Thanks for dinner inviation – feel obliged (by the way, was it to be in saudi or abroad)…

I strongly believe that if the youth of this country takes the step to voice their opinion to the government and demand for changes in law, we still have hope otherwise many are on the verge of loosing their orientation.

PS: I hope you will write more blogs on similar topics for people to read and learn.

As for Fooschie, i completely understand your situation and feel that every normal Straight guy in this country feels the same. Rules are so rigid and strict that the only kind who can thrive in this country happily are the homosexuals probably. Like its frustrating that these rules are made by Iliterate, rigid and conservative members of “Committee for promotion of virtue and prevention of Vice”. I think people like Prince Waleed bin Talal should be in control of this country. All the Rulers do is impose rigid islamic laws without putting ENOUGH imphasis on Education, Industrialization and Women rights.

I think dating is perfectly normal if its within the limits of Modesty. Its more of a learning experince than alone just being a romantic ecspasade. I do agree these things exist in Saudi society.

You people said that there are things happening in Saudi society which are more open and wierd than western societies but are kept hidden. I completely agree with you guys on this. but why is this the situation? Why? Because this country has suppressed the basic socialization rights of people for a very long time. Can you imagine, Co-Education is banned in this country in Universities and schools except for some private schools where it still persists. Result = students graduate as frustrated maniacs who when placed in an environment where they have to confront the opposite sex, they get confused, derailed or act stupid. Many a times when these frustrated students travel abroad, they cross all the limitations of modesty and religion because they want to take out their frustration somewhere. they want to revenge the oppresion they faced in this country in terms of contact with opposite sex.

Now the Saudi society under King Abdullah wants to make a change but they are scared that since they have kept illogical strict rules over the public for past 100 years, now if they relieve those rules, this might lead to serious consequences.

I still remember that when King Abdullah took over the throne, in his first speech he said that he would very soon allow women to drive. But after so many years, he is still facing problems with that ammendment (thanks to those fanatic Mutawaas). Life of a bachelor is hell in this country specially if its a male. We can’t go in most of the shopping malls alone, we have to dine in singles area in all the restaurants which is damn boring, we cannot meet any non-related women outside (even for professional reasons) and we have absolutely no chance of socializing.

by the way i am a guy- 21 years old- medical student Riyadh

I really do not know what to say but can feel your frustration clearly through your words. I think the denials and prohibitions can in turn make a situation much more volatile, as you have pointed out.