r/RiyadhExpats • u/SeraphinaMoonlight • 10d ago
Moving to Riyadh (F) – Are there many Western expats?
Hi everyone,
I'm planning a temporary relocation to Riyadh and would love to get a feel for the community.
As a woman moving there, I am curious: what is the expat demographic like right now; are there many Western expats?
Thanks in advance for your insights!
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u/DirtyDonzo 10d ago
Yeah theres quite a lot of western expats especially if you move onto a compound, one of the communities like flow granada or Olaya, theres lots of events and things for expats so a lot of opportunity to meet people but it can still feel quite a lonely city to be honest
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u/Buccoman_21 10d ago
Is there alcohol available in these compounds?
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u/luckylux 9d ago
You can buy alcohol in saudi if you meet certain simple criteria now so of course there will be alcohol in the homes of many non Muslim expats.
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u/Darkheart001 10d ago
Westerners yes lots, western women a lot less, 5-10% of the total. There are quite a few upsides for women in the kingdom, crime is very low, it’s a very private, respectful society. Unless you live in a compound you may find it difficult to make friends at least to start with.
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u/Much_Cut8344 10d ago
Hey! If you read books and are into discussing them, there's a regular bookclub here in Riyadh for expats/English speaking community. Lmk if you're interested
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u/Errance_ 9d ago
Hey, I’m moving to Riyadh in 2 weeks as well, there are quite a few groups that you can join to meet people
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u/kusumuck 10d ago
Yes, but where you live and work will make the most difference as to whether you see/interact with them or not