How to get started in Saudi Arabia when you don’t know anyone

Embarking on a journey to establish connections in a new and culturally rich country like Saudi Arabia can be both exhilarating and a bit overwhelming, especially when you're starting from scratch. In this guide, we'll delve into practical steps on how to immerse yourself in Saudi culture, leverage professional networking tools like LinkedIn, stay informed on what is happening in Saudi, and what other resources are available to you.

Immerse Yourself in Saudi Culture:

Before you can start your journey you need to time to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Saudi culture. Read literature, watch documentaries, and engage with online communities to gain insights into the traditions, customs, and values that define the Kingdom. Understanding the cultural nuances will not only help you navigate social interactions more smoothly but also demonstrate your genuine interest in and respect for the local way of life.

Some things may be different to what you know and some things may be similar. Keep an open mind and definitely inform yourself via different sources so you can get a multifaceted view. We have covered a variety of topics about what to do in Saudi, what life is like now and so much more in our blog, Middle East Sunday Pages, so have a look and make sure you don’t miss any future editions by joining our Mailing list. It is totally free!

Language Learning

Learning Arabic, the official language of Saudi Arabia, is a powerful way to connect with locals on a deeper level. While English is widely spoken, making an effort to communicate in Arabic is highly appreciated and fosters a sense of camaraderie, even if you just know a few words.

Utilize LinkedIn:

If you want to do business in Saudi, Linkedin is a powerful resource. Saudi as a country is very active on Social Media and with internet penetration close to 100%, it is no wonder that digital is the future here. Not only is Linkedin great for professional networking, and it's widely used in the Kingdom.

Here are some more tips on how to work Linkedin:

Create a Strong Profile:

Craft a comprehensive LinkedIn profile that highlights your skills, experiences, and aspirations. Use a professional photo, write a compelling summary, and showcase your achievements. Completing your profile increases your visibility to potential connections.

Join Relevant Groups:

Explore and join LinkedIn groups related to your industry, interests, and expatriate communities in Saudi Arabia. These groups serve as hubs for discussions, job opportunities, and networking events. Actively participate by sharing insights and engaging with fellow group members.

Connect Strategically:

Reach out to professionals in your field, recruiters, and individuals living in Saudi Arabia. Craft personalized connection requests explaining your interest in connecting and your eagerness to learn more about the local professional landscape. Personalization is key to making a lasting impression. You can follow us on Star-CaT and our founder Corina there also.

Engage with Content:

Regularly share relevant content, comment on posts, and engage with others' content. This not only increases your visibility but also positions you as an active participant in your industry, making you more appealing to potential connections.

Stay Informed About what is going on:

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a transformative phase with its ambitious Vision 2030 which includes several phenomenal Giga projects, such as NEOM, Red Sea Global, Diriyah and so much more. Stay informed about these initiatives as they not only shape the future of the Kingdom but also offer unique opportunities for networking, new business partnerships, jobs as well as collaboration. Engage in discussions about these projects on online forums, attend related events, and consider how your skills and expertise can contribute to or align with these monumental developments. There are ways of working with some of the Giga Projects even if you don’t know anyone, even if you have never been to Saudi. You can download our FREE Booklet Here.

Understand your offering:

Consider how your skills (for job opportunities) or your products can be of use in helping to shape Vision 2030. There are several opportunities to work with the Giga Projects and you can apply to become a supplier with them. Each of the Projects has their own criteria and don’t worry if you don’t have synergies with one as there are plenty of diverse opportunities out there. Industry sectors vary from Construction, AI, Fintech, Tourism to Medical expertise as well as Manufacturing and as diverse as Swimming Instructors. We have created a booklet that you can download which includes multiple links to become a supplier. Download the booklet.

Identify where you are in your journey and what you may need:

We understand that everyone’s path is different and not everyone has the same journey. This is why we have created 7 Success Paths that help you get started. Whether you are going on a trip for the very first time to when you want to pitch a project there, we have several ways to prepare you without overwhelm. Have a look at the options in our Shop.

Join a Community:

Communities are a vital tool in helping you succeed because you can access information faster, ask questions and get the latest developments without having to waste endless time in googling and wondering whether the information found is correct. We have created a Middle East Hub for exactly this purpose so you can concentrate on your business but never miss vital information. You can learn more, HERE.

In summary, building connections in Saudi Arabia is a journey that requires cultural awareness, proactive networking, and a willingness to embrace transformative projects shaping the nation's future. By immersing yourself in the culture, leveraging professional platforms like LinkedIn, staying informed about Giga projects, and considering the support offered by a Middle East Membership, you can lay the groundwork for a successful and fulfilling experience in the Kingdom.