Expert: Lauren Gilkey - 10/27/2009

Question
I have a nursing assignment in Riyadh @ King Faisal hospital in 2010. I will live on the hospital compound. Is it safe on the compound? Have there been any attacks from the Mutawa against ex-pats on compound? I've heard the hospital keeps your passport for 3 months, what should I do if I want to go home within that time?

Answer
Dear Anita,
Yes, you should be safe in the compound. It will be guarded, and since you are a single woman, it only women would be admitted (aside from security personnel).  I believe the Mutawa are not allowed in the compound, so you should be OK.

If you want to go home during the time the hospital has your passport, you will have to get permission from your boss or an official who can authorize that trip.  Without your passport you are virtually stuck.

My advice to you -- buy a copy of "In the land of invisible women" by Dr. Qanta Ahmed. She worked as a doctor for a year at that hospital and lived in the hospital compound. She was from New York and had never been to Saudi before - so it will be a great picture of what you can expect in your future home and job.

Best,
Lauren