Frankie’s Riyadh Life: The Expat Dream You Didn’t Know You Needed
Frankie’s big move to Riyadh marked the start of an exciting chapter as both a newcomer and a new mom. Five years in, she teamed up with co-host Lily to start Saudi Life: Unpacked, the podcast where they take a deep dive into the expat experience in Riyadh.
On the podcast and across her socials, Frankie serves up fresh takes on living in Saudi by talking to locals, experts, entrepreneurs, and fellow expats about everything from travel, food, and shopping to mental health and parenting.
We sat down with Frankie to learn a little more about how she does it all in Saudi—and with so much style to boot!
Q: First things first, tell us how you ended up in Saudi?
I’m Frankie, I’m originally from the UK and I moved to Riyadh with my family in 2018 when my husband was offered a job here. We’d lived and worked in Dubai for about five years, and I was ready to experience something new, so I thought, “Let’s do it.” Though if he asked me today about moving away from here? The answer’s no!
Q: What inspired you to start the podcast with Lily?
I kept hearing over and over again from friends abroad, “What can I do in Saudi? How do you fill your day and make it look so busy?” I studied journalism and then worked in fashion PR, so I’ve always liked sharing my stories and experiences. After about half a decade in Saudi, with all the exciting new things I’ve seen happen, I felt like I could begin to dispel some myths and show what life is really like here.
Q: You’re also a proud mom of two – what’s it like raising kids in Saudi?
So my days often start with dropping kids at kindergarten and school. I’ll go to my son’s school performances, and there’s plenty of afterschool activities for him like sports academies. My youngest loves when we go out for a frozen yoghurt playdate and some shopping with her kindergarten friends. There’s always something on in Riyadh, whether it’s weekend events for the whole family, or mommy mingle brunches where both you and the little ones can make new friends.
Q: Ok, quickfire round: What’s your secret to starting the morning right?
Always, always head for a matcha at So Matcha—one of my favorite spots—and the Rose Matcha is such a treat. Then, check out the new Solitaire Mall, it’s got the best shops and it’s where I go for a little retail therapy.
Q: Pro tips for the gym girlies?
I never miss my pilates class at Formé—if you haven’t tried it there, you absolutely need to. You can do it at whatever intensity suits you or even work with a trainer.
Q: After all the momming, shopping, podding, and pilates(-ing?), we’ll have worked up quite the appetite—any recommendations?
Try the new Isabel Mayfair—it’s a gorgeous place all over, but the food is insane, just so, so good. Come for the scallops and fresh seafood with a Mediterranean twist but definitely stay for the delicious crème brûlée cheesecake. It’s such a lovely evening out.
Q: Sold! Any final thoughts, Frankie?
I’ll forever be grateful for my experiences here in Riyadh because no two days are the same. Everything is a choice, and I choose to get out every day and live my life here. Come on over and see for yourself!
Watch Frankie’s story and discover what makes Saudi Arabia’s creative scene so unique.
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