What Is It Like Living in Riyadh?

Let’s get one thing straight: Riyadh is not Dubai. It’s not Jeddah. And it’s certainly not the expat posting of poolside brunches and breezy school runs you might have pictured. But here’s the surprise: living in Riyadh has its own distinct rhythm, and for many expats, it becomes a place that’s far more liveable—and loveable—than expected.

Whether you're planning a move, already packing your shipment, or simply nosy (we get it), here’s the honest, nuanced lowdown on what it's like living in Riyadh.

First Impressions: Welcome to the Capital

Riyadh is a city of contradictions. Stark desert landscapes meet glittering skyscrapers. Conservative customs sit alongside ultra-modern ambitions. It’s both deeply traditional and rapidly transforming.

For newcomers, that can mean a steep adjustment curve. The dress code, gender norms, and the Arabic language might feel daunting at first. But dig a little deeper, and the city starts to unfold—offering warm hospitality, a surprisingly diverse social scene, and a lifestyle that’s much more dynamic than you might expect.

Driving is still the default mode of transport for most residents—but things are changing. The Riyadh Metro officially opened in December 2024, and it's genuinely impressive: sleek trains, air-conditioned stations, and expanding coverage across the city. Public buses are also up and running, offering a low-cost option with an expanding network.

That said, the metro stations are quite widely spaced, and the city's sprawling layout means it's often still faster and more convenient to jump in a car (or a Careem). Most expats either drive or rely on ride-hailing apps for day-to-day errands.

What Do Expats Say About Life in Riyadh?

Here’s what you’ll hear from those who’ve made the leap:

• “It’s not what I imagined—in a good way.” Riyadh is becoming more international every year. With the Vision 2030 reforms, there's a tangible buzz in the air.

• “I miss the beach... but the desert grows on you.” No coastline here, but the sand dunes and mountain escapes have their own magic.

• “I’ve never eaten so well.” From shawarma stands to five-star sushi, the food scene is a revelation.

• “It’s safe. Really safe.” One of the biggest perks: extremely low crime rates.

  
  

Navigating Daily Life in Riyadh

What is daily life like for expats?

The short answer: structured but spacious. Most expat life revolves around work, family, and carefully curated downtime. Weekends (Friday and Saturday) are for socialising, day trips, or pure hibernation when the summer heat hits.

Schools run on similar terms to international calendars, and many families live in compounds—gated communities that offer everything from gyms to grocery stores. Think mini village with a dash of suburbia.

Practical essentials:

• Driving is a must. Public transport is still limited, though the Riyadh Metro is now running and the bus service supports this.

• Groceries and services are convenient. You can order almost anything to your door.

• Healthcare is excellent—but private. Make sure your insurance is solid.

  
  

What About Culture and Community?

This is where Riyadh gets interesting. Cultural life used to be... minimal. But in recent years, it’s boomed. You’ll now find:

• Music festivals and concerts (yes, really)

• Public cinemas

• Art exhibitions and heritage events

• Cafés that wouldn’t look out of place in Shoreditch

Still, there’s a quietness to Riyadh life that many expats come to appreciate. Community becomes key. Whether it’s school parents, faith groups, or language exchanges, your people are out there—you just have to look.

Is Riyadh safe for foreigners?

In a word, yes. Riyadh is one of the safest capitals in the region. Petty crime is rare, and there’s a strong sense of order. That said, understanding and respecting local laws is vital. This is not an invite to leave your car or home unlocked or your children unattended. The gap between rich and poor is very wide here. Alcohol is still banned, public decency laws apply, and cultural awareness goes a long way.

Cost of Living in Riyadh

This is a big one for most movers. Riyadh can be surprisingly affordable—especially if your employer covers housing, education, or healthcare.

Typical costs:

• Rent (3-bed in a compound): SAR 90,000–140,000/year

• International school fees: SAR 40,000–100,000/year

• Groceries and dining: cheaper than the UK, if you go local

Top tip: Use services like Wise to transfer money internationally and avoid hefty fees.

Family Life in Riyadh

For families, Riyadh can be a very liveable city. Space is abundant, schools are improving, and children can grow up in a safe, multicultural environment. Just be ready for:

• Hot summers (indoor play areas become essential)

• Gender-segregated spaces in some settings

• Limited spontaneous outdoor play

Still, there’s a strong expat parenting network, and weekend adventures—like trips to the Edge of the World—are unforgettable.

People Also Ask

Can women live independently in Riyadh?

Yes. Women can now drive, work, and live alone. The social rules are still conservative by Western standards, but freedoms have expanded significantly in recent years.

Is English widely spoken in Riyadh?

In professional and expat circles, yes. Arabic is the national language, but you'll get by just fine with English in most day-to-day interactions.

Do you need to dress conservatively?

Men: no shorts in public. Women: no abaya required, but modest clothing is still the norm. In practice, that often means T-shirts or longer sleeves and avoiding anything too tight or short. There is no more religious police but some locals will let you know their displeasure if they feel you are dressed inappropriately.

Final Thoughts: So, What Is It Like Living in Riyadh?

Living in Riyadh is not for everyone—but it might just be for you. It's a place of contrasts: quiet but cosmopolitan, strict but shifting, tough at times but surprisingly rewarding. If you arrive with curiosity and an open mind, you'll find not just sand and skyscrapers—but stories worth living.

For more on expat life in Saudi, check out our guide to cost of living in Riyadh or browse our tips for relocating to Saudi Arabia.

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