Saudi Arabia

Overview

Saudi Arabia is opening up socially, but dating remains conservative by law and custom. Public affection is discouraged, and sex outside marriage is illegal. Alcohol is prohibited; nightlife centers on cafés, restaurants, festivals, and—newly—members‑only music clubs that serve mocktails only.

Population: ~38.0 million (2025 est.).
Ethnic makeup (citizens): Predominantly Arab (Najdi, Hejazi, Hasawi, and southern tribal lineages), with smaller Afro‑Arab communities; a large non‑citizen workforce resides in the kingdom.
Leader: King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (in power since 23 January 2015). The Prime Minister is Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (since 27 September 2022).
Languages: Arabic (official; Najdi, Hejazi, Gulf varieties common). English is widely used in business; expatriate communities speak Urdu/Hindi, Bengali, Tagalog, Malayalam and others.

How dating works here

Westerners will find that most “first meets” happen via apps, hobby groups, or introductions through work and expat compounds. With Saudi women, relationships are very private and often progress slowly with strong family awareness. Be punctual, modestly dressed, and discreet—reputation moves quickly in compact social circles.

Where people actually meet (with addresses)

Note: There are no public alcohol‑serving bars; venues below are cafés, dining/entertainment zones, or a members‑only, dry “club”.

Beast House (members‑only) – Creative/music club (mocktails only).
Address: JAX District, Diriyah, Riyadh 13732 (members & guests).

Boulevard Riyadh City – Giant entertainment zone with many cafés and lounges for low‑key meets.
Address: Prince Turki Al‑Awwal Rd, Hittin, Riyadh 13513–13516.

Urth Caffé – Takhassusi – Popular date‑friendly café chain.
Address: Al Takhassusi St., Al Mathar Al Shamali, Riyadh.

Bujairi Terrace (Diriyah) – Upscale dining cluster overlooking At‑Turaif; great for early‑evening meets.
Address: 7295 King Faisal Rd., Diriyah 13711, Riyadh Province.

Brew92 (Jeddah – Al Malik) – Specialty coffee; mixed expat/local crowd.
Address: King Abdulaziz Branch Rd, Ash Shati, Jeddah 23514.

Jeddah Yacht Club & Marina – Dining/lounges in a scenic waterfront complex (dry).
Address: Al Kurnaysh Branch Rd, Ash Shati, Jeddah 23613.

Insider notes & quotable voices

“Simple answer, there’s no alcohol nor clubs… people meet via social groups and cafés.” — r/Riyadh

“Bumble works better than Tinder.” — r/saudiarabia

“You can meet through expat events; dating openly is uncommon.” — r/saudiarabia

Treat forum quotes as snapshots; scenes vary by city and season.

Do’s and Don’ts for sexual relationships

• Do move slowly and keep things private; get crystal‑clear, sober consent.
• Do meet in public venues first; avoid talk of politics or religion early on.
• Do dress modestly (men: trousers & sleeves; women: modest attire per venue norms).
• Don’t expect alcohol; possession and import are illegal.
• Don’t show public affection; it can attract enforcement or complaints.
• Don’t cohabit or have sex outside marriage—this is illegal and carries severe penalties.
• Don’t post relationship photos on social media without explicit mutual agreement.

Legal & safety basics

Carry ID; be respectful with security and staff. Use licensed taxis/ride‑hailing. Laws are enforced—“I didn’t know” is not a defense. If a situation feels off, leave early and regroup later in a well‑lit, public place.