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Post by kitesurfer on Jun 11, 2012 19:39:28 GMT
o all, I have recently received my offer package and I have started digging into the forum in what to bring over to KSA. When it comes to automobiles and living in KSA, is there a preferred type? When I think desert/KSA living, I tend to think I need something more rugged. I know the highway and road systems are quiet good there. So is my imagination getting away from me? Do I need a used Landrover 110 or a Honda civic will do just fine? Being that most of the driving is community driven maybe a golf cart would do?  Any insights would be helpful. Thanks!! |
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Post by vpainter on Jun 13, 2012 2:31:17 GMT
Golf carts can be driven around camp in all compounds except Dhahran. If you want to do desert driving or camping you need a 4 wheel drive. If you want to drive around camp, then a Honda Civic will do. Most want a bigger car for driving off camp where other drivers drive how ever they want.
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Post by Hadia on Jun 13, 2012 3:33:26 GMT
It also depends on how many people you have in your family, and whether you have kids into sports that require dging equipment around regularly. Many of the families here opt for 4-wheel drive large SUVs or minivans. Singles or marrieds with no kids have many more options.
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Post by gareth0127 on Jun 13, 2012 6:31:53 GMT
The condition of the roads and highways here are awful. Combine that with the terrible driving i would always suggest to get a large SUV or similar
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Post by kitesurfer on Jun 13, 2012 14:16:28 GMT
Thank you for the responses.
Is there an aramco used car for sale forum or do most people shop off the compound if they do not ship an auto over? I imagine that those leaving Aramco don't want to send their vehicle back. I have read on another website that trucks are not allowed to expats as they are considered commercial vehicles and can not be used for residential purposes. Is this correct? I was thinking about a Toyota Hilux as they are indestructible (see Top Gear).
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Post by Hadia on Jun 14, 2012 5:09:53 GMT
Once you're at Aramco and have access to the employee online classifieds, you will see a vast selection of autos for sale. If you go that route, buyer beware. The environment here is harsh, and you'd be well advised to have a thorough mechanical exam before you buy something used. We learned that the hard way *sigh*. There are numerous car dealerships throughout the neighboring cities, and always a deal to be had.
You're right about pickup trucks. Those are for commercial use here. You'll see a lot of SUVs on the road, inside and outside the camp. The bigger, taller and better armored for highway driving, the better!
Driving on the roads here is an experience unto itself -- heck, we could start a really interesting thread about what we've seen and experienced driving in KSA.
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Post by soverydeb on Jun 14, 2012 14:18:42 GMT
We had a good experience buying a used car for me to drive around camp from the classifieds....but, yes, be sure to check out any vehicle you purchase.
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