My Arabian Adventure

Yeah, so by the picture it looks like I enrolled at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, but actually it was the first day I started my Arabian Adventure!

So, people have asked me, "So what's like working in Saudi ?".. so I thought I would take the time to share my experience.

The Welcome. Aaand what a welcome. What I learned quite quickly is that Saudi Arabia is a culture of conservatism and modesty. The society here is modern and wealthy, but traditional and deeply rooted in their culture at the same time. Many women in Saudi Arabia cover up to protect their modesty — which has more to do with their culture/tradition than religion. This is a custom that predates Islam! I also noticed that Saudi men are extremely respectful and civilized to women — not just to foreign women, but to women in general. So polite, respectful and civilized. There were countless times where people would ask you where you are from, shout you an iced coffee and and say "Welcome to Saudi Arabia!"

The Waking Up Early. Yes, I'm a morning person, but for those who arent.. pick up the habit. It's not as if you will have much of a choice. In fact, if you live anywhere near a mosque, you will be invited, daily, to wake up as early as 05:00 AM by the Muezzin, the person appointed at a mosque to lead and recite the call to prayer. His voice permeates all surrounding households... You can choose to complain about it, as some people do at first, or you can choose to embrace the habit of waking up early in the morning, and getting a head start to the day!

The Abaya.Yes, of course it's hot wearing it in like 43 degrees and OMG, I felt like wearing my bikini underneath it ... like ALL THE TIME... but and at the same time, there is nothing like wearing pyjamas under your abaya all day and having everyone be none the wiser! But seriously, as a female, it's ultimately very respectful, but the locals are slowly embracing foreigners and tourists not wearing it.

The Driving. Females in Saudi could only start driving from June 2018, and there still isn't that many on the roads. and I don't blame them. Look, I like driving, (as I grew up on the long country roads). But it's definitely a challenge.. I think I now have extensive experience at tactical driving operations driving in adverse, high-risk environments and areas. But other than that, UBER is mega cheap, and sooo many people have their own drivers.

The Lifestyle. Built like suburban American communities from the 90's, compounds function as sort of a safe haven from the abundance of rules and regulations that govern public life.Abayas are not required behind the gates. Mixed swimming pools, private beaches and gyms are open day and night, with no strict dress code. Some of the bigger compounds, even have horse riding stables, restaurants, shops, cinemas and some people even make their own alcohol at home.Yes. Alcohol.

The Place. I was based in Al Yasmin, but worked in Diriyah. It is one of Saudi’s most spectacular yet ultimately little-known historic sites. Diryah is known for its traditional mud-brick architecture, and is home to revitalized Al Bujairi, which has a maze of winding alleyways with cafes and craft shops. Not to mention it's also a UNESCO world heritage site but also the birthplace of Saudi Arabia, which housed the first Saudi royal dynasty from 1744.

The Work. Well, that's why I went there.. and little did I know that I would be a part of such a historical event in the Kingdom. The KSA government have invested a lot of time into transforming Saudi into one of the most important tourist destinations in the world, through Saudi Seasons. These events showcase the entire country, it's heritage and unique culture. According to information from the Saudi General Entertainment Authority (GEA), the events have drawn over 6.5 million visitors so far and at least 100,000 foreign tourists!

The Right Formula. See what I did there? ! Having a Formula E -Prix in Diriyah was awesome. Palm Trees - tick, UNESCO world Heritage site - tick, a cool street circuit - tick, and rain.. saaay what? Yes, it wasn't a complete return of 2018 race, but you name it, we got it in the lead up. The lightning, flash floods, high winds, sandstorms, and then just finally sunshine. The Formula E-Prix in Saudi, not only represents the future of motorsports but also emphasises & encourages sustainability and clean energy, which is 100% in line with Saudi's Vision 2030 plan to be at the forefront of sustainable energy.

The Change. Its changing VERY quickly, the deeply traditional society is socially and economically transforming in front of my eyes. I was surprised by how much freedom I enjoyed, I didn’t have any problems entering places because of my gender, though females have to use the family areas in public spaces.

I hope that more people share their experiences, as for some reason these stories are still private, locked away in the Middle East, but with the globally connected 21st century, hopefully life down here in the desert will no longer be seen as mysterious and scary as it is made out to be. In a kingdom lacking in western recreational activities, perhaps the best thing I have learned so far is how to funnel what this country has to offer, even what this country lacks, into a discipline that has led me to personal and professional development in the short run, and which I hope will result in more personal and professional growth on the longer run.

Why complain about the things you do not have, when you can make the absolute best of the things you do have, right?

I'm so glad to have experienced the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia... and my newfound love for lemon mint drinks!

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