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Showing posts with the label Daily Life in Saudi Arabia

Local Customs and Cultural Etiquette in Saudi Arabia: A Guide for Expats

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Local Customs and Cultural Etiquette in Saudi Arabia: A Guide for Expats Saudi Arabia is a country rich in tradition, faith, and hospitality. For expats moving to the Kingdom, understanding local customs and cultural etiquette is key to adapting smoothly and showing respect to your host country. In this post, we’ll explore important aspects of Saudi culture—what to do, what to avoid, and how to navigate daily life with cultural awareness and confidence. --- 🇸🇦 Understanding Islamic Influence on Daily Life Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam, and Islamic teachings influence nearly every aspect of daily life. As an expat, it's important to respect local religious practices, even if you're not a Muslim. Prayer Times: There are five daily prayers. During prayer times, many shops and offices may temporarily close. Ramadan: During the holy month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours is considered dis...

Navigating Daily Life in Saudi Arabia: Money, Groceries, and Local Tips for Expats

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Navigating Daily Life in Saudi Arabia: Money, Groceries, and Local Tips for Expats So you’ve landed in Saudi Arabia, settled into your accommodation, and are ready to begin your new chapter. But what is day-to-day life really like here? Whether you’re in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam, understanding how things work — from handling money to shopping for food — can help you adjust faster and avoid confusion. Here’s your practical guide to navigating daily life in Saudi Arabia as an expat . --- 💵 Currency & Handling Money The official currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR) . One riyal is made up of 100 halalas. Notes are available in 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 SAR denominations. Currency code: SAR Exchange rate: Roughly pegged to the US dollar (1 USD ≈ 3.75 SAR) 🧾 Payment Methods Cash: Still widely used in local markets and small shops Cards: Most places accept Visa and MasterCard Apple Pay & STC Pay: Popular in urban areas, especially among younger Sau...