RIYADH: Mohalla Al-Shumaisi, an area in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is home to a considerable population of Pakistani diaspora who, despite living far from their country, have made it their second home, feeling settled and comfortable.
On his Twitter account, a short video shared by the Saudi envoy to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, provides a glimpse into the lives of Pakistani nationals living in the area. The video shows that their lifestyle has remained unchanged over the years, and they feel right at home in Saudi Arabia.
فرحة الأشقاء الباكستانيين بين أهلهم في السعودية في #عيد_الفطر
عید الفطر میں پاکستانی بھائیوں کی اپنے اہل وعیال میں خوشی۔
🇵🇰🤝🇸🇦 pic.twitter.com/prax2XcrkD
— نواف بن سعيد المالكي (@AmbassadorNawaf) April 24, 2023
The video showcased their daily routine, like their mealtime, where they gathered set around the table and engaged in friendly chat easily. The clip also highlighted their leisure activities, including playing traditional games like ‘Snakes and Ladders’ and Cricket.
Pakistanis born and raised in Kingdom
A growing segment of young Pakistanis were born and raised in the Kingdom. Despite growing up in Saudi Arabia, their lifestyle remains similar to that of their fellow Pakistanis back in the country. One of the remarkable things seen in the clip was the cultural cohesion between the Pakistani community and Saudi citizens. Pakistanis easily interact and mix with their Saudi brothers, indicating a strong cultural bond.
The video also showcased the celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr, a special festival for the Pakistani diaspora. On this day, they wear their cultural dresses and wish Eid greetings to their loved ones in Pakistan over the phone. –APP
