What do expats in Saudi Arabia appreciate most about the local culture?

We asked expats and digital nomads what they appreciate the most about the local culture in Saudi Arabia. They wrote...

"Expats in Saudi Arabia appreciate the hospitality, respect, and generosity of the local culture. They also value the country's rich history of art, architecture and literature, as well as its commitment to religious observance and traditions. Additionally, Saudis are known for their strong sense of family and community and expats appreciate the importance they place on relationships and gathering together. They also appreciate the diverse and vibrant cuisine that is enjoyed in the country," wrote a member who made the move to Saudi Arabia.

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"I loved the fact that these people had a lot of time for me, if I liked something they would give it to me and I was often treated like royalty a lot too as I was the only woman who worked amongst the men. I was treated with a lot of respect and also I found that these people were great hosts. The owner of my apartment building and I became good friends and he would often get his manservant to bring me up a plate of every dish he would serve down in his Ramadan tent over Ramadan just so I didn't miss out as I could not enter his enter tent because it was a male only event. But like a good host, I was given a lot of respect by the males in the Kingdom and I will never forget that. It was their kindness and appreciation for me as a westerner that made them do this and I was rather sad when I left because of this," explained one expat living in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia.

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What do expats in Saudi Arabia appreciate most about the local culture?

If you live in Saudi Arabia, newcomers to Saudi Arabia would love to hear your answer to this question.

About the Author

Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.