Got a call from a client who has a potential shoot in Saudi Arabia for a week at the end of the month. Anyone here ever been over there? What are the things to be concerned about, warned about, etc?

In my conversation w/ the producer, I was told that I will need to wear the typical Saudi clothing and headwear to blend in w/ the Muslim community. I don't really have a problem with that, besides, it'll make for some interesting behind the scenes shots. Also, absolutely NO alcohol for the time I'm there. Again, I don't have a problem with that.

Are they on 120V/60Hz or 240/50?

Thoughts?

Warren

 

never been, but want to go sometime.

It's not like there's a terrorist on every street there like most ignorant Americans think ("my god, be careful! It's dangerous there!"). Respect their customs and you'll be fine.

A lot of the people there wear that stuff for show and usually look pretty Western when in their homes.

 

Just look out for Al Qaida.

Oh, don't wear a shirt with a huge American flag on it either.

 

I think is safe if you are going to Dubai.

 

Dubai isn't in Saudi Arabia. It's the capital of the United Arab Emirates

 

Just be aware of your surroundings when you are there.

 

Since you haven't gotten much advice yet, I'll add something. I haven't been there, but I work in the defense industry and some of my co-workers have spent years living in Riyadh. Also, my gf's uncle lives there. I get the idea it is no where near as bad as you think. There are so many foreigners there already that you won't stick out unless you somehow announce yourself as an American. Arabs dislike americans but they don't have to know you are one. One thing I learned in traveling is that blue jeans and tennis shoes are considered overly American so don't take those.
As for drinking, it is punishable by a public beating. Making alcohol is a death sentence. Yet, one of my current coworkers who lived there for years owned a bar, imported the drinks, and made some others. Nothing ever happened. What is in their laws and what is reality are two different things. I'd think if you are invited to have a drink you wouldn't need to refuse.
Riyadh has quite a few American there as they are US allies. We have miltary and contractor personel there training the Saudi military so you may see some other Americans there.

 

That's overtly American? I thought tight blue jeans, cowboy boots and hat were overtly American.

Like I said, don't run around on the streets waving an American flag because I don't think Middle Easterns like Americans very much.

 

hey warren while you are over there can you get me one of their head dresses if it doesn't cost too much and i'll pay ya back?

 

I'm told that if I go, I'm required to wear one. I'll see of I can pick up a few if they aren't too much.

Haven't heard if I'm going or not, we'll see.

Warren