Hi all!
Well, I've worked in Saudi Arabia for many years doing the Hadj contract. What Mutt said was partially true, you don't have to wear the abaya on compounds that are designated for
foreigners like American compounds or British compounds (ie. Arabian Homes, Rose Village etc.). that is where most expat crews stay. However, if you are hired
directly through Saudia, then you will be living on their 'hostess' compound, which would mean that you would have to wear the abaya ( on the compound). The Saudia 'family' compound (for married people) is different, and you would not have to wear the abaya there.
Also, you might be interested in knowing that the 'hostess' compound does have a 2300h curfew for new hires and I believe 0000h after your probation period. You will also be required to share not only accomodations but bedroom too. Life in Jeddah is pretty good, better if you could be as lucky as I was to live on an expat compound (no curfews).
Good luck,
Trolleydollytoo
P.S. If you do go, you must really haggle for the price of gold...don't pay more than 39 to 42 Riyals a gram for 18k.
