Expat Advice: Culture Shock in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?
Riyadh
Did you receive any cross-cultural training for your move abroad? If yes, was it before or after the move?
I am an arab who shares basic cultural roots with Saudi
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If they speak another language in your new country, do you speak the language? If yes, did you learn the language before you moved or while abroad? If no, are you planning to learn the language?
i do speak the local language of Saudi
Were you worried or concerned about culture shock before you moved abroad?
Indeed Jordan, while it is an arab country as well, is way more liberal, westernized and relaxed.
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How significant was the culture shock you experienced when you moved abroad?
not much
Expats often talk about going through the "stages of culture shock." Examples include the honeymoon phase, the irritation-to-anger stage, the rejection of the culture stage, and the cultural adjustment phase. Do you feel like you went through these or any other stages as you settled into the new culture?
Finding friends is a bit tough, yet one can start from the work mates and if one happens to live in a compound (secured, fenced residential area) then one can also mingle with people easier and faster.
What, if any, were some of the changes you noticed in yourself that might have been caused by culture shock? These might include things such as anger, depression, anxiety, increased eating or drinking, frustration, homesickness, etc.
As the dominent mood in Saudi is conservative, I felt I picked some of that attitude but I try to remind myself all the time of keeping my mind open and free.
What are some things you appreciate most about the new culture?
Living expenses are fairly low here and varieties are available, shopping is real fun.
What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?
Abiding by the restrictions, refraining from commenting freely or openly.
Did you "commit" any embarrassing or humorous cultural blunders? If you did and you'd like to share them, please do tell!
not yet
Do you have any advice or thoughts about culture shock you would like to share?
One needs to free his mind of prejudjmental ideas about the place and the people, learn to tolerate and accept the difference, focus on positive differences rather than the negative ones .....respect other's views even if you disagree with them.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Riyadh
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Riyadh
- Cost of Living in Riyadh
- 5 Tips for Living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Saudi Arabia
- Best Places to Live in Saudi Arabia
- Real Estate in Saudi Arabia
- Pros & Cons of Living in Saudi Arabia
- Dengue Virus in Saudi Arabia
- What It's Like Living in Riyadh
- Pros and Cons of Living in Saudi Arabia 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Saudi Arabia