What is it like to marry in Saudi Arabia?
When I decided to follow my lover to Saudi Arabia, I didn't anticipate the new and challenging things the country would bring. I was an ordinary Chinese girl who knew about the country before I got married and was limited to clips from the news and movies. However, when you really set foot in this desert land, you will find that living here is so different.
First of all, the culture and living habits in Saudi Arabia are completely different from those in China, which I am familiar with. Here, women are required to observe strict Islamic rules and wear a robe that covers the whole body and covers the head. This was indeed a huge challenge for me, a girl who is used to dressing freely. At first, I felt a little suffocated and uncomfortable, but gradually, I learned to respect and understand the culture of the country and try to fit in with the local way of life.
At the same time, Saudi Arabia is also home to breathtaking natural landscapes. Near our house there is an old desert city called Medina. The desert texture is as delicate as fabric, and the mountains in the distance are beautifully set against the backdrop of the sunset. Every weekend, I would drive with my family to wander in the desert and experience the magic and beauty of nature. The camel caravans and unique architectural styles along the way made me feel like I had traveled to the ancient Arab world.
In addition to its natural landscapes, Saudi Arabia also has a rich and diverse culture. I had the privilege of attending a traditional Arabic wedding, which was solemn and spectacular, and I felt that the Arab people cherish and inherit the tradition. At the wedding, I met many friendly locals who warmly invited me to taste a variety of cuisines and share their life stories. Through these exchanges, I gained a deeper understanding of the culture and folklore of the country.
However, life in Saudi Arabia has not been all smooth sailing. Especially as a foreign woman, I often feel all kinds of pressures and restrictions from society. In public places, I need to be careful about how I behave so that I don't offend the local cultural norms. Also, I often experience language barriers, and despite my best efforts to learn Arabic, I still have difficulty communicating. Sometimes, I have to rely on my husband or a local friend to help me with some chores.
However, despite the challenges of living in Saudi Arabia, I still feel the warmth and tolerance that the country has given me. Here, I met many kind people who were willing to share their culture and life with me, making me feel the warmth of home. In this desert land, I have found a place of my own, I have learned to respect and understand different cultures, and I have learned to cherish every interaction with others.
Marrying in Saudi Arabia was a new experience and adventure for me. In this country, I have experienced many challenges, but also gained a lot of touching and warmth. Saudi Arabia is a vibrant and charming country, and its culture and scenery make me linger. I believe that in this desert land, I will continue to write my own story, and work together with the people of this country to create a better future for us.