For whatever it's worth, I have been to Saudi 5X since 2008, each time staying in the Al Khobar area. I have attended LDS services on the Saudi Aramco compound in that general area, and was informed that in addition to that ward there is a branch of largely Philippino saints in Al Khobar. At each church service, at the start of the meeting, a letter was read to the congregation to the effect that we are guests in Saudi, the official religion is Islam, and while it is not permitted to be proactive in sharing the gospel, it is permissible to answer questions about the church.
Personally, I have found the experience to be rich and rewarding. My Muslim guests have been sensitive to my needs and gracious hosts, and we spend countless hours discussing religion (when we are not talking business). I might have an opportunity to relocate to Saudi with my family, and if so I would jump at the chance. I am a little more cautious, given “Arab Spring”, but no more so than I am in traveling to large metropolitan areas of the US. Just my $0.02.
Richard Schaffner
Goffstown, NH
