Muna Al Fuzai

There has been a big media fuss over US President Donald Trump's visit to Saudi Arabia, because he raised his thumb to express happiness. Some American analysts thought this gesture is unacceptable and rejected in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, but after a clarification by Saudi advisors, it became clear that the Americans are worried for no real reason. It was complete stupidity - I don't know who said or wrote that, but they were wrong.

Some media sites in America mocked the gesture, ridiculing the US president for allegedly embarrassing the US on his first visit to a foreign country. But this gesture is not disturbing anyone. It reflects satisfaction, happiness and victory. I do not know who can imagine that this gesture is rejected here! The good thing is that an advisor at the Saudi foreign ministry read about the allegations and responded unequivocally, explaining that these claims are nonsense, adding that there are no prohibitions on such gestures.

In fact, the late Saudi King Abdullah gave a thumbs up at the Elysee Palace in Paris in 2007. I have no idea where this gesture comes from, but it is definitely not rude here. I do believe there is a lesson learned from this silly incident - not to believe or trust everything you read online because you never know who is the source.

Traveling around the world has plenty of benefits, starting with seeing new places and experiencing new cultures, food and even meeting new people, so it is good to know that the thumbs up is acceptable here. Whoever wrote that statement online is a complete idiot who has probably never been to the Middle East in his entire life. I am from the Middle East and I know that the thumbs up gesture is a good way to show how happy and content you are.

So, for all those who flash the thumbs up sign for victory - keep doing it. Whoever says otherwise, tell them to stop saying foolish things. The Middle East is no less civilized and they can stop saying things that make no sense. Thumbs up everyone! Trump's trip was successful and a joy to watch.

By Muna Al-Fuzai

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