Saudi Life: Unpacked

Lily Moffatt & Frankie Hilton
  • 5.0 (2)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Saudi Life Unpacked, the podcast where we literally unpack the expat life in Saudi Arabia.Are you Saudi quisitive? Whether you’re already here or considering making the move, this podcast is your go to resource for everything you need to know about life in Saudi Arabia.Moving to Saudi Arabia can feel like an unknown. We are here to demystify the desert and explore the vibrant and dynamic experiences of expats living in the kingdom.Frankie and Lily are here to answer your burning questions about being an expat in Saudi, as well as shining a light on the many positive aspects of living and working in this fascinating part of the world.

  1. Ep 72. Exploring Riyadh’s History & Culture Through a Local Lens with Fatimah Abusrair

    3D AGO

    Ep 72. Exploring Riyadh’s History & Culture Through a Local Lens with Fatimah Abusrair

    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 Kingdom Stay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

    34 min
  2. Ep 71. From Paralysis to Purpose: An Artist’s Inspiring Journey in Saudi Arabia with Aida Murad

    FEB 24

    Ep 71. From Paralysis to Purpose: An Artist’s Inspiring Journey in Saudi Arabia with Aida Murad

    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.SHOWNOTES Recording 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.

    41 min
  3. Ep 70. Saudi’s Red Sea Unpacked: Travel, Hotels & What to Expect

    FEB 18

    Ep 70. Saudi’s Red Sea Unpacked: Travel, Hotels & What to Expect

    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.

    18 min
  4. Ep 69. Female Founder Life in Riyadh: Gaming, Motherhood & Starting From Scratch with Kris Stephan

    FEB 17

    Ep 69. Female Founder Life in Riyadh: Gaming, Motherhood & Starting From Scratch with Kris Stephan

    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 adult Why 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.

    28 min
  5. Ep 68. Ramadan Unpacked: How Life Changes in the Kingdom

    FEB 10

    Ep 68. Ramadan Unpacked: How Life Changes in the Kingdom

    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.

    22 min
  6. Ep 67. What It’s Really Like Moving to Saudi as a Young Woman with Sharn Jaye

    FEB 3

    Ep 67. What It’s Really Like Moving to Saudi as a Young Woman with Sharn Jaye

    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 NOTES Sharn’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 Ramadan Stay Connected: 📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.

    39 min
  7. Ep 66. Leading List Magazine in Saudi Arabia with Noirin Hegarty

    JAN 27

    Ep 66. Leading List Magazine in Saudi Arabia with Noirin Hegarty

    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 Recommendations List Magazine Saudi – English-language luxury lifestyle, culture, and travel publication based in Saudi SRMG (Saudi Research Media Group) – The media group behind List Magazine Tahlia Street, Riyadh – Central lifestyle area known for cafés, restaurants, and walkable city living SoMatcha / café co-working culture in Riyadh – Example of modern social/work spaces in the city Saudi Compounds – Referenced in discussion about expat housing and community living Lamb 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.

    38 min
  8. Ep 65. Frankie & Lily's first catch up of 2026 - What We Missed, What’s New & What’s Next

    JAN 20

    Ep 65. Frankie & Lily's first catch up of 2026 - What We Missed, What’s New & What’s Next

    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.

    28 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to Saudi Life Unpacked, the podcast where we literally unpack the expat life in Saudi Arabia.Are you Saudi quisitive? Whether you’re already here or considering making the move, this podcast is your go to resource for everything you need to know about life in Saudi Arabia.Moving to Saudi Arabia can feel like an unknown. We are here to demystify the desert and explore the vibrant and dynamic experiences of expats living in the kingdom.Frankie and Lily are here to answer your burning questions about being an expat in Saudi, as well as shining a light on the many positive aspects of living and working in this fascinating part of the world.

Information

  • Creator
    Lily Moffatt & Frankie Hilton
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    73
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Saudi Life: Unpacked

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