Digital Nomad Life in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

"Expats living in Riyadh can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, book clubs, and language exchange groups. Expats can also meet people by attending events hosted by the local embassies, attending networking events, or joining online forums and social media groups. Additionally, many expats find that attending local festivals and events is a great way to meet people and learn more about the culture," explained one person living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Riyadh can be quite different from what they are used to. The city is a bustling metropolis with a modern infrastructure, but it is also a conservative society with strict laws and regulations. Expats and digital nomads must be aware of the local customs and laws, and respect them. The cost of living is relatively low, and there are plenty of opportunities for work and leisure. The city is well connected with the rest of the world, and there are plenty of places to explore. Expats and digital nomads can find a vibrant and diverse community in Riyadh, with plenty of activities and events to enjoy," said one person in Riyadh.

"We found a larger private villa after being in a small compound. It cost the same and now we have our own pool without the harrassment of kids. (Parents allow them to run wild here, with or without supervision to all hours of the night.)," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Riyadh.

"Riyadh is a great place to live, with plenty of options for housing. One of the best ways to find a place to live in Riyadh is to use online resources such as websites like Expat.com, which offer listings of available apartments and houses for rent. Additionally, you can also search for housing on classifieds websites such as OLX and Craigslist. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a suitable place to live in Riyadh. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Riyadh for recommendations on where to look for housing," explained one person living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"Expats considering retiring in Riyadh should be aware that the city is a conservative Islamic society and that there are strict laws governing the behavior of both locals and visitors. Expats should also be aware that alcohol is strictly prohibited and that the dress code is conservative. Additionally, it is important to note that Riyadh is a very hot and dry city, with temperatures often reaching over 40 degrees Celsius in the summer months. Finally, expats should be aware that the cost of living in Riyadh is relatively high, and that the city is not particularly well-known for its nightlife or entertainment options," remarked one member in Riyadh.

"Expats in Riyadh appreciate the hospitality of the local people, the rich cultural heritage, and the unique cuisine. They also enjoy the vibrant nightlife, the beautiful architecture, and the many shopping opportunities. Additionally, they appreciate the religious and cultural diversity of the city, as well as the many outdoor activities available," remarked one member in Riyadh.

"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Riyadh is the strict adherence to Islamic law and customs. This includes the requirement to dress modestly, the prohibition of alcohol, and the segregation of men and women in public spaces. Additionally, the lack of freedom of speech and expression can be difficult for expats to adjust to, as well as the lack of public entertainment and leisure activities. Expats may also find it difficult to adjust to the conservative social norms, such as the expectation that women should not be seen in public without a male guardian," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Riyadh.

"It's difficult to get around since women can't drive. If this were a western city, I'd have explored it from top to bottom! But here, you're taking cabs everywhere so only really go from point A to point B and don't know what's in between. Another issue is that men and women can't 'mix' so opportunities to socialize are fairly limited (mostly to expensive embassy events or if you are fortunate enough to live in a 'western' compound--but single women usually must live in a company compound, which often isn't western so the freedom we're used to isn't allowed)," explained one person living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"If you plan to stay in Riyadh for a while, you will need to obtain a valid residency permit or visa. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa prior to your arrival in Saudi Arabia. You may also need to provide proof of employment, proof of financial means, and a valid passport. Additionally, you may need to provide a medical certificate and a police clearance certificate," explained one person living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"Only faux paux I've made was offer my hand in a congratulatory shake to a 'holy man' who I've come to know here. Now, I know these guys aren't allowed to touch women, but I'd gotten caught up in the moment and forgot lol," said one person in Riyadh.

"In Riyadh, it is important to be mindful of cultural norms and customs. It is important to dress modestly, especially for women, and to avoid wearing revealing clothing. It is also important to respect the local customs and traditions, such as not drinking alcohol or engaging in public displays of affection. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, such as not taking photographs of people without their permission. Finally, it is important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices, such as not eating in public during Ramadan," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Riyadh.

"Healthcare services in Riyadh, are characterized by a mix of public and private facilities, offering a wide range of medical services to both citizens and expatriates. The city is home to several large government hospitals, such as King Fahad Medical City and King Saud Medical City, which provide comprehensive healthcare services, including specialized treatments and surgeries. These public hospitals are well-equipped and staffed by highly qualified medical professionals. In addition to public hospitals, Riyadh also has numerous private hospitals and clinics that cater to various medical needs. These private facilities often provide more personalized care and shorter waiting times, albeit at a higher cost. Some of the well-known private hospitals in the city include the Saudi German Hospital and the Kingdom Hospital. Riyadh's healthcare services also extend to specialized centers for various medical fields, such as the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, which focuses on oncology, organ transplantation, and genetic diseases. The city also has several dental clinics, physiotherapy centers, and maternity hospitals. Pharmacies are widely available throughout Riyadh, with many operating 24 hours a day. These pharmacies stock a wide range of medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. The Saudi government has been investing heavily in healthcare infrastructure and services, aiming to improve the overall quality of healthcare in the country. This includes the construction of new hospitals, upgrading existing facilities, and implementing telemedicine services to reach remote areas. In summary, healthcare services in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, are diverse and well-developed, with a combination of public and private facilities catering to various medical needs. The government's ongoing investment in healthcare infrastructure and services ensures that the city's residents have access to quality medical care," remarked one member in Riyadh.

"If you need medical care, go back to the US or to Europe, if you can afford it. Both medical and dental care are substandard. If you can find doctors trained in the US, that is no assurance that they are qualified. The licensing program and qualifications are sketchy, at best," explained one expat living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Riyadh, often appreciate the tax-free salaries and the low cost of living, which allows them to save a significant portion of their income. They also enjoy the modern infrastructure, excellent healthcare facilities, and the availability of various international schools for their children. The city offers a unique cultural experience, with opportunities to explore historical sites, museums, and traditional markets. The central location of Riyadh within the country also makes it convenient for expats to travel and explore other parts of Saudi Arabia. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may find the strict social norms and conservative culture in Riyadh challenging to adapt to, particularly for women who are required to wear an abaya in public. The extreme heat during the summer months can be uncomfortable, and the lack of public transportation options can make getting around the city difficult without a car. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Arabic, and the strict regulations on alcohol and entertainment options may limit social activities for some expats. Finally, the bureaucratic processes for obtaining visas and work permits can be time-consuming and frustrating for newcomers," said a member in Riyadh.

"Other than dining out, there are no sources for entertainment. Leisure time is mostly spent in malls. Men have a cess to sporting events like soccer, but women do not. The emphasis on family gatherings and religious observances makes getting to know people and make friends difficult. But if you can and do make friends then they are most accepting and friendly," explained one person living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.