Moving to Riyadh? You're probably grappling with the whole 'compound' thing. Let's face it, the term 'compound' doesn't exactly conjure up images of a friendly neighbourhood. But here's the deal in 2023: in Riyadh, compound life is still a big deal, and understanding it is key to settling in comfortably.
What is a Compound, Anyway?
A compound, in the context of Riyadh, is more than just a gated community. It's like a little oasis in the desert, a bubble of familiarity in a landscape that might feel alien at first. It's not just a cluster of houses with a fence around it. These are self-contained neighbourhoods with amenities that can range from basic to downright luxurious.
What it's Not
Let's clear up some misconceptions. A compound isn't a cramped space where you're living on top of your neighbours, unless that is what you want. Nor is it a secluded area cut off from the rest of the city, unless that is what you want. In fact, most compounds in Riyadh are bustling with activity, offering a community vibe that's hard to find elsewhere in the city if you are an expat.
What You Might Think it Is
If you're imagining a compound as a dreary, uniform block of houses, think again. These places can be vibrant, with landscaped gardens, community pools, and playgrounds. It's where expats find their tribe, where kids roam freely, and where BBQ weekends are a thing.
The Challenge of Finding the Right One
This is where things get tricky. Finding the right compound in Riyadh can feel like a treasure hunt. When we were on the hunt, we contacted 20 different compounds - no joke. Some compounds' websites are so outdated, they're practically archaeological relics. But then you have compounds with sales teams that are so on the ball, they make you feel like a VIP just for making an inquiry. These are few and far between though.
We ended up creating a spreadsheet for our compound hunt. Yes, a spreadsheet - because sometimes the glossy brochures don't cut it. You need to get down to the nitty-gritty: which ones have school buses, which have the best gyms, and which ones are actually within your budget.
Our Choice and Why
We settled for a compound that wasn't the newest kid on the block. Not too large, not too flashy - just right. Coming from the hustle and bustle of London, the idea of living in close quarters was, honestly, a bit daunting. We're used to the 'mind your own business' London vibe. So, a quieter compound meant a gentler transition. Despite being quite outgoing, the thought of living in a real-life version of 'The Truman Show' was a bit much (if you haven't seen it, do check it out, it's quite an eye-opener).
The Takeaway from Our Experience
If I were to distill our experience into nuggets of wisdom, they'd be:
Location is Crucial: Trust me, a 20-minute drive in Riyadh can easily morph into an hour-long ordeal during rush hours.
School Bus Service is a Godsend: Especially if you have kids. It gives them a sense of independence and saves you from playing taxi driver all day.
The Older, the Spacier: Older compounds tend to have more spacious villas. If you're someone who values space and a good layout, this is something to consider.
Choosing the right compound in Riyadh is a blend of practicality, personal preference, and sometimes, just gut feeling. It's about finding that sweet spot where convenience meets comfort. So, happy hunting, and may you find your perfect little nook in this fascinating city!
Comments