Spaniard Gus Franco moved to Saudi Arabia in 2024, discovered a culture contrasting prevalent stereotypes, and launched ‘Gus in Saudi,’ a media project highlighting the Kingdom’s blend of tradition and modernity. His engagement has inspired a vast audience, with nearly 100 million views. Franco’s experiences reflect deep societal connections, and he is currently authoring a book about his time in Saudi Arabia.
In early 2024, Spaniard Gus Franco moved to Saudi Arabia, driven by a desire to explore and immerse himself in its unique culture. Despite initial exposure to stereotypes, he discovered that the reality of the Kingdom was vastly different and, motivated by this revelation, created a media project called ‘Gus in Saudi.’ This initiative has garnered an impressive audience, amassing nearly 100 million views and followers from over 60 nations, many of whom have expressed a newfound interest in visiting or working in Saudi Arabia.
Franco captures the essence of the Kingdom by presenting its blend of tradition and modernity. He notes, “Saudi Arabia stands out for its unique blend of tradition and modernity, which coexist in fascinating ways.” His work has been bolstered by support from local followers who have provided insights into cultural nuances, enabling him to refine his content effectively.
His attachment to Saudi Arabia has led him to author a book about his experiences, inspired by the warmth and social connections he has encountered. Franco articulates, “I’ve grown attached to this country and feel that through my work, I can contribute to its image and progress.” He reflects on the systematic nature of life in the Kingdom, likening its social structure to the American style, where social interactions occur in designated areas.
Franco highlights the historical connections between Spain and Saudi Arabia, drawing parallels between the cultures of both regions. He states, “Both are peninsulas with cultures shaped by diverse influences,” emphasizing the significance of family values in both societies. Franco has embraced the local urban lifestyle, relishing late-night gatherings and the communal tradition of sharing coffee, which remains integral to Saudi hospitality.
Through personal interactions, Franco has acquired a working knowledge of the Arabic language and cultural etiquette, stating, “I have a vocabulary of over 1,000 words,” enabling a deeper connection to the local community. His commitment to authentic representation has been positively received, although he acknowledges that maintaining a healthy balance between his online persona and real life can be challenging. With his contract nearing its completion, Franco contemplates future opportunities, expressing a desire to further contribute to the Kingdom’s development as it aligns with Vision 2030.
In conclusion, Gus Franco’s journey in Saudi Arabia exemplifies an enriching cultural exchange that challenges stereotypes and promotes mutual understanding. His content creation not only showcases the beauty of Saudi culture but also fosters connections across borders, illustrating the transformative power of travel and storytelling in shaping perceptions.
The article delves into the experiences of Gus Franco, a Spanish content creator who relocated to Saudi Arabia in search of adventure and cultural immersion. His journey reflects the contrasting realities experienced by expatriates who confront stereotypes about the Kingdom. Franco’s narrative serves as a powerful case study of how personal engagement can positively alter public perceptions of a nation, emphasizing the importance of cultural understanding in a globalized world.
Gus Franco’s endeavors in Saudi Arabia highlight the potential of social media as a tool for cultural representation and the promotion of cross-cultural dialogue. His journey signifies a broader narrative about the evolving image of Saudi Arabia amidst its ambitious Vision 2030 initiatives. As Franco navigates his future, his commitment to bridging cultural gaps exemplifies an enriching exchange between diverse communities.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
