Checkout the Is Saudi Arabia Safe for Indian Students....
Apr 09, 2025 04:53:41
General Safety: Saudi Arabia has relatively low crime rates compared to many countries. Violent crime is rare, and the government takes security seriously.
Campus Safety: Universities and institutions typically have secure campuses with good facilities.
Indian Community Support: There are Indian embassies, community groups, and student associations that can provide support if needed.
Respecting Local Laws: Saudi Arabia follows strict Islamic laws. It’s important to respect dress codes, public behavior norms, and religious practices.
Gender Segregation: Some institutions may still have gender segregation policies, though the country is slowly modernizing in this area.
Freedom of Expression: Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics, religion, or the royal family publicly or online.
Student Visas: Saudi Arabia offers scholarships to international students, including Indians, especially through programs like the King Abdullah Scholarship Program.
Quality of Education: Some universities, like King Saud University and KAUST, are internationally recognized and have strong programs in science, engineering, and technology.
Modern Infrastructure: Cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam are quite modern and have good amenities.
Cost of Living: Generally affordable, especially compared to Western countries.
Language: While Arabic is the official language, many university courses are taught in English, especially in science and tech fields.
High-Quality Education: Top universities like King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), King Saud University, and King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals are known for research and tech programs.
International Exposure: Many universities have students from different countries, especially in graduate programs. Lectures are often in English, and professors may also be international.
Scholarship Opportunities: Indian students can apply for full scholarships that cover tuition, housing, monthly allowance, and even airfare.
Facilities: Modern campuses, well-equipped labs, libraries, gyms, and even beaches (at KAUST!) depending on where you're studying.
Separate Housing: Male and female students usually live in separate accommodations, and campuses may have separate areas too, though mixed-gender interactions are becoming more common in certain institutions.
Activities: Universities offer clubs, sports, and cultural events, but they may be more low-key compared to Western countries due to conservative norms.
Islamic Culture: Daily life is deeply influenced by Islamic customs. Prayer times are observed, and there are religious holidays like Ramadan and Eid.
Dress Code: Modesty is important. For men, no issues — just avoid shorts in public. Women, especially in public spaces, are expected to dress modestly. Rules are more relaxed within campuses, especially private or international institutions.
No Alcohol or Nightlife: Entertainment options are more family-oriented. That said, Saudi Arabia is modernizing fast — movie theaters, concerts, and events are becoming more common.
Indian Community: Strong and supportive. You’ll find Indian grocery stores, restaurants, and cultural groups in most cities.
Making Friends: Students often bond with other international students or fellow Indians. Saudis are generally hospitable but might be a bit reserved initially.
Language: Knowing basic Arabic helps in daily life, but many locals speak English, especially in cities and on campuses.
Equal Opportunity: Indian students receive the same treatment as other international students when it comes to scholarships, admission policies, and academic support.
Merit-Based System: Programs like the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Scholarship treat all students fairly. Indian students are often competitive in STEM fields.
No Discrimination in Academics: Professors and universities generally judge students based on academic performance, not nationality.
Closer Cultural Ties: Compared to Western students, Indians often adjust more easily due to cultural overlap — conservative values, food habits, family-centric mindset, etc.
Language Barrier: Indian students usually come with decent English, which is widely used in universities. Arabic is a plus but not a must.
Biggest Expat Group: There are over 2 million Indians in Saudi Arabia, so there's already a sense of familiarity. Indian students may find food, temples, community events, and support more easily than some other foreign students.
Community Networking: Indian students often have stronger informal networks, which helps them settle in quicker.
Well-Established Process: Indian students don't face extra red tape. In fact, Saudi-India relations are currently strong, and that positively affects students too.
Indian Embassy Support: The Indian embassy in Riyadh and consulate in Jeddah are active and responsive to student needs and emergencies.
Western Students vs Indian Students: Western students might enjoy more leniency socially, especially in elite or international institutions — but this is changing slowly.
Saudi Students’ Perception: Indians are generally respected for being hardworking, but sometimes not as socially “included” as Westerners, who may be more involved in mixed-gender or liberal activities.
Friendships: It may take time to bond with Saudi students (due to language/culture), but friendships do happen. Many Saudis have studied abroad and are open-minded, especially in universities.
Challenge: In many parts of Saudi life — including some universities — there is strict separation between men and women. This can be a big shift, especially for students used to co-ed environments in India.
Reality: Some modern universities (like KAUST) are more relaxed, but many public institutions still follow gender-segregated rules.
Tip: Be respectful of these norms. Don’t initiate cross-gender conversations in public spaces unless it’s clearly appropriate.
Men: Usually fine in jeans and t-shirts, but shorts in public places (especially malls or government buildings) might raise eyebrows.
Women: Expected to dress modestly — long sleeves, loose clothing. Abayas (black cloaks) are not mandatory anymore for foreigners, but many still wear them to blend in.
Public Conduct: Avoid public displays of affection. Even holding hands can be seen as inappropriate.
Prayer Times: Shops and restaurants may close during the five daily prayers. Plan around them.
Ramadan: Eating, drinking, or chewing gum in public during fasting hours is not allowed — even for non-Muslims.
Alcohol & Pork: Completely banned. Don't bring or consume either — even privately.
Daily Life: While your academic life might be in English, many locals — like shopkeepers, taxi drivers, or officials — mainly speak Arabic.
Adjustment: Learning a few basic Arabic phrases will go a long way (and locals appreciate it!).
Limited Nightlife: Unlike in India or the West, you won’t find bars, pubs, or partying. Most socializing happens at home or in family-friendly cafés and malls.
Internet & Media: Some websites and apps may be restricted. VPNs are common but officially not encouraged.
Respect for Rules: The police and religious authorities are taken seriously. Any argument, loud behavior, or rule-breaking — even accidental — can have serious consequences.
Documentation: Always carry a copy of your Iqama (residency card) or student ID once you get it.
Food: Indian food is widely available, but traditional Saudi cuisine is very different (think rice, grilled meats, dates, and Arabic coffee).
Festivals: Indian festivals like Diwali or Holi aren’t publicly celebrated. Celebrations are usually private or within the Indian community.
Loneliness: If you're used to a lively, social campus environment, you might feel isolated at first. But Indian student groups and community networks help a lot.
Islamic Law (Sharia): Saudi Arabia follows Islamic law. Avoid anything illegal — alcohol, drugs, gambling, or offensive social media content.
Public Behavior: No public affection (hugging, kissing, etc.), no swearing or aggressive behavior.
Dress Modestly: Men should avoid shorts in formal places. Women should wear loose, modest clothing in public (an abaya is optional but still common).
Once you get your Iqama (residence permit), keep a copy with you. Authorities may ask to see it.
If you’re still on a visa, carry your passport and visa copy until your Iqama is issued.
Avoid sensitive topics online — especially criticism of religion, politics, or the royal family.
Don’t post anything that might be considered offensive, especially during Ramadan or religious holidays.
Use Official Transport: Use services like Uber or Careem (popular and safe). Avoid hitchhiking or taking rides from strangers.
Men & Women: Be mindful of gender norms when sharing rides or taxis.
Driving Rules: If you're planning to drive, follow local rules strictly. Fines are high, and enforcement is strict.
Save these numbers:
Police: 999
Ambulance: 997
Fire Department: 998
Indian Embassy in Riyadh: +966 11 488 4144
Indian Consulate in Jeddah: +966 12 660 3779
Stay in approved student housing or areas recommended by your university.
Lock doors and windows when you're out.
Avoid isolated areas late at night, especially if you're new to the area.
Keep in touch with friends, family, or fellow Indian students. Let someone know if you’re traveling out of town.
Join Indian student groups or WhatsApp communities — most cities have them.
Use cards or mobile payment apps when possible.
Don’t carry large amounts of cash.
ATMs are safe, but use ones located in public or well-lit areas.
During Ramadan, don’t eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight.
Be respectful around mosques and during prayer times.
If a mosque’s call to prayer is sounding, pause conversations or lower your voice out of respect.
Have the contact info of your university's international student office or student affairs team.
They can help with everything — from housing issues to legal or health emergencies.
