The metropolitan of Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia. The name of Riyadh is derived from the plural form of the Arabic word rawah, which means gardens or meadows. Developed from a small, fortified desert village in the 17th century into a contemporary metropolis with several million residents in the 20th century, Riyadh is one of the few cities in the world to have undergone such rapid transformation. Due to this, living in Riyadh is one of the best experiences for expats and Saudi natives. The city is popular for advanced commercial offices and calm neighborhoods.
Riyadh weather and climate
Although there is a significant difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures, Riyadh’s climate is characterized by high heat in the summer. The average high temperatures hit 40°C in summers and lower temperatures reach 10°C in winters. Riyadh has low humidity all year long, especially in the summer, as a result of its distance from significant water bodies and the general lack of precipitation in the city. When it does rain, it mostly happens between the months of November and May.
How to travel in Riyadh
King Khalid International Airport is about 35 km north of Riyadh and serves local and international flights. The modern city of Riyadh was planned using a grid system of broad thoroughfares and expressways. In Riyadh, taxis are a popular mode of transportation. Local buses offer budgeted travel along set routes. Railways link Al-Dammam, an eastern seaport, with Riyadh. One can also get an expats’ guide for Riyadh but needs to do proper research about them before traveling and living in Riyadh.
Riyadh’s culture and traditions
The Islamic background, ancient commerce hub status, and Bedouin customs of Saudi Arabia all contribute to the country’s distinctive culture. The values and traditions of Saudi culture have changed over time, adjusting to modernity in everything from rituals, hospitality, and apparels.
Riyadh dress code
Foreigners are exempted from the requirement that Saudi women are obliged to do such as wearing the abaya – a traditional, long, black dress – in public. In addition, both Saudi women and female tourists are not required to wear the hijab or niqab. However, both men and women should always keep local sensibilities in mind and dress sophisticatedly as per the customs of Saudi Arabia.
Recreational activities in Riyadh
Recreation in Saudi Arabia is centered around more than 4,000 mosques and numerous bustling shopping malls in Riyadh. The city’s central area and numerous souks (marketplaces) draw a lot of foot traffic, highlighting the city’s vibrant energy. Recreational activities cover family affairs, and male attendees are typically the only ones allowed at significant public events. However, many recreation centers allow women and families to go during specific hours or designated sections. Expats can also visit various tourist attractions to get a respite from modern life.
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Riyadh: Adventure & Cultural Activities
Expat life in Riyadh
Riyadh offers expats a relatively high standard of living. The expat communities get access to numerous amenities and facilities. These neighborhoods’ heavily secured gates conceal a wealth of recreational activities. Standard facilities often include swimming pools, gyms, and different sports fields. The rigorous local norms are not enforced in the foreign residential neighborhoods. However, expats should maintain the sensibilities of Saudi culture while dressing and interacting with local communities. Expats can easily get access to internet connection, satellite TV, and stock up of books. Most local TV shows are in Arabic; hence, OTT platforms and YouTube provide the basic source of media for expats.
Best compounds in Riyadh for expat
1. Al Hamra Oasis Village
Al Hamra Oasis Village Compound, one of Riyadh’s most known residential compounds, provides a complete selection of home designs to meet the needs and preferences of a family. It is situated close to the King Khalid International Airport Ring Road and the Dammam Motorway. The airport and Riyadh’s central commercial districts, including hypermarkets, movie theaters, and restaurants, can be reached in around 15 minutes by car. The compound offers 24-hour high-standard security measures, guaranteeing that all necessary procedures and tools are in place for the inhabitants to live in a secure and safe environment.
2. Eid Villas
The world is welcomed at Eid Villas, stylish, high-quality living, in the center of the Arabian Desert. The resort offers upscale, well-known, five-star accommodations that are designed for practicality and elegant stays. It is well situated, apart from the hustle and bustle of the city but close to the ring road and the international airport of Riyadh.
3. Al Ola Real Estate
Al Ola Real Estate provides a variety of property types to meet the demands of the expats. The guests can also host business meetings, family gatherings, and social events. Residential properties come in a variety of styles and sizes, including 1, 2, and 3 bedroom villas and 1, 2, and 3 bedroom flats. Three different styles of three-bedroom villas are available, offering one with a wider range of options. There is a villa to suit every need in terms of price. All residential apartments are built to the greatest standards. They can be outfitted with high-quality furniture or left empty depending on the client’s needs. All of the rooms have split and window A/C units that are serviced by the maintenance team.
Living in Riyadh is an excellent experience for people from around the world. Expats will come to know about the well-known Arabian hospitality and friendly neighborhoods. Working and living in Riyadh becomes all the more fun when one knows how to blend into the local culture.
Suggested Read: Top 9 Hotels In Center Point, Riyadh Or The Kingdom Tower
Living In Riyadh FAQs
Where is the city of Riyadh?
Riyadh is the capital city of Saudi Arabia. It is located between the greater Arabian Peninsula and Saudi Arabia.
Why is Riyadh referred to as cultural capital of Saudi Arabia?
Due to its many cultural institutions, Riyadh is referred to as the cultural capital of Saudi Arabia. The King Abd al-Azz Historical Centre, the National Museum, and the National Library are a few among them.
How is it like to live in Riyadh?
Living in Riyadh is a unique experience due to the infusion of an advanced technological world with the Arabian traditions.
What is the weather like in Riyadh?
The weather of Riyadh can be challenging during summers due to extreme hot temperatures.
