Useful Information For OFWs in Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saud Arabia (KSA) remains to be the top destination of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). If you are thinking of working or is about to work in Saudi Arabia, the following information might help you get by in this Muslim country.

Facts and Figures

Official Name:               Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Capital:                         Riyadh

Government:                 Monarchy with Council of Ministers and Consultative        Council

Area:                             1,960,582 million square kilometers

Terrain:                         Primaily desert with rugged mountains in the southwest

Climate:                         Arid, with great extremes of temperature in the interior;             humidity and temperature are both high along the coast.

Population:                   27.6 million ( 2007 estimate)

People:                         Ethnic groups: Arab ( 90% of native population, Afro-Asian (10% if native population)

Languages:                  Arabic (official), English widely spoken in urban areas

Religion:                       Islam

Currency:                      Riyal (SAR),

Country Dialing Code:   +966 ( Philippines +63)

                                      Note that calling cards may be purchased locally.

Time Difference:            Manila is 5 hours ahead of Riyadh

Working Week:              Saturday to Wednesday

Weekend:                      Thursday and Friday

Key Phrases:

Hello:                            Mnarhaba

How are you?                Keif el hal?

How much?                   B kam?

Where?                        Ain? or Wain?

What?                          Matha? Or Sho?

Who?                                 Man or Meen?

What’s your name?         Ma (or sho) essmak (for male), Ma (or sho) essmek (for  female)

Goodbye:                     Ma’al salameh

I’m sorry –                   Ana assef (male) Ana assefa (female)

Typical Food in KSA

Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia

September 23: Saudi National Day

October 2: Eid al-Fitr/Djoulde Soumae (Ramadan ends)*

December 9: Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice)*

Note: * Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon thus the dates given above are estimates.

Places To Visit in Saudi Arabia

Kings’s Fountain in Jeddah: This 853-foot fountain is reputed to be the tallest fountain in the world and is best appreciated when illuminated at night.

Black Stone in Mecca: This holy stone is the eastern cornerstone of the Kaaba, the ancient stone building towards which all Muslims pray. Many Muslims believe that the stone (originally white but now black from absorbing the sins of man) fell from heaven during the time of Adam and Eve.

Floating Mosque in Jeddah: This beautiful white mosque seems to emerge from the sea.

Masmak Citadel in Riyadh: One of the oldest parts of Riyadh- the fort itself is free to enter (just sign your name in the guestbook). There is a comprehensive history of Riyadh dating back to the 1930’s.

Transportation Guide in Saudi Arabia

Taxi: Most of the taxi’s in Saudi Arabia are not metered so the passenger should negotiate the rate  with the driver before riding. The standard rate for 10 to 15 kilometers is 10 riyals. If you are going somewhere far, then the driver may request for an additional charge. It is also recommended that you speak slowly when conversing with the driver because most of them only speaks and understands little English.

Cars: Only the men are allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia, women are prohibited to drive.

Buses: There are bus lines such as the Saudi Arabian Public Transport System (SAPTCO) that travels internationally and domestically. It is a must to check bus schedules before paying your fare. The SAPTCO has comfortable seats with tables that is perfect for long travels. They also offer meals on board.