Oil was the buzzword of the day. We drove to see the Saudi Aramco Oil Exhibit where we were greeted like royalty and given warm welcome and gifts. The museum is like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory but with oil rather than candy. So cool! The oil production process is complicated, but the little knowledge I did retain was mind blowing.
I had no idea how big and important Saudi Aramco is to the world. Aramco is the only oil company in Saudi Arabia and Saudi oil accounts for 25% of the world's oil. Wow! Every drop of Saudi Arabia's oil is accounted for right here in Dhahran!
We visited Dammam Well #7 which is the first area to strike oil in Saudi Arabia. It was shut down in 1983, but would still produce oil, only not enough to justify keeping it in operation. It is now called the "Prosperity Well".
Oil production was started by Americans in the 1930s and over the years we have trained Saudis to take over the job and that is clearly happening.... More than 75% of Dhahran's residents are Saudis. As it should be, I think. Very American to think we can go over to someone's country and rip stuff out of their hands.
Anyway, they are obviously very appreciative of our contributions, regardless.
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