Ever since I relocated to Saudi Arabia from India in 2019, I’ve been asked these questions so many times that they by now almost come out like scripted answers. I only keep tweaking some of them every time there is a new law introduced in the Kingdom. So let me give you a quick glimpse into these brewing questions:
1. Is it safe to live there?
Absolutely yes. Men are respectful of women to a point that they might even avoid eye contact. There is also a mobile app called ‘Kollona Amn’ to report any crime/harassment in the city with heavy penalties to face. As for any city in the world, there would be some unsafe pockets, especially in underdeveloped areas. I must admit though, the efforts by the Ministry of Health to control the spread of Covid-19 have been remarkable ranking Saudi Arabia 17th out of 200 countries in the ‘health safety and effectiveness in prevention’ report (2020, Deep Knowledge Group, HK).
2. Do you have to wear a burqa?
No. It is not a mandate for expat women to cover their head or face. As of late 2019 expat women and even Saudi women by law are only expected to dress in loose modest clothing with or without an Abaya (the traditional Saudi attire). However, you will still find a majority of women dressed in black Abayas, especially in the capital city of Riyadh. I personally like wearing an open Abaya and have a collection of 10 colors. It is a great way to fit into the local lifestyle.
3. Do you need someone to accompany you everywhere?
No. As much as I enjoy my husband’s company, I am independent to drive or take a cab to anywhere in the city – malls, salons, hypermarkets, cafés, residential complexes, etc. The ‘walking culture’ does not quite exist in Riyadh with limited zebra crossings in the city, so it is best to drive everywhere – also to avoid the blistering heat and sand during half the year
