An Expat Talks about Living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Riyadh

Describe how you "dreamed" expat life would be before you moved overseas. Please provide as much detail as possible.

Due to the fact that I was also raised as an expat brat my expectations are not unreasonable. One expects to be able to have a good standard of living and enjoyment in life. For some reason or other this seems to be harder to obtain in ones own country. The move specifically to Saudi Arabia was because I didn't want to live in a "sofisticated" society any longer. It was time to get back to basics again. To go out into the desert and see the stars, watch the sunset and have a fuller social life. Not to have my life run looking at the clock all the time and living up to other people's expectations.

How has your expat experience met the expectations you dreamed about before you moved abroad?

Most of ones expectations have been met. The social life is good, the climate is excellent. We have lots of time to see the stars and watch the sunrise or sunset. To meet and socialise with people of other nations and not be clock watching all the time. All these expectations have been met.

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Allianz Care

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
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How has your expat experience NOT met the expectations you dreamed about before you moved abroad?

I can't honestly think of expectations that haven't been met.

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