Observations from our second (working) year in Saudi Arabia

The local Mosque (there's quite a few here).

I got one of those enlightening 'memories' notifications on Facebook yesterday, telling me that I had been working in my current job for two years. In other words, we've been living in Saudi Arabia now for two years. Those two years have gone quite quickly, and they have also gone painfully slow. None of which is Saudi Arabia's fault, it's more do with our lifestyle over here. Not a lot has changed since last year. We've become more settled/unsettled as time has worn on.

So onto the observations part:

• It does rain here (extremely rarely, but it does). I love when it rains here, for two reasons, A) the locals lose their minds with a mix of elation and panic when it rains. B) It feels like society is about to tip into the abyss with delirium and panic as streets and towns become flooded (not a lot of thought/investment was put into drainage systems in this country, understandably so).

• Saudi Arabia does immense rotisserie chicken (shawaya) and ever better soft drinks. Al Baik is the bee's knees it makes KFC look like the bum it truly is. 

• Yemenis, do the best black tea.
• There is a definite 'Saudi time' that you have to get used to.
• It always amuses me when Saudis describe their 'winter' as winter.
• Islam is a fascinating religion, with an equally fascinating history.
• Contrary to Western (mainly media-fueled) perceptions it really is just another part of the world. Albeit, a place where a Westerner or anyone would struggle to understand if they never visited here.
• There are some fantastic myths and local tales to be heard here (the jinn).
• The country is not a vast desert.
• The local people are extremely friendly and accommodating people.
• Some expats can be odious and equal parts obnoxious.
• Washing cars or any vehicles is a waste of time over here.
• Road rules are not observed over here. Seatbelt use is most definitely optional.



Look...A camel!

• Saudis are strict adherents of the 'shop til' you drop' philosophy. On that note, Dubai is just a more 'glamorous' version of Saudi once you strip away all the bells and whistles (of which they are quite a few).
• Saudi men and women are quite fashionable.
• Saudi (men) LOVE football (soccer).
• Saudis love to travel.
• American English is an abomination.
• We have a large soft spot for MBC, MBC 2, MBC4, MBC ACTION and Dubai One.
• Listening to football games in Arabic is terribly exciting.
• Expats love to boast.
• Living in a 'community' is a bizarre experience. It can be extremely Orwellian at times.
• I understand why squat toilets are used over here. However, I will never 'get' squat toilets.
• I still strongly dislike Jeddah International Airport.
• And yes, we still get giddy when we spot a herd of Camels.

Overall, it's fair to say we've entered into a routine over here. When we are here, it feels like our home. When we are not here, it does not feel anything like our home. We continue to be (somewhat) content over here. Saudi continues to be good to us.