How does life as a woman in Saudi Arabia feels like?

If I had to describe life as a woman here in one word, it would be ‘awesome’.

Compared to my home country in Southeast Asia, the level of safety and security in Saudi Arabia is unmatched, and almost every expat I talk to agrees.

It’s so different from what you see in the news or Western media.

The reality is actually very peaceful here.

Beyond safety, there’s a certain ease, like a “softness”, to being a woman here. You are often being “pampered” in small ways, like rarely having to carry heavy things yourself.

Culturally, there isn’t the same pressure to be the sole provider if you’re married.

And the existence of women-only spaces like female-only gym creates a really strong, supportive community vibe that I love.

Honestly, living here has allowed me to really tap into my femininity.

I don’t feel the need to be constantly tough or on guard. Instead, I feel safe to let my guard down and simply enjoy being a woman.

Is Saudi Arabia safe for women?

The answer is yes. Saudi Arabia has top-notch safety and security standards that protect everyone.

In fact, Saudi Arabia ranked first among G20 countries with 92.6% of the total population feeling safe walking alone at night in their residential areas.

An an expat myself, I have never felt unsafe here even when I go anywhere alone.

Of course, just as you would anywhere else in the world, you should always practice standard safety precautions. But the baseline sense of security here is truly exceptional.

Can you walk without a hijab in Saudi Arabia?

Yes ladies, you can! You are not required to wear hijab or niqab (the face covering) or even abaya.

However, you are encouraged to respect the local culture by dressing modestly—generally meaning keeping things covered below the knees and avoiding low-cut tops.

Personally, I have noticed many female Western expats using the abaya as a quick “modesty hack” over any outfit, which I think is brilliant!

It’s also incredibly practical if you live in Riyadh or desert regions.

Covering your skin helps prevent that fine desert sand from sticking to you during sandstorms.

Can women drive in saudi arabia?

Yes, women can now drive in Saudi Arabia.

Since the ban was lifted in 2018, women driving has become the new normal.

If you need to get your license sorted, check my step-by-step guide on [How to Get a Saudi Driving License].

Today, you will see local and expat women behind the wheel of everything from luxury sedans to massive G-Wagons.

If driving isn’t your preference, you can always rely on e-hailing apps like Uber and Careem. They are widely available across the country and are a totally safe, convenient option.

Can women work in Saudi?

If you must know, women here aren’t just working anymore, they are literally thriving.

Women in Saudi Arabia are leading projects, owning businesses, and earning independently.

The Saudization program has been a massive success for local Saudi women. 

The original goal was to reach 30% female workforce participation by 2030, but they smashed that target years early, currently sitting well over 36%.

Saudi women are extremely well-educated. You will find many of them working as professionals like doctors, accountants, engineers and CEOs of businesses. 

The government has also made it incredibly easy for local women to open commercial registers.

As a result, there is a surge in female-owned businesses, Saudi women now own 49% of total 128,000 commercial registrations issued in 3Q of 2025.

What expat woman jobs are there in Saudi?

For expat women, the market is lucrative, provided you bring specialized skills. You will be treated as an expert, not just a diversity hire.

Healthcare & Education: These are the traditional strongholds. Highly-skilled doctors, nurses, and international school teachers are always in high demand.

Tech & Consulting: There is a surge in demand for Data Scientists, AI experts, and consultants for top firms to help deliver Vision 2030 projects.

Construction & Engineering: With giga-projects like NEOM and The Red Sea, companies are aggressively hiring female architects, interior designers, and project managers.

Marketing & Tourism: As the country opens up, PR agencies and event organizers need experienced directors to handle global branding and massive festivals like Riyadh Season.

Many of these roles come with packages that include housing and schooling allowances. Plus, you enjoy the massive benefit of tax-free salaries.

To see how far that salary goes, read my Cost of Living in Riyadh breakdown.