i lived on mura bustan in Jeddah a very western compound and had weekly access thankfully to the american consulate from 97 to 04 when things got really hairy it was time to move.... i think after 7 years i can advise this.... go only if u must or have to... otherwise blank it.... i hear this all the time about wunderbar life on compounds in saudi.... no theatre, no cinema, no booze unless u want to pay 700 sar a litre... driving is worse than here, split dining areas, everything closes for prayer... u get tossed from resturants etc....air quality in downtown jeddah is rank... they didnt use leadfree petrol when i was there... its up to u.... its not like anywhere else...if you enjoy living in each others pocket and a very limited social life its good and u will save money.... its only my opinion... thne again i think this place is ok