At African Expats Magazine, we shine a light on African and Caribbean professionals who are redefining what it means to live abroad. In this feature, we meet Drexel “Drexy” Long ; an American educator, former elite track athlete, and vibrant community builder who has made a dynamic life for herself in the Gulf. From the track fields of New Jersey to the international classrooms of the Middle East, Drexy’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and joy.
“There’s no nightlife in Saudi Arabia. If you want that vibe, you have to head to Bahrain, the UAE, or Doha.
Drexel Long
Socially, Saudi is quieter, but it has its own charm.”
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what brought you to the Middle East?
My name is Drexel Long, but everyone in this part of the world knows me as Drexy. I’m originally a track athlete. I ran for the University of Houston, coached by the same team that trained Carl Lewis and other Olympians. I’ve always loved to travel, especially to places with beaches. Now, I’m a Masters athlete (age 45 and over), and I’m currently 52 years old. I’ve been a PE teacher for 24 years, and it was teaching that brought me to the Middle East. 
Where are you originally from, and what made you decide to start this journey in the GCC?
I’m from the U.S, born in Philadelphia, raised mostly in New Jersey. My dad was in the Army, so we moved a lot growing up. In New Jersey, I discovered my love for track and became one of the top runners in the state.Years later, a former coworker tagged me in a Facebook post about teaching PE in Dubai. After 17 years in the classroom, I felt ready for a change. I applied through a platform called Teachaway in late 2016, but my first interview didn’t go well. Eventually, I attended a job fair in San Francisco, received two offers, and chose the UAE.
At first, I wasn’t thrilled to be placed in Al Ain instead of Dubai, but I quickly grew to love it. It was calm and laid-back, which helped me reset. Later, I moved to Abu Dhabi, and that’s when I really fell in love with the Middle East.
You’ve lived in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia. What would you say are the biggest differences between the two; especially from a Black expat perspective?
The biggest difference? There’s no nightlife in Saudi Arabia. If you want that vibe, you have to head to Bahrain, the UAE, or Doha.
Socially, Saudi is quieter, but it has its own charm.
You’ve been in Saudi for over two years now. How has life evolved for you, personally, socially, and professionally?
Personally, I’ve had the chance to travel the world, socially, I’ve made friends from all over the globe. Professionally, I finally found an international school where I can truly showcase my skills and experience. It’s been refreshing.
You mentioned living close to the Bahrain border. How does that impact your lifestyle or mental health while living in Saudi?
Being just 45 minutes to an hour from Bahrain has been a game-changer.
It gives me the chance to escape when I need a change of scenery, and that balance really helps with my mental wellness. Bahrain gives me the freedom to socialize, attend events, and just breathe a bit more freely.
What are some challenges that Black expats, especially women should be aware of when moving to Saudi Arabia?
Dating can be tough because of certain cultural assumptions about Black women. Also, while I love going to the beach, you’re expected to wear a full bodysuit swimsuit in public areas. At resorts, though, you can wear a regular swimsuit. One surprise: I learned that women aren’t always allowed to use hotel pools unless they’re guests, which I only found out when my friends came to visit.
And on the flip side, what are some of the advantages or unexpected blessings you’ve experienced living there?
Financially, I earn more here than I did before.
I live in a villa instead of an apartment, on a compound with great amenities. Honestly, I don’t have to leave, but I’m a social butterfly, so I love exploring.
I found a great hair salon just two blocks away that’s helped me keep my hair healthy.
Joining Internations helped me build a strong circle of friends, and I’m part of active WhatsApp groups like Brothas & Sistas and All Women that organize regular meetups.
One big blessing was how this opportunity came to me. I didn’t plan to live in Saudi, but the school found me, and it was the right move. I also created my own WhatsApp group called DrexyKnows where I share events and resources across the GCC.
If someone from our community were considering relocating to Saudi, what advice would you give them?
I’d start by connecting them to our Brothas & Sistas Facebook group. It’s full of honest discussions and real-life insights.Then I’d say: take the leap. If it’s not for you, you can always go home, but you might just love it. Come with an open mind. Leave the “American way” back in the U.S. Go to meetups. Travel. Explore. Bahrain and the other GCC countries are just 1–2 hours away. Professionally, I’d suggest joining WhatsApp or Facebook groups in your field. There’s a network here, you just have to tap in.
What are your top 3 favorite things to do, whether in Saudi or on quick getaways like Bahrain?
In Saudi:
- Meet up with friends
- Link with the Brothas & Sistas group
- Attend Internations events
In Bahrain:
- Relax at beach resorts
- Enjoy brunch with friends
- Go to events like comedy shows and live performances
Do you feel that the Black expat community in Saudi is visible and connected?
Absolutely. Our Facebook and WhatsApp groups keep us close. There’s a strong sense of community here. People come and go, but they’re able to build something meaningful while they’re here.
Finally, what do you hope people take away from your story? What message would you share with the Afro-Caribbean diaspora considering life in the Middle East?
I hope people see that life in the Middle East can be full of adventure.
There will be ups and downs, but you’re not alone, others have been through it too. Take that leap of faith.You only live once. Why not try something different and amazing?
