My Life in Saudi

Moving to Saudi Arabia can feel exhilarating and overwhelming all at once—especially if Arabic isn’t your first language. While English is widely spoken in business circles, a few well‑chosen Arabic phrases will make daily life smoother, foster warmer interactions, and demonstrate genuine respect for Saudi culture. From greeting your neighbors to finding the right bus or negotiating in a souq, the words below will build your confidence and help you thrive. 🌟 Why Learn Basic Arabic? Cultural Respect – Using Arabic shows appreciation for local heritage and builds instant rapport. Practicality – Taxis, small shops, and government offices often prefer Arabic. Safety – Knowing key phrases for emergencies or directions keeps you secure. Networking – Even a short Arabic exchange can break the ice with colleagues and neighbors. Below we group phrases by situation— Greetings, Directions, Transportation, Shopping, Dining, Emergencies, and Cultural Etiquette . Each en...

Living as a Female Expat in Saudi Arabia: What You Need to Know (2025 Guide) Introduction Saudi Arabia has undergone significant transformation over the last few years, especially in terms of women's rights and gender equality. As a female expat moving or living in the Kingdom in 2025, you may wonder what to expect in terms of daily life, safety, work opportunities, and cultural adaptation. This comprehensive guide is here to help you understand what living as a woman in Saudi Arabia is really like today. 1. Cultural Expectations and Dress Code One of the first things new expats notice is the cultural emphasis on modesty. While the rules have relaxed in recent years, especially in big cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, female expats are still expected to dress modestly in public. Abaya: No longer mandatory by law, but still widely worn in public by locals and many expats for cultural respect. Headscarf: Not required for foreign women, although carrying one for visits to ...