The overseas service of the Canadian CBC, British BBC and the American Voice of America can be received in Saudi Arabia. Frequency charts are published in the Saudi Gazette. Broadcasts in other languages can also be received on both short wave and medium wave radio receivers. The Broadcasting Service of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia provides nightly programming in both English and French.
Television
Saudi television is broadcast throughout the Kingdom and is available at all of the facilities. Saudi broadcasting occurs over two channels: channel I is an Arabic language station and channel II is an English language station, providing full-length films, short features, as well as some programming from European or American television sources. Most hospitals now have satellite dish connections featuring channels like CNN, BBC, Star Entertainment and others.
Throughout the Kingdom there are video tapes which provide current movies, sports events, etc. Most expatriates invest in a video deck in order to enjoy this pastime.
Shopping and leisure
In all of the major cities there are numerous supermarkets, food stores, clothing and appliance shops, and a wide range of electronic centers to serve the expatriate. In addition, excellent restaurants serve a variety of international foods enjoyed by all nationalities.
Short holidays
Many expatriate employees plan on taking a short holiday (R & R) about midway through their contract year. In close proximity to Saudi Arabia are a number of excellent vacation spots, including Jordan, Cyprus, Turkey and Egypt, Greece and a number of Gulf State countries. Flights and accommodation are readily available. The company's travel agent can be of assistance in arranging your travel needs.