So have any of those saying no actually done it or even had the chance to do so?
I did two years out there from 2006 to 2007. My kids were 6 and 2 at the time so not that bad. Yes I missed the kids and could have stayed out there longer if the company hadnt screwed up and not been able to get the family out there in the timescales agreed.
Yes I was there at the time of the bombs etc, as for doing for 50k a year at the moment I wouldnt think about it as there are better opportunities for me elsewhere.
What you have to remember is that you can not all of that time off in the UK as you are only allowed to be in the country for a short of time each year in order to keep your salary tax free. You will be only be tax free after the first six months or so!! You will still need to pay your NI if you want to get a state pension (for whats it worth) when you retire.
Are they paying for your flights, visas etc? Remember you need an exit visa to leave the country and have to hand your passport in to get your Saudi ID (Iqama) card. Driving is a pain in the arse and is not for the faint hearted.