Moving to a new country is always exciting. But at the same time, it can be a daunting experience, especially if you're looking to make friends. It's perfectly natural to feel isolated, lonely, and disconnected from the world around you. However, with patience, an open mind, and the support of Boo, a pioneering psychology tech company that helps you find compatible friends based on personality type, you can build meaningful friendships with people who share your interests and values. In this article, we'll explore the social landscape of Saudi Arabia, regional differences in friendship-making strategies, online friendship formation, lessons learned from locals, and much more.

Saudi Arabia's Social Landscape

Saudi Arabia is a conservative Muslim country. The dating scene is virtually non-existent, and unmarried men and women are not allowed to interact publicly. However, this does not mean that it is impossible to make friends in Saudi Arabia. On the contrary, the cultural emphasis on family and community makes it rather easy to find individuals who share your interests and values, even for foreigners.

Friendships in Saudi Arabia: Regional Differences

One of the challenges of making friends in Saudi Arabia is the diversity of social interactions depending on region. There are significant differences in social customs and etiquette between different regions of the country. For example, the people in Riyadh are more conservative and reserved, while the people in Jeddah are more relaxed and outgoing. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the cultural differences in order to form deeper relationships with locals.

In recent years, online dating apps have become popular in Saudi Arabia. However, given the restrictions on public interaction between unmarried men and women, these platforms have limitations for those looking to build genuine friendships. Boo, on the other hand, offers a unique platform for making friends in Saudi Arabia online. With this app, you can form authentic friendships with people who share your interests and personalities. You can find singles near you, even if you're not looking for a romantic relationship.

Making Friends in Saudi Arabia: Lessons from Locals

To make friends in Saudi Arabia, learning from the locals is key. It's important to understand the customs and manners of the people in the area where you reside or work. The best way to learn is by watching and listening to the people around you. Make sure to engage in local events or activities, as well. Find common interests and topics to discuss with your new acquaintances, and you'll quickly find that it's not that hard to become friends.

How to Make Friends as a Student in Saudi Arabia

For international students, making friends in Saudi Arabia may seem challenging at first, but it's not impossible. One of the best ways is to get involved in social activities on campus or outside of school. This can include clubs, sports, or cultural events. Also, consider attending language exchanges or volunteering opportunities that allow you to meet locals and experience the Arab culture firsthand.

How to Make LGBTQ+ Friends in Saudi Arabia

It is very challenging for the LGBTQ+ community to make friends in a country like Saudi Arabia, where homosexuality is criminalized. Nevertheless, there are still some resources available for queer individuals. Boo provides a platform for all types of friendships. It allows LGBTQ+ individuals in the country to connect with like-minded people and form a supportive community, online and offline. However, it is important to be cautious and aware of the risks.

The Power of Validation in Compatible Friendships

Feeling seen, heard, and understood can be incredibly healing. It reassures us that our thoughts, feelings, and experiences matter. We often feel misunderstood in a world that doesn't always cater to our unique needs and perspective, so validation from compatible friends can be a game-changer.

Compatible friends don't just listen; they truly understand. They see the world through a similar lens, appreciating your worldview and passions. They don't shy away from your depth or intensity but rather embrace it, validating your unique perspective on life. This validation can contribute to a healthier self-esteem, a stronger sense of identity, and an increased feeling of worthiness. It can serve as a reminder that you are not alone and that there are others who understand and value your unique viewpoint.

So how do we find these compatible friends? Psychological studies have highlighted that an understanding of personality types can significantly improve interpersonal relationships. This awareness helps us grasp our relationship paradigms and those of others around us.

Consider the scenario of an ENFJ, known for their people-focused approach, trying to comprehend an INTJ friend's seemingly aloof demeanor. However, understanding this demeanor as a natural facet of the INTJ's communication style can build bridges of mutual understanding. This knowledge enhances communication, reduces conflicts, and paves the way for a robust and thriving friendship.

FAQs

What are some common social faux pas to avoid when making friends in Saudi Arabia?

It is important to avoid behaviors that may be interpreted as rude or disrespectful. For example, pointing with your finger or your feet is considered rude, as is speaking too loudly. Also, make sure to dress modestly, particularly if you are a woman, as this will show respect for the Saudi culture and religion.

How might my experience of making friends in Saudi Arabia differ from making friends in other countries?

The social customs and attitudes of Saudi Arabia may differ significantly from those in other countries. For instance, physical contact in public is not acceptable in Saudi Arabia, especially between unmarried men and women. However, the emphasis on family and community makes interpersonal relationships dear and meaningful.

What strategies can help me maintain long-distance friendships if I move within Saudi Arabia?

One way to maintain friendships is to schedule regular calls or video chats with your friends. Sending occasional text messages or emails can also help keep you connected. When possible, plan to meet during holidays or long weekends to catch up in person.

What are some ways to transition online friendships to in-person ones in Saudi Arabia?

Online friendships can be transitioned to in-person in various ways, such as attending local events with the person or planning to meet for tea or coffee. It is essential to be transparent in your communication, express your expectations and be respectful of the other person's boundaries.

Conclusion

Forming genuine friendships in a new place like Saudi Arabia can be challenging and unsettling. But by staying open-minded, learning from the locals, and using tools such as Boo, you can find like-minded individuals and build meaningful friendships that will last a lifetime. Whatever your interests or background, there are people from all walks of life waiting to meet you. So, don't be afraid to take the initiative and extend a friendly hand. Who knows, you might discover that your best friend was waiting for you in this beautiful country.

Ready to connect with kindred spirits in your local area? Join Boo and start your journey.