Moving to Al Qunfudhah, Saudi Arabia

"Al Qunfudhah is a city in the Tihamah region on the coast of the Red Sea. It is a part of the Makkah Province in Saudi Arabia and is known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate. Before moving to Al Qunfudhah, expats should be aware that the official language is Arabic. While English is widely spoken in business settings, it is beneficial to learn some basic Arabic phrases for daily life. Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country, and Al Qunfudhah is no exception. Expats should respect the local customs and traditions, including dressing modestly in public. Women are expected to wear an abaya, a loose-fitting black cloak, in public. The cost of living in Al Qunfudhah is relatively low compared to other cities in Saudi Arabia. However, expats should be aware that the city is not as developed as Riyadh or Jeddah, and certain amenities may not be available. Saudi Arabia has a strict policy against alcohol and drugs. Possession, consumption, or trafficking of these substances can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and deportation. The healthcare system in Al Qunfudhah is decent, with several hospitals and clinics available. However, it is recommended for expats to have comprehensive health insurance. The city has a hot desert climate, with high temperatures during the summer months. Expats should be prepared for this and take necessary precautions to stay hydrated and avoid sunburn. Saudi Arabia's culture is deeply rooted in Islam and traditional customs. Expats should be respectful of these customs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan when Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. The city is relatively safe, but like any other place, it is advisable to take standard precautions to protect oneself and one's belongings. Public transportation is not very developed in Al Qunfudhah, so having a car can be beneficial. However, women were only recently allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia, and expats should be aware of the local driving customs. Finally, expats should be aware that the weekend in Saudi Arabia is Friday and Saturday, with the working week running from Sunday to Thursday," said one expat in Al Qunfudhah.