HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY FROM SAUDI ARABIA

Just a few short years ago, Valentine's Day was prohibited and non-existent in Saudi Arabia.  Florist and candy shops were raided by the religious police in search of any signs of the holiday - including anything red or pink or heart shaped.  Those days are gone as the religious police have been stripped of their powers and abilities to harass people who are just trying to live their lives in peace.  Valentine's Day is now advertised and celebrated subtly.  I took these photos last week in a Jeddah mall.  HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY FROM SAUDI ARABIA!

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FRIDAY BLISS

 

Our World - Saudi Arabia Progress - Fitting Rooms!

Lots of change has happened in the kingdom over the past 5 years, especially regarding women. Women started driving the summer of 2018.  Women are working in practically every sector now, not just in education or medical fields. There are movie theaters and a lot less gender segregation than before.

AND - many shops now have changing rooms for women to try on clothes before purchasing them!  Before, many shops had a three day return policy and with women not being allowed to drive,  it was a real pain in the a$$ - especially if the garment needed to be returned. So dressing rooms are a welcome change here in the kingdom - and a sign of real progress.

Be sure to visit OUR WORLD TUESDAY, where family-friendly bloggers share a unique glimpse into what life is like all around our ever-amazing planet.