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