This blog entry here deals with women drivers.
No, no jokes: the writer, Ahmed, is talking about women driving, ie, being allowed to drive, in Saudi Arabia, and is suggesting that one thing the Kingdom needs is...another King Faisal.
Ahmed also takes a look at a problem he sees in Riyadh, Jeddah, and elsewhere in the kingdom: older, historic buildings or sections of town being allowed to deteriorate. Or, as happens here in the West, being paved over to make way for parking lots. There's a uniquely Saudi twist to it, though:
Maybe it is too late. The Wahhabis who view historical buildings and sites as promoting idolatry have prevented us from saving some priceless treasures for many years, and they still active on that. Unfortunately, no one is brave enough to face the religious establishment in the county.
One thing I was unaware of: Saudi blogging began, apparently, in English.
You may also take a look at one of the world's oldest (and most expensive) cities, as described by local bloggers, at Good Morning Jeddah. Start with "Things about Jeddah you may not know."
The bloggers there seem to be of the opinion that Jeddah is a beautiful city. They're right, although I lived in North Jeddah, and never got to see much of the ancient parts of the city.
Anyway, there you go: links to three Saudi blogs -- good ones all -- in one day! You can find even more at Saudi Blogs. Multicultural is my middle name.
Posted by Craig Ceely at July 17, 2006 10:55 AM