Spanish content creator Gus Franco moved to Saudi Arabia in 2024, discovering a reality that challenged stereotypes. His project, “Gus in Saudi,” has gained nearly 100 million views, highlighting the country’s blend of tradition and modernity. Franco expresses appreciation for local customs, builds connections with Arab followers, and is writing a book reflecting his experiences. He contemplates his future in the Kingdom, eager to continue contributing to its evolving narrative.
In early 2024, Spaniard Gus Franco relocated to Saudi Arabia, driven by a desire to explore its rich culture. Upon his arrival, he found that his initial perceptions, shaped by prevailing stereotypes, were starkly contrasted by the realities he encountered, which encouraged him to document his experiences through a social media project known as “Gus in Saudi.” This initiative aims to showcase the Kingdom from a relatable perspective, resulting in nearly 100 million views and a diverse following from over 60 nationalities.
Franco expressed his admiration for Saudi Arabia’s unique fusion of tradition and modernity, emphasizing how the country’s commitment to preserving cultural values intertwines with the aspirations of Vision 2030. His content creation journey benefited significantly from the support of his Arab followers, who provided valuable insights and constructive feedback on cultural nuances. As a testament to his affection for the Kingdom, he is writing a book that reflects his travels and discoveries.
Having traveled extensively, Franco shared that his experiences abroad, particularly in the UK and Belgium, heightened his curiosity about the Middle East. His observations of life in Saudi Arabia reveal a blend of familiarity and distinctiveness, from car-centric city layouts to communal gatherings in designated plazas. Franco narrated vibrant anecdotes about local customs, noting the stark contrast between weekdays filled with structured routines and weekends that offer lively and comforting experiences.
Highlighting the historical connections between Spain and Saudi Arabia, Franco noted the shared cultural elements rooted in diverse influences. He found parallels between the social dynamics of both nations, emphasizing the importance of trust and hospitality in Saudi society. As an individual passionate about coffee, he drew comparisons between the significance of coffee in both cultures, illustrating how it contributes to his sense of belonging.
Franco, who learned Arabic organically through daily interactions rather than formal education, shared his delight in connecting with the local language and culture. His learning journey incorporated humorous moments as he navigated colloquial phrases. While his content creation has largely met with positive feedback, he acknowledged the challenges of balancing his online presence with personal relationships. Franco values his mother’s guidance, which serves as an anchoring influence in his professional journey.
As Franco contemplates the future, he faces the decision of whether to continue his projects in Saudi Arabia or return to Spain. Regardless of his choice, he expressed a deep emotional connection to the Kingdom and a desire to further contribute to its evolving narrative while remaining an ambassador of its culture to the rest of the world. His ultimate hope is to be remembered for his genuine embrace of Saudi culture and his role in fostering connections across cultures.
Gus Franco, a content creator from Spain, gained attention through his immersive documentation of life in Saudi Arabia after moving there in early 2024. His social media project aims to counter existing stereotypes by providing a truthful representation of Saudi culture, highlighting the rich traditions and rapid modernization happening within the Kingdom. Franco’s journey reflects broader themes of cultural exchange and understanding in an increasingly globalized world, particularly regarding the dynamics present between the Arab states and Western perspectives.
In conclusion, Gus Franco’s experiences in Saudi Arabia highlight the importance of authentic cultural representation amidst prevailing stereotypes. His journey from curiosity to content creation showcases a profound appreciation for the Kingdom’s values and traditions. Through his work, Franco aims to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding, making a lasting impact on the narrative surrounding Saudi Arabia while cherishing the connections he has made along the way.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
