August 6, 2025

Myths vs. Reality: Living in Saudi Arabia

August 6, 2025

Myths vs. Reality: Living in Saudi Arabia

Since sharing that I’ve officially become a Saudi resident, I’ve been flooded with questions- everything from daily life to career opportunities, culture, safety, and beyond.

So I thought I’d clear the air by sharing a few common myths vs. the realities I’ve personally experienced:

Myth #1: “Saudi is too conservative to enjoy life.”

Reality: Yes, it's a conservative society - and that’s part of its cultural identity. But life here is evolving rapidly. Cafés, concerts, sports events, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals are now part of everyday life. The quality of life can be genuinely high, especially if you’re open-minded and curious.

Myth #2: “It’s not safe, especially for foreigners.”


Reality: Saudi Arabia is incredibly safe. Crime rates are low, especially compared to many global cities. I walk around at night without hesitation, and as a foreign resident, I feel welcomed and respected.

Myth #3: “There’s no professional growth here.”


Reality: The Kingdom is undergoing massive transformation under Vision 2030. Industries like tech, tourism, healthcare, and sustainability are booming. There’s demand for talent and real opportunity to build and shape impactful projects from the ground up.

Myth #4: “It’s difficult to adapt to the culture.”


Reality: Like any international move, there’s a learning curve - but people are helpful, the expat community is strong, and Arabic hospitality is real. If you come with respect and curiosity, adaptation happens faster than you'd think.

If you’ve ever considered working or living in Saudi Arabia, now might be the time to take a second look.

Contact and Disclaimer

Should you have any questions regarding the above information, or require assistance with your immigration or global mobility matters, please don’t hesitate to contact our legal team at Hudson McKenzie. You can reach us by email at londoninfo@hudsonmckenzie.com or by telephone at +44 (0) 20 3318 5794.

For office locations, please visit our Our Offices page.

The information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.

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