In March 2018, I visited Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Simply amazing and inspiring. I didn’t realize how narrow minded we Americans, or at least myself, can be and the potential of this nation and its people. So yes, this article is mainly for my American patriots, but I also want to share my experience with others around the world that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is beyond what you know. I’m hoping you’ll open your eyes and take a closer look.

The Familiar Most Saudi’s know the US very well. Our teammates that met us at the airport were educated in the US and specifically Wichita, Kansas and Clemson, SC. WHAT!?!? They know Southern Football. Furthermore, the Wichitian picked us up, wearing his headgear nonetheless, in this Ford truck. WHAT!?!? Ok…at this point, I realized I don’t know the Kingdom. These people are educated, worldly, and set on making their nation greater. And oh by the way, 70% of the population is under 30 and working to thrive.

Some Differences Meetings mostly didn’t include women, and when they did, the ladies wore a hijab. Also, don’t jump in to shake a lady’s hand when you meet. Wait on her to initiate the handshake. This was hard for me, but I did hold back. The men wore dresses and headgear. I learned that the men’s headgear, a.k.a. ghutra and igal, in most settings is basically similar to a tie. And the men’s dress, a.k.a. thobe, is comfortable and cool. When its 130 degrees, I would be wearing a dress, too. Lastly the black ones look super fly.

Additionally, the separate family and singles entrances to buildings was new to me. For example, I walked into the family side of a Starbucks to buy this mug and was told I needed to go to the other side. I’m like “What? I just want to buy a mug.” Apparently single men in Riyadh are annoying to families so they separate them to another room, table, door, bathroom, etc. 🤔 Also, eating, coffee, and sleep are art forms that I thought I mastered. Eating shawarma at 0230AM is normal. Coffee every hour, normal. Sleeping…naps…maybe. New art form appreciated but not mimicked when I returned home.

Much I learned The people are so kind, gracious, respectful, and loving. They love and honor their women. Understanding this took time and genuine conversation. Women will be allowed to drive in summer 2018, but most don’t want to – they have private drivers. 😊 After sitting in the passenger seat of a Ford F-150 for 5+ days in downtown Riyadh, I’m scared to drive there. Friday is family day. Call to prayer was bit unusual but after a couple of days I didn’t hear it – cool when call to prayer was out of sync at different mosques. When we arrived I had to request to NOT eat American food. Krispie Kreme, TGIF, Wild Wings, and Baskin Robins. To compromise, we ended up at a Turkish owned Texas style beef/steak house. Like I said, Saudi’s know the US very well and what they like. Best ribs ever!!!

So modern yet still so connected to their history, their beliefs, and their culture. Certainly not isolated like the US. And not to mention the Crown Prince of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is ambitious, creative, and young.

Just do a little bit of research and you’ll see the vision that is being set for this amazing nation and its up and coming educated youth. If I was a gambling man, my money is on KSA.

Thank you my friends @ https://www.trusted-sec.com/ and I’m looking forward to working alongside you through your many successes!

Original article published on LinkedIn on March 26, 2018.