In June 2010, just three months before starting university, I went on an unforgettable trip with my parents. We visited three beautiful countries — Egypt (my love!), Jordan, and Syria. One moment from that journey has stayed with me ever since: the boat ride from Egypt to Jordan.
As we crossed the Red Sea, my phone suddenly picked up a Saudi Arabian signal. I looked out toward the Kingdom and thought to myself:
“I wish I could go there now. I wish I could just jump into the water and swim there. I wish so much to visit the Kingdom.”
At the time, I felt a deep sadness, convinced that I would probably never have the chance to visit Saudi Arabia. But even then, the dream was planted.
A Growing Passion for the Arab World
That dream only grew stronger when I began my studies in the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies. The more I learned Arabic, the more I learned about Islam, Muslim philosophy, and the history of the Arab world, the more certain I became that I had to see Saudi Arabia with my own eyes. Especially that I have been visiting Egypt regularly, and I was so close to the Kingdom! Almost there!
It felt impossible — visiting the Kingdom seemed like a far-off hope. But I held on to that hope.
When Saudi Arabia introduced tourist visas in 2019, I was filled with excitement. I told myself: “Just finish your PhD exams, and then book a ticket!” But life had other plans — the COVID-19 pandemic arrived, and everything was suddenly uncertain again. I remember thinking:
“Maybe it’s not written for me to visit Saudi Arabia after all…”
Still, I kept dreaming. I refused to give up.
The Dream Comes True — and More
In 2022, something incredible happened. I didn’t just visit the Kingdom — I moved here.
Now, more than three years later, I am proud to call Saudi Arabia my home. I live and work in Al-Khobar, and these have been some of the most beautiful, fulfilling years of my life.
The Kingdom has exceeded every expectation I ever had. I now live in a place where:
- “Extreme cold” means +10°C in the winter;
- I hear Arabic — the most beautiful language in the world — every day;
- People are kind, warm, generous, and respectful;
- I can leave my car or front door open without any fear;
- I feel completely safe walking alone at night;
- Deliveries left outside for hours are always still there when I return.
Before I moved, I was sure I would like this country. But I never imagined I would come to love it so much.
Today, I work as an academic in Al-Khobar. I continue my research, teach university students, and do my best to help them grow into adulthood. It’s a deeply rewarding role, and I’m grateful every day for the opportunity.
At the same time, I’m always looking for new ways to grow — to expand my knowledge, take on new challenges, and contribute even more meaningfully to this dynamic and inspiring environment.
One unforgettable experience during my time here was not long time ago, in a hospital in Al-Khobar, when I was feeling very unwell. I met a woman named Hagga Sara, who showed me incredible compassion. She hugged me when I needed it most and whispered, “Life is beautiful.” I believed her — because she was there for me when I needed someone with me the most.
A Heart That Belongs to the Middle East
Even though I was born and raised in Poland, I truly feel that my heart belongs to the Middle East. I love my family and friends back home, and I still need to attend my favorite singer’s concerts to experience that unique energy in Poland (Michał Wiśniewski’s concerts are simply the best!) — I just can’t go too long without them — but this region, especially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has truly become my home.
One of my biggest dreams now is to organize a large-scale conference in Saudi Arabia to show the world what an amazing country this is. I already have the full plan — I just need the right people to help me bring it to life.
Thank You, Saudi Arabia
Fifteen years ago, I thought I would never step foot in Saudi Arabia. Today, I am a proud resident of the Kingdom.
Thank you, Saudi Arabia — and thank you to its incredible citizens — for making my life brighter, safer, and filled with purpose.
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