Ramadan is one of the things I used to really enjoy in Riyadh. In fact, there are times where I get very nostalgic about it. Although many may not think it is anything special per se, it's somehow different from how you experience it elsewhere.
Since Saudi Arabia is the center of Islam for the world, everyone experienced Ramadan the same way, which made you feel part of a group or family, regardless of your beliefs.
1. Your work and school hours are reduced
Because the entire country fasts during Ramadan, work and school hours are reduced. Meaning, instead of getting to work at 7 a.m., you get there at 9 a.m. And instead of leaving work at 6 p.m, you leave at 3 p.m. or 4 p.m. (The time you leave school/work varies every year due to the change in Iftar time throughout the years).
2. You can spend your entire day sleeping
Because there's nothing else to do. Literally, nothing.
3. Malls, shopping centers, restaurants, etc. are all closed during the day
4. Since you cannot go shopping or do anything else, you sit at home and start binge watching all the latest series that are airing. By the time you're done, you're like...
5. Regardless of your personal beliefs, you're not allowed to eat, drink or even chew gum in public
Even if you're not fasting, it's considered a sign of disrespect if you eat in public during Ramadan. You will be glared at and possibly yelled at if you eat or drink in public. You are in a Muslim country. You should respect that the majority of people are fasting. Majority rules.
6. After iftar, malls, stores and everything else stay open until 2 a.m. or 3 a.m
You sleep throughout the day and have iftar during Maghreb time. After that, you go out and enjoy your time then stay up late for sohoor. Unfortunately, by the time you get used to this schedule, Ramadan is over and you have to go back to your old lifestyle.
7. Nevertheless, you're still not allowed to swear in public
Your fast loses its meaning when you swear. The whole point of Ramadan is to become a better version of yourself.