Gus Franco’s Journey: Changing the Narrative of Saudi Arabia Through Social Media
Gus Franco, a Spaniard who moved to Saudi Arabia in 2024, has documented his experiences to counter stereotypes about the Kingdom. His social media project, “Gus in Saudi,” has attracted nearly 100 million views and a diverse following. Franco expresses a deep appreciation for the culture and traditions of Saudi Arabia and is working on a book about his experiences.
In early 2024, Spaniard Gus Franco relocated to Saudi Arabia, initially driven by curiosity. Immersed in the Kingdom’s rich culture, he began documenting his experiences for a broad audience on social media. Franco aimed to counter the prevalent stereotypes he encountered about Saudi Arabia, discovering a reality that was strikingly different from his expectations. His project, “Gus in Saudi,” was conceived to present the Kingdom through an authentic and relatable lens.
Remarkably, Franco’s content has garnered nearly 100 million views, accompanied by followers from over sixty different nationalities. His inspiration stems from urges prompted by local traditions, places, and the support of both Saudi and international followers. Franco remarked, “Saudi Arabia stands out for its unique blend of tradition and modernity, which coexist in fascinating ways.”
Throughout his journey, Franco has developed a particular fondness for Saudi Arabia, inspiring him to write a book that reflects his experiences. He noted, “I feel that through my work, I can contribute to its image and progress… I still have many projects I want to develop.”
Originally from a quaint town in Spain, Franco’s previous global travels shaped his desire to explore. His time spent living in diverse cultures fueled his interest in regions, including the Middle East. Franco acknowledged the striking similarities between Spain and Saudi Arabia, stating, “Both are peninsulas with cultures shaped by diverse influences.”
During his stay, Franco observed a structured lifestyle in the Kingdom, characterized by distinct social rhythms and gatherings. He described the weekend activities as “vibrant and comforting,” allowing him to appreciate the unique lifestyle in Saudi Arabia. Franco’s insights extended to the historical links between the two nations, particularly the shared family values and cultural warmth.
While Franco has organically learned the Arabic language through local interactions, he characterized his language skills as rudimentary but meaningful. He humorously reflected on how cultural expressions such as “heavy-blooded” enrich his understanding of local humor. Despite positive reception to his work, Franco highlighted challenges in managing the intersection of social media with his personal life, particularly with his family.
As Franco contemplates his future in Saudi Arabia, he remains open to opportunities that would further enhance his contributions to the Kingdom. “This country has become a part of me: culturally, professionally, and emotionally. Vision 2030 is marked on my calendar, and I hope to be a part of its story,” he stated. Franco’s desire is to be remembered as an individual who fostered connections between Saudi Arabia and the global community, sharing the warmth and social fabric unique to the Kingdom.
This article highlights the journey of Spanish content creator Gus Franco, who relocated to Saudi Arabia out of curiosity and fell in love with its culture. He aimed to change the narrative around Saudi Arabia by documenting his experiences and addressing the stereotypes prevalent in media portrayals of the Kingdom. With a significant online following and positive engagements, Franco offers a unique perspective on the blend of tradition and modernity in Saudi society.
Gus Franco’s journey in Saudi Arabia reflects a deeper understanding of the culture, history, and social fabric of the Kingdom. Through his project, “Gus in Saudi,” he has successfully challenged stereotypes and showcased the reality of life in Saudi Arabia. His engagement with the community, along with his personal growth and appreciation for cultural similarities between Spain and Saudi Arabia, positions him as a unique ambassador for the Kingdom. Franco’s story underscores the importance of authentic representation in bridging cultural divides.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
