Residents of Saudi Arabia who are Americans consider their "home away from home."
RIYADH: Because people-to-people connections demonstrate the long-standing bond
between the two nations, Americans residing in Saudi Arabia have discovered a home
away from home.
Four foreigners talked to Arab News about their experiences living in the Kingdom
ahead of US President Donald Trump's trip to the area.
"For me, the safety, economic opportunity, and strong moral fiber of society are among
the best perks of living in Saudi Arabia," stated Maria Cometti, a Riyadh resident and
cofounder of DQ Living magazine.
"The health and safety of our family is our first priority as parents; it is fundamental. Another important factor is the affordability of healthcare in this area.
"I am particularly appreciative of the close connections between our two nations as an
American married to a Saudi."
The female employment rate has risen to more than 36 percent, surpassing the Vision 2030 goal of 30 percent. (AFP/File)
When she first arrived, the female employment percentage was less than 20%,
When she first arrived, the female employment percentage was less than 20%,
according to executive Hana Nemec, who relocated to the Kingdom in 2015 at the age
of 24. She stated that this "frequently made me the only woman in meetings and led to
some seating arrangement concerns and cultural mistakes on my part."
By the end of last year, the percentage has increased to almost 36%, exceeding the
Vision 2030 target of 30% ten years ahead of schedule.
Since arriving in Saudi Arabia, Nemec said, "I have been pleasantly surprised every
single day by the people, their contagious hospitality, and their devotion to working
hand in hand to achieve Vision 2030 goals."
"Seeing the amazing developments in Saudi Arabia since Vision 2030 was announced
has affected my life profoundly, therefore it has been emotional for me personally."
Both foreigners and natives are finding new employment prospects as the Kingdom
keeps opening up to business and outside investment.
"I have lived in Riyadh for almost 15 years and have enjoyed the rich culture, safety,
modern infrastructure, and economical living with unique experiences," stated
American Sameer Shams. Excellent professional prospects are available in Saudi Arabia, especially in expanding
industries.
He claimed to have witnessed the evolution of the US-Saudi alliance,
which has historically been based on defense and oil, toward technology, artificial
intelligence, and renewable energy, as evidenced by occasions such as the
Saudi-US Investment Forum in Riyadh.
He claimed that by fostering cooperative efforts in sustainable development, finance,
and innovation, these gatherings had drawn leading business executives and improved
interpersonal relationships.
Saudi Arabia is undergoing a noticeable and significant transition that presents both
locals and foreigners with new prospects. It is clear that the Kingdom is moving toward modernization. Having personally observed these changes, I believe that Saudi Arabia is entering a
period of immense promise and constructive transformation.
Daniel Talbot, a student at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
studying applied technology in water desalination, stated: "I started my degree
program in 2024, but I already consider Saudi Arabia to be my home."
"My family and I have decided to establish roots there over the course of the next
four to five years as I work toward my master's and doctoral degrees."
Horse riders past the Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, in the desert canyon of Ashar Valley in Saudi Arabia’s northwestern Al-Ula desert. (AFP/File)
Talbot complimented the kindness and generosity of the Saudi people and said he feels
Talbot complimented the kindness and generosity of the Saudi people and said he feels
at home in a community of coworkers, many of whom he now calls friends.
"The Saudi people, in my opinion, are the Middle East's future, and I am honored to
have even a minor part in that process.
"I see the Kingdom redefining its own destiny and establishing itself as a worldwide
leader in a number of areas with a clear vision and ambitious aspirations."
Talbot described Vision 2030 as "one of the most ambitious national strategies of our
time" and credited it with a large portion of the nation's achievements.
The closeness to the Red Sea was one of the nicest aspects about relocating to Saudi
Arabia, according to Talbot.
"Whether it is a picnic at sunset or just spending a peaceful evening beneath the stars
close to our house, the peace and natural surroundings have provided my family
peaceful and restful times. The Red Sea has been revitalizing because of its
crystal-clear waters and abundant aquatic life.
Source www.arabnews.com
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