Ep 68. Ramadan Unpacked: How Life Changes in the Kingdom
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.
SHOWNOTES When Ramadan starts why dates are confirmed last minute
What changes during Ramadan (work, school business hours)
Fasting explained public etiquette for expatsIftar basics and what to expectIf invited: what to bring what to wear
Supermarket hours, restaurants daily routines
Traffic patterns and the shift to evening life
Tips for families and children during Ramadan
The Ramadan atmosphere: slower pace, family time community
Final advice: be flexible, patient and embrace the experience
RESOURCES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Iftar ExperiencesFairmont Hotel – Ramadan iftar experiences
Lilou Restaurant – featured Saudi Life Unpacked community iftar
Shopping Supermarkets
Danube
Spinneys
Ramadan Fashion (modest wear ideas)
COS
HM
Next
Marks Spencer
Education Event
Anderson Education – UK Boarding School Exhibition (Fairmont, Riyadh)
Travel Ideas During Ramadan
AlUla
Red Sea
Abha
Stay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.
Ep 68. Ramadan Unpacked: How Life Changes in the Kingdom
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.
SHOWNOTES When Ramadan starts why dates are confirmed last minute
What changes during Ramadan (work, school business hours)
Fasting explained public etiquette for expatsIftar basics and what to expectIf invited: what to bring what to wear
Supermarket hours, restaurants daily routines
Traffic patterns and the shift to evening life
Tips for families and children during Ramadan
The Ramadan atmosphere: slower pace, family time community
Final advice: be flexible, patient and embrace the experience
RESOURCES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Iftar ExperiencesFairmont Hotel – Ramadan iftar experiences
Lilou Restaurant – featured Saudi Life Unpacked community iftar
Shopping Supermarkets
Danube
Spinneys
Ramadan Fashion (modest wear ideas)
COS
HM
Next
Marks Spencer
Education Event
Anderson Education – UK Boarding School Exhibition (Fairmont, Riyadh)
Travel Ideas During Ramadan
AlUla
Red Sea
Abha
Stay Connected:📍 Follow @saudilifeunpacked for updates, resources weekly episodes.