Spaniard Gus Franco relocated to Saudi Arabia in early 2024, aiming to explore and document the culture through his project, ‘Gus in Saudi.’ His content challenges stereotypes, garnering nearly 100 million views globally. Deeply inspired by the blend of tradition and modernity in Saudi Arabia, Franco has also learned Arabic and developed a strong appreciation for the local culture and family values. As his contract nears its end, he contemplates his options but expresses a desire to remain connected to the Kingdom.
In early 2024, Spaniard Gus Franco relocated to Saudi Arabia, driven by curiosity about the nation’s culture. On his arrival, he discovered a reality that starkly contrasted with existing stereotypes, inspiring him to launch a project titled “Gus in Saudi” aimed at depicting the Kingdom through an authentic and relatable perspective. His content, which has garnered nearly 100 million views from a global audience, reflects his appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, enhanced by the progressive initiatives of Vision 2030.
Franco attributes his inspiration to a myriad of experiences, from local traditions to interactions with both Saudi and international followers who assist him in navigating Riyadh. He expresses a profound connection to the Kingdom, which is evident in his decision to write a book chronicling his experiences. Franco notes, “I’ve grown attached to this country and feel that through my work, I can contribute to its image and progress,” exemplifying his dedication to positively impacting Saudi Arabia’s global narrative.
The cultural similarities he observes between Saudi Arabia and Spain, particularly their rich traditions and strong family values, have deepened his affinity for the Kingdom. Franco elaborates, “Saudis are incredibly humble, generous, and welcoming. Trust and family are central to their lives, much like in Spain.” His relentless exploration, having made over 100 travels across 150 cities globally, underscores his commitment to cultural understanding.
During his stay, Franco has also acquired a commendable proficiency in Arabic, learning organically through interactions without formal education. He humorously reflects, “I still laugh when I think about the comments about being ‘heavy-blooded’ or ‘light-blooded’,” showcasing his appreciation for the humor in the local culture. Franco acknowledges the duality of social media and personal relationships, recognizing the challenges it poses while remaining grateful for his supportive family, particularly his mother.
As his contract in Saudi Arabia draws to a close, he contemplates his future, eager to either enhance his projects in the Kingdom or maintain a connection post-departure. He aspires to be remembered for his contributions to the cultural bridge between Saudi Arabia and the world and views his experiences as a fundamental part of his identity. Franco concludes, “This country has become a part of me: culturally, professionally, and emotionally.”
Gus Franco, a Spanish content creator and business consultant, moved to Saudi Arabia in early 2024, motivated by a desire to explore the rich culture of the Kingdom. His experiences and content creation aim to counter prevalent stereotypes, offering a genuine perspective on life in Saudi Arabia, aligned with the progressive Vision 2030 initiatives. Through his work, Franco has successfully engaged with a diverse audience, accumulating millions of views while fostering a deeper understanding of Saudi traditions.
Gus Franco’s journey in Saudi Arabia exemplifies the transformative power of cultural exploration and content creation. His ability to connect with the local culture, learn the language, and resonate with both Saudi and international audiences underscores the importance of bridging gaps between different societies. Franco’s commitment to showcasing Saudi Arabia’s rich traditions paired with modern aspirations positions him as a significant figure in promoting the Kingdom’s image on the global stage. Ultimately, his desire to remain connected to Saudi Arabia reflects the profound impact the nation has had on his life.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
