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The diary of a Saudi man, currently living in the United Kingdom, where the Religious Police no longer trouble him for the moment.

In Memory of the lives of 15 Makkah Schoolgirls, lost when their school burnt down on Monday, 11th March, 2002. The Religious Police would not allow them to leave the building, nor allow the Firemen to enter.

Thursday, August 04, 2005

The UK - a Saudi Woman's viewpoint 

Some observations from Mrs A (transcribed by me - her English is not good yet, but improving)

It is complete freedom to be able to walk around in public without being dressed head-to-toe in black non-breathing synthetic material. However I have not gone as far as some of the young girls who have bare stomachs. In spite of what the Imams say back home, this lack of modesty does not drive the local men into a frenzy of lust.

Being able to drive is a mixed blessing. I haven't gone out alone by myself yet. The driving is much better than in Riyadh, possibly because they have to take a proper driving test and be 18 years old, and also the fact that there are more women drivers. However the roads are very crowded and slow.

The children get on well with the children here, just like children everywhere.

The weather changes every day. Sometimes it changes during the day. You never know what to expect or dress for.

Shopping is nuch easier because there is no 30-minute stop for prayer time. I pray when I choose to, not when the Muttawa say I should.

There are no Muttawa! As Muslims, we can take responsibility for our own religious observance.

More later.



Posted by: alhamedi / 1:50 AM|

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