Christmas in Saudi Arabia

The holiday season in Saudi Arabia may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of Christmas and New Year's celebrations, but for expats and digital nomads, it presents a unique experience. While the Kingdom predominantly observes Islamic traditions and holidays, the expat community often finds its own ways to celebrate this festive time of year.

Understanding the Local Context

In Saudi Arabia, Christmas and New Year's are not public holidays, and the public expression of non-Islamic festivities is generally not part of the local culture. However, within the privacy of compounds and homes where expatriates reside, you'll find that the holiday spirit is very much alive. Expats and digital nomads from around the world bring their own traditions and create a blend of celebrations that respect the local customs while enjoying the season.

Celebrating the Holidays

Expats often gather in private to celebrate Christmas and New Year's. You might find small Christmas trees, lights, and decorations adorning homes and private spaces. Gift exchanges are common within these communities, with people often opting for thoughtful or practical gifts that reflect their shared experiences in Saudi Arabia.

As for Santa Claus or Father Christmas, these figures are celebrated within the expat community, especially for families with children. Private parties and gatherings may include someone dressing up as Santa to distribute gifts and spread holiday cheer among the little ones.

Festive Foods and Desserts

Traditional foods and desserts from expats' home countries are a highlight of the holiday season. Many prepare special meals that might include roast turkey, mince pies, or log cakes. In larger expat compounds, you might find communal potlucks or catered events where everyone contributes a dish from their homeland, making for an international feast.

For New Year's celebrations, expats often host private parties where they count down to midnight. These events may feature an array of international cuisines, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the attendees.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are typically spent with friends and family within the expat community. Since these are not public holidays in Saudi Arabia, some expats may still have work commitments. However, those who have the day off might attend a private church service, as religious services for non-Muslims are allowed in designated areas or within diplomatic quarters.

Church services are usually held in secret or in the privacy of international schools or embassies, where expats can worship without disturbing the local customs. The timing of these services varies, with some held on Christmas Eve and others on Christmas Day, depending on the community and the facilities available.

Decorations, Markets, and Festivities

While you won't find public Christmas markets or widespread decorations across Saudi cities, expat compounds and international hotels sometimes host holiday bazaars and festive events. These private venues allow expats to enjoy holiday shopping, decorations, and the company of others who are celebrating the season.

In cities with large expat populations, such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dhahran, you're more likely to find these private events. Some compounds go all out with their decorations, creating a winter wonderland that offers a sense of nostalgia and joy for those far from home.

As expats and digital nomads navigate their first holiday season in Saudi Arabia, they'll discover that while the public celebrations may be subdued, there is a warm and vibrant community ready to embrace the spirit of Christmas and New Year's. By joining together and respecting the local culture, they can create a memorable holiday experience in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.

Expats talk about Christmas in Saudi Arabia

"We mix our own traditions with those of friends, and being Canadian, the hot weather is something to adjust to as well," commented an expat living in Jeddah.

"What we love most about celebrating Christmas in Saudi is that we have leisurely family time in the morning (as opposed to driving in a blizzard to try to accommodate grandparents)and relaxing time with friends in the afternoon. No drama, no baggage being dredged up from childhood! It's nice to go home once in a while for Christmas, but it's nice to spend it here, too," said one expat living in Jeddah.