Culture Shock in Saudi Arabia
No matter how well informed the newly arrived expat is, there will be a degree of cultural adjustment required for living in this decidedly strange environment. This sense of cultural dislocation can take six months or more to wear off. It is vital to maintain a positive outlook and a sense of humour during this time.
Women may struggle to adapt to what they perceive to be misogynistic regulations that, for example, deny them to the right to drive, and insist on their clothes being covered by a long black abayya. Women are also forbidden from socialising in public with men they are not married to, or directly related to by blood. Such rules are actively and aggressively enforced by the religious police – expats are expected to comply.
It is best to remember that Saudi Arabia is characterised by a deeply conservative Islamic culture which governs virtually all facets of life. Alcoholic beverages are illegal throughout the country although in practice alcohol is consumed inside Western compounds. The penalty for importing alcohol into the country, however, is severe and can involve detention and/or public flogging.
One’s feeling of culture shock may be tempered somewhat by the many western franchises that thrive here: there is a Starbucks on just about every street corner, and plenty of McDonalds, Pizza Hut, and KFC outlets. The shopping malls are also pretty similar to western malls, and satellite TV can provide all your favourite shows from home.
Women may struggle to adapt to what they perceive to be misogynistic regulations that, for example, deny them to the right to drive, and insist on their clothes being covered by a long black abayya. Women are also forbidden from socialising in public with men they are not married to, or directly related to by blood. Such rules are actively and aggressively enforced by the religious police – expats are expected to comply.
It is best to remember that Saudi Arabia is characterised by a deeply conservative Islamic culture which governs virtually all facets of life. Alcoholic beverages are illegal throughout the country although in practice alcohol is consumed inside Western compounds. The penalty for importing alcohol into the country, however, is severe and can involve detention and/or public flogging.
One’s feeling of culture shock may be tempered somewhat by the many western franchises that thrive here: there is a Starbucks on just about every street corner, and plenty of McDonalds, Pizza Hut, and KFC outlets. The shopping malls are also pretty similar to western malls, and satellite TV can provide all your favourite shows from home.
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