Where to Live in Riyadh: A Guide for Expats

Moving to Riyadh? First of all—congratulations! Whether you’re arriving for work, family, or adventure (or a bit of all three), you’ll soon discover that the Saudi capital is a city of contrast and surprise: desert landscapes meet glitzy malls, tradition mingles with tech, and expat life unfolds behind compound gates and busy Arabic coffee shops alike.

One of the first big questions newcomers face is: where should we live? And unlike some cities where the answer is a shrug and a postcode, Riyadh’s neighbourhoods each tell a different story. So, grab a coffee (Arabic or otherwise), and let’s explore the best areas to live in Riyadh for expats.

The Diplomatic Quarter (DQ): Leafy, calm and surprisingly green

If Riyadh had a secret garden, the Diplomatic Quarter might just be it. Tucked away in the western part of the city, the DQ is home to embassies, international organisations, and a fair few diplomats—but it’s also beloved by expat families for its peaceful vibe, walking trails, and beautifully landscaped parks.

Why expats love it:

• Safe and walkable (a rarity in Riyadh!)

• Excellent sporting facilities and green space

• Feels like a little world of its own

  
  

Expect modern villas, low-rise apartments, and a mix of Western and local conveniences. Great for families or anyone craving a quiet base with a strong sense of community.

Al Olaya: The business hub with serious buzz

If the DQ is Riyadh’s leafy retreat, Al Olaya is its glass-and-steel heartbeat. Think luxury hotels, towering offices, and the kind of skyline you snap for your Instagram stories. This is where you’ll find Kingdom Centre, Al Faisaliah Tower, and some of the city’s swankiest dining.

Why expats love it:

• Central, with easy access to top offices and amenities

• Ideal for singles or couples working in finance, law or tech

• Lively café culture and international restaurants

  
  

That said, it's busy. Traffic can be a slog, and space comes at a premium. But if you want to be in the thick of it, this is your place.

Al Nakheel: A family favourite near the schools

Popular with Western expats, Al Nakheel offers a winning combo of space, greenery, and proximity to international schools. Many villas sit within compounds, offering pools, gyms, and a ready-made community for kids (and their weary parents).

Why expats love it:

• Close to schools like AIS-R and SEK

• Plenty of shopping and healthcare options

• Large homes with gardens or communal play areas

  
  

It’s suburbia, Saudi-style—and that’s not a bad thing if you’re raising a family.

Al Sulimaniyah: Old-school charm meets café cool

Al Sulimaniyah has a slightly older feel, but it’s developed into one of Riyadh’s trendier inner-city districts. Known for its independent restaurants, coffee spots and creative crowd, it has a low-key buzz that appeals to younger expats and locals alike.

Why expats love it:

• Walkable pockets with real character

• Quirky cafés and good local dining

• More affordable rentals than DQ or Olaya

  
  

If you’re after a bit of soul in the city, this one’s worth a look.

Al Malaz: A classic with heart

One of Riyadh’s older districts, Al Malaz blends nostalgia with convenience. It’s home to the famous King Abdullah Park, Riyadh Zoo, and a mix of mid-range flats and older villas. While not the flashiest area, it has a real community vibe and lower rent prices.

Why expats love it:

• Affordable housing, especially for singles or couples

• Parks, play areas, and family-friendly attractions

• Easy access to central Riyadh

  
  

Call it lived-in charm—with the bonus of being close to the action.

Al Muhammadiyah: Quiet luxury and leafy lanes

Think of Al Muhammadiyah as the upscale cousin of Al Nakheel. It’s quieter, but the homes are lovely—especially within the many gated compounds. If your budget stretches to high-end living, this is one of the best spots in Riyadh.

Why expats love it:

• Top-tier compounds with all the bells and whistles

• Safe, private, and beautifully maintained

• Good schools and shopping nearby

  
  

Great for senior professionals, diplomats, or those used to a bit of London suburbia with sun.

Al Sahafa: New, fresh and on the up

One for the trend-watchers. Al Sahafa is a rising star among younger expats and Saudi professionals. Located in the north of the city, it’s modern, well-planned, and full of shiny new flats, casual eateries, and a general sense that it’s going places.

Why expats love it:

• Brand-new housing and hip hangouts

• Close to KAFD (King Abdullah Financial District)

• Feels young and connected

It’s not quite finished, but if you’re up for something fresh, this one’s worth a look.

People Also Ask

Is Riyadh a good place to live for expats?

Yes! With generous tax-free salaries, private healthcare, and a growing social scene, Riyadh is becoming increasingly liveable—especially for families and professionals.

Where do most Western expats live in Riyadh?

Many settle in compounds in Al Nakheel, the Diplomatic Quarter, or Al Muhammadiyah. These areas offer comfort, community, and access to international schools.

What is the safest area in Riyadh?

Most of Riyadh is safe, but compounds (especially in DQ and Al Nakheel) offer added security and peace of mind.

Final thoughts: Finding your Riyadh rhythm

Choosing where to live in Riyadh is less about picking a postcode and more about understanding your own rhythm. Do you want peace or pulse? Community or cosmopolitan? School runs or skyline views?

The good news is—there’s a corner of this sprawling desert city for everyone.

And once you find your spot, Riyadh quickly starts to feel like home. Sandstorms and all.

Looking for more relocation tips? Check out our checklist to moving to Saudi Arabia or sign up for our newsletter to get insider expat advice straight to your inbox.

Welcome to Riyadh—you’re going to love it.