KAUST

Lagmeister

Lagmeister

Lagmeister

Associate
Joined
17 Nov 2005
Posts
931
Well after a few weeks of waiting around for things to happen I have now got confirmation that I am going to be studying at KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology) in a years time.

A little background here, the university itself is brand spanking new, built with a metric tonne of money from the King of Saudi Arabia, looking to attract the best and brightest from around the world to study. Everything is fully paid and I get a living stipend when I am there and I am there for at least two years (I want to go on and do a PhD, then join the faculty out there as a long term plan).

To make this thread more thread like, I am going to ask some questions, what should I be expecting out in Saudi Arabia, besides myself melting and giant face eating spiders? Also should I stock up on oil when I am over there?

In before worst 'OMG i'm excited post' evar and now I am going to go and take some chill pills so that I can get to sleep.
 
I'd recommend studying the laws in a lot of depth.

Oh, and although this is for Australia, I think some of it still applies.

http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/advice/saudi_arabia


-We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Saudi Arabia at this time due to the very high threat of terrorist attack.

-If you do decide to travel, you should exercise extreme caution when you are in Saudi Arabia. We continue to receive reports that terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets, including places frequented by foreigners. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time, anywhere in Saudi Arabia, including in Riyadh, Khobar and other major cities.

-Statements by international terrorist groups continue to call for attacks against Westerners on the Arabian Peninsula. These include references to residential compounds, military, oil, transport and aviation interests. See the Terrorism section below for a list of possible targets.

-Previous terrorist attacks in Saudi Arabia have targeted both Saudi citizens and foreigners. These attacks have killed many people, including Australians.

-Given the high terrorist threat in Saudi Arabia we strongly recommend that you register your travel and contact details with us, so we can contact you in an emergency.
Click to expand...


"This Advice is current for Friday, 19 September 2008."


Here's the UK version.

http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling...country/middle-east-north-africa/saudi-arabia


Here's the laws and advice.
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling...north-africa/saudi-arabia?ta=lawsCustoms&pg=3






OMG WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?

Islamic codes of behaviour and dress are also enforced rigorously. You should respect them fully.

The penalties for the possession of, or trade in, alcohol are severe. Both result in prison sentences. The punishment for importing drugs includes the death penalty.

The possession of pornographic material, or of illustrations of scantily dressed people, especially women, is prohibited.

It is illegal for women to drive.
Click to expand...
 
Last edited:
Christ. There's few places in the world I'd less like to visit, never mind move out there with any degree of permanency.
 
Don't get rat arsed.

Don't even think about going near drugs.

Don't call Allah a figment of their imagination.

oh and don't be gay.
 
I was going to say dont go kissing any mates on the cheek when you're rat arsed otherwise you'll probably be stoned or hung, but seeing as there's no alcohol I wouldn't worry.
 
And apparently don't fap....


or have sex.


Gonna be a loooooooooooooong 4 years buddy
icon14.gif
 
Nitefly said:
You are going to university and you can't drink? Good god man, think of the children!

... or something.
Click to expand...

This is true, a degree in saudi arabia ? you mad? lol totally and utterly not what goin to uni is about, also the status and age of uk unis as well as leading research is something thats great about going here, whats that place to offer ? endless money means nothing if they have never taught students before. good luck anyways
 
I'm sure seeing as it's new, and bringing in a lot of western 'well off' and intelligent people, it'll possibly be a terrorist target? No?

Not trying to worry you or anything, honest to go... I mean Allah.

You don't see this kind of job available at Oxford do you now :p

link


edit. To be honest I doubt it's anywhere near as bad as I've made it out to be. Good luck with it out there, but don't let them catch you browsing OCUK.
 
Last edited:
Ignore them, enjoy yourself mate. I personally couldn't stand the heat there so would never go to Arabia for a number of years. What degree are you doing?
 
Lagmeister said:
A little background here, the university itself is brand spanking new, built with a metric tonne of money from the King of Saudi Arabia, looking to attract the best and brightest from around the world to study.
Click to expand...

How come you are going then?




Sorry, had to be done :p
 
Oooo good luck with that one bud.

Must be some course, and if it will set you up for life. Then really, what is four years?

Rather you than me though.

Altough that 'campus' looks out of this world!
 
Well its a Research Masters for two years, I already have a BSc so nerr to you people saying Im going to miss the best bit of uni.

Also the university itself has its own laws, so its more akin to an embassy, most of the more insane laws don't apply on campus, women can even drive on campus :o Anyway as said I plan to stay on and do a PhD out there if possible so Im going to be set for life if all goes to plan.
 
I went to Kuwait for 6 weeks. The place is so devoid of fun/anything to do socially. I imagine Saudi is similar. The only thing you'll have to do is study and fap in the dark while crying about you poor uni choice.
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom