My Life in Saudi

 When people hear "Saudi Arabia," they often imagine sand dunes, strict religious laws, and heavy restrictions—especially for women and foreigners. While the Kingdom is conservative and culturally unique, these assumptions are often outdated or misinformed. As someone living or considering life in Saudi Arabia, it's important to separate fact from fiction. In this blog, we’ll debunk 10 common myths about life in Saudi Arabia , especially for expats and tourists, and give you a realistic view of what it’s truly like living in the Kingdom. 1. Women Have No Rights or Freedom The Truth: This is one of the biggest misconceptions. While Saudi Arabia has long been viewed as restrictive for women, major reforms in recent years have transformed the landscape. Women can now: Drive cars Travel abroad without male guardian permission Apply for passports and national IDs Attend universities and work in diverse sectors Run businesses and invest Many Saudi women n...

Life in Expat Compounds in Saudi Arabia: What Expats Need to Know (2025) Saudi Arabia has long hosted a large expatriate community, and for many foreign residents, living in an expat compound offers comfort, convenience, and a familiar lifestyle. In 2025, expat compounds continue to play a significant role in helping newcomers adapt while maintaining certain freedoms and privacy. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about life in expat compounds — including what they are, who can live in them, amenities, pros and cons, costs, and comparisons with living outside compounds. What Is an Expat Compound? Expat compounds are gated residential communities specifically designed for foreigners living and working in Saudi Arabia. These compounds are often spacious, secure, and equipped with modern amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, shops, and even restaurants or cafes. They provide a culturally relaxed environment where expats can live more freely, often without the s...

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 ...

When considering a move to Saudi Arabia, one of the biggest questions most expats ask is: “How much does it actually cost to live there?” Whether you’re relocating for work, business, or a new life adventure, understanding the cost of living is key to planning your budget and expectations. In this post, I’ll break down the major expenses you’re likely to face — from housing and groceries to transport, healthcare, and entertainment . I’ll also share a few tips based on my personal experience living in Riyadh as an expat. 1. Housing & Rent Housing is usually the biggest monthly expense for most expats. The good news is: compared to many Western countries, rent in Saudi Arabia is relatively affordable — especially if your employer covers it (which is common in some expat packages). 1-bedroom apartment in city center: SAR 2,500 – 4,000/month 1-bedroom outside center: SAR 1,800 – 2,800/month 2–3-bedroom furnished flat: SAR 3,500 – 6,000/month Villa in expat c...

7 Things That Surprised Me About Life in Saudi Arabia (From a New Expat’s Perspective) Before moving to Saudi Arabia, I thought I had a pretty good idea of what to expect. I read articles, watched YouTube videos, and even spoke with people who had lived here. Still, nothing compares to seeing it with your own eyes and living it day by day. As a new expat, I’ve quickly learned that Saudi Arabia is full of surprises — some challenging, many beautiful, and all part of a truly unique experience. Here are seven things that surprised me most after arriving in the Kingdom. 1. The Deep Sense of Hospitality One of the first things I noticed was how kind and generous people are. In Saudi culture, hospitality is not just about manners — it’s a way of life. Whether you are a guest in someone’s home or a stranger at a coffee shop, people are warm, respectful, and often eager to help. On more than one occasion, I was offered Arabic coffee and dates just for walking into a small store or vi...