There is an ex-pats website where you can ask questions and read other people's comments re Saudi -can't recall the name of it but a Google search should find it. Well worth a look in my opinion.

Many thanks for the responses; I've already scoured the expat blogs and websites what I was really looking for were the views of "'one of us''.

Culturally its such a sea change I wondered if there was any hints and tips for trying to push the safety agenda in such an environment?

My comments are based on what others have told me and what I have read, not first hand experience.

The work is mainly done by non-Saudis, with a wide variety of languages, cultures, customs, attitudes to work and backgrounds. If you are to be a H&S advisor/manager/officer/scapegoat, be prepared to be frustrated, annoyed, contradicted, ignored by all. Expect to be blamed for accidents with the looming threat of jail. If you are not "connected" you are nothing.

I repeat, this is hearsay but widely said.

Good luck.

I worked at the main Jeddah airport in the 80s for a few years, but I Saudi has changed much
The main tips is:
Learn a bit of the language. i.e. how are you etc.
It really helps at customs, checkpoints etc.
Do not expect to everything to work as it does in the UK.
Try to adapt, change with the circumstances (men kissing men on the cheeks - like the French, men holding hands)
Once, one of my Saudi staff wanted to show me his new car, so he took my hand and we walked down the corridor to together
Expect (and respect) the class system - Saudis, assorted westerners, Philippinos, Bangladeshis
Don't expect to see many women, all the cleaners, cooks etc. are men
and finally:
Try not to get wound up with the culture change

Not sure why my comment was removed - I simply said always ensure you have enough ready cash to buy an airline ticket back to Europe, just in case it turns violent out there.

Respect and you will be respected, be very polite, and observe all protocols such as name referral. Arabs are fantastic hosts - let them. Ask them - it is not wrong to admit you want to learn their custom, they will be pleased and talk frankly. Think ahead of their custom - and anticipate prayer time in your meetings etc. Don't be late - they may be, you should not.

I strongly advise you read up on Islamic belief to contextualise their culture. I did and it paid dividends. There is an 'Idiots Guide' series of books which covers the culture and history of Islam which is short and very helpful - worth reading.

I wrote down key words and phrases and kept it in my pocket until I could remember them.

Hi Nimble057, I've been working in Saudi for the last 10 years, PM me and I'll answer any specificquestions you may have as best as I can.