Making friends in a new place can be a daunting experience, especially in a conservative culture like that of Saudi Arabia. Many expats and locals alike share experiences of loneliness, isolation, and the struggle to form deeper connections. However, it's not all doom and gloom, as Boo – the personality-based matchmaking app – can help you form genuine friendships in Ar Riyāḑ. Boo has expertise and global data to offer advice on how to make friends in this conservative culture.

The Social Landscape of Ar Riyāḑ

The social environment in Saudi Arabia is notoriously restricted, with conservative customs and gender segregation being common. However, expats will find that cities like Riyadh are more open to Western ideas and that younger generations are more open-minded. Socializing is usually done in single-sex gatherings, such as coffee shops, restaurants, or mosques. Expats and visitors may encounter language barriers, but English is widely used in urban areas and among younger locals.

Making Friends Offline in Ar Riyāḑ

Meeting people in Ar Riyāḑ can be challenging, but there are still opportunities to make friends offline. Joining sports clubs, attending local events, volunteering, or enrolling in language classes are fantastic ways to meet new people. Popular venues for socializing include the Diriyah Summer Festival and the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) shows. Expats can also visit the Diplomatic Quarter for a more international atmosphere.

For those who prefer the digital world, making friends online is an excellent option. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are popular among Saudis. However, expats and foreigners may find it challenging to break into online social circles. This is where Boo comes in as a handy tool to establish authentic connections and make friends in Ar Riyāḑ online. The app helps match users based on their personality type and interests, making for more meaningful friendships.

Making Friends as a Student in Ar Riyāḑ

For students in Ar Riyāḑ, getting involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, and campus events is a great way to form connections. Colleges and universities such as Alfaisal University, Prince Sultan University, and King Saud University offer various international programs, activities, and events. Joining clubs such as the International Student Club and the Saudi Students Association can also help students make new friends.

The LGBTQ+ Social Scene in Ar Riyāḑ

LGBTQ+ life in Saudi Arabia is repressed, and same-sex activity is punishable by law. However, the younger generation of Saudis is more open to LGBTQ+ rights and has pushed for a more tolerant culture. Those looking to connect with other queer people can consider online LGBTQ+ forums or try making friends through groups like the Rainbow Fellowship.

Nurturing Emotional Resilience with Compatible Friends

Life is filled with ups and downs, times of joy, and periods of stress. In these emotional roller coasters, the companionship of compatible friends can prove invaluable. They understand your emotional depth and unique ways of dealing with stress. Compatible friends serve as emotional anchors, offering support and understanding when you most need it.

They provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can openly express your feelings and thoughts, which plays an integral role in fostering emotional resilience. By being there for you in times of need and encouraging you to lean into your feelings rather than suppress them, compatible friends help you develop a healthier emotional response mechanism. In this way, they contribute to your ability to bounce back from emotional challenges and stressors, boosting your emotional resilience.

Research has shown that an understanding of personality types can help interpersonal relationships, both in terms of understanding our own relationship models, and those of the people around us. For example, an empathetic personality type like an INFJ might find their ISTJ friend’s brevity unsympathetic, but recognizing this aspect of the ISTJ communication style can lead to a mutual understanding. This results in improved communication, avoiding conflicts and misunderstandings, and provides the foundation for a flourishing friendship.

FAQs

Is it easy to make friends in Ar Riyāḑ?

Making friends in Ar Riyāḑ can be challenging due to the conservative culture and language barriers. However, joining local groups or using the Boo app can help make genuine connections.

What hobbies are popular in Ar Riyāḑ?

Popular hobbies in Ar Riyāḑ include sports like soccer and basketball, coffee making and drinking, and desert camping.

What is the best way to meet people near me with similar interests?

Joining clubs or groups related to your interests, attending local events, or using apps like Boo are all great ways to meet people with similar interests.

How does Boo help me work out if someone would be a good fit as a friend?

Boo matches users based on their personality types, interests, and values. This matchmaking process helps ensure that you're matched with people who are compatible with you and share your viewpoints.

Conclusion

Even in a conservative culture like Saudi Arabia, it is possible to make meaningful connections and form long-lasting friendships. Use the tips and advice shared here, whether it's exploring online or offline opportunities, making the most of your student life or finding a queer community. Remember, Boo can help you meet people who share your interests and values while fostering lasting friendships.

Ready to build lasting friendships in your local area? Join Boo and connect with your tribe.