The common business mentality and traditional and religious values of Saudis and Arab expatriates play an important role in determining latter's professional success in the Kingdom. Darine Chakra, a Lebanese national who has worked as an account manager in an international PR company in Jeddah since 2007, said that Arab expats like her, who are employed in various companies here and work with Saudis, have no difficulty in adapting to the Saudi community and its traditions. “In the four years that I have been working in the Kingdom, I have never had a problem adjusting to the community here,” Chakra said. “The Lebanese share most of their traditions with the Saudis. This is one of the reasons why I chose Saudi Arabia as a place to work,” she added. Chakra was born in Dammam, where her father worked as a store manager for 30 years. After completing a diploma program in Mass Communication, Chakra, who started as a reporter for a Lebanese newspaper, said she never had second thoughts about joining the Saudi business market because she “already had a good impression about the people, market and business in the Kingdom”. She said when she returned to Saudi Arabia after finishing her studies she noticed a “positive change” in many of the cities. “Towers, malls and universities have now become ubiquitous reflecting modern Saudi society.” “I was surprised at the open-mindedness of many Saudi business women, who have established their own businesses, and are doing so within the tenets of Islam,” said Chakra. She said she is often mistaken for a Saudi woman because of her “similar facial features and style”. “Although I am a Lebanese, I would be proud to be a Saudi,” she added. Chakra's lifestyle in Jeddah, though much of it revolves around her work, is not very different from what it was in Lebanon. On weekends, she usually makes a trip to the seaside or likes to go shopping. “I love to eat Lebanese food daily as it is available everywhere in Jeddah. My favorite dishes are Tabolah, Kobah Nayeah and Fatosh,” she said. Chakra said her colleagues think she is a workaholic. She attributes her creativity in work to “happy social relationships and the high security” in the Saudi community. “I am really thankful to Saudi Arabia. I respect this country, where I was born, raised and am now working,” she said.
