Saudi Life: Unpacked

Epizódok

• Ep 87. Perimenopause, Hormones & HRT in Saudi: What Every Woman Needs to Know with Dr. May & Dr. Laura 17.07.2026 37p

  Brain fog. Mood swings. Poor sleep. Fatigue. Sound familiar?Many women assume it's simply stress, a busy season of life or just part of getting older. But what if it's something more?In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie is joined by Dr. May and Dr. Laura from Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital to unpack one of the biggest conversations in women's health today: perimenopause, menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).Together, they discuss the symptoms women often dismiss, why awareness around perimenopause is growing, what HRT actually is, and how women's healthcare in Saudi Arabia is evolving to better support women at every stage of life.Whether you're in your 30s, 40s or beyond, this episode is packed with expert advice to help you better understand your hormones, advocate for your health, and realise you don't have to "just put up with it."SHOW NOTESWhat is perimenopause?Early signs and symptoms to watch forPerimenopause vs menopauseIs it stress, burnout or hormones?Understanding HRT and who it's forWomen's healthcare in Saudi ArabiaPreventative health checks every woman should bookVitamins and supplements that support hormone healthLifestyle changes that make a differenceGLP-1 medications and women's healthFertility, hormones and ageingWhy you don't have to "just put up with it"How to advocate for your healthExpert advice from Dr. May & Dr. LauraPRODUCTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:Fem Fresh – Intimate WashFem Fresh – Intimate WipesVitamin DVitamin B12MagnesiumOmega-3 SupplementsStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.
• Ep 86. Building Your Tribe in Saudi Arabia: Real Expat Stories with Sarah, Victoria and Jules 10.07.2026 42p

  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 NOTESWhy finding your tribe is one of the most important parts of moving to Saudi ArabiaSarah, Victoria and Jules share their unique expat journeysThe reality of making friends as an adult in a new countryCompound life vs living off compoundCoping with loneliness and building a support systemHow motherhood can help (or complicate) making new friendsWhy so many expats end up staying longer than plannedPractical tips for meeting people and creating meaningful friendshipsNavigating the highs and lows of expat life in RiyadhAdvice for anyone considering a move to Saudi ArabiaProduct Recommendations:Batiste Dry Shampoo (Brunette)Batiste Dry Shampoo (Tropical)Batiste Dry Shampoo (Original/Classic)Stay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.
• Ep 85. Breastfeeding in Saudi Arabia: Expert Advice for New & Expecting Mums with Dr. Eman Galal 30.06.2026 16p

  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.
• Ep 84. Moving to Saudi Arabia: Fitness, Confidence & Building a New Life with Milla Aguiar 23.06.2026 35p

  Moving to Saudi Arabia changed Mila's life in ways she never expected. In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie sits down with the Brazilian fitness coach to explore her journey from teaching CrossFit to becoming a leading voice in women's fitness and wellness in the Kingdom. We explore the realities of relocating to Saudi, building a new life from scratch, finding community, adapting to cultural differences, and why so many expats end up staying far longer than they originally planned.Mila reflects on arriving in Saudi without speaking English, watching the country's fitness culture evolve, and helping women build strength, confidence, and healthier relationships with their bodies. This episode covers everything from workout routines and motivation to sleep, recovery, hydration, skincare, hormones, body image, and the growing pressure many women feel to achieve unrealistic beauty standards. This is a conversation about wellness, resilience, and creating a life you love in Saudi Arabia. SHOW NOTESMila's journey from Brazil to Saudi ArabiaMoving to the Kingdom without speaking EnglishHow Saudi Arabia's fitness scene has evolved over the past six yearsBuilding healthy habits that actually lastWhy strength training is essential for womenFinding a workout routine you genuinely enjoySocial media, body image, and fitness expectationsMila's thoughts on Ozempic and quick-fix weight loss trendsThe importance of hormones, recovery, and sleepStaying active during the Saudi summerSkincare, hydration, and wellness tips for life in Saudi ArabiaHow fitness can help build confidence and communityWhy Saudi Arabia changed Mila's mindset and perspective on lifeAdvice for women starting their fitness journeyLessons learned from living and thriving in Saudi Arabia as an expat Product Recommendations:FemfreshHuda BeautyFormeCrossFitLagree Stay Connected: 📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.
• Ep 83. Frankie and Lily Catch Up: AlUla, Red Sea & Exploring Saudi More 12.05.2026 23p

  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.
• Ep 82. The Red Sea Saudi Arabia: Inside The Kingdom’s Most Luxurious Destination with Olly Wood 06.05.2026 52p

  You can visit Saudi’s Red Sea - and still have no idea how big it really is.In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down with Olly from The Red Sea to unpack what’s really happening behind one of the world’s most ambitious tourism projects. From Desert Rock and Six Senses to SLS, St. Regis and the upcoming wellness destination Amala, this conversation goes far beyond beautiful resorts. We explore the stories behind the architecture, the meaning of Saudi hospitality and “hafawa,” the untouched landscapes of the Red Sea, and why this destination feels completely different from anywhere else in the region.We also dive into the adventure side of The Red Sea from surfing and diving to yacht clubs, wellness retreats, golf courses and family Eid escapes, and why so many expats are now choosing to holiday within Saudi instead of flying abroad.If you’re planning your escape for Eid, this episode might just convince you to book The Red Sea next. This episode is a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Saudi Arabia is building an entirely new luxury travel destination in real time - and why the rest of the world is starting to pay attentionSHOW NOTESWhy Saudi’s Red Sea is unlike anywhere else in the regionThe vision behind The Red Sea destination developmentDesert Rock, Six Senses, SLS, St. Regis Shura Island explainedThe stories and Saudi culture behind the architectureWhat “hafawa” means and why Saudi hospitality feels differentAdventure experiences: surfing, diving, wakeboarding golfThe upcoming wellness destination Amala explained Yacht clubs, wellness retreats luxury travel in SaudiWhy expats are now choosing Saudi for staycations Eid escapesWhat’s opening at The Red Sea this year Family-friendly experiences Eid activations Olly's personal recommendations for where to stayWhy Saudi tourism is moving faster than anywhere else in the worldThe future of travel in Saudi ArabiaStay Connected: 📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.
• Ep 81. What It’s Really Like Inside a Saudi Home (Hi Home Experience) 05.05.2026 26p

  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.
• Ep 80. Exploring Saudi Food: Traditional Dishes, Modern Twists and Eid Feasts with Chef Elia Kaady 02.05.2026 22p

  What is Saudi cuisine really like - and what should you expect when dining in Saudi Arabia? In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily head to Maiz restaurant in Bujairi Terrace for a special on-location episode, sitting down with Chef Elia Kaady to explore the richness of Saudi food, culture, and tradition. From iconic dishes like jareesh, salig, and kubeba to the role of dates, Arabic coffee, and sharing-style dining, this episode breaks down what makes Saudi cuisine so unique. We also explore how modern Saudi dining is evolving - balancing tradition with fine dining, and catering to different dietary needs including vegetarian options. We also talk about:The diversity of Saudi cuisine across its 13 regionsWhat expats should expect when exploring Saudi foodThe importance of hospitality and communal diningHow Eid is celebrated through food and family gatheringsMust-try dishes if you’re visiting Saudi Arabia Whether you're living in Saudi, planning a move, or just curious about the culture - this is your inside look at one of the most exciting culinary scenes in the Middle East.  SHOW NOTESRecording at Mays, Bujairi TerraceChef Elia Kaady's journey to Saudi cuisine KeySaudi dishes: jareesh, salig, kubebaRegional diversity of Saudi foodSharing-style dining and hospitalityVegetarian options and modern twistsCamel, dates, and traditional ingredientsEid traditions and family food cultureMust-try dish: kubeba Experiencing Saudi culture through food Stay Connected: 📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes. 
• Ep 79. Two Expat Mums Share Their AlUla Experience With Kids with Cami and Emma 29.04.2026 37p

  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.
• Ep 78. Traveling Saudi Arabia: Beyond the Resorts and Uncovering Hidden Gems with Izabella Rekiel 27.04.2026 31p

  What if the most interesting place to travel right now… isn’t somewhere you fly to - but somewhere you live? Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about destinations in the world, yet for many, what travel here actually looks like still feels unknown. In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down with Izy - a sports media presenter whose journey in Saudi started with motorsport, but evolved into something much deeper. After first arriving for Formula E, Izy quickly realised that the reality of Saudi Arabia was completely different from what she expected. What began as short work trips turned into a full life in the Kingdom - one that’s taken her far beyond the cities, into remote landscapes, hidden heritage sites, and parts of Saudi most people never see. From road trips through Ha’il to discovering ancient rock art dating back thousands of years, this conversation explores how living in Saudi changes the way you experience it. We talk about what it really means to travel Saudi as an expat, why the country feels so different from anywhere else, and how culture, community, and curiosity shape the experience in ways you can’t plan for. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s actually like to live, explore, and discover Saudi Arabia from the inside, this episode offers a perspective you rarely hear. SHOW NOTES:Izzy’s journey into life in Saudi Arabia Expat life as a single woman in theKingdom Traveling Saudi beyond the citiesHidden destinations: Ha’il, AlUla, Jeddah Discovering Saudi’s ancient history heritageHow living here changes the way you travel Tourism, culture Vision 2030The reality of Saudi hospitality and communityWhy Saudi is more than most people expect Stay Connected: 📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.
• Ep 77. Frankie and Lily Catch Up: This Is the Conversation We Have Been Having All Week 14.04.2026 25p

  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.
• Ep 76. Expat Life in Saudi Arabia, Motherhood & Identity with Dani in KSA 07.04.2026 30p

  What is it really like to live in Saudi Arabia as an expat mum?In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie sits down with Dani (Dani in KSA), a luxury media founder, content creator, and mum of four, to unpack her journey from the West to building a life in Riyadh.From navigating cultural differences and early challenges to raising teenagers between identities, Dani shares a deeply honest look at expat life in Saudi Arabia.We talk about motherhood, belonging, misconceptions about Saudi culture, and why the Kingdom is becoming one of the most exciting places to live and raise a family.We also dive into life at the Red Sea, as a holiday destination destinations like SLS Red Sea and the evolving tourism landscape shaping the future of Saudi Arabia.If you’ve ever considered moving to Saudi - or are curious about what life here actually looks like - this episode gives you a real, grounded perspective.SHOW NOTES:Dani’s journey to living in Saudi ArabiaExpat life, motherhood raising kids in KSACulture, identity common misconceptionsFamily support life inRiyadhHow Saudi changed her perspectiveThe Red Sea Saudi’s growing lifestyle sceneAdvice for moving to Saudi ArabiaStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.
• Ep 75. Luxury Travel, Vision 2030 and the Future of Tourism in Saudi with Thomas Staunton 02.04.2026 40p

  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.
• Ep 74. A Mum & daughter duo; Navigating Culture, Family & Identity in Saudi Arabia with Ruba Tursun, and Dr. Rihab Alsaeed. 24.03.2026 43p

  Moving countries with teenagers is one of the hardest transitions a family can face - but no one really talks about it.In this episode of Saudi Life: Unpacked, Frankie and Lily sit down with Saudi content creator Ruba Tursun and her mother Dr. Rihab, a marriage and family therapy consultant based in Riyadh.Together they explore the emotional realities of moving countries, raising teenagers between cultures, and how families can navigate big transitions while protecting their relationships.Ruba shares her experience moving from Miami to Saudi Arabia at 17 and the identity shift that came with it, while Dr. Rihab offers expert insight into parenting through cultural transitions, supporting teenagers during relocation, and why therapy is becoming increasingly important in Saudi Arabia.The conversation also dives into the evolving openness around mental health in the Kingdom, the pressures expat families face when relocating, and how parents and children can stay connected through life’s biggest changes.If you’re an expat moving to Saudi Arabia, raising children abroad, or curious about family life and mental health in the Kingdom, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical advice.SHOWNOTES:What it’s really like moving teenagers between culturesRuba’s experience leaving Miami and returning to Saudi ArabiaThe identity shift that happens when you relocate as a young adultWhy moving countries can challenge marriages and familiesHow parents can support teenagers during relocationThe importance of maintaining routines when moving abroadHow Saudi Arabia’s culture and lifestyle have evolved over the past decadeBreaking the stigma around therapy in Saudi ArabiaWhy communication between parents and children is essential during transitionsThe unique mother-daughter relationship between Ruba and Dr. RihabStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.
• Ep 73. Saudi’s Most Talked-About New Destination: Our Red Sea Experience 17.03.2026 23p

  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.
• Ep 72. Exploring Riyadh’s History & Culture Through a Local Lens with Fatimah Abusrair 10.03.2026 34p

  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 KingdomStay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.
• Ep 71. From Paralysis to Purpose: An Artist’s Inspiring Journey in Saudi Arabia with Aida Murad 24.02.2026 40p

  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.
• Ep 70. Saudi’s Red Sea Unpacked: Travel, Hotels & What to Expect 18.02.2026 18p

  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.
• Ep 69. Female Founder Life in Riyadh: Gaming, Motherhood & Starting From Scratch with Kris Stephan 17.02.2026 28p

  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.
• Ep 68. Ramadan Unpacked: How Life Changes in the Kingdom 10.02.2026 21p

  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.