Customer Reviews

Cultureshock Saudi Arabia (Cultureshock Saudi Arabia: A Survival Guide to Customs & Etiquette)

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I disagree with the reviewer who suggested that Americans will not be visiting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) except to relocate; several male and female colleagues and I are traveling periodically for business and will not be relocating. I also acknowledge that I was not privy to all aspects of the culture. However, reading this book prior to my trip was a mistake.

The authors must have encountered a different culture than exists today on their original visits. Although this book says it is from 2009, my impression is that the changes from 2003 to 2009 versions were mostly typographical. I found the book to be overwhelmingly negative with very little advice for the typical business visitor, especially a female visitor. Today, even in the most conservative region of the country (Riyadh), women are wearing colorful abaya trim and Western visitors are sometimes seen with their heads uncovered.

Of course, many cultural restrictions still apply. But some examples contrary to the authors' indications include that our luggage was not searched, advertisements in local newspapers portray women in Western clothing, and we were treated with respect. I found my initial negative impression from the book to be unfounded. Although you may still opt to read this account, I recommend supplementing with other material as well.