Joining Aramco (in Saudi): Insights from Experienced Members

Please read over past postings on related topics. You’ll find answers to most of your questions above.

1. Lack of transport, it is better now but not the easiest of things if you need to get off camp as taxis can be rare. Get the bus to Al Rashid mall, loads of taxis cruise there and then you can get to anywhere you want.
The rules and laws are constantly changing, to streamline and make easier in the most part, but can make it difficult to navigate. The most useful tool you’ll have for this is a WhatsApp group with your fellow new starts, share the info. People who have been here longer don’t know the changes as well.

2. Most departments do not provide a phone, if you normally only have your work one, buy it at home. Very expensive here.
You cannot buy a car until you have a KSA licence, you cannot hire a car on a home licence once you have an iqama. Get your sim at the airport on arrival, a few buddies have missed that one, very difficult to get elsewhere without an iqama.

3. It is not a western expat compound, it is a small town with quite a large local and other nearby nationals population. It does mean you really have to make the effort to meet people out of work, but does afford some privacy too.
4. Be patient, this region moves slowly.
As far as getting involved, there are many self directed groups, from scouts to sports, theatre, chess. So much choice. You can be a member or an active volunteer.

Off camp, yes. Returning to camp, yes with a low but possible chance of them only getting to the gate. On camp, highly unlikely unless they are dropping someone else off.

There is a search function, lots of posts about transport.

Thanks for posting this thread. As someone in the early offer stage, insight from experienced members is extremely valuable. I have gathered so much great info from this board already.

7. One question - especially helpful from any parents of little ones: What were the factors that pushed you over to making the move to KSA? We are very excited for the opportunity, but also enjoy a nice situation and good jobs in the States. Just curious how people arrived at making the big leap.

Also curious what you wished you had known on day of arrival in KSA.

Ok I've been here for a month now at Dhahran Camp and will try to give my best perspective.


1. Looking back, what are the biggest challenges you faced when you first joined? J: getting around camp can be a hassle. You'll need the Rekab ride-sharing app and a power bank because all these apps drain your battery. Getting outside of camp requires a bit of experience. You'll learn there's drivers with gate passes, Samara i & miss, book an Uber only if they're on camp already, etc.
2. What are some things you wish you had known before joining ? J: I'm still trying to figure out the exact health policy - what if something happens to us off camp and far from JHAH? What about dental, eye care etc...
3. What are some common misconceptions that newcomers have about the company or life in Dhahran?
J: it's strict and too many rules. Honestly, it's not that bad. You can build up a great social life there. Just no traffic violations!
4. What's the most valuable piece of advice you can give to someone just starting out ? J: set up your own Whatsapp group. Or be in one. Add people from the onboarding days. Share experiences. Everyone is going through the same start up issues.
5. What are some resources or tools that you found helpful? J: see 4. There's always someone in your group or at the office who's gone through what you're going through. Don't reinvent the wheel. Ask around.

I don’t know what they do about eyes, dental is bookable through my chart. But, unlike the medical it is payable, comes directly out of your salary. A lot of people choose to go off camp for it, quite often cheaper, more flexible timing and choice. I suspect opticians are the same.