Saudi tightens up on expat behaviour after public marriage proposal went viral

Saudi Arabia is still one of the world’s most popular relocation destinations for expat professionals looking to live the high life in this ultra-modern desert landt.

However, the recent tightening up of Saudi’s behavioural laws is causing concern amongst established expatriates as well as those planning to make the move. The most recent arrest orders aimed at expats doing their thing involved a marriage proposal which included dancing and a kiss on the cheek in a public place, definitely forbidden in the Kingdom’s rules on gender separation even although laws are beginning to be liberalised.

The potential bridegroom chose Jeddah’s cornice to pop the question, and was videoed dancing and singing to Jason Derulo’s ‘Marry Me’’, watched by a fascinated crowd. His girlfriend was seen standing a little way away with her hands to her face, waiting for him to come to her. He walked towards her, then embraced her and kissed her on the forehead before kneeling down and proposing, complete with an engagement ring. Of course, the entire performance was uploaded to the internet, where it immediately went viral, resulting in sustained interest by the Saudi police.

The young lovers were arrested and are to be charged with showing ‘unethical behaviour’, an undoubtedly sad ending to a romantic scene. Whilst it’s up to expats and visitors to educate themselves about the culture of the country they’re visiting or relocating to for work purposes, many feel moments like the above should be treated with at least the respect the Saudi government demands for its archaic behavioural laws. The incident was the second of its type this month, with another young couple arrested for dancing in the street. Expats considering Saudi Arabia as the next step on their road to success and riches might well spend some time wondering whether it’s worth it in the long run.