Tareq Al Huzaim

Tareq, from Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia, graduated with an LLM in International Law in 2009. He is currently working as a Legal Specialist in a governmental organisation in Riyadh.

Before coming to Dundee, Tareq completed his undergraduate degree from the King Abdul Aziz University in Jeddah. During his time in Dundee, Tareq served as the President of the Saudi Cultural Club Dundee. His wife also studied for a Masters in English Literature during the same time.

Why did you choose to study at Dundee University?

I have always liked Scotland as a place and although I had never heard about Dundee earlier, once I researched the course, I knew Dundee was the place I wanted to be in. I was attracted by the great location and the great reputation of the Law School.

Also, during my research, Dundee was highly recommended by fellow Saudi students who had been here before.

How would you describe your experience being in Dundee?

I undertook my English course in the US, so I had experienced studying abroad before coming here and it wasn't a huge cultural shock. The support and help I received was splendid and made settling in so much easier. Dundee is a great University and a great town and I've had an amazing time here. Although, me and my wife had to leave our new born baby in Saudi Arabia to be able to come here, but the hospitality and welcome that we received here helped us cope up really well. The supervisor of my wife's course was especially supportive during all this time and made such a huge difference.

We also enjoyed the countryside as much as we enjoyed the city and I hope to come back one day and buy a house here.

What is the best thing about being at Dundee?

It has to be the people of Dundee. They're so kind and helpful that it just changes the whole experience. It never felt that we are in a different country, although there are considerable differences between Saudi Arabia and Scotland but we enjoyed it. Also, Dundee is centrally located within easy commutable distance from all the major cities.

What activities did you undertake while being in Dundee?

I was the in charge of the cultural affairs at the Saudi Club in Dundee, and then got elected to become the President. The Saudi Club regularly organises a variety of events including parties, dinners, get togethers, welcome and orientation for new students, academic presentations and graduation parties and so much more.

The best thing is that it's open for everyone and not just Saudis so we have members from all around the world. We also try to present our heritage and culture to the local folk to enrich the cultural experience for everyone.

How was the social life in Dundee?

As a Muslim, I discovered Dundee to have quite a vibrant cultural scene and the Central Mosque organises a number of activities all the time. Islamic occasions like Eid and Hajj are celebrated with great fervour in Dundee which feels great while being away from home. There are also a number of talks and other social gatherings which I loved to participate in.

What is your message to prospective students who are confused about making a choice between so many different options?

Don't hesitate to come to Dundee as I'm sure you would not regret this decision. I fondly remember my time here and want everyone to experience what I did. I always dream to come back to Dundee again!