How difficult is it for an American Woman to work or study in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia?

Question

Hi, my name is Yasirah. I have a deep interest in learning more about Gulf Arabian culture (Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, etc). My interest is more cultural than political/religious. Im not studying anthropology...but i would like to know what opportunities would i have available to me to meet the women of the culture and learn about their everyday lives whether it is formal or informally. I was thinking i may have an opportunity if a study or work there. Can anybody tell me what to expect and what my situation would be like? I would also like to know if there are currently any student exchange/cultural exchange problems. I really need your help. Thankyou so much!

Answer 1

There are cultural exchange programs between the US and SA, but they almost entirely consist of Saudis coming to the US, not the other way around. The State Department is a vey useful source of information:
http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1012.html

You can also contact the US embassy for specific information:
http://riyadh.usembassy.gov/saudi-arabia/Consular_Section.html

Answer 2

many People will be very nice, there is always a glass ceiling for foriegners as far as how close you can get. Many Saudis speak very good english, Local's in Saudi Arabia can be beheaded for drinking liqour. So, there are some restrictions on what you can do. Lebbanon is a free'r with sin but not so hot now, I've heard of people going to UAE. You can teach English there. or enroll in a university with or without an exchange program. With out a program just means you have to pick a school that offers what you like and enroll, deal with on or off campus housing as you normally would, which is impossible to live off campus if you can't speak the language and take care of yourself at first.

Answer 3

I want you to be very very very very aware that there country is not like the US ...I would really research what is expected of your sex when you go there .Please please be careful and research throughly and ask everyone and everywhere you can..Don't just think it exotic and wonderful.Personally I have never been there although it has crossed my mind and you may be fine..but just try to talk to as many people over and over and research research as much as you can .If you have to ask a million times on here or the internet until you can compile enough true information to make a reasonable decision.

Answer 4

THE MALE POPULATION WOULD HAVE YOU FOR LUNCH. YOU WOULD DISAPPEAR FROM SIGHT IF YOU ARE LUCKY ENOUGH TO STAY ALIVE.