✈️ Relocating to Riyadh: A Practical Guide for Families & Long-Term Expats
Whether you’re moving to Riyadh for a new job, a fresh start, or to join family, Saudi Arabia’s capital is an evolving hub that blends tradition with transformation. Here’s what you need to know to make your transition smooth and stress-free.
🏡 Choosing Where to Live
Riyadh offers a variety of neighborhoods suited to different lifestyles:
- Diplomatic Quarter (DQ): Clean, green, and secure—great for families and diplomats.
- Al Malaz & Olaya: Central locations, good for access to offices, schools, and shops.
- Expat Compounds: Gated communities with amenities like pools, gyms, and Western-style grocery stores. These offer a more liberal lifestyle and community feel.
🔑 Tip: Compounds tend to be more expensive, but they simplify the cultural adjustment, especially for families.
📚 Education Options
If you’re moving with children, Riyadh has a range of reputable international schools offering:
- British Curriculum (British International School Riyadh)
- American Curriculum (American International School Riyadh)
- IB Programmes
- Indian Curriculum (International Indian School Riyadh)
Apply early—these schools often have waitlists, especially for popular grades.
👩⚕️ Healthcare in Riyadh
Riyadh has world-class healthcare, with private hospitals like:
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital
- Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib
- Saudi German Hospital
Most employers provide health insurance, but check what’s covered, especially for dependents.
🛍️ Daily Life & Amenities
- Groceries: Widely available, including Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, and Tamimi. Many have sections for imported goods.
- Malls: Riyadh is full of family-friendly malls like Kingdom Centre, Al Nakheel, and Riyadh Park.
- Dining: You’ll find everything from local kabsa to Starbucks and fine dining.
🧼 Domestic help (maids, drivers) is common and often employed full-time by expat families.
🌍 Adjusting to the Culture
- Friday is the weekend’s holy day – most places are quieter in the morning.
- Social gatherings may be gender-segregated, but this is slowly evolving.
- Saudi Vision 2030 is making public life more family-inclusive, with more concerts, cinemas, and parks.
👮 Legal & Safety Considerations
- Riyadh is very safe; crime rates are low.
- Keep copies of your Iqama, passport, and documents on hand.
- Follow local traffic laws strictly—fines are issued electronically and can be steep.
📦 Moving Tips
- Ship belongings in advance using a trusted international mover.
- Furnishing: Many rental properties are unfurnished; IKEA and Home Centre are popular choices for setup.
- Internet & Mobile: Fast and reliable. Major providers include STC, Zain, and Mobily.
🕌 Religion & Respect
- Ramadan is observed strictly—no eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
- Mosques are central to daily life; prayer times affect opening hours for shops and services.
- Learn a few phrases in Arabic—locals appreciate the effort.
✍️ Final Word
Relocating to Riyadh can be a major life change, but with preparation and the right mindset, it offers a safe, modern, and family-oriented lifestyle in a region full of opportunity.
