Bring or buy...

I was offered a generous shipping allowance (in 2 shipments) to bring what I needed. I only used about 30% of the allowance Just essentials,kitchen utensils and other small appliances. So shipping allowance is something you should ask about. (it took about 4 weeks from Manchester to Riyadh)

If you are going to be living in a compound, please check with compound most come furnished. (in which case my suggestion is put your UK furniture in storage - its what we did, with hindsight it was the correct decision as im not sure what condition it would arrived here, "handle with care" it as term which is not understood here)

If you will be living off compound - then most employers do offer a furnishing allowance.

Yes, I have that concern as to have much 'damage' will occur! We will be living on Sharbatly, a large compound in Jeddah. I have been promised by employer that there will be an allowence for furnishings. My wife, is concerned as to what say we will have in what furniture arrives, and what the standard will be... As I said, we have been quoted upwards to £85 to 'store' our furniture and not sure if this is a worthwhile use of money... problems, problems