Arab News translates an article from the Jeddah-based Arabic daily Okaz that talks about how the city of Jeddah is perceived by some Saudis to be just this side of Sodom and Gomorrah. This piece accurately notes the cultural differences among some of the regions of Saudi Arabia, but highlights the fact that Jeddah is still just a Saudi city, with mostly the same manners and mores. Interesting piece, worth reading.

Jeddah and Its Bad Reputation
Abdu Khal • Okaz

We hear often that Jeddah is a corrupt and degraded city. These accusations are made especially during the vacation season when thousands of people come to the city from other parts of the Kingdom. However, it is weird that the actual residents of Jeddah do not see the corruption or the immorality that they supposedly live in.

So the question arises, why do people visiting Jeddah have such a view? Before looking for an answer, I want to share a story about a friend from the Southern Region of the Kingdom. He had been brainwashed with this idea and thought he was coming to visit a European country.

My friend told me that he thought the minute he sets foot in Jeddah he would find everything his heart desires. On arrival, he told me that people visiting the city have a tendency to spread such rumors.

However, life is no different in Jeddah than the rest of Saudi Arabia and each person has it different according to his lifestyle.

The Hijaz has always had a different social routine that differs from that of the rest of the Kingdom. Cities of the Western Region have visitors from all corners of the world, who bring their different cultures and backgrounds.
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