#SaadinSaudi highlights the beauty of Saudi Arabia.

Lebanese photographer Saad Ghossoub has been traveling the country on his mission to capture its oft-hidden beauty. So, we sat down with him to discuss the ambitious project!

What pushed you to get into photography and start this project?
Well, photography was a childhood passion of mine that I pursued throughout university and made my full-time job. I work in Saudi very often, and I tend to have a lot of free time between shoots. This project is basically a way to capitalize on all this free time; this is a huge country that’s not well documented and I wanted to change that.

What’s your favourite project so far?
Honestly, I’d say this is my favourite project. It’s completely self-created and self-led. It’s a product of  my own vision, own work, and own time.

Of all the sites you’ve visited so far, which one is your favourite?
My favourite city would have to be Al-`Ula, it’s home to incredible rock formations and Mada’in Saleh. As a whole, though, the Northern part of Saudi Arabia, and the cities near the Jordanian border like Tabuk, have captured my heart.

I must say, the Eastern region – near the Iraqi border – and the South have remained largely uncharted by me, so that answer could change!

Would you say this experience refreshed your perspective on the Kingdom as a whole?
You know, an experience like this is special in the way it takes you away from the stresses of everyday life. This project has allowed me to truly appreciate how vast and beautiful this country is, and how welcoming and incredibly hospitable the people are.

What do you want to come out of this project?
I’m working on creating exhibitions to showcase my work in those undocumented parts of Saudi Arabia. Ideally, a book would come out of this as well.

Based out of his Instagram, where he also actively contributed to his hashtag #SaadinSaudi, this photographer’s dedication to the sights of Saudi is impressive.

So, I’m guessing I’ll be seeing a lot of you around town this summer?