CNN TV
SCHEDULE ANCHORS REPORTERS CONTACT US
Inside the Middle East
December 9, 2010
Posted: 1234 GMT

"The full range of worldly temptations and vices are available - alcohol, drugs, sex - but strictly behind closed doors."
If you want to get your readers' attention, it's not a bad way to start. The language comes from a short but tantalizing U.S.

The cable suggested a thriving nightlife beneath the conservative city of Jeddah.
The cable suggested a thriving nightlife beneath the conservative city of Jeddah.

diplomatic cable sent last year from the consulate in Jeddah in Saudi Arabia - where alcohol is banned and carnal relations strictly regulated.

"Behind the facade of Wahabi conservatism in the streets, the underground nightlife for Jeddah's elite youth is thriving and throbbing," the cable begins.

In evidence, then Consul General Martin Quinn refers to a Halloween party last year. The redacted cable reads: "Along with over 150 young Saudis (men and women mostly in their 20s and early 30s), ConGenOffs accepted invitations to an underground Halloween party at Prince XXXX residence in Jeddah on XXXX. " Read more...

Posted by:
Filed under: Saudi Arabia


Share this on:
Anj   March 11th, 2011 1:13 pm ET

saudis are normal people... it's just that they are trapped in their own culture and religion; that most of them don't even want in the first place. so, they have their own way of living: sex, drugs, rock'n'roll (and lots of alcohol) saudi style! hahahaha!

Rocky   February 19th, 2012 5:30 am ET

Farid,I don't live in Jeddah, but I can ask one of my fnidres over thereAlso, I am not fully aware of the potential risks so I cannot tellGood luck buddy!


subscribe RSS Icon
About this blog

Welcome to the Inside the Middle East blog where CNN's journalists post news, views and video from across the region. This is also a place where you can start the discussion so please keep your comments coming. We highlight not only current news stories but also anecdotes and issues that don't always make the top of the headlines.

Read more about CNN's special reports policy

Watch the show

Inside the Middle East airs the first week of every month on the following days and times:

Wednesday: 0930, 1630,
Saturday: 0430, 1830,
Sunday: 1130

(All times GMT)

Categories