Women in Saudi Arabia: Real Relocation Stories

Despite the fact that we are seeing record numbers of enquiries regarding Saudi Arabia relocation, one of the biggest things we get asked about is what life is like for women in Saudi. Many of those considering relocation, either for themselves or with a partner, want to find out what type of community they will find as women and what they can expect from the transition. The reality is that Saudi has a lot to offer women and it can be a uniquely appealing destination thanks to its diversity, its hospitality, its safety and its ready-to-go network of women with shared experiences.

Having opened our Saudi Arabia office in 2023, we are lucky enough to have an amazing group of female locals and expats working in our team. Their insights and expertise have already helped hundreds of clients and assignees make the most of their new home. So, we asked two of them to share their personal story of relocation and what they have learnt about living in Saudi Arabia.

Estela: Relocation Consultant

Originally from: Argentina

Time in Saudi Arabia: 1 year

When I relocated to Saudi Arabia, it was my first time ever living in the Middle East. Although I have been an expat for many years in places like Chile, Australia and Canada, I was apprehensive about what life would be like for our family. Like many, I had heard mixed reports about what to expect as a woman living in Saudi, but I was pleasantly surprised. Saudi Arabia is a young, developing society that is extremely welcoming to new expats and residents. It is no doubt a nation with rich, committed traditions, but it is also quick to share those with newcomers and it continues to change daily in its accommodations to new cultures and experiences. On my first day, I found myself waiting outside a shop in the hot August heat and a local lady approached me. Even though we weren’t able to communicate very well, she offered me her umbrella as shade and even insisted that I keep it when the driver arrived. Today, Riyadh is a bustling and cosmopolitan city where something new appears almost every day that caters to the needs of expats, from restaurants to supermarket stocking. As a family, the compounds are especially unique, providing you with a supportive community from the minute you arrive. When I describe them to friends, I compare them to living in an all-inclusive holiday resort, without being on holiday.

Geraldine: Relocation Consultant

Originally from: Ireland

Time in Saudi Arabia: 3 years

I moved with my husband and two children to Saudi Arabia unsure if we would stay much longer than a month or two, but here are over three years later and we really enjoy living here! I was also nervous about what to expect, but I’m not sure I could have found a more welcoming community. There are so many surprising elements to life in Saudi that really make a difference. Firstly, it is so safe, the other day I lost my wallet in a busy café and when I went back six hours later – it was still there, with everything still in it. Everyone is also so friendly. It seems like everywhere you go, someone wants to help you out or practice their language skills with you. Shopping is also very easy and the supermarkets have everything you need with huge selections of fresh fruit and vegetables (though I do still bring a few home comforts back with me from Ireland!). Compound living is super awesome for families. Kids can get the bus to and from school directly and all of their sporting and hobby activities take place in the compound – which makes life much easier for parents who are used to driving to and fro all the time! Schooling can be a little challenging just in terms of the competition for limited places, but new schools are opening all the time so this is likely to ease a bit in the future. Both of my kids are enrolled in the French school and they love it! Riyadh has a wonderful sense of community, with genuine people who want expats to see the best of their country and are always ready to offer new faces a warm welcome. For anyone thinking of coming here, I would say it is an opportunity not to be missed.

If you have questions about our Saudi Arabia relocation or immigration services, or what to expect as an expat or assignee, please get in touch today on info@eerme.com or +971 (0)4 421 1819.