Saudi Life: Unpacked

What is Saudi cuisine really like - and what should you expect when dining in Saudi Arabia? In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily head to Maiz restaurant in Bujairi Terrace for a special on-location episode, sitting down with Chef Elia Kaady to explore the richness of Saudi food, culture, and tradition. From iconic dishes like jareesh, salig, and kubeba to the role of dates, Arabic coffee, and sharing-style dining, this episode breaks down what makes Saudi cuisine so unique. We also explore how modern Saudi dining is evolving - balancing tradition with fine dining, and catering to different dietary needs including vegetarian options. We also talk about:The diversity of Saudi cuisine across its 13 regionsWhat expats should expect when exploring Saudi foodThe importance of hospitality and communal diningHow Eid is celebrated through food and family gatheringsMust-try dishes if you’re visiting Saudi Arabia Whether you're living in Saudi, planning a move, or just curious about the culture - this is your inside look at one of the most exciting culinary scenes in the Middle East.  SHOW NOTESRecording at Mays, Bujairi TerraceChef Elia Kaady's journey to Saudi cuisine KeySaudi dishes: jareesh, salig, kubebaRegional diversity of Saudi foodSharing-style dining and hospitalityVegetarian options and modern twistsCamel, dates, and traditional ingredientsEid traditions and family food cultureMust-try dish: kubeba Experiencing Saudi culture through food Stay Connected: 📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes. 

What if the most interesting place to travel right now… isn’t somewhere you fly to - but somewhere you live? Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about destinations in the world, yet for many, what travel here actually looks like still feels unknown. In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down with Izy - a sports media presenter whose journey in Saudi started with motorsport, but evolved into something much deeper. After first arriving for Formula E, Izy quickly realised that the reality of Saudi Arabia was completely different from what she expected. What began as short work trips turned into a full life in the Kingdom - one that’s taken her far beyond the cities, into remote landscapes, hidden heritage sites, and parts of Saudi most people never see. From road trips through Ha’il to discovering ancient rock art dating back thousands of years, this conversation explores how living in Saudi changes the way you experience it. We talk about what it really means to travel Saudi as an expat, why the country feels so different from anywhere else, and how culture, community, and curiosity shape the experience in ways you can’t plan for. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s actually like to live, explore, and discover Saudi Arabia from the inside, this episode offers a perspective you rarely hear. SHOW NOTES:Izzy’s journey into life in Saudi Arabia Expat life as a single woman in theKingdom Traveling Saudi beyond the citiesHidden destinations: Ha’il, AlUla, Jeddah Discovering Saudi’s ancient history heritageHow living here changes the way you travel Tourism, culture Vision 2030The reality of Saudi hospitality and communityWhy Saudi is more than most people expect Stay Connected: 📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What is it really like to live in Saudi Arabia as an expat mum?In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie sits down with Dani (Dani in KSA), a luxury media founder, content creator, and mum of four, to unpack her journey from the West to building a life in Riyadh.From navigating cultural differences and early challenges to raising teenagers between identities, Dani shares a deeply honest look at expat life in Saudi Arabia.We talk about motherhood, belonging, misconceptions about Saudi culture, and why the Kingdom is becoming one of the most exciting places to live and raise a family.We also dive into life at the Red Sea, as a holiday destination destinations like SLS Red Sea and the evolving tourism landscape shaping the future of Saudi Arabia.If you’ve ever considered moving to Saudi - or are curious about what life here actually looks like - this episode gives you a real, grounded perspective.SHOW NOTES:Dani’s journey to living in Saudi ArabiaExpat life, motherhood raising kids in KSACulture, identity common misconceptionsFamily support life inRiyadhHow Saudi changed her perspectiveThe Red Sea Saudi’s growing lifestyle sceneAdvice for moving to Saudi ArabiaStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

Moving countries with teenagers is one of the hardest transitions a family can face - but no one really talks about it.In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down with Saudi content creator Ruba Tursun and her mother Dr. Rihab, a marriage and family therapy consultant based in Riyadh.Together they explore the emotional realities of moving countries, raising teenagers between cultures, and how families can navigate big transitions while protecting their relationships.Ruba shares her experience moving from Miami to Saudi Arabia at 17 and the identity shift that came with it, while Dr. Rihab offers expert insight into parenting through cultural transitions, supporting teenagers during relocation, and why therapy is becoming increasingly important in Saudi Arabia.The conversation also dives into the evolving openness around mental health in the Kingdom, the pressures expat families face when relocating, and how parents and children can stay connected through life’s biggest changes.If you’re an expat moving to Saudi Arabia, raising children abroad, or curious about family life and mental health in the Kingdom, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical advice.SHOWNOTES:What it’s really like moving teenagers between culturesRuba’s experience leaving Miami and returning to Saudi ArabiaThe identity shift that happens when you relocate as a young adultWhy moving countries can challenge marriages and familiesHow parents can support teenagers during relocationThe importance of maintaining routines when moving abroadHow Saudi Arabia’s culture and lifestyle have evolved over the past decadeBreaking the stigma around therapy in Saudi ArabiaWhy communication between parents and children is essential during transitionsThe unique mother-daughter relationship between Ruba and Dr. RihabStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What’s really hidden inside Old Riyadh?In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down with Fatimah Abusrair, a licensed tour guide, communication consultant and cultural storyteller who is helping people experience a different side of the city.Fatimah runs the first tip-based walking tour in Saudi Arabia, guiding guests through the historic Qasr Al-Hukm district - home to Masmak Fort, traditional souqs, Friday auctions and some of Riyadh’s most fascinating cultural stories.Through her tours, she brings the history, traditions and everyday life of the area to life in a way many visitors and even long-term expats often miss.In this conversation we talk about the inspiration behind her tours, the cultural details hidden in plain sight around Riyadh, and why understanding the roots of the city can completely change how you see Saudi Arabia today.If you’ve ever driven past Old Riyadh and wondered what’s actually there, this episode might just inspire you to go and explore it for yourself.SHOW NOTES• Meet Fatimah Abusrair and her unique tip-based tour concept• Exploring the historic Qasr Al-Hukm district in Old Riyadh• The cultural stories behind Masmak Fort and the surrounding souqs• Why authentic walking tours are still rare in Saudi Arabia• The famous Friday antique auctions in Old Riyadh• Why tipping culture feels unusual in Saudi• Understanding Saudi traditions and everyday cultural moments• Keeping up with the rapid changes happening across Riyadh• Fatimah’s vision to inspire more local tour guides in the KingdomStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What is the Red Sea really like - and is it worth the trip for expat families in Saudi?In this special catch-up episode, Frankie and Lily record live from the SLS Red Sea, sharing their first impressions of one of the Kingdom’s newest destinations.From the striking contrast of desert, mountains and turquoise water to how established the resorts already feel, they talk through what surprised them most and what the experience is really like on the ground.They also explore how family-friendly the Red Sea is, from kids’ clubs and activities to the rare chance for parents to properly switch off.With a flight time of around 90 minutes from Riyadh, no time difference and easy transfers, it’s quickly becoming a convenient option for weekends, Ramadan, Eid and school holidays.If you’re living in Saudi and looking for an easy escape or wondering whether the Red Sea is worth the visit, this episode gives you an honest expat perspective.SHOWNOTESRecording live from the Red Sea at SLS ResortFirst impressions: desert landscapes, turquoise water and mountain viewsWhat surprised us most about the destinationHow family-friendly the Red Sea really isKids’ clubs, activities and time to actually switch offWhy the Red Sea works as an easy escape from Riyadh (90-minute flight, same time zone)Visiting during Ramadan, Eid and school holidaysThe reality of ongoing development and what to expectWhy short domestic getaways are becoming part of expat life in SaudiRESOURCE AND RECOMMENDATIONDestination: SLS Red SeaBest Time to Visit: October to April for the most comfortable weatherRamadan and Eid for a quieter, slower atmosphereStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

Ramadan Kareem! If this is your first Ramadan in Saudi Arabia, or you’re simply wondering what to expect, this episode is your practical, expat-friendly guide.Frankie and Lily share what really changes during Ramadan, from working hours and supermarket schedules to iftar etiquette, traffic patterns, and the cultural rhythm of daily life. They also talk about the spirit behind the holy month and how expats can show respect, patience, and kindness while embracing this special time in the Kingdom.Think of this episode as your gentle guide to navigating Ramadan with confidence, kindness, and an open mind. Whether you’re new to Saudi or many Ramadans in, this episode will help you feel more prepared, confident, and connected.SHOWNOTESWhen Ramadan starts why dates are confirmed last minuteWhat changes during Ramadan (work, school business hours)Fasting explained public etiquette for expatsIftar basics and what to expectIf invited: what to bring what to wearSupermarket hours, restaurants daily routinesTraffic patterns and the shift to evening lifeTips for families and children during RamadanThe Ramadan atmosphere: slower pace, family time communityFinal advice: be flexible, patient and embrace the experienceRESOURCES AND RECOMMENDATIONSIftar ExperiencesFairmont Hotel – Ramadan iftar experiencesLilou Restaurant – featured Saudi Life Unpacked community iftarShopping SupermarketsDanubeSpinneysRamadan Fashion (modest wear ideas)COSHMNextMarks SpencerEducation EventAnderson Education – UK Boarding School Exhibition (Fairmont, Riyadh)Travel Ideas During RamadanAlUlaRed SeaAbhaStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What is it really like living and working in Saudi Arabia as an expat woman in leadership?In this episode of Saudi Life Unpacked, Frankie Lily sit down with Noirin Hegarty, Editor-in-Chief of List Magazine Saudi, who shares her honest journey from once believing the media stereotypes about Saudi Arabia… to now calling it one of the most exciting places she’s ever lived and worked.We talk about women in leadership in Saudi, the reality of expat life in Riyadh, misconceptions about Islam and Saudi culture, and what it’s like moving to the Kingdom when you’re the one with the big career opportunity - and your husband is the “supportive spouse.”Noirin also gives us an insider look at Saudi’s rapidly growing media and tourism industries, why Vision 2030 feels different on the ground, and the destinations in Saudi Arabia she believes the world is seriously sleeping on including the Red Sea luxury resorts, AlUla, and beyond.If you’ve ever wondered what life in Saudi Arabia is truly like for expats, professionals, and families, this episode is for you.SHOWNOTES- From media stereotypes to real life in SaudiExpat life in Riyadh: expectations vs reality-When the wife moves for work: the supportive spouse dynamic-Loneliness, community, and life beyond the compound-Compound vs city living in Saudi ArabiaWomen in leadership in the Kingdom-Working culture and gender perceptions-Misconceptions about Islam and Saudi society-Hospitality, family values, and daily life-Storytelling and media from inside Saudi-The shift from print to digital in the region-Vision 2030 and Saudi national prideLiving in a fast-changing, future-focused country-Saudi’s growing global cultural and entertainment scene-Travel highlights: Red Sea, AlUla, Abha and beyond-Raising global families and redefining “home”Resources RecommendationsList Magazine Saudi – English-language luxury lifestyle, culture, and travel publication based in SaudiSRMG (Saudi Research Media Group) – The media group behind List MagazineTahlia Street, Riyadh – Central lifestyle area known for cafés, restaurants, and walkable city livingSoMatcha / café co-working culture in Riyadh – Example of modern social/work spaces in the citySaudi Compounds – Referenced in discussion about expat housing and community livingLamb Bakery, Paris – Bakery founded by a Saudi former doctor (story featured in List, tied to Saudi pride)Stay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What does it really take to walk across Saudi Arabia on foot - as a woman?In this extraordinary episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Lily sit down with Alice Morrison, a British explorer, journalist, and adventurer who has just completed a world-first journey: walking 2,195km across Saudi Arabia over 112 days, from the Jordan border all the way down through the Kingdom.Recorded only moments after she finished (still in her desert expedition gear!), Alice takes us behind the scenes of one of the most ambitious overland journeys ever attempted in Saudi Arabia. We talk about the reality of daily life in the desert - no bathrooms, limited water, blistered feet, survival logistics and the deep human moments that made it unforgettable.Along the way, she shares what she learned about Saudi hospitality, cultural respect (ehdram), the kindness of strangers, and why Saudi Arabia felt not only welcoming but surprisingly safe - even as a solo female traveler.If you’ve ever been curious about Saudi Arabia beyond the headlines, this episode is a rare window into the country’s landscapes, people, and spirit - told through a journey few could imagine.Listen now, and if you’re navigating life in Saudi (or thinking about moving), this one will leave you inspired.SHOW NOTES:Walking across Saudi Arabia solo: route + logisticsDesert survival: water, navigation the role of her support teamThe mental game of solitude and enduranceCamel culture (yes, emotional support camels!)Saudi hospitality, safety what locals really thought of the expeditionWhat Alice is doing next (book + possible TV series)

What happens when life forces you to stop - and start again?In this episode of Saudi Life Unpacked, Frankie Lily sit down with Umniah Alzahery, a Saudi entrepreneur based in Jeddah, to talk about career ambition, burnout, illness, and building a business that brought joy back into her life.Umniah shares her journey from a high-pressure corporate HR career to surviving cancer during the pandemic - and how that experience completely reshaped her relationship with work, health, and success. We explore what it is really like to navigate Saudi Arabia’s corporate world, the healthcare system, and female entrepreneurship, and how a simple love of food evolved into a taco truck business that went all the way to Formula 1 events.This is an honest, powerful conversation about resilience, reinvention, and what life and business can look like when you choose purpose over pressure.A must-listen for those at a crossroads - For anyone feeling burned out, rethinking their career, building something new, or finding their place in Saudi Arabia.SHOWNOTES:- Working in Saudi Arabia’s corporate world and the pressure to succeed- Burnout, health challenges, and navigating cancer during COVID- The Saudi healthcare system and personal care experiences- Leaving corporate life and redefining success- Building a food truck business in Jeddah from scratch- Turning a side hustle into a Formula 1-level business- Female entrepreneurship and startup culture in Saudi Arabia- Life lessons on resilience, purpose, and starting againFor community questions tips, join our Whatsapp community here:Khobar; https://chat.whatsapp.com/K8Dk4iX50tNLukqgHHLnvV?mode=ems_copy_cJeddah; https://chat.whatsapp.com/Kv6MxVrWKwG3pjv2XXFciH?mode=ems_copy_cRiyadh; https://chat.whatsapp.com/DysXvVVswHoHhUNMxALH1s?mode=ems_copy_c

Can you drink the tap water in Saudi Arabia? And what’s actually the safest, healthiest option for your family?In this research-led episode of Saudi Life Unpacked, Frankie and Lily deep dive into one of the most asked (and most misunderstood) expat topics: water quality in Saudi Arabia. From desalinated tap water and delivery gallon bottles, to glass spring water and under-sink filtration systems, they break down the pros, cons, costs, and health considerations of each option.Lily shares the months of independent testing she carried out  including third-party lab testing,  to understand what’s really in common household water sources in the Kingdom. They also discuss microplastics, TDS (total dissolved solids), chlorine, and why water safety can feel different in a desert climate.Whether you’re new to Saudi or have lived here for years, this episode will help you make informed decisions about drinking water, filtered water systems, bottled water, and family health in the region.SHOW NOTES:- Why Saudi tap water is desalinated and why most residents avoid drinking it- The pros and cons of gallon bottled water (cost, convenience, microplastics)- Glass bottled spring water as an alternative- What microplastics are and why heat can make plastic bottles a concern- What TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) means when testing water quality- Installing an under-sink home filtration system and how it works- Independent lab testing results for filtered vs. tap water- Cost comparison between bottled water and filtration systems-  Other home water considerations like shower filters and hard waterResources & RecommendationsWater Filtration & Testing-  Brita – Popular pitcher and faucet-mounted water filters- TDS Meter – Handheld Total Dissolved Solids tester for home water checks-  Under-Sink Reverse Osmosis (RO) System – Whole-home/under-sink filtration optionBottled Water Options- Glass Spring Water – Recommended to avoid microplastics and heat leaching-  Delivered Gallon Water Containers – Common expat water delivery choiceHealth & Safety- Third-Party Water Lab Testing – For accurate analysis of minerals, TDS, and contaminantsStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

Ep 58. From Identity to Anxiety: Psychologist, Carl Garner on the Real Emotional Impact of Moving Abroad