Ep 86. Building Your Tribe in Saudi Arabia: Real Expat Stories with Sarah, Victoria and Jules

Thinking about moving to Saudi Arabia... but worried you'll feel lonely?

One of the biggest questions we hear is: "How do you actually make friends in Saudi Arabia?" In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie is joined by Sarah, Victoria and Jules, three women at very different stages of their Saudi journey, to talk honestly about building a life in the Kingdom. From arriving with no support network to finding lifelong friendships, they share the highs, the challenges and the unexpected moments that transformed Saudi Arabia from somewhere they moved for work into a place they now call home.

Together, they discuss the reality of making friends as an adult, raising families far from home, compound life versus living off compound, navigating loneliness, and why having a strong community can completely change your expat experience.

Whether you're moving on your own, relocating with children, or simply looking to feel more connected, this conversation is packed with practical advice and reassurance from women who've lived it.

SHOW NOTES

• Why finding your tribe is one of the most important parts of moving to Saudi Arabia
• Sarah, Victoria and Jules share their unique expat journeys
• The reality of making friends as an adult in a new country
• Compound life vs living off compound
• Coping with loneliness and building a support system
• How motherhood can help (or complicate) making new friends
• Why so many expats end up staying longer than planned
• Practical tips for meeting people and creating meaningful friendships
• Navigating the highs and lows of expat life in Riyadh
• Advice for anyone considering a move to Saudi Arabia
  
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