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ALKHOBAR: For decades, the idea of a young Saudi living alone, by choice, was seen as rebellious and met with skepticism and rejection. But today, a new generation is embracing solo life with pride and a sense of personal power.

Across major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah and Alkhobar, young Saudis in their 20s are carving out homes of their own — not out of necessity but out of a desire for independence, comfort and self-growth. From students to young professionals, both women and men are stepping into their own apartments, styling their own spaces and redefining what it means to build a life.

Sarah Al-Ahmadi, 27, moved into her own apartment in Riyadh two years ago. At first, the silence was unbearable.

“I’ve lived alone for two years now. At the beginning, I was depressed — I didn’t like the lifestyle, especially in Riyadh,” she said. “I couldn’t make friends, and I didn’t like the city. But over time, I started to build a life. Now, I can’t imagine living any other way.”

What once felt isolating became empowering. Al-Ahmadi discovered joy in being the sole decision-maker in her home: What she ate, how she decorated and who she invited, and when.

“It’s amazing to be fully independent and responsible for everything in my home,” she said. “I don’t need anyone. It’s beautiful when I invite my friends to a space that reflects my personality. Back at my parents’ house, I had to host them in the family living room. But here, we can cook together, have sleepovers and enjoy ourselves without a single worry.”

Mohammed Al-Dossari, 26, made the decision to live alone after returning from years of studying abroad.

“After coming back from my scholarship abroad, I decided not to move back in with my family,” he said. “I had already gotten used to being responsible for myself, for everything — and I liked that lifestyle. I wanted to keep it going.”

For Al-Dossari, solo living is not just about space, it is also about ownership: Of time, of priorities and of life itself.

Today, he manages his work schedule, home maintenance and meals on his own. He described his home as peaceful, personalized and reflective of who he is — not just as a son, but as a man finding his rhythm.

In Jeddah, Waad Al-Marzouq, 19, faced resistance from almost everyone she knew after floating the idea of living alone.

“Everyone was against it. My dad was especially worried about me living alone at such a young age,” she said. “But I’ve always been stable and independent in my own room, so I thought — why not? I got myself a studio apartment near my university and moved in.”

Al-Marzouq’s family lives in the same city, and she sees them often. But the freedom of having her own space has changed how she views adulthood.

“There’s nothing scary about it. My parents are nearby. I still see them. But now I have space to focus, to grow. It’s not a rebellion — it’s a choice.”

Al-Marzouq said living alone is important for design: Designing her days, her goals and even designing her tiny studio with candles, plants and her favorite throw pillows.

Social shifts have helped normalize solo living. More women are entering the workforce. Young Saudis are studying abroad. New real estate developments are offering studio and one-bedroom units in urban areas. Platforms like Airbnb and online property apps have also made it easier to search, rent and furnish without needing a family member to step in.

Psychologist Abeer Al-Shammari told Arab News that the rise in solo living reflects both emotional maturity and social evolution.

“Choosing to live alone can signal a strong sense of self,” she said. “These young adults are setting boundaries, creating their own routines and building self-reliance. It’s not just a lifestyle — it’s part of their identity development.”

But she warned that solo living also requires emotional preparation.

“The early phase can trigger anxiety or loneliness, especially for those coming from tightly-knit families,” she said. “But with time and proper coping strategies, many experience a deep sense of fulfillment and confidence.”

Interestingly, many solo dwellers say their relationships with family have improved since moving out.

“They don’t take me for granted anymore,” Al-Ahmadi said with a laugh. “When I visit now, it feels special. I’m not just ‘around.’ I’m someone they wait for.”

Al-Marzouq agreed: “My parents respect my independence now. We talk more meaningfully. There’s more mutual understanding.”

And for Al-Dossari, solo living has not resulted in isolation. He has become more intentional about friendships — hosting friends for dinner, going out when he wants and setting healthy boundaries.

“It taught me balance,” he said. “And it taught me how to enjoy my own company.”