Job Discussion Forums

[also in saudi]

[quote]Smoking is a minority habit in KSA. Most Saudis do NOT smoke.[quote]


I guess I am unfortunate in that almost all Saudis that I have met ARE smokers.

[Van Norden]

Smokers are always in the minority. In Saudi it is as common/uncommon as anywhere else. It's just that here they're more likely to light up in shopping malls and taxis and offices. Kiddies get to enjoy dad's smoke in the car I've noticed a lot.

also in saudi, remember every Saudi you and I meet is a man (sadly.) They're more likely to smoke, so skewing the statistics.

[Arab Strap]

I've seen Baba smoking at a polyclinic while little Mohammed is getting his treatment for asthma.

What I find more disgusting is the habit of clearing one's throat of a month's worth of phlegm at any given opportunity in any given location............this is particularly prevalent amongst our Asian brethren and I find it absolutely disgusting, give me second hand smoke or better still, a fag anytime.

It may be a cultural thing, but liberal minded and tolerant as I am there are some local customs, such as female circumcision and Morris Dancing that I just can't stomach in the name of peace and tolerance.

[Stephen Jones]

I used to play Bridge at the Military Hospital in Riyadh. There was a particulaly obnoxious Philipino- Usasian in the group and one day I told her where to get off when she objected to my cigarette.

The next week we were informed that Saudi regulations banned smoking in all government buildings, so when I wanted a cigarette I had to leave the cafeteria where we played and smoke it in the waiting room with the patients and other staff.

[Van Norden]