Saudi Life: Unpacked

Thinking about having a baby in Saudi Arabia? Wondering what breastfeeding support is really like?In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie sits down with Dr. Eman, a pharmacist, certified lactation consultant, VBAC educator, and pediatric nutritionist, to answer the questions every new and expectant mum has.Together, they discuss what breastfeeding looks like in Saudi hospitals, whether you can breastfeed in public, the biggest myths surrounding breastfeeding, and why so many mothers struggle with pain, milk supply, and confidence during their feeding journey.Dr. Eman also shares her own personal experience with postpartum depression, how it inspired her to become a lactation consultant, and why every mother deserves breastfeeding support before leaving the hospital.Whether you're expecting your first baby, relocating to Saudi Arabia with a young family, or simply looking for expert breastfeeding advice, this episode is packed with practical guidance and reassurance.SHOW NOTESDr. Eman shares her journey to becoming a lactation consultant.Breastfeeding support available in Saudi Arabia.Can you breastfeed in public in Saudi?Common breastfeeding challenges and myths.Tips for pumping and returning to work.Why maternal mental health matters.Advice for new and expecting mums living in Saudi.Product Recommendations:Pigeon Softouch BottleLansinoh (nipple cream, breast pumps, milk storage bags, nursing pads)Haakaa PumpNursing PillowBreast PumpNursing CoverStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What if the best family memories you’ll make in Saudi are the ones just a road trip away?In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down for a catch-up episode reflecting on a whirlwind few weeks of recording, exploring, and experiencing more of Saudi Arabia than ever before.From AlUla and The Red Sea to authentic Saudi homes, desert discoveries, local restaurants, family travel, and female solo adventures - this episode is all about why now feels like the most exciting time yet to properly explore the Kingdom.We chat about why domestic tourism in Saudi is booming, the destinations expats are loving right now, why more people are staying local for Eid, female travel and road trips around the Kingdom, what’s surprised us most about Saudi culture, creating family memories while living here, life lately in Riyadh, and why expats really shouldn’t wait to properly experience Saudi.We also reflect on the incredible guests we’ve recently spoken to -  from exploring ancient archaeological sites and hidden desert gems, to learning about Eid traditions, Saudi hospitality, food, and the rapid transformation happening across the country.This episode is your reminder to stop putting Saudi travel off and start exploring the incredible experiences right on your doorstep.SHOW NOTES:Why domestic tourism in Saudi is boomingWhy more expats are staying local for EidAlUla, Red Sea & Saudi travel experiencesFemale travel & road trips around the KingdomSaudi culture, hospitality & traditionsFamily travel & creating core memories Life lately in Riyadh School decisions, health & routinesWhy expats should explore Saudi moreStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

You can live in Saudi for years -  and still never experience this.What if the most authentic way to understand Saudi Arabia isn’t through what you see, but through who you sit with?In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily step inside a Saudi family home joined by their host Fatima through the Hi Home experience and it completely shifts their perspective on what Saudi hospitality really means. From the moment you’re welcomed with Arabic coffee and dates, to trying on traditional dress, cooking together, and sitting down for an open, honest conversation,  this is a rare, immersive look at Saudi culture that most expats never get to experience.We unpack the traditions, the generosity, and the deeply rooted values behind Saudi homes  and why experiences like this are changing the way people understand life in the Kingdom.If you’ve ever felt like Saudi culture is hard to fully grasp from the outside, this episode brings you one step closer to understanding it from within.SHOW NOTESWhat the Hi Home experience is and how it worksWhat it’s like to be welcomed into a Saudi family homeThe role of the majlis in Saudi cultureTraditional Saudi hospitality rituals (coffee, dates, incense)Trying on regional Saudi dress and learning traditional skillsCooking Saudi dishes like mandi, sayadiya, and sambosaFood culture and how meals are shared in Saudi homesCultural etiquette: what to bring when visiting a Saudi homeThe meaning of generosity and gift-giving in Saudi societyHow Vision 2030 is opening up cultural experiencesWhat Eid really looks like inside a Saudi familyWhy community and hospitality are central to Saudi lifeStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What is it really like to move to Saudi Arabia with children and can you actually travel to places like AlUla as a family? In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily are joined by two expat mums at different stages of their journey - Cami recently moved from Sydney with her family and is navigating the early stages of settling in, while Emma, originally from the UK, has been in Saudi for over a year and a half and offers a more established perspective on expat life. Together, they share an honest conversation about raising children in Saudi, the realities of adjusting to a new culture, and the role community plays in making the transition easier. The conversation also explores their recent Eid trip to AlUla - covering everything from travel logistics and where to stay, to whether AlUla is truly family-friendly and what there actually is for kids to do.If you’re considering a move to Saudi, navigating expat life, or planning a trip to AlUla with children, this episode offers a real and practical perspective from those living it. SHOW NOTES:Meet Cami and Emma and their move to Saudi Relocating with kids and early adjustment stagesWhat surprised them most about life in Saudi Safety, community and compound livingKids settling in and making friends Traveling within Saudi and why it’s growingTheir Eid trip to AlUla Is AlUla family friendly Where to stay and what to expectTop things to do in AlUla Travel tips for families visiting AlUlaFinal thoughts on life in Saudi as an expat family Stay Connected: 📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What does life in Saudi Arabia actually feel like right now?In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down for a raw, unfiltered catch-up after a month of unexpected change, uncertainty, and emotional highs and lows.From leaving the Kingdom temporarily, navigating homeschooling and disrupted travel plans, to returning and adjusting to a new “in-between” reality - this is an honest conversation about what expat life really looks like behind the scenes.We talk about:– the mental load of uncertainty– how differently people cope in the same situation– raising children through unfamiliar moments– the contrast between everyday normality and underlying anxiety– and why community has never felt more importantThis isn’t a news update. It’s not a polished take. It’s simply two expat mums sharing their real experience in the hope it helps you feel less alone, wherever you are.If you’re living in Saudi, considering a move, or just curious about what life here is really like right now - this conversation is for you.SHOW NOTES:A real catch-up after a month of unexpected changeWhy we chose to temporarily leave Saudi (and come back)The reality of life on the ground vs what people see onlineNavigating uncertainty, anxiety, and the “what if” feelingHow differently people cope — and why that’s okayManaging conversations with kids during confusing momentsBalancing normal daily life with underlying stressThe mental load of not knowing what’s nextFinding comfort in routine, community, and connectionWhy no one really has the answers right nowStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What if the world’s next luxury travel destination wasn’t in Europe or the Maldives - but in Saudi Arabia?Saudi Arabia is becoming one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the world, but most people still have no idea what travel here actually looks like.In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down with Thomas Staunton, a luxury tourism expert working at the forefront of the Kingdom’s rapidly evolving tourism industry.After arriving in Saudi from Australia, Thomas quickly realised the reality of life and travel here was completely different from what many people imagine. From untouched desert landscapes and coral reefs in the Red Sea to emerging destinations like AlUla, Saudi is quietly building a luxury tourism ecosystem unlike anywhere else.We talk about what luxury travel in Saudi actually means, why privacy and authenticity are defining the Saudi travel experience, and how Vision 2030 is transforming the country into a global destination.If you’ve ever been curious about visiting Saudi Arabia or wondered why so many people are suddenly talking about it, this episode will give you a fascinating look inside the Kingdom’s tourism boom.SHOWNOTES:Thomas’s journey from Australia to Saudi ArabiaHow Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is growing faster than anywhere in the worldThe role of Vision 2030 in shaping the country’s travel industryWhy Saudi luxury tourism is built around privacy, authenticity and spaceThe concept of “hafawa” - the Saudi spirit of generosityHow destinations like AlUla, the Red Sea and Riyadh are transforming global tourismWhy Saudi’s untouched landscapes give it a “late mover advantage” in sustainabilityThe difference between luxury travel in Saudi vs Europe or other destinationsWhat expats often misunderstand about Saudi before arrivingWhy embracing local culture makes the biggest difference when living hereStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What is the Red Sea Project really like - and is it worth visiting right now?In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily record live from SLS Red Sea, one of Saudi Arabia’s newest luxury resorts.We share our first impressions, what surprised us the most, and answer the questions we constantly get from expats: How do you get there? Can you bring kids? Is it worth the price?From the futuristic airport arrival to the electric-blue water, family-friendly activities and incredible food, we unpack what a stay at the Red Sea actually looks like right now - including the exciting parts and the realities of visiting a destination still being developed.If you're living in Saudi or considering visiting, this episode gives you an honest look at one of the Kingdom’s most talked-about new destinations.SHOW NOTESRecording live from SLS Red Sea, one of Saudi Arabia’s newest luxury resortsHow to get there from Riyadh, Jeddah and DubaiFirst impressions of the Red Sea ProjectWhat the arrival and airport experience is likeTravelling to the Red Sea with kidsKids club, water sports and family activitiesFood, service and overall resort experienceSafety and atmosphere compared to other destinationsPricing and value compared to places like Dubai or the MaldivesWhat to expect while the Red Sea is still being developedStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What would you do if your life changed overnight?In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down with artist Aida Murad, whose life changed overnight when she became partially paralysed with rheumatoid arthritis in her early twenties. Instead of focusing on what she had lost, she chose to focus on the 1% she could still use - and that decision led her to a completely new purpose through art.Now based in Saudi Arabia, Aida is an artist-in-residence at the St. Regis, a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, and an advocate for creativity as a tool for healing, innovation and personal growth.We also explore what it’s really like building a creative career in Saudi today - the opportunities, the relationship-driven culture, the need for patience and flexibility, and why this moment in the Kingdom feels like a once-in-a-generation opportunity for creatives and entrepreneurs.If you’ve ever wondered whether you can build a creative life in Saudi Arabia - this episode is for you.SHOWNOTESRecording live at St. Regis with artist Aida MuradFrom burnout and paralysis to finding purpose through artThe powerful “focus on the 1%” mindsetHow art supports healing, perspective and wellbeingWhy she chose to move to Saudi ArabiaThe growing opportunities for creatives in the KingdomUnderstanding relationship-based business culture in SaudiThe importance of patience, flexibility and long-term thinkingHer book Life is a Miracle and the message behind itAdvice for expats and creatives considering a move to SaudiStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What does it really look like to build a company, raise a family, and make Saudi home - all at the same time?In this episode, Frankie and Lily were joined by Kris Stephan - a business owner, mum of two, and CEO in the fast-growing esports industry.Kris shares her journey from growing up in Saudi as an expat child to returning years later as a founder and working mum.We talk about what it’s really like to set up a business in the Kingdom, the opportunities Saudi currently offers entrepreneurs, and how she balances motherhood with building a company in a male-dominated industry.This is an inspiring conversation for anyone considering starting something of their own in Saudi - especially mums wondering if it’s possible to do both.SHOW NOTESGrowing up on a compound in Saudi - then returning as an adultWhy Saudi is becoming a global hub for gaming and esportsWhat it actually takes to set up a business in the KingdomThe realities of paperwork, timelines, and costsFemale leadership in male-dominated industriesBalancing entrepreneurship with motherhoodWhy Saudi can make working motherhood easierThe opportunity Saudi offers for long-term expat lifeKris' advice for anyone wanting to start a business: don’t overthink itRESOURCE AND RECOMMENDATIONSSaudi Vision 2030 (entrepreneurship industry growth)MISA (Ministry of Investment Saudi Arabia) – business licensingEsports World Cup (Riyadh annual event)Stay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What happens when you say yes to moving somewhere most people don’t understand?In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down with Sharn, an Australian social media manager who recently moved to Riyadh and has already made waves online sharing her experience of life in the Kingdom.From going viral with a falcon video to navigating culture shock, homesickness, and Riyadh traffic, Sharn opens up about the real highs and lows of starting over abroad. The conversation explores how social media is reshaping perceptions of Saudi Arabia, what it takes to build a community as an expat, and why curiosity and kindness go a long way.They also talk about Saudi’s evolving entertainment scene, mental health during big life transitions, and Sharn’s goal to keep learning and growing - especially as she prepares to experience her first Ramadan in the Kingdom. If you’ve ever wondered what expat life in Saudi Arabia is truly like, this episode offers an honest, modern, and refreshingly human perspective.SHOW NOTESSharn’s move from Australia to Riyadh and starting over inSaudi Building a social media presence and going viral while sharing real expat lifeLearning cultural nuances with curiosity, respect, and a few lessons along the wayMaking friends from scratch and finding community abroadAdjusting to daily life in Riyadh - traffic, systems, and patienceExperiencing Saudi’s evolving entertainment and social sceneNavigating homesickness, mental health, and the balance between honesty and positivityEmbracing growth and looking ahead to learning more about Saudi culture and RamadanStay Connected: 📍Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

Welcome back, it’s our first catch up of 2026 and we’re kicking off the year with a proper life update!Frankie and Lily kick off the new year with big updates - including Saudi Life: Unpacked officially launching on YouTube and a brand new recording space in the works before diving into a real, honest catch-up on winter break travels (UK + Ireland), expat family life, and the reality of getting back into routine after the holidays.We also get into the stuff no one really talks about: post-travel reset with kids, screen time culture shocks, and the emotional side of expat life - all while keeping it light, funny, and very us.Plus, we answer your burning questions about moving to Riyadh - from short-term rentals and job hunting, to how to meet people as a newcomer (especially if you’re arriving solo).SHOWNOTES:- Our first catch up of 2026 + what’s been happening behind the scenes- SLU updates: YouTube launch + a new recording space coming soon- Winter break travel recap: UK highlights, Ireland trip, and expat holiday realities- Frankie’s renovation / project house update (and the chaos that comes with it!)- The post-travel routine reset: kids, emotions, and back-to-school transitions- Screen time culture shocks + parenting abroad- Why Saudi winter is an underrated time to explore (or stay put)-QA: Your burning questionsDo you need a “perfect plan” before moving?Short-term accommodation options in RiyadhJob hunting in Saudi - what the market feels like right nowHow to make friends and build community as a newcomer (at any age)Resources Recommendations:Opal (screen time + focus app)Pinterest (vision boards / goal setting inspiration)Fairmont (near Olaya / Ramla Plaza) - long-stay studio apartment area optionAntara Compound - short-term compound stay optionThe Botanist (mentioned as an example of a small business journey)Stay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

What is life in Jeddah really like - beyond the stereotypes?In this episode of Saudi Life Unpacked, Frankie Lily sit down with Rawan Al-Turki, a Saudi photographer born and raised in Jeddah, to explore the city through truly local eyes. From the historic streets of Al-Balad to fish markets, fashion shoots, and everyday moments most visitors never see, Rawan shares how photography has become a way to tell Saudi Arabia’s untold stories.We talk about growing up in Jeddah, the city’s deep cultural mix, the role of women in Saudi’s creative industries, and how heritage and modern life coexist in powerful, unexpected ways. Rawan also reflects on how Saudi Arabia has changed over the years - especially for women and why storytelling through art matters now more than ever.This conversation is an honest, inspiring look at Jeddah’s culture, creativity, and people and a reminder that Saudi Arabia is far more layered than many imagine.This episode is a must-listen for expats, creatives, and anyone curious about modern Saudi Arabia, female perspectives, and the beauty found in everyday moments.Shownotes:- What it is really like to grow up and live in Jeddah as a Saudi woman- Why Jeddah feels culturally different from other Saudi cities- The history and beauty of Al-Balad and Hijazi architectureHow photography became a storytelling tool for capturing Saudi life- The rise of female creatives in Saudi ArabiaShooting fashion, heritage, and everyday life - from old houses to fish markets- Why art, culture, and people are central to understanding modern Saudi Arabia- How Saudi stereotypes fall apart when you experience daily life on the ground

In this episode of Saudi Life Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down for an honest, end-of-year conversation about expat life in Saudi Arabia - the highs, the challenges, and the moments that make the Kingdom start to feel like home.They share personal life updates, winter travel plans, parenting reflections, and what it really looks like to raise happy children while living abroad. The conversation also dives into community questions, including practical expat topics like shipping, Christmas traditions, events, and navigating everyday life in Saudi.Frankie and Lily pull back the curtain on building Saudi Life Unpacked as a podcast, business, and community platform - from authenticity and monetisation to why listening to the community has shaped everything they do. They also reflect on expat wins, buying property, finding identity after moving countries, and the small moments that signal you are no longer just visiting, you belong.A thoughtful, reassuring listen for anyone living abroad, re-evaluating their journey, or stepping into a new chapter in Saudi Arabia.Show Notes:- Expat family life, parenting, and school holidays- Winter travel plans and life updates- Community QA on shipping, Christmas, and everyday logistics- Building Saudi Life Unpacked as a podcast, business, and community- Events, WhatsApp groups, and bringing Saudis and expats together- When Saudi Arabia starts to feel like home- Personal wins, identity, and settling into life in the KingdomFor 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