Life of Footballers' Girlfriends and Wives in Saudi Arabia: Frank Confessions

Introduction

Girls and wives of star footballers from Saudi Arabia have come forward to share their frank confessions about life in the country. In particular, the players' girlfriends have expressed their concerns about the aggressive behavior they have faced due to their style of dress. Despite the financial benefits, these women have encountered challenges during their stay in Saudi Arabia.

Challenges Faced by Visiting Women

According to the Daily Mail, several girlfriends and wives of footballers have shared their experiences on the condition of anonymity. One of the main challenges highlighted by these women is the difficulty faced by visiting women in Saudi Arabia, especially when the locals perceive their dress style as inappropriate. There have been instances where these women have been subjected to verbal abuse simply because their shoulders or legs were visible.

Cultural Differences and Dress Code

Saudi Arabia is known for its conservative culture and strict dress code, particularly for women. The Kingdom follows a modest dress policy, which requires women to cover their bodies and hair. While this dress code is widely accepted and respected by the local population, it can be a source of discomfort for visitors who are accustomed to more liberal dress norms. We are not allowed to wear shorts in public, even though it is hot. You can't even wear them on the beach. And if you do, people look at you with hatred. It's very frightening," said one of them. "I was not allowed into shopping centers just because my upper arms and shoulders were not covered and you could see part of my chest because I was wearing a waistcoat. People told me to come back when I was properly dressed. Sometimes women will shout abuse at you and it can be very scary.

When it comes to women, the culture here is very different and they are very strict. If you are not covered properly, you can get into trouble when you go out," she added.

Adjusting to Local Norms

For the girlfriends and wives of footballers, adjusting to the local norms and adhering to the dress code can be a challenging task. They have to be cautious about their attire, ensuring that their shoulders, legs, and hair are appropriately covered. Failure to do so may result in unwanted attention or confrontations with the locals.

Impact on Personal Freedom

While the financial benefits of being associated with star footballers are undeniable, the restrictions on personal freedom can be a significant drawback for these women. The need to constantly monitor their appearance and adhere to the dress code may limit their ability to express themselves freely and enjoy their time in Saudi Arabia.

Support Systems and Coping Mechanisms

Despite the challenges, many footballers' girlfriends and wives have found ways to cope with the cultural differences and restrictions. They often rely on support systems within their communities and seek solace in the company of fellow expatriates who understand their struggles. Additionally, engaging in activities that are permissible within the cultural framework helps them maintain a sense of normalcy.

Conclusion

The frank confessions of the girlfriends and wives of star footballers from Saudi Arabia shed light on the challenges faced by visiting women in the country. The aggressive behavior of locals towards those who do not adhere to the conservative dress code can create a hostile environment. While financial benefits may be attractive, it is important to consider the impact on personal freedom and the need to adapt to cultural norms when venturing into a foreign country.