Spaniard Gus Franco moved to Saudi Arabia in early 2024, inspired by its rich culture. He created ‘Gus in Saudi’ to challenge stereotypes, garnering nearly 100 million views and fostering international interest in the Kingdom. Franco has developed a deep appreciation for Saudi traditions and modernity, plans to publish a book, and reflects on cultural similarities with Spain, showcasing the country’s evolving narrative amidst its Vision 2030 ambitions.
In early 2024, Spaniard Gus Franco relocated to Saudi Arabia driven by his curiosity about the nation’s culture. He quickly fell in love with the Kingdom’s rich traditions and modern developments, which he began documenting and sharing with a global audience on social media. In an interview, Franco recounted his quest for authentic information about Saudi Arabia and noted the discrepancy between preconceived notions and the reality he encountered. Inspired by his experiences, he founded the ‘Gus in Saudi’ project aimed at re-shaping perceptions about the Kingdom through relatable content. His venture has garnered nearly 100 million views and an international following, reflecting a growing interest in Saudi Arabia among diverse cultures.
Franco expressed admiration for the blend of tradition and modernity in Saudi Arabia. He indicated that the community’s pride in conserving its heritage, alongside the excitement of Vision 2030, contributes to a dynamic atmosphere. He credited his Arab followers for their instrumental role in supporting his content creation journey, even facilitating constructive critique that helped deepen his cultural understanding. Currently, he is in the process of drafting a book inspired by his life in the Kingdom, which he passionately intends to share. His journey, which began with a sense of exploration beyond his hometown in Spain, has led him to embrace both the familiarity and the uniqueness of Saudi Arabian life.
The cultural parallels between Spain and Saudi Arabia resonated with Franco during his time in the Kingdom. He noted the similarities in social warmth and family-centric values, which helped him forge connections with locals. He reflected on the similarities in coffee culture between both nations, emphasizing its paramount importance in social interactions. Franco articulated his journey toward learning the Arabic language organically through interaction, leading to a basic command over the language enriching his daily experiences. Furthermore, he remarked on the positive reception of his content, although acknowledging that there are some challenges in managing the balance between his online persona and personal life. Franco looks forward to sharing insights about Saudi Arabia with his family upon returning to Spain for the holidays, reinforcing the connections he has developed.
As Franco’s contract in Saudi Arabia nears its completion, he contemplates potential next steps. He desires to either deepen his impact within the Kingdom by pursuing new projects or maintain a connection with Saudi Arabia regardless of his physical location. Franco stated that Saudi Arabia has transformed him culturally, professionally, and emotionally. He envisions his legacy as one of someone who has actively participated in Saudi Arabia’s journey of cultural exchange, contributing to global perspectives of the Kingdom. He ultimately aspires to be recognized as someone who fervently embraced its culture and fostered understanding between Saudi Arabia and the broader world.
Gus Franco’s story exemplifies a growing trend where individuals from diverse backgrounds seek to explore and understand countries that are often misrepresented in mainstream media. His adventures reflect the broader desire to challenge stereotypes and highlight the rich tapestry of culture that Saudi Arabia offers, in line with initiatives like Vision 2030 that aim to transform the Kingdom into a more open and tourist-friendly destination. Franco’s narrative illuminates how social media can bridge cultural divides and foster dialogue among nations.
In summary, Gus Franco’s engaging experiences in Saudi Arabia illustrate a profound cultural exchange, challenging stereotypes and enriching both his life and the perception of the Kingdom globally. His initiative, ‘Gus in Saudi,’ not only garnered substantial viewership but also promoted a positive narrative about Saudi culture, bridging connections and enhancing understanding. As he contemplates his future, Franco’s commitment to maintaining his ties with Saudi Arabia reflects a deeper appreciation for its traditions and values, showcasing his role as a cultural ambassador between worlds.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com