Australians in Saudi Arabia

Australians in Saudi Arabia
Total population
5,000[1]
Regions with significant populations
Riyadh · Jeddah
Languages
English (Australian) · Arabic
Religion
Islam, Roman Catholicism and Protestantism

Australians in Saudi Arabia are a sizeable community consisting mainly of expatriates. Their population is estimated to be anywhere up to 5,000 with the majority based in major commercial centres such as Riyadh and Jeddah.[1] Most Australian citizens in Saudi Arabia tend to be occupational-oriented and are employed mainly in the health, education, construction and technology sectors.[2] There are approximately 1,000 Australians who live in Jeddah alone, a city which serves as the country's main port and economic hub.[3] In addition, thousands of Australian Muslims travel and stay in Saudi Arabia each year, often intending to visit the two holiest cities of Islam, Mecca and Medina.[3] Many expatriates in Saudi Arabia are attracted to what they refer to as "the good life", including large salaries and tax-free jobs, consistent weather and a comfortable social life within their housing compounds.[4]

See also

Notes

  1. 1 2 Estimates of Australian Citizens Living Overseas as at December 2001 - Southern Cross Group Archived 2008-07-20 at the Wayback Machine.
  2. ↑ Former Australian PM calls on govt to send more Saudi students: Arab News
  3. 1 2 Visit to Riyadh and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: Foreign Minister of Australia
  4. ↑ Goodbye to the good life: The Age
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