Saudi Arabia is temporary home to nearly 40,000 Americans as well as thousands ofother expatriates. Americans work in hospitals, with defense contractors, as teachers, and in other technical and professional positions. In the May 12, 2003 bombing attack in Riyadh, residential compounds that cater mainly to Western workers were targeted. The compounds attacked included:
Al-Hamra Oasis Village
These compounds are located in the Northeast section of the city, near the junction of several highways including the one that goes out to Riyadh's international airport. The area is about a 20-minute drive from downtown Riyadh.
There are many other residential compounds in Riyadh and throughout Saudi Arabia, where residents enjoy relative freedom andsecurity within the compound walls. In addition to comfortable, Western-style accomodations, most compounds include recreational facilities, a grocery market, or other amenities such as a school/daycare center, gym, etc. Until Monday night's attack, most residents havefelt rather safe while within the compound environment.
