Job Discussion Forums

[lexicon21]

Hello everyone!

I was wondering what everyone's opinion was in regards to LGBT issues in the middle east. In your opinion, which country would be the best for an LGBT individual?

[nomad soul]

[jaffa]

Saudi. They're all at it. Men, that is. Can't speak for the chicks but I guess they're in the same boat, so to speak.

[veiledsentiments]

It's totally don't ask, don't tell... in spades. It is 100% illegal, and while as common as everywhere, or even more because of the strict segregation of the sexes, one must be discreet... very very discreet.

Hopefully one of the current members of the LGBT community who has experience in the Gulf can send you a more specific PM once you reach your 5 posts and can use that system. I note that you are studying Mandarin... so China (and that end of Asia) may be your best bet.

VS

[lexicon21]

While China and Asia would be my best bet, I was hoping that their would be some sort of oasis on the issues in the middle east. At least, as far as the entire law/society gap is concerned. Just because it is law doesn't mean it is enforced or reflects the beliefs of the population as a whole, and vise versa.

I fell in love with M.S Arabic and was hoping to sharpen my skills in it at some point. Looks like I may have to give up that dream.

[lexicon21]

[nomad soul]

[psychedelicacy]

The utterly worthless opinion of a straight guy is coming up....

YEEEE HAAAW

Unless one is incredibly stupid (public displays of affection), one is highly unlikely to be caught. However, if you and a member of the same sex enter an apartment, it would be wise to keep any sex noises to as low a volume as possible. I still don't think anything could come of that, but you never know. In sum, unless someone walks in while you're doing it, it is very difficult to see how you could get into trouble over it. People in Saudi Arabia, notwithstanding the obvious differences in culture, are pretty much the same as people anywhere - they mind their own business and just get on with their daily activities, oblivious to the activities of strangers - unless, of course, they've been given clear reason to suspect that someone is doing something grotesquely un-Islamic and deserves to be soundly lashed.

And yep, illicit homosexuality in the KSA is rampant. Indeed, illicit heterosexual relations are far likelier to get you into serious bother.

[psychedelicacy]

[scot47]

For those who are discreet it is not a problem in KSA. Just do not expect any "Gay Pride" marches !

[johnslat]

Dear lexicon21,

Rule No. 1 - if you are an LGBT individual, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER get involved with a "local."

That probably sounds like as "no-brainer," but a colleague of mine almost ended up in jail because he was sure "his local" was "different."

Rule No. 2 - discretion is imperative. If even the slightest hint leaks and you have those who are not fond of you, they will use it to try to (figuratively, maybe even literally) screw you.

Rule No. 3 - NEVER forget Rules Number 1 and 2.

Regards,
John

[crewmeal1]

In my experience most Middle East men equate being gay with being effeminate, so if you go round like Julian Clearly or Lily Savage then you are asking for trouble.

[quote]Take your pick from any except Saudi and Kuwait.[/quote]

These are the worst countries for homophobia and yet they are 'at it' all the time. Yes be discreet and don't expect long standing affairs. Many men will go home to their wives 'at the end of the day' Watch out for rent boys in poorer countries like Egypt, Yemen and Tunisia.

Certainly do not bring any gay politics into conversations or else you are asking for trouble.

[nomad soul]

[Cool Teacher]