1. From its surveys in 135 countries between 2007 and 2009, Gallup lists Saudi Arabia as one of the top desired destination countries for people to relocate permanently among others, such as, the US, Canada, the UK, France, Spain, Germany, and Australia. 2. According to the latest “Cost of Living Survey” from global HR consulting firm Mercer, which is based upon the comparative cost of over 200 items, including housing, transport, food, clothing, household goods and entertainment, Jeddah is the least expensive city for expats in the region ranking 109th from 126th in 2008 of the total 143 cities. 3. As an indication of their income, remittances from the estimated nine million mostly Asian foreign workers in Saudi Arabia in the period January-August 2009 jumped 12 percent compared with 2008. 4. Expat Explorer, the world's largest survey of expats, said almost all expats in Qatar, Russia and Saudi Arabia (94%, 97%, and 98%) have more disposable income than they did living in their home country and that they are increasing their savings.
