Saudi Arabia, often seen as a bastion of religious conservatism, surprises with its embrace of American culture, particularly through brands like Dunkin’ Donuts. This complex relationship is bolstered by long-standing ties between the US and Saudi Arabia focused on oil and security. His Vision 2030 initiative is paving the way for an even greater influx of US companies, shaping consumer culture across the Kingdom.
In an unexpected twist for a nation often characterized by its religious conservatism, Saudi Arabia demonstrates a profound affection for American culture, particularly evident with brands like Dunkin’ Donuts. This fascination runs deep and touches various facets of daily life, fueled by a historical partnership between Washington and Riyadh that has weathered many storms over the decades. The country’s Vision 2030 initiative aims to fortify this connection further, enticing even more American businesses to set up shop within its borders, ultimately shaping contemporary consumer behaviors.
On May 10, in Riyadh, a Saudi national named Fahd shared his experiences from his time in Tennessee, where Dunkin’ Donuts was a staple. Upon returning home, he discovered a familiar comfort. “When I came here, thank God, the same café and same order were here too,” said the 31-year-old mechanical engineer, who preferred to keep his last name private. “I started living the same lifestyle here as I did in America.”
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, revered as the cradle of Islam, has more than 600 Dunkin’ Donuts locations that serve around 250,000 customers daily, a striking number amidst its total population of approximately 35 million. Despite being historically viewed as a closed society, American corporate influence is prevalent; chains like Buffalo Wild Wings, Chuck E. Cheese, and Starbucks are interwoven into the fabric of urban life in places like Riyadh.
The special relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States dates back to the second World War. It was formalized when King Abdulaziz bin Saud met with President Franklin Roosevelt. That handshake marked the beginning of a long alliance, trading security for access to the kingdom’s vast oil reserves. The Saudi riyal is linked to the US dollar, illustrating the economic ties that bind these nations together.
Although the alliance has faced challenges—including the 1970s oil embargo and the recent fallout from the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi—the love for American culture persists among many Saudis. “The one thing we never disagree on is going to an American restaurant—especially Buffalo Wild Wings,” noted 28-year-old Dalal Abdulaziz, emphasizing that these eateries have become as routine as traditional Saudi meals. “You’ll find American restaurants in every neighborhood here. We eat it weekly, almost like Saudi food.”
To further underscore the integration of American brands into everyday life, Khaled Salman Al-Dosari, a 21-year-old student, remarked how American presence feels omnipresent. “American companies’ products have become an inseparable part of our day,” he said.
The Vision 2030 economic strategy is reshaping the landscape for foreign investment, in addition to loosening restrictions that once barred live music and cinema. Now, events like mixed martial arts and professional wrestling entertain locals alongside more traditional pastimes. Andrew Leber, a political science educator at Tulane University, stated, “I think many Americans would be surprised at the extent to which American brands are all over Saudi Arabia.”
This cultural affinity extends to architecture and climate similarities between Texas and Riyadh, making it resonate for many. For instance, Fahd pointed out, “Texas is close to Riyadh in terms of climate, and its people are conservative like us.”
For the many Americans working in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the oil sector, this relationship with American brands serves as a touchpoint to home. Joshua Dunning, a 36-year-old business developer in Saudi tech, shared, “It always… reminds me of home and keeps that connection with the places that I’ve seen since I’ve been growing up.” It seems that, within Saudi Arabia, American brands are not merely tolerated; rather, they are woven into the daily lives of the people.
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s growing embrace of American cultural influences, exemplified through popular franchises like Dunkin’ Donuts, reflects a unique relationship that intertwines consumer habits with deeper geopolitical ties. Despite historical challenges, the ongoing Vision 2030 initiative signals a commitment to enhancing this connection further. As American brands proliferate across Saudi neighborhoods, they serve both nostalgia for expatriates and a taste of modernity for locals, bridging gaps between cultures in a way that few anticipated.
Original Source: www.malaymail.com
