Arabian Days: Al Jubail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

2012. Darrin Lee. "Be careful," they said. "It's not big on human rights," they said. Of course I didn't listen... Where's the fun in that? Within three days of touching down I hear sirens from not one, but two, SUV police behind me while biking down a country road. I reluctantly pull over. A cop hops out either one - draped in full desert fatigues, pistols strapped around their thighs,... this should be interesting. A quick I.D. check and advice to steer clear of the industrial grounds and I was back along the Persian Gulf coast, or known locally and on domestic maps as the 'Arabian' Gulf, at Al Jubail, K.S.A. Meh. In this desert haze I can hardly ride anywhere in daylight hours without some luxury car or government vehicle offering a lift. They just can't believe I would be out cycling in the heat and sun by choice. Getting any errands done during the day can be a challenge, aside from the scorch. Life, as most know it, completely shuts down five times a day for thirty minute 'prayer time.' Gas stations, grocery stores, even the gym- the lights go off and everyone must collect their purchases, belongings and b-line to the exit. A week and a half in I was reading outside the gym waiting for the half hour to pass. I could hardly believe my eyes as I watched two late teens dressed in the traditional 'thobe' throw half fist sized rocks and glass bottles at a circle of middle school kids sitting on the grass. The kids had to quickly jump and disperse to barely miss the rocks and spray of shattered glass. None of the other adults waiting outside the gym seemed to think anything of it. It's nice to see the time for reflection is being put to good use. If you're here with enough time to get accustomed, there's piles of untapped potential. Gorgeous beaches and coastline is deserted all day long, save a few lurkers. The cities come alive at night as citizens try to avoid the sun and heat during the day. Flat and bare as far as the eye can see. The only way you'll get in, however, is employment, consultancy or sponsorship through a resident- there are no tourist visas. Take a chance... answer the call... and be willing to take the fall. -30- Music: "Gutter" by District (Chestplate) c/o Sebastian Veldman & Audiobrawl facebook.com/audiobrawl