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Category Archives: Here and Now
Men Only “Women’s Conference”
This photo has appeared all over the western press in the last few days both in the USA and UK, it was picked up from social media and then used to castigate attitudes to women in Saudi Arabia. On the … Continue reading
Thursday is the new “Friday” and Saturday is the new Saturday; Confused?
The weekend in Saudi Arabia has officially changed. So instead of being nearly alone in the world and celebrating the weekend on Thursday and Friday The Kingdom has been bought in line with other Gulf States. Friday is the Holy … Continue reading
Unexpected Riyadh
In some ways this should have been the very first blog entry, but how can you write about something you know nothing about. I know that usually doesn’t stop journalists, but I wanted to wait and form opinions rather rehash … Continue reading
Posted in Here and Now
Tagged Al-Masmak Fort, compound, diplomatic quarter, expat, islam, mosques, petro-dollars, public transport, Riyadh, rocky escarpment, Saudi Arabia
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Women’s sports: Oxymoron?
When I first arrived in Saudi Arabia, I never considered that women’s sports would be an issue. Even though I was aware of the debate over women competing in the Saudi 2012 Olympic team, and the fact that only two … Continue reading
Not a Pretty Sight
Okay, so this is a more serious post than my usual offering. Many around the world are focused on women’s rights in Saudi Arabia. Foreigners tend to concentrate on the outward signs, veiling, the ban on women driving and restrictions … Continue reading
Posted in Here and Now
Tagged King Khalid Foundation, Saudi Arabia, Shura Council, women's rights
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First Time Camel Racing
I know nothing about camel racing, but am very keen to become acquainted with the basics of the sport. I was invited to a camel race meet at the Janadryiah Festival and excited to have a chance to learn … Continue reading
The Janadriyah Festival 2013
A two week long cultural and heritage festival is held each year at Janadriyah, some 30 miles outside Riyadh. Originally The festival was founded as a massive camel race meet, but has gradually become a celebration of the regional heritage of … Continue reading
Posted in Here and Now, Tours and Activities
Tagged Cultural Heritage, Janadryiah, Janadryiah 2013, Mutawwa, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Would Jeremy Clarkson approve?
Jeremy Clarkson would approve of the size of our new car. There’s no eco or green about this beast of a GMC Yukon. The car is provided by the company and who wouldn’t be happy about someone giving you … Continue reading
Arrived. Phew!!
After months of medicals, form filling, and general faffing around. The Family, that is the children and me, (Saudi terminology , I promise you will get used to it) arrived at King Khalid international airport, Riyadh, late on the 27th … Continue reading
