Some people carry an energy that fills a room before they even speak. Joud Al Mahmoud is one of them. Born in Jordan and now living in Jeddah, she describes herself as an extrovert who loves to laugh, talk, and share food. Her warmth naturally flows into her work as a dietitian, where food becomes culture, connection, and comfort.

Her story is one of transition: leaving Jordan, arriving in Saudi Arabia, and slowly discovering a new place to call home. What once felt daunting grew into a life she embraced with confidence. Joud’s friendly, energetic spirit shaped the way she built community in Jeddah, allowing her to thrive personally and professionally.

We sat down with Joud to talk about life in Jeddah, her love for cooking, the meaning of nutrition as culture, and the small steps that help people live healthier, happier lives.

Here’s what she shared.

1. You’ve made Jeddah your home. Can you share a little about your journey from Jordan to Saudi Arabia and what inspired that move?

I moved to Saudi Arabia after getting married, and at first, I was scared of this big change. But I quickly realized I was wrong—Jeddah has truly become my second home. I’ve grown to love the city not only for its diversity and beauty, but also for the people. The community here is incredibly warm and friendly, always making me feel welcomed and supported.

2. Nutrition is not just science; it is culture. How has living in Saudi Arabia influenced the way you think about food and healthy eating?

Living in Saudi Arabia taught me that nutrition is more than science—it’s culture and tradition. I won’t lie, I don’t always eat healthy, but I love how food here reflects community and hospitality. The seafood is incredible, and our Saudi neighbors have shown us such warmth, especially during Eid with their beautiful traditions.

3. When did you first realize that dietetics was more than a profession for you, something you truly felt called to do?

I realized dietetics was my calling when I experienced firsthand how food affects health and growth. My own challenges with picky eating made me passionate about helping others build a healthier relationship with food.

4. Many of your recipes feel nourishing, hearty, and comforting. Where do you find that perfect taste and soul when creating dishes for your audience?

Sometimes I discover recipes by coincidence or while trying dishes in restaurants, but growing up with a mom who cooked delicious food really shaped me. It taught me how to taste, appreciate, and naturally combine flavors to create comforting dishes.

5. Jeddah has such a diverse and beautiful food scene, from coastal seafood traditions to modern cafés. What local flavors or ingredients have you loved bringing into your work?

I really love the Arabic flavors that are always present in Saudi dishes, each prepared in its own perfect way. I had never cooked seafood before, but after living in Jeddah it’s always on my cooking list, and it has added so much variety and inspiration to my recipes.

6. Healthy eating can sometimes feel overwhelming. How do you make it approachable and joyful for the people who follow you?

I try to make healthy eating simple and enjoyable by focusing on easy recipes, familiar ingredients, and small changes that fit into daily life. I just cook with what I have, and I believe it’s all about balance—even comfort food can be part of a healthy lifestyle.

7. Do you think there are misconceptions about Saudi cuisine and its ability to be both healthy and delicious?

Yes, many people think Saudi cuisine is only heavy or indulgent, but that’s not true. It’s full of fresh ingredients, rich spices, and dishes that can be both healthy and delicious when prepared with balance.

8. Every city has its own pulse and vibe. How would you describe Jeddah’s energy, and how does it shape the way you live day to day?

I love how Saudi Arabia feels safe, even on your own. Jeddah has my heart—I can’t imagine living anywhere else. I especially love downtown during Ramadan for its culture, and the sea is my favorite spot for relaxation and entertainment, especially in winter.

9. Social media has made you a voice for health and wellness. How do you balance the science of nutrition with the creative storytelling that platforms like Instagram call for?

I think what makes social media interesting is the need to stay creative, especially with so many people in the field. I try to make nutrition both informative and fun, sharing accurate, science-based tips in ways that people can enjoy and relate to.

10. Food is tied to memory everywhere. Is there a Jordanian or Saudi dish that carries a personal story for you?

If you asked any Jordanian, they’d probably say Mansaf—it’s our traditional dish, especially on the first day of Ramadan, Eid, or at any family gathering. It’s always made to bring people together and is full of tradition, and it just feels like home.

11. Ramadan in Saudi Arabia comes with its own traditions around food. What does this season mean to you, both as a dietitian and as someone living in Jeddah?

I’ll be honest—I often forget about healthy food during Ramadan and focus on cooking what we’re craving, especially Sambosa and Qatayef. I love experiencing Jeddah’s vibrant Ramadan culture, praying Taraweeh, and spending time with friends—it makes the season truly special.

12. In your work, you often encourage people to take small steps. What is one small change that you believe can make the biggest difference in health?

One small change I often suggest is following the 80/20 rule—eating healthy 80% of the time and enjoying what you love 20% of the time. I also believe this principle applies to life in general: work hard 80% and allow yourself to relax and have fun 20%. It’s simple but makes a big difference for balance and overall well-being.

13. Living as an expat, has your perspective on community, wellness, and lifestyle shifted since moving to the Kingdom?

To be honest, my lifestyle did change after moving here, and I gained some weight, partly because of the weather—but I’m working to get back on track. On the positive side, I’ve noticed an increase in my self-confidence and independence, which has been a really valuable part of living as an expat.

14. What has been your most rewarding moment so far, whether it was a client’s transformation, a message from a follower, or something personal you achieved?

I love it when clients send me their before-and-after photos or videos—it makes me feel that my work has truly paid off. Seeing their progress and knowing I helped them improve their health is incredibly rewarding.

15. If you could describe your Saudi experience in just three words that capture both life and lifestyle, what would they be and why?

Warm, vibrant, and inspiring. ‘Warm’ for the hospitality and friendliness of the people, ‘vibrant’ for the lively culture and city energy, and ‘inspiring’ for how living here has encouraged me to grow personally and professionally.

16. You describe yourself as extroverted, always ready to talk, laugh, and share food. How has this side of your personality helped you build community and connections in Saudi Arabia?

You may laugh, but I recently met a girl, complimented her, and we instantly became friends. Being extroverted and open helps me build connections and feel part of Jeddah’s community.

17. Cooking clearly brings you joy, not just as a dietitian but as a friend and host. What’s one dish that always brings people together at your table?

There’s no specific dish—I cook everything with love—but I especially enjoy hosting my friends for breakfast. Sharing that time and food always brings people together at my table.

The Flavor of Belonging

Joud Al Mahmoud’s journey carries both roots and growth. She arrived in Jeddah, uncertain of what life would bring, and discovered a city that welcomed her with open arms. The people, the food culture, and the sea all became part of how she lives and connects with others.

Her work as a dietitian reflects that same spirit. It is nutrition woven with storytelling, community, and an approach that makes balance feel possible in everyday life. Her extroverted nature turns her into more than a health advocate. She becomes a friend at every table.

At the heart of her story is warmth. It lives in the people who welcomed her, in the meals shared, and in the community that now feels like her own. Jeddah gave her a home, and she carries that warmth wherever she goes.

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This article is brought to you by Soul of Saudi (a Saudi travel blog dedicated to uncovering the beauty, heart, and soul of the Kingdom).