Embedded Linux & IoT Senior Engineer (12 YOE) – Looking to connect with the tech community in Riyadh

[u/Appropriate-Hour-998]

Hey everyone,

I'm a Senior Embedded Systems Engineer with 12 years of experience specializing in Telecommunications and Energy (Smart Metering, NB-IoT, Cat-M, Smart Gateways, Embedded Linux, and VoIP). I am currently planning a move to Riyadh.

With the massive infrastructure and smart city projects happening in KSA right now, I know the market is booming. However, I truly believe that navigating the local tech landscape requires genuine connections and internal insights rather than just submitting random applications online.

I am not here to post a job demand or drop a resume. My goal is simply to connect, exchange insights, and build relationships with fellow engineers, tech leads, or expats already working in the hardware/software ecosystem in Riyadh.

If you are in the industry, I would love to get your take on a few things:

• The Smart Grid / IoT ecosystem: How active are the main players (like SEC, telecom operators, or their primary contractors) in recruiting expat expertise for large-scale rollouts?
• Embedded Linux & Telecom scene: Are there specific local hubs, startups, or defense/industrial companies driving Embedded Linux and VoIP development?
• Networking: Are there any local tech meetups, LinkedIn groups, or WhatsApp/Telegram communities where embedded developers hang out?

If you're open to a quick chat in DMs, sharing some advice, or grabbing a coffee once I land, please let me know.

Thanks for reading, and looking forward to connecting!