Every year thousands of people come from other countries to Canada to start a new life. They come with many different skills and the hope of contributing to their new society. Saudis may also come to Canada for studies or on exchange programs. Perhaps you are involved in the HOST Program with a Saudi Arabian family. You may be learning about Saudi Arabia in school, or working with Saudis in Canada. The information in this website will help you gain some understanding of Saudi Arabia and its people. While the cultural profile provides insight into some customs, it does not cover all facets of life. The customs described may not apply in equal measure to all newcomers from this country. Saudis, like many newcomers to Canada, probably come with mixed feelings. They may be sad to leave behind friends and family, but appreciate the opportunity to live in Canada. The decision to live in a new country is not an easy one because everything is different. Canada will seem strange to the Saudi Arabian people. You could help by explaining what the newcomers will need to know at the beginning of their stay here. Imagine what you would want to know if you moved to a new area. You would probably like to learn the customs of the new place, what school to attend, where to shop for food, how to find a doctor and make new friends. You can learn a lot from your Saudi Arabian friends and may find some things in common with them.