I have on hand? I had planned to bring 500 SAR and US$250, then supplement with credit card when needed. Is that sufficient?
Honestly, no, and more so since it's Ramadan now, and still will be when you arrive, it's possible things like getting your Iqama (required to exchange money) or opening an account, could take longer.
International credit and debit cards do work, and you might have service fee. If one card doesn't work in one machine, try another.
In terms of cash, and this depends how eager you are to set up a local account and so forth, I'd say to be on the safe side, bring at least a couple thousand US cash, or ideally, $5000. That's a lot, no doubt, however it will last you a long time.
Was bringing my iPhone (unlocked) and Surface Pro 4. I have 2-3 external hard drives because lack of stoe on the Surface. All stuff on the external hard drives are personal or work stuff. Pictures have been screened and nothing consider PG13. Any issues foreseen?
No issues with unlocked devices nor customs checking content on devices (although always possible), more so on initial entry as you'll be escorted by an Aramco rep.
Assume I can grab a converter to charge these devices easily. True?
Bring adapters/chargers with you, not available on camp.
Off camp, yes, however I've yet to find any decent ones myself.
I have picked up a few extra inhalers for my asthma. I will put them in a checked bag with the prescription boxes. any issues foreseen?
If possible, bring with carry on, with a doctor's note.
Shouldn't be an issue.
Have purchased ExpressVPN subscription. Should I bring a VPN enabled router or purchase after arrival?
Do NOT bring any modems/routers/cables, etc; those are subject to be taken away!
Purchase a local WiFi dongle router once your here.
On the note, you cannot purchase a data SIM or internet only package until you get your Iqama, however, you can get 1 regular SIM.
With the regular SIM, ensure you have the right pay as you go data plan, and yes, you will blow throw data from your phone until you get your Iqama for the dongle. Just use your phone as a hot spot.
There is always the Aramco "Guest" network, that can only be set up at work, also assuming you have your login and machine ready on Day 1.
Basically, don't count nor rely on the Guest network as even getting access could take several days.
Bringing a couple suitcases with stuff to get me going for several weeks. I have packed a few diskpacks with more clothes, framed family pictures, personal office deco (nothing religious)... my wife will ship via DHL when I have an address. What else should I pack in those packages? Any issues with the contents this far?
Leave pictures at home if possible, and get a digital album instead.
|
|
