Your Insider’s Guide to Life in Saudi Arabia
Welcome to Life in The Dunes!
I’m Naz, Author and Blogger at Life In The Dunes.
I’m an expat currently living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Before moving to Saudi, I spent a chapter of my life in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Moving across continents, cultures, and climates has taught me a lot of life lessons and reshaped my worldview.
I started this blog to share the things you actually need to know from practical tips I learned,cultural nuances, and behind-the-scene of expat life in the Middle East.
Basically, the stuff I figured out through trial, error, and a lot of researching (so you don’t have to).
While you’re here, you will also get plenty of recommendations and tips on best places to go, where to eat, best coffee, and all the fun things you can do to make your life in Saudi Arabia memorable.
Latest Posts
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Is Riyadh a City or Country? 13 Things to Know Before You Visit
Where exactly is Riyadh? Is it a country or a city? Can non-Muslim travel to Riyadh? Is Riyadh a pilgrimage site? If you have heard about Riyadh and have all these questions in mind, you have come to the right place! As someone who moved to Riyadh and has lived here for a year, I’m…
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10 Best Things To Do In Riyadh For First Timers (Tips From A Resident)
If you are planning a visit to Riyadh, and wondering what are best things to do, places to visit, food to try, and how to navigate all the other tourist-y stuff, you’re in the right place! If this is your first time traveling to Riyadh, it is easy get overwhelmed by many things. And without…
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Things To Do in Riyadh: Experiencing Boulevard World
If you are visiting Riyadh during the Riyadh season, you must visit the Boulevard World! But before you plan your trip to attend, there are a few things you should know, such as when exactly Riyadh season takes place, what it offers, and whether it is worth the visit for international tourists. As someone who…
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Riyadh Marathon 2026: My Experience Running 10K & What to Expect
My Experience Running 10K At Riyadh Marathon 2026 I recently participated in my first-ever 10K run at the Riyadh Marathon 2026. This was not only my first time joining a marathon event but doing so as an expat living in Saudi Arabia made the experience even more special and memorable. In this article, I’m sharing…
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5 Best Coffee Shops With Great Desserts I’ve Personally Tried in Riyadh
5 Best Coffee Shops With Great Desserts You Should Try in Riyadh Living in Riyadh means you will never run out of options when it comes to great coffee and sweets. There are plenty of coffee shops tucked into every corner and neighborhood of the city. As an expat who has spent a year living…
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Moving to Riyadh from Abu Dhabi: Is it Worth it?
Abu Dhabi vs. Riyadh: Pros and Cons of Living in Both Cities If you are an expat considering moving from Abu Dhabi to Riyadh, this article is for you. As an expat in the Middle East, especially in the Gulf, you might have noticed how common it is for people to move between cities. One…
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Ramadan & Eid in Saudi Arabia: 2026 Outfit Ideas
What To Wear During Ramadan & Eid in Saudi Arabia Ramadan and Eid are finally around the corner! If you are wondering what to wear to mark the occasion, I have curated a list of outfit ideas that will make you look elegant and feel beautiful. If you are wondering what Muslim women usually wear…
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What To Wear in Riyadh During Summer & Winter (Outfit Ideas)
If you are planning a trip to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, you might be wondering what you should wear. There are 2 things consider when deciding to travel to Saudi Arabia. First, is the weather. Saudi Arabia has 2 seasons, summer and winter. Riyadh, particularly, experience extreme temperature in both seasons. Second, Saudi Arabia is a…
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Top 10 Luxury Hotels To Stay In Riyadh for Families
Best Luxury Hotels For Staycation In Riyadh for Families Are you looking for the best hotels to stay in Riyadh for a staycation with your families? I’ve got just the list! Either you’re visiting Riyadh or have been living here for a while and just need a quick change of scenery and pamper over the…
