Spanish content creator Gus Franco moved to Saudi Arabia in early 2024, aiming to explore the Kingdom’s culture while countering prevalent stereotypes. His project, ‘Gus in Saudi,’ has amassed nearly 100 million views, highlighting the duality of tradition and modernity in Saudi society. Franco’s work is supported by local followers, further enhancing his cultural understanding while he embarks on writing a book reflecting his experiences.
In early 2024, Spanish content creator Gus Franco relocated to Saudi Arabia, driven by his curiosity about the nation and its culture. Despite initially struggling to find accurate information due to prevalent stereotypes, Franco’s experiences revealed a reality that significantly differed from public perception. This revelation motivated him to launch ‘Gus in Saudi,’ a project aimed at portraying Saudi Arabia from a relatable perspective, which has since garnered nearly 100 million views from a diverse global audience.
Franco attributes the success of his content to the unique juxtaposition of traditional and modern elements within Saudi society, which he emphasizes as noteworthy. He shares that his Arab followers provided him with invaluable guidance and support, enhancing his understanding of cultural nuances. Franco is currently penning a book about his experiences, reflecting his attachment to the Kingdom and his aspiration to positively influence its image.
Having traveled extensively, Franco claims that his journey to Saudi Arabia has been particularly enriching, as he finds the environment both familiar and distinctive. He highlights the country’s structured daily life and social customs, which invigorate the weekends with various activities. Acknowledging the historical ties between Spain and Saudi Arabia, Franco notes mutual values of family and hospitality that resonate deeply with him.
His exploration of Saudi culture extends to the Arabic language, which Franco has learned organically through daily interactions. While he acknowledges occasional misunderstandings regarding his profession, he remains committed to fostering connections between Saudi Arabia and the global community. Franco concludes by expressing his desire to leave a lasting impact, whether by continuing his projects in the Kingdom or staying connected in other ways, all while valuing the role of Saudi culture in his journey.
Franco’s insights portray a genuine connection with Saudi Arabia, which he aims to highlight through his work and personal reflections, establishing himself as a cross-cultural ambassador in a rapidly evolving society.
Gus Franco’s journey to Saudi Arabia reflects a broader narrative of cultural exploration and understanding. Many potential visitors or expatriates hold preconceived notions about the Kingdom influenced by media portrayal. Franco’s experience showcases how firsthand engagement can reveal a richer, more complex reality, challenging stereotypes. His insights also illustrate the importance of intercultural communication and collaboration in fostering positive relationships between nations. Given Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, Franco’s perspective becomes even more relevant as the country seeks to engage with an international audience while preserving its heritage and traditions.
Gus Franco’s narrative is a rich illustration of cross-cultural engagement and the impact of personal experiences on perception. His project, ‘Gus in Saudi,’ not only aims to challenge stereotypes but also serves as a conduit for deeper understanding between cultures. Franco’s connection with Saudi Arabia is profound, encapsulating the essence of his journey through shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to fostering connections. As he projects the warmth and hospitality of the Kingdom, he positions himself as a significant figure in bridging global cultural divides.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
