UNITED STATES ARMY MILITARY ASSISTANCE GROUP

(USAMAG)

WELCOME GUIDE 2021

Table of Contents

WELCOME! ........................................................................................................................................... 4

Description, Organization and Functions ............................................................................................... 4

Area, Geography, and Climate .............................................................................................................. 5

The Country of Saudi Arabia ................................................................................................................. 5

WORKING AND LIVING IN SAUDI ARABIA ....................................................................................... 10

USAMAG HEADQUARTERS – RIYADH ............................................................................................. 10

Dammam Facility Security Forces-Training Advisory Group ............................................................... 10

Jeddah Facility Security Forces-Training Advisory Group ................................................................... 11

Clothing, Uniforms and Equipment ...................................................................................................... 11

Personal Finance Support ................................................................................................................... 15

Morale, Welfare, and Recreation ......................................................................................................... 16

Housing/Furnishings: Al Nakala ........................................................................................................... 16

Religious Activities ............................................................................................................................... 16

Legal Services ..................................................................................................................................... 17

Medical, Dental and Health Information ............................................................................................... 17

Postal Service ...................................................................................................................................... 17

Commissary and Exchange Support ................................................................................................... 19

Travel................................................................................................................................................... 19

Communications ..................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

Packing List ......................................................................................................................................... 12

Entitlements ......................................................................................................................................... 21

Conclusion ........................................................................................................................................... 23

Colonel James A. Zanella .................................................................................................................... 24

SGM Matthew Strasser ........................................................................................................................ 26

Legal Disclaimer

The information provided in this Welcome Guide is for general informational

purposes only. This Welcome Guide does not substitute DoD or DoS

authorities. Whenever the information contained in this guide conflicts with

DoD or DoS authorities, the provisions of the latter shall govern. All information

in this guide is provided in good faith, however USAMAG leadership reserves

the right to modify or suspend the privileges outlined in this guide based upon

mission requirements and the circumstances in KSA

Unit Address:

PSC 1203 Unit 61308

APO AE 09803

WELCOME!

On behalf of Colonel James Zanella, the USAMAG Program

Manager (PM), we are very excited to have you join our

organization. You will find your tour with the USAMAG Program

both rewarding and challenging as you help to expand our

country’s strategic relationship with an important international

partner, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

Description, Organization and Functions

USAMAG is a Security Cooperation Organization under the military command of Army

Materiel Command (AMC) headquartered at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. The Program

Manager reports directly to the United States Army Security Assistance Command

(USASAC) Commander. However, the unit falls under the Operational Authority of the

Chief of Mission/US Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, who has overall responsibility for all

US Government activities in Saudi Arabia.

The USAMAG mission is to train and advise the Saudi Ministry of Interior (MOI) and

State Security Presidential (SSP) as a valued security cooperation partner. The vision

is to set a regional standard that delivers unique security assistance solutions in a lasting

partnership.

USAMAG is made of three different entities which are

 The Headquarters which is made up of the Command Group and General (G)-staff

in Riyadh

 Jeddah Facility Security Forces-Training Advisory Group, Detachment 1

 Dammam Facility Security Forces-Training Advisory Group, Detachment 2

 Riyadh Facility Security Forces-Training Advisory Group, Detachment 3

Other major agencies include the US Military Training Mission – Saudi Arabia

(USMTM), Office of the Program Manager Saudi Arabian National Guard (OPM

SANG), and a military police expeditionary security force.

SAUDI ARABIA – THE HOST NATION

Area, Geography, and Climate

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) occupies approximately 870,000 square miles or

four- fifths of the Arabian Peninsula. It is roughly equal in area to that part of the United

States that lies east of the Mississippi River.

The Kingdom's climate is generally comparable to that of the American Southwest, with

intense summer heat being the most notable feature. Summer temperatures frequently

exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit over much of the country, accompanied by high humidity

along both coasts. The weather is generally mild and pleasant from October to April.

Nighttime temperatures occasionally drop below freezing in mid-winter along the northern

frontier and the West Coast's higher mountains. Rainfall over the entire peninsula is

sparse and generally confined to the winter and early spring months. In some years, rain

may be almost nonexistent except for the mountain regions of Asir.

The Country of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam and home to Islam’s two holiest sites in Mecca

and Medina. With a population of over 27 million people, 90% practice the official religion

of Islam. Saudi Arabia is north of Oman and Yemen, borders the Persian Gulf and the

Red Sea. Saudi Arabia is unique because it is the largest country globally without a

river, yet is rich in oil and other valuable resources.

Until recent decades, Saudis were primarily nomadic or semi-nomadic people. Under the

influence of rapid economic development spurred by the exploitation of vast oil resources,

migration to the principal cities has steadily increased. Today, nomads are estimated to

comprise only 15% of the population. The Saudi Arabian Government, set up as an

absolute monarchy, has encouraged a shift from pastoral to fixed agricultural pursuits.

Saudi Arabia has an oil-based economy with strong government control over major

economic activities. It possesses about 16% of the world’s proven petroleum reserves,

ranks as the largest exporter of petroleum, and plays a leading role in OPEC. The

petroleum sector accounts for roughly 87% of the budget revenues, 42% of GDP, and

90% of export earnings.

Saudi Arabia is encouraging its private sector to diversify its economy and employ more

Saudi nationals. Over 6 million foreign workers play an essential role in the Saudi

economy, particularly in the oil and service sectors. As a whole, Saudi Arabia is remaining

a powerhouse within its region, despite the surrounding conflicts taking place in

neighboring countries.

CUSTOMS OF THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

Ahlan Wa Sahlan is the Arabic expression for "Welcome." It literally means family and flat

land, which might strike the non-Arabic speaker as a strange way to say welcome.

However, the expression is a shortened form of an expression which means “you came

to our family and you will be moving on flat land.” Traditionally, the host tribe welcomed

the visitor with these words to indicate that during his stay he would be traveling on smooth

land, for the Bedouin do not like hilly, bumpy ways. The traditional answer to this welcome

is “Ahlan Wa Sahalen Beek.”

In any case, we welcome you to our USAMAG family, and hope that by reviewing this

Handbook you will feel as comfortable as we do in the lives we lead with the USAMAG

program. Saudi Arabian social practices come from centuries-old customs, and when

understood, enrich the lives we lead while living in the Kingdom. Saudis are justly famous

for their hospitality; a guest is treated with courtesy and graciousness, no matter what the

station of his host.

Hosts and Guests

While the culture in Saudi Arabia is different than many are accustomed to, the rich history

and traditions of Saudi Arabia are evident immediately upon arrival. Respect of others is

paramount, and Islam is the religion of the land. Arab hospitality and generosity are

renowned as well. What began centuries ago as a Bedouin practice of providing food and

shelter to wanderers in the desert, has evolved into established customs. Today we find

host and guest are governed by many subtle and unexpressed rules. These general rules

apply to most Saudis, not to the millions of expatriate workers in the Kingdom. We include

some of these general rules here to prepare everyone for what will no doubt be a delightful

and fun adventure in the Kingdom.

•

Rule #1: A guest is welcome at any time. When we invite someone over, we normally

designate a specific time and date. However, invitations in the Middle East may seem

vague to us. Although a Saudi may not be specific about a time, he will give you an

approximate time. Time is indeed relative and starting times for events are just

general windows. For example, a wedding may start at 8:30 PM, and you may find

that when you show up, only the host and immediate family are there at the wedding

hall.

•

Rule #2: Food and drink must be offered. In the American culture, a casual visitor to

our home may or may not be offered food or drink; the Arab always offers. If the guest

cannot stay, he must at least have coffee or tea before leaving, lest he offend his

host. Note: It is important to always accept food or drink with your right hand. When

you wish to refuse the next cup of coffee or tea, simply give your cup a little shake;

otherwise your cup will continually be replenished.

•

Rule #3: Separation of the sexes may occur. If a couple is invited to a social event at

someone’s house or apartment, the female spouse may be separated to join the women

in their living area. Do not be nervous! The women will be very polite and hospitable, and

it will be an interesting and enjoyable experience.

•

Rule #4: You are not expected to bring a gift for the lady of the house. It would be

preferable and appreciated to bring something for the children or for the house. Some

examples of gifts include candy or appropriately aged toys for the children, or flowers or

anything else for the house.

•

Rule #5: If you enter a restaurant where someone you know is present, he then

becomes the host. The host offers his table and refreshments. The new arrival can accept

if he is free or decline gracefully if he is joining someone. If two people dining together are

of unequal financial status, the higher status person normally takes on the host role and

pays. However, the guest should try to pay, even to the point of physically pulling at the

bill, until his offer is refused.

•

Rule #6: If an Arab co-worker stops by your door around a meal or break time and

asks if you are going to lunch or coffee, by his rules he should pay. To insist to pay your

own way means you do not like him or want him around.

Some Do's and Don’ts

Saudis may take offense at words or actions that seem harmless to us. Realizing that we

are in their country, we need to make every effort to adhere to their customs. If you have

a basic understanding of Arabic culture, the people will seem friendly and their lifestyle

less foreign and imposing. And when they see that you are attempting to adapt, they will

be more sympathetic to any social mistakes you may commit. The following list should

help you in your relationships with Saudis.

•

DO get to meet and know Saudis and other Arabs. We have much in common and

your stay in Saudi Arabia will be greatly enhanced.

•

DO try to learn the Arabic language and become fluent in common greetings and

conversational Arabic. This will pay great dividends in your efforts to develop

friendships with the Saudi people.

•

DO NOT stare at, speak to, or pay undue attention to veiled women or to people who

are praying.

•

DO NOT photograph veiled women, people praying, or any scenes in poorer sections

of the city.

•

DO NOT photograph any person without his permission, or any airport facility, port,

or government installation without official permission. Aerial photographs of Saudi

Arabia are also prohibited.

•

DO NOT enter mosques or the holy cities of Mecca and Medina unless you are a

Muslim or a participant of an organized sanctioned tour.

Arabic words for everyday common use

English

Arabic

Pronunciation

Hello

ﺎﺑﺣرﻣ

Marhaba

Good Morning

رﯾﺧﻟا حﺎﺑﺻ

Sabahul kheir

Good Evening

رﯾﺧﻟا ءﺎﺳ ﻣ

Masaul kheir

How are you?

كﻟﺎﺣ فﯾﻛ

Kayfa Haluka

I am fine

رﯾﺧﺑ ﺎﻧأ

Ana Bekhair

Thank you

ارﻛﺷ

Shokran

Your ID

كﺗﯾوھ

Haweyatak

Your Fingerprints

كﯾدﯾ ﺔﻣﺻﺑ

Basmat yadayk

Raise your hand

كﯾدﯾ ﻊﻓرإ

Erfaa yadayk

Your hands up

ﻰﻠﻋﻷ كﯾدﯾ

Yadayk Aala

Your hands down

لﻔﺳ ﻷ كﯾدﯾ

Yadayk Asfal

Only one

طﻘﻓ دﺣاو

Wahid Fakat

Only once

ةدﺣاو ةرﻣ

Mara Wahida

Twice

نﯾﺗرﻣ

Maratayn

Wait

رظﺗﻧإ

Entazir

Go on

رﻣﺗﺳإ

Estamir

Stop

فﻗوﺗ

Tawaqaf

Stand up

فﻗ

Kif

Sit down

سﻠﺟإ

Eglis

Turn round

رﯾدﺗﺳإ

Estadeir

Come

ﻰﻟﺎﻌﺗ

Ta ala

بھذإ

Ezhab

Leave

ردﺎﻐ

ﯾ

Yoghadir

Take off the watch

ﺔﻋﺎﺳﻟا ﻊﻠﺧإ

Ekhlaa Alsaah

Start

/ Begin

أدﺑإ

Ebdaa

Finish

ﻲﮭﻧإ

Enhi

Turn on

لﻐﺷﯾ

Yoshagel

Turn off

ءﻲﻔطﯾ

Yotfya

Repeat

ررﻛﯾ

Yokarir

Hurry up

عرﺳ أ

Asre'a

Slow down

ءﻲطﺑإ

Ebte'a

Show

رﮭظإ

Ezhir

Hide

ﻲﻔﺧإ

Ekhfi

Listen

ﻊﻣﺗﺳإ

Estame'a

Hear

ﻊﻣﺳإ

Esma'a

Open (the door)

( بﺎﺑﻟا ) ﺢﺗﻓإ

Eftah (al bab)

Close (the door)

( بﺎﺑﻟا ) ر

ﻛ

ﺳ

Saqir (al bab)

English

Arabic

Pronunciation

How?

فﯾﻛ

Kayfa

How Many?

ددﻋ ﺎﻣ

Ma Addad

How Much?

ﺔﯾﻣﻛ ﺎﻣ

Ma Kemyya

How Deep?

ﻖﻣﻋﺎﻣ

Ma Omq

How Far?

دﻌﺑ ﺎﻣ / ﺔﻓﺎﺳﻣﻟا ﺎﻣ

Mal Masafa

How Often?

ةرﻣ مﻛ

Kam Marrah

What’s your name?

كﻣﺳ إ ﺎﻣ

Ma Esmak

What’s your nationality?

كﺗﯾﺳﻧﺟ ﺎﻣ

Ma Genseyatak

Do you hear me?

ﻲﻧﻌﻣﺳﺗ لھ

Hal Tasmaoni

Do you understand me?

ﻲﻧﻣﮭﻔﺗ لھ

Hal Tafhamoni

Right

نﯾﻣﯾ

Yameen

Left

رﺎﺳﯾ

Yassar

ﻰﻠﻋأ

Aala

Down

لﻔﺳ أ

Asfal

Under

تﺣﺗ

Taht

Above

قوﻓ

Fawqa

Between

نﯾﺑ

Bayna

Labourer

لﻣﺎﻋ

Amel

Employee

فظوﻣ

Mowazzaf

Civilian

ﻲﻧدﻣ

Madani

Military / Soldier

يرﻛﺳ ﻋ

Askari

Resposible

لوﺋﺳﻣ

Masoul

Manager / Director

رﯾدﻣ

Mudeer

Boss / Cheif

سﯾﺋر

Rae's

Help

ةدﻋﺎﺳﻣ

Mosa'da

I appreciate your

concern

كﻣﺎﻣﺗھإ ر

دﻗ

Okadir Ehtimamak

Place

نﺎﻛﻣ

Makan

Time

نﺎﻣز / تﻗو

Waqt / Zaman

Work Time

ماودﻟا تﻗو

Waqt Dawam

Start time

ﺔﯾادﺑﻟا تﻗو

Waqt Bedaya

End Time

ﺔﯾﺎﮭﻧﻟا تﻗو

Waqt Nehaya

WORKING AND LIVING IN SAUDI ARABIA

All USAMAG Personnel

USAMAG military personnel receive orders for an unaccompanied tour, typically 420 days

in duration. Civilian employees have an option for a one-year unaccompanied or two-year

accompanied tour. The USAMAG staff work a 5-day week, Sunday through Thursday.

Friday and Saturday are the weekends in Saudi Arabia; Friday is the Muslim holy day.

The work day begins at 0730 and ends at 1700 with a 30-minute lunch break.

USAMAG HEADQUARTERS – RIYADH

Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia, having over 9 million people within its limits. The

city has numerous historical landmarks and contemporary architecture, setting it apart

from all other cities.

USAMAG personnel live on a secure housing compound named Al Nakhla. Common use

facilities within Al Nakhla compound include a swimming pool, tennis, racquetball,

basketball courts, a gym, and movie theater. Page 7 of this guide gives a more detailed

overview of the Al Nakhla Residential Resort in Riyadh.

Dammam Facility Security Forces-Training Advisory Group

Dammam is located in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom on the Arabian Gulf. Due to

the location of Dammam, it has a mix of several different ethnicities and nationalities. This

mixture of culture has made a major impact on the cuisine within that region.

USAMAG personnel work at the FSF Eastern Regional Training Center. Personnel

currently live on a secure compound. The villas within the compound are fully equipped

and fully furnished. However, you may bring small personal appliances.

The Dammam Consulate has a full service APO, including registered mail, money

orders, claims and inquiries. Pictures of the Dammam compound are below.

Jeddah Facility Security Forces-Training Advisory Group

Jeddah—also commonly spelled Jiddah or Juddah—located on the Red Sea in Western

Saudi Arabia, is one of the world's oldest inhabited places with tradition saying that Eve

was buried here after she left the Garden of Eden. It is a centuries-old route to Mecca for

pilgrims throughout the Islamic world and has become one of the world's most

cosmopolitan cities. Today, more that 1 million people live in Jeddah and approximately

half of them are foreigners. It is one of Saudi Arabia's largest city, as well as its greatest

commercial center.

USAMAG staff reside a secure compound, a gated/access-controlled residential

compound managed by the Arabian Homes Company and features furnished,

apartment-style living quarters.

The Jeddah Consulate has a full service APO, including registered mail, money orders,

claims and inquiries, and stamp sales.

Clothing, Uniforms, and Equipment

The year around duty uniform is the Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) while

USAMAG are still residing on Eskan Village. While at Al Nakhla, personnel will adhere to

the dress code for civilian wear. Please see the packing list found at the end of this packet

for specifics. All personnel are required to have at least one ASU and/or Mess Dress uniform

along with appropriate business clothing to attend coat and tie events that are hosted by

the Embassy. Warm clothing is necessary for the winter months.

Dress Code

There are 5 types of authorized civilian dress code for USAMAG. Those are Casual, Work-

Military, Business Casual, Smart Casual and Business Informal. Below is a description of

each.

Casual: pants or jeans and a shirt. Shirts must meet the criteria of non-offensive

logos/wording and must have sleeves with no rips or holes. Jeans and pants may not have

any holes and may not be frayed.

Work-CIV/MIL- cargo pants, polo style or collared shirt, combat boots, military belt.

Business Casual - cargo pants/slacks, collared shirt, dress shoes or loafers.

Smart Casual - business Casual with sport coat. You may wear dressier type jeans.

Business Informal - suit and tie or nice slacks and sport jacket, shirt and tie.

Bottom Line: When at work, you will follow the above as directed and authorized. When

going into public while in KSA for leisure, casual or higher will be used at all times.

For at-home/on compound activities, clothing requirements for women are much the same

as in the United States; however, more conservative attire for the ladies will be necessary

in Saudi towns, i.e., long sleeve blouses, high neck, full length dresses or slacks. In

public—off the secured compound—all women are strongly advised to wear an "Abaya"

and carry a scarf (in case you are asked to cover your head). The abaya is a black, long

sleeved, floor length, traditional outer garment for women and is the culturally appropriate

outerwear for females raveling outside of Eskan Village/Al Nakhla.

Packing List

Please use the below list to ensure you are properly prepared for life in Saudi Arabia.

1. Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) (minimum of 2 sets)

2. OCP T-shirt (minimum of 6)

3. Socks (6 minimum)

4. Combat Boots (2 minimum)

5. Patrol Cap (2 minimum)

6. Subdued U.S. flag for OCP uniform (2 minimum), AMC Patch

5. Underwear

6. Ballistic eyewear (1 pair)

7. Prescription eyewear

8. Hygiene kit

9. ASUs/Mess Dress

10. Army PT Uniform (minimum of 1 set)

11. Athletic gear for personal fitness

12. Athletic shoes

13. Athletic socks (minimum 4 pairs)

MEN:

14. Men’s Business Attire (as applicable)

15. Suit (Additional suits can be easily tailor made in Saudi Arabia)

16. Khakis/Dress Pants

17. Belt

18. Tie (minimum of 2)

19. Button-down Collared Shirt (minimum of 2)

20. Collared Polo (minimum of 2)

21. Dress Shoes

22. Blazer/Sports Coat (A MUST for Pre-Deployment Training

WOMEN:

23. Women’s Business Attire (as applicable)

24. Abaya for females (Must be worn before disembarking from airplane in Riyadh)

25. Modest Pants/Skirt

26. Conservative Long-sleeved Blouse (minimum of 2)

27. Dress Shoes

28. Conservative Cocktail Dress (high neck-line, covering shoulders, at or below the

knee)

ALL:

29. Comfortable Civilian Attire, to include weather appropriate clothing as

temperatures can range from 30-130 degrees Fahrenheit.

30. Sunglasses (recommended)

31. Civilian headgear (recommended)

32. Specialty personal hygiene

33. Specialty cookware not listed on soft pack list

34. IBA and ACH - will be drawn at Ft. Bragg CIF during in-processing*

35. CIVILIAN Luggage. For yours and others safety, military themed patches, logos,

name tapes and military style (camouflaged/olive drab/coyote) luggage and clothing

should not be worn.

Bring only what you need upon arrival in KSA. It’s best to have minimal baggage when

going through customs. Get with your sponsor on shipping all non-essential items prior to

your arrival. In recent guidance, the Riyadh King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) cannot

accept checked baggage over 92 cm x 61 cm x 76 cm (36 in x 24 in x 30 in) and 32

Kilograms (70lbs). Also, the following items are exempt from this new policy: golf bags,

golf sticks, live animals, wheel chairs, baby trolleys, and musical instruments. Delta

Airlines will also only allow bags under 70lbs. Most baggage fees are reimbursable when

you complete your travel voucher at in-processing. *Body armor will be drawn by ALL

personnel incoming to the program during in-processing at Ft. Bragg. Please bring

enough luggage if you do not want to buy it at Ft. Bragg to hold body armor.

Connecting to Family and Friends

USAMAG issued iPhones provide unlimited Internet and allow hot spotting to connect

personal computing devices. The iPhones provide adequate internet speed and

bandwidth for hot spot streaming services like Amazon Prime, Netflix, and Hulu etc. to

watch movies, sports or your favorite TV shows. It is recommended that you purchase a

Virtual Private Network (VPN) account before you arrive in Saudi Arabia. A VPN is used

to watch television from a U.S. location. For example, you would need a VPN so that you

can watch stateside movies and TV shows on your Amazon Firestick. Some channels

may be blocked due to the location. One of the most popular VPNs to purchase is the

Express VPN.

From their government issued cellphone, Soldiers are able to make international calls

through the Dispatcher Morale Line: +966 (0) 11-498-7260.

There are several popular text messaging apps that are commonly used overseas such

as WhatsApp and Signal. Many of these cannot be registered once you arrive in theater

unless you register with your local Saudi phone number.

Restaurants

There are many restaurants for your dining pleasure in the major cities of Saudi Arabia.

The variety is endless and selection a challenge. Many of the hotels in Riyadh, Dhahran

and Jeddah also offer excellent dining.

Restaurateurs cater to the diverse palates found in an international community.

Chinese/Szechuan restaurants abound, making a choice difficult. Or perhaps Italian,

Mexican, Japanese, Turkish, Lebanese, Indian, Korean, or French, will appeal to you.

There are many excellent seafood restaurants available. Familiar fast food

establishments have become part of the local scene. You will feel right at home with Pizza

Hut, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Sizzler, Dunkin Donuts, Krispy Kreme Donuts, Texas

Chicken, Subway, Fat Burger, TGIF, Chili’s, Applebees, Fudduckers, Burger King, and

McDonald's, to name just a few.

In certain restaurants, women may dine in special family sections and usually only when

accompanied by a male relative.

Personal Finance Support

The monetary unit of KSA is the Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR). There are very limited

opportunities to use US dollar physical currency in KSA. Mostly, US dollars are used when

purchasing at US Government-based institutions like the commissary or PX or when

converting dollars to SARs at local banks. Most transactions take place using Saudi

currency, the EagleCash card, the personal credit card (for personal transactions) or the

government travel card (required use when on official travel - for official travel only).

Soldiers are highly encouraged to apply for the EagleCash stored value card either at

Gavin Hall, Ft. Bragg as part of in-processing or at the USMTM Finance Office cashier

cage during in-processing at Al Nakala. With the EagleCash card, Soldiers should never

need physical US dollar currency because it facilitates transactions in on-base locations

that transact in dollars but do not accept physical currency or credit cards. It also makes

it possible to contribute to the Savings Deposit Program (SDP) at an on-base Finance

Office (only), where only physical cash and EagleCash are accepted for those deposits.

EagleCash kiosks, which are needed to load or unload funds from a US bank or to transfer

funds between cards, can be found at the cashier cage and the PX/commissary plaza.

ATMs are widely available for debit card and credit card withdrawals on base and around

most cities and towns. Reliability can depend on location, but your cohorts there can show

you where the best ones are.

The USMTM Finance Office at Eskan Village in Riyadh is currently the only Finance

Office in KSA. For those traveling through or staying in Riyadh, the Finance Office offers

disbursing support (foreign currency exchange between dollars and SARs, EagleCash

card services, SDP deposits, check cashing, etc.). Conversion from dollars to SARs is

unlimited. However, conversion back to dollars is limited by amount and usually within

30 days of departure on leave, end of tour or other special circumstances. The cashier

will want to see your orders showing imminent departure before disbursing US dollar

currency.

Soldiers with permanent duty station in Jeddah or Dammam will not have regular access

to a DoD Finance Office. Also, full-service Saudi banking is generally not available except

for very basic services. However, that has not been a significant issue since most Soldiers

have found having ATM access, online banking with mailing services available, as well

as infrequent visits to the Finance Office in Riyadh to be more than adequate for their

needs. Military pay support is provided through the G-8 Financial Management Advisor.

The military pay office coordinates pay actions and inquiries that are handled elsewhere

at various CONUS-based state National Guard pay offices, DFAS offices, Reserve Pay

Office (Ft. McCoy) and in Kuwait. GUARD MEMBERS: Please be sure to talk you're your

home unit admin team to get the best contact to receive pay documents from USAMAG

and let them know our Milpay advisor will likely be contacting them for assistance in

setting up and maintaining your overseas entitlements.

KSA- standard overseas entitlements are paid in accordance with the DoD Financial

Management Regulation Volume 7A and include overseas COLA (KSA rate or Jeddah,

KSA rate), combat zone tax exclusion, hardship duty pay-locality (KSA rate), and

imminent danger pay (KSA rate). Those eligible for family separation pay will apply for

that during in-processing at Ft. Bragg. A military entitlements in-brief will be provided

during in-processing after initial arrival in Riyadh.

Morale, Welfare, and Recreation

Recreational facilities are available to mission members at all in-Kingdom locations.

These include movies, some courts and fields for various sports, and swimming pool.

Facilities at the US Consulates in Dhahran and Jeddah and the US Embassy in

Riyadh are made available to USAMAG members on a limited basis.

Local radio and television stations usually broadcast 24 hours a day. All locations

have satellite downlinks providing AFRTS and SEB (Southern European Broadcast). They

provide major sports events and news. The cable system works on the US standard

(NTSC). Dhahran and Riyadh have at least one English speaking radio station, either AFN

or from ARAMCO.

Housing/Furnishings: Al Nakala

All USAMAG villas are fully furnished and are

determined by rank and availability. USAMAG

also provides the following hard pack items:

stove, refrigerator, washer and dryer,

microwave oven, and water dispenser in each

villa regardless of location. **See SOFTPACK

list at the end of the packet for additionally

provided items.

Electrical outlets are a mixture of 110V and

220V, so be sure to either bring or obtain

adapters on arrival. Various adapters are

necessary for three-prong plugs and are

available at the PX and local stores.

Inbound personnel should be prepared to

purchase items such as a cleaning tools and

supplies, and additional linens.

Religious Activities

There are chaplains that provide or sponsor a

variety of religious services for personnel.

Currently, the OMP-SANG Chaplain provides

religious support to all USAMAG personnel.

CH (MAJ) Billy Betts is the current OPMSANG

Chaplain, and he can be contacted at billy.c.betts3.mil@mail.mil. Missionary activity is

prohibited and can lead to expulsion from the Kingdom.

Legal Services

USAMAG personnel has access to a Staff Judge Advocate Office (OSJA), located at

Riyadh. The USAMAG SJA provides legal services to personnel to include preparation of

wills and powers of attorney, notary services, and legal assistance.

Legal services are provided for all USAMAG locations within the Kingdom by the SJA at

Riyadh. In instances when legal services cannot be provided over the phone or via

electronic communication, reasonable arrangements will be made for in person

consultations.

Medical, Dental and Health Information

On Al Nakhla, the USMTM Health Clinic is available and provides basic care and

vaccinations as well as referrals downtown to medical services as needed. In Jeddah, a

local hospital provides medical services as well as dental services through an internal

clinic. In Dammam, a local hospital there is available for medical and dental services as

well as local referrals. Also from Dammam, access to Naval Support Activity Bahrain

Medical Clinic is available for DoD-standard care and medical reporting. Soldiers and DoD

civilian employees will set up medical insurance through Tricare Overseas and can get

approvals for care payment as well as referrals to local and worldwide providers through

Tricare. Pre-approvals are best, as approvals for payment reimbursement can take up to

six months or more.

Service members who are on special medications that may not be readily available through

military supply channels, must bring at least a six month supply. Upon arrival, notify the

USMTM Clinic of these needs during in-processing, so that arrangements can be made to

ensure access to these medications is not interrupted. Obstetric care from U.S. military

health professionals is currently not available in Saudi Arabia.

Postal Service

The Air Post Office (APO) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a United States Military Post

office operated by the personnel assigned to Operating Location B, Ninth Air Force, and

United States Air Forces Central (USAFCENT). First Class and Priority Mail from CONUS

usually arrives in 10-14 days; mail going to the US usually takes 9-10 days. The USAMAG

Unit mail address is as follows:

The following items are strictly prohibited from entering or leaving Saudi Arabia by mail

through the APO.

 Posters, pictures, paintings, books, catalogs, DVDs, video tapes, or

magazines depicting nude or seminude people and pornographic or sexual

items of any type (as determined by Saudi Customs).

 Religious items including, but not limited to, bibles, crucifixes, instructional

material, or any other items interpreted by customs as religious in nature.

Although these items have made it through customs before, please be

advised that they will be confiscated.

 History has proved certain items relating to Christmas such as cards, trees,

decorations, angels, etc. are subject to confiscation.

 Pork or pork products.

 Alcoholic beverages or any consumable item containing alcohol. This

includes distillation equipment and brewing supplies.

 Firearms of any type, including air guns and toy guns.

 Fireworks.

 Government symbols including, but not limited to, stickers and flags.

 Military clothing or equipment, other than for personal use.

 Electronic items including, but not limited to, base stations, hand-held

transmitters, cordless telephones, global positioning system (GPS)

receivers, etc.

 Candy cigarettes and cigarette advertisements.

 Chemicals, including alcohol (medicinal or industrial).

 Any literature that is determined to be offensive to Saudi culture or its

people.

JEDDAH

Name (no

rank)

USAMAG

Unit 62103

APO AE

09811

RIYA

Name (no

rank)

USAMAG

PSC 1203 Unit

61308

APO, AE

09803

DAMMAM

Name (no

rank)

USAMAG

Unit 66826

APO-AE

09858

The following items are extremely scrutinized by Saudi Customs. If they contain prohibited

content, it can result in fines, confiscation and/or censorship.

 Films, CDs, DVDs

 Video Tapes

 All printed matter, such as books, magazines, catalogs, newspapers,

pictures, paintings.

 Medications not supported by a prescription

The important fact to remember is all classes of mail are subject to Saudi Customs

inspection upon arrival in the Kingdom. If any item is found to be offensive or prohibited

as interpreted by the Laws of the Kingdom, the item will be confiscated and the recipient

is subject to fines and/or punishment as appropriate.

Commissary and Exchange Support

The Army/Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) operates a retail store in Riyadh. AAFES

stocks adequate quantities of popular brands of toilet articles, soft drinks, tobacco

products, photographic and stereo equipment, clothing, and sundries. Any item available

in the Army/Air Force Exchange Service catalog, except firearms, may be ordered through

the APO mail. Current catalogs from the principal US mail order houses are also available.

The commissary system stocks a complete line of semi-perishable and perishable items

basic to family needs. Fresh fruit and vegetables, milk, eggs, yogurts, chilled juices and

other dairy items are procured on the local economy. The commissary also has a "down

range" shopping program for personnel not located in Riyadh.

In all three locations, there are many places to buy food in the local area. Fresh produce,

and dry goods are available. The local supermarkets now stock many western products,

especially meat. There are Panda Stores in the area, and they carry mostly U.S. products

at a slightly higher price than in the States. Many Wal-Mart type stores are located within

a short-distance drive from most locations. Many of the wares associated with the Middle

East, Iran, Pakistan, India, Japan, and parts of Europe are also available.

There are local stores with a brand name selections of most items you can purchase in the

states. The PX has household items, small appliances, white goods, office-type supplies,

toiletries and personal hygiene items, a few clothes, over-the-counter medicines, tools,

suitcases, cosmetics, and magazines (similar to the selection at a CVS/Walgreens).

Travel

An official passport and Saudi visa are required for entry and exit from Saudi Arabia. The

mobilization NCOIC will provide further guidance on how to apply. Unless you have the

passport and visa in hand upon arrival at the aerial port of embarkation, you will probably

incur considerable hardship and delay. If you reach Saudi Arabia without a passport and

visa, you will be forced to take the next available aircraft out of the country.

The Government of Saudi Arabia refuses admission and transit to holders of a passport

or visa with a declaration that it has been or is valid for Israel. It is strongly advised to also

have a Tourist Passport for travel outside of Saudi Arabia and the United States.

Port of entry for replacement personnel assigned to USAMAG is King Khalid International

Airport (KKIA) in Riyadh, SA. Your sponsor and/or other designated USAMAG personnel

will meet you upon arrival and escort you to Eskan Village. Timely receipt of travel

itineraries on incoming personnel will reduce inconvenience upon arrival in Saudi Arabia;

therefore, you should provide your sponsor with your scheduled arrival time, by email, as

soon as possible. Further, it is required that you travel in civilian clothing. There are

No U.S Carriers that fly to KSA. All flights in will be on foreign Air Carriers. For females,

it is encouraged that they put on the Abaya before disembarking from the airplane in

Riyadh.

Permanent change of station (PCS) travel to KSA requires some planning for official travel

and for household goods (HHG) storage and/or shipment. If you need to ship or store

household goods or a POV, the time to begin planning is even before receiving your PCS

orders. Read through the appropriate tutorials on the DoD Customer Moving Portal

website at Move.mil. At that website is a search tool at https://move.mil/resources/locator-

maps that will help you reach your local Transportation Management Office (TMO) team.

Once you are able to contact the TMO, you will have a ready resource to assist you with

coordinating all your shipment and storage as well as any claims with DFAS. Once you

receive your PCS orders, you can then initiate an official request to ship or store HHG or

POV with the help of your TMO office and the DPS system within Move.mil. Upon arrival

in KSA, you will coordinate delivery of your HHG through the USMTM J-4 TMO in Riyadh.

During your official travel to Ft. Bragg and then KSA, baggage under 70 lbs. will typically

make it through check-in at airports. Be sure to ask for the "check military bags" option at

the check-in kiosk or counter wherever possible with a copy of your PCS orders to avoid

baggage fees on flights. If you are unable to avoid baggage or excess baggage fees for

any reason, please request a receipt from the check-in counter (they do not always offer)

and work with G-8 Travel at KSA in-processing to file that claim. For travelers over 400

miles away from Ft. Bragg, NC, air travel is the directed method of travel. Variances from

this will require solid justification and are approved at the O-6/GS-15 level. Please discuss

any alternative arrangements you need with the Mobilization NCO to begin the approval

process as soon as possible if you require an alternative arrangement.

All personnel on tour with the USAMAG program are required to use the GTCC for all

official travel starting on the effective date of PCS orders. For nearly all travel (except for

initial flights into country) you will pay using the GTCC and file for reimbursement at the

end of the trip. If you do not have an active GTCC, you are required to get one and maintain

it as a requirement for this tour. Personal funds and personal credit card are not to be used

for official travel unless good faith efforts to use it were made but failed by the time of the

voucher filing. Begin coordinating with your home unit travel card administrator and follow

his/her process to get that set up.

If you have your PCS orders without an active GTCC, let the Mobilization NCO know as

soon as possible to begin working with the program for any available cost reduction

alternatives. You will need to have necessary personal funds available to pay for all travel

expenses except for the flights to KSA (CBA-billed).

Your first voucher at in-processing in Riyadh will be a manual DD 1351-2. After that, nearly

all TDY travel will be booked and vouchered using the Defense Travel System (DTS) and

the local Travel Management Company (TMC) called Ace Travel (via Carlson Wagonlit

Travel/SATO) in Riyadh. Please conclude all open vouchers with your home unit and then

contact your DTS administrator there to release your DTS profile. Once the DTS profile

is released, our G-8 Travel office will begin setting it up for coordination of your TDY travel

while on tour with our program. The G-8 Travel Office will reach out to you once your

orders are published, but address any questions or concerns relating to GTCC, DTS

Travel and military pay/entitlements to MSG Troy A. Davis, troy.a.davis.mil@mail.mil,

DSN 318-448-7441 or international commercial +966 11 498 7300, then #, then 448-

7441, then 1."

Entitlements

All military entitlements are DoD-standard based on the DoD Financial Management

Regulation (DoD FMR) Volume 7A, the Joint Travel Regulation (JTR), and other DoD-

appropriate regulations based on official PCS duty on an unaccompanied tour with no

dependents also living in Saudi Arabia.

1. Base Pay for Military Personnel: Determined by pay grade and years of

service. https://www.dfas.mil/MilitaryMembers/

2. Base Pay for Civilian Personnel: Please discuss pay and entitlements with your CPAC

point of contact.

3. Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): BAH is determine by dependency status, years

of service, pay grade, and zip code on the orders.

http://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/bahCalc.cfm

4. Overseas Cost of Living Allowance (OCOLA): All Soldiers in the Kingdom are entitled

OCOLA. Determined by pay grade and years of service at the provided rate.

http://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/colaCalc.cfm

5. Imminent Danger Pay (IDP): IDP pay of $225.00 per month may be authorized. If

receiving IDP, then HDP-L is reduced. Effective 14 September 2019, IDP is authorized

for KSA for soldiers.

6. Hardship Duty Pay-Location (HDP-L): All Soldiers assigned to KSA receive HDP-L of

$100.00 per month so long as they do not spend more than 30 days outside of KSA during

the tour.

Normally starts 30 days after arrival in KSA and is paid back to date of arrival.

7. Basic Allowance for Substance (BAS): All Soldiers receive monthly BAS

in KSA. https://www.dfas.mil/MilitaryMembers/payentitlements/Pay-

Tables/bas/

8. Family Separation Allowance (FSA): FSA is determined on dependency status and

paid at a rate of $250.00 a month.

9. Combat Zone Tax Exclusion (CZTE): CZTE is entitled to all Soldiers in KSA. Taxes

are refunded at every end of month LES.

10. Shipment of Household Goods: PCS orders must state you are authorized to ship

HHG, or you are not authorized for TMO-scheduled pickup or for reimbursement for mail

through US Postal Service until an amendment can be produced. Contact the Mobilization

NCO for guidance if PCS orders does not state authorization. Refer to JTR, to your

designated sponsor, or to G-8 Travel office for specific guidance. For weight allowances,

http://www.move.mil/dod/before_you_begin/weight_allowance.cfm.

11. Storage of Household Goods and/or POV: PCS orders must state you are authorized

to store HHG, or you are not authorized for paid storage. Most commonly, storage options

include:

a. TMO-scheduled non-temporary storage: TMO-arranged movers pick up

HHG, DFAS pays the ongoing storage bill, you coordinate to extend service if you

extend your tour

b. Personally-procured storage: you find a local storage facility, you pay the

ongoing bill, you save all receipts and file claim for reimbursement through your TMO or

on a manual travel voucher

c. Privately-owned vehicle (POV) storage: you coordinate storage in a designated

facility through your TMO, DFAS pays the ongoing bill, and you coordinate to extend

service if you extend your tour.

d. Unaccompanied baggage: you mail certain HHG or items through the US Postal

Service as part of the initial move to KSA, you submit your receipts that include the weight

of the items shipped to your TMO (near your home or here in KSA when you arrive), TMO

provides you a memo with maximum amount claimable for reimbursement, and you file

all with your travel voucher

12. Thrift Savings Plan: Soldiers are authorized to participate in Thrift Savings Plan

https://mypay.dfas.mil/mypay.aspx.

13. Annual Clothing Allowance: Enlisted personnel only. Paid upon end of tour ($468).

14. Savings Deposit Plan: Deposit cash at a DoD Finance Office (only) via EagleCash or

check and earn 10% pre-tax interest for up to $10,000. Riyadh personnel can deposit up

to 1/2 of LES entitlements per month until they reach the maximum. Locations far from

Riyadh without access to a Finance Office will be added to a memo waiving the maximum

up to $9,999.99. Normally, eligibility starts after being in country for 30 days.

15. This tour qualifies for Reduced Age Retirement.

Conclusion

Serving with USAMAG is an experience unparalleled by any assignment you will have in

your military career. Working within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will provide

an opportunity to learn about this country’s rich and hospitable culture. It will challenge

you and engage your creativity as you work with our dynamic team of U.S. Army,

joint service personnel and international attachés. Your work will affect countless others

and illuminate the ways in which we are all connected. We welcome you to the mission

of USAMAG and assure this assignment will strengthen your career, develop your area

of expertise, and build lasting relationships certain to leave an indelible mark on your

career.

Colonel James A. Zanella

Program Manager

United States Army Military Assistance Group

An Infantry Officer for over 22 years, COL Zanella

commissioned from West Point, in 1999. He was first

assigned as a Mechanized Platoon Leader and Heavy

Mortar Platoon Leader with 1

Battalion, 36

Armored

Infantry Regiment, Friedberg, Germany. COL Zanella

deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom from May until

November of 2003 as the Heavy Mortar Platoon Leader.

Upon redeployment, he trained newly commissioned infantry

platoon leaders as a Senior Platoon Trainer and Battalion

Operations Officer with 2

Battalion, 11

Infantry Regiment,

Infantry Basic Officer Leadership Course.

He took command of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2

Brigade Special

Troops Battalion, 2

Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 2

Infantry Division in September

2006 and immediately deployed to Iraq. Stationed at Forward Operating Base Loyalty in

East-Baghdad, Iraq; he led the company during 15 months of counterinsurgency

operations from 08 October 2006 until 31 December 2007 as part of the Iraq Surge. After

22 months of company command, COL Zanella served as a Maneuver Observer Trainer

and Chief of Exercise Control for Operations Group Charlie, United States Army Mission

Command Training Program, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. COL Zanella deployed in June

2012 to Kabul, Afghanistan as a Joint Operations Planner for United States Forces –

Afghanistan. As a planner with the J5 Plans and Policy Directorate, he worked national

contingency plans with USCENTCOM, USEUCOM, the Joint Staff, and other CENTCOM

Component Commands. Upon redeployment, COL Zanella trained Ranger Students as

the Battalion Operations Officer with the 4

Ranger Training Battalion, Fort Benning, GA

from June 2013 until June 2014. Moving across post to the 199

Infantry Brigade (Leader

Development), he served as the Brigade Operations Officer until June 2015 and the

Brigade Deputy Commander until March 2016. COL Zanella then moved over to the

Infantry School and served as the Executive Officer to the Infantry Commandant until

December 2016. He then served as the Director of Operations, G3, Maneuver Center of

Excellence and Fort Benning, GA until June 2017. COL Zanella then commanded 2

Battalion, 11

Infantry Regiment, Infantry Basic Officer Leadership Course from June

2017 until June 2019. Following command, he moved to Austin, TX to join Army Futures

Command as the Deputy Director of Operations from July 2019 until July 2020. COL

Zanella then attended Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas as a US Army War

College Fellow. Currently, COL Zanella is the Program Manager, United States Army

Military Assistance Group as well as the Deputy Program Manager, Office of Program

Management, Saudi Arabian National Guard.

COL Zanella holds a Bachelor of Science in Military History from West Point (1999), a

Master of Science in International Relations from Troy University (2006), and a Masters

of Military Art and Science in Theater Operations from the School of Advanced Military

Studies (2012).

COL Zanella’s military education includes War College Fellowship; School of Advanced

Military Studies; Command and General Staff College; Joint Operations Planner Course;

Joint Firepower Course; the Infantry Officers’ Advanced and Basic Course; Infantry Mortar

Leader’s Course; Bradley Fighting Vehicle Commander’s Course; Ranger School; Air

Assault School; Airborne School; Army Combatives Instructor Levels I and II; the Army

Instructor Trainers’ Course, and the Master Fitness Trainers Course.

His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service

Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (3x OLC), Army Commendation Medal (3x OLC), Army

Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Award, Army Superior

Unit Award (1x OLC), National Defense Service Medal (w/ Star), Afghanistan Campaign

Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal (2x Campaign Stars), Global War On Terrorism

Expeditionary Medal, Global War On Terrorism Service Medal, Military Outstanding

Volunteer Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon (Numeral 3), NATO Service Medal

(ISAF), Ranger Tab, Airborne Wings, Air Assault Wings, Expert Infantryman’s Badge,

Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and the German Armed Forces Badge for Military

Proficiency in Gold and Bronze.

COL Zanella is married to the former Heather Howell Bibb, and they have two sons: Clark

and Grayson.

SGM Matthew Strasser

Senior Enlisted Advisor

United States Army Military Assistance Group

Sergeant Major Strasser entered military service as a

member of the Iowa National Guard in March of 1993.

Since then, he has served in various leadership positions

to include Team Leader, Scout Section Sergeant, Scout

Platoon Sergeant, 1st Sergeant, BCT Operations Sergeant

Major, CSM of the 1-113 Cavalry Squadron, and CSM for

the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division.

SGM Strasser has multiple deployments to include KFOR 5B (Kosovo) as a Platoon

Sergeant, Operation Enduring Freedom 5/6 (Afghanistan) as an Embedded Training

Team (ETT) Senior NCO Mentor, Operation Enduring Freedom 10/11 (Afghanistan) as

the 2/34 IBCT Operations Sergeant Major, and KFOR 28 (Kosovo) as the 2/34 IBCT and

KFOR Regional Command - East CSM. He also has four rotations at Combat Training

Centers.

SGM Strasser’s military education includes 19D Cavalry Scout Basic Combat Training,

Primary Leadership and Development Course, Basic Noncommissioned Officer Course

Phases I and II, Advanced Noncommissioned Officer Course Phases I, II and IIB, Senior

Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education II, Distributed Leader Course 6, Advanced

Military Transition Team, United States Army Sergeant’s Major Course and the U.S. Army

War College Nominative Leaders Course.

His awards and decorations include The Legion of Merit (1 OLC), Bronze Star Medal (1

OLC), Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal

(2 OLC), Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal (6

OLC), National Defense Service Medal (1 OLC), Humanitarian Service Medal, Armed

Forces Reserve Medal, NATO Medal, NATO Non-Article 5 Medal, Noncommissioned

Officer Development Ribbon (Numeral 6), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service

Ribbon (Numeral 4), Army Reserve Component Overseas Training (Numeral 4), Armed

Forces Reserve Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal (1 campaign star), Global War on

Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal (3 campaign stars), Combat

Action Badge, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Citation and the Order of

Saint George.

SGM Strasser has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Upper Iowa

University.

He is married and has two sons.