"Trust is the most important thing in our job"

Muath Alamri is a foreign correspondent for Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper in Washington DC. He is the first Saudi journalist to receive a foreign media visa in the US. He obtained his MA degree in communication studies in 2019 from Shippensburg University of PA. His journey in journalism started back in 2011 when he transferred his major study in my bachelor’s from computer science to media. Previous to his current role, he worked for Al-Hayat newspaper in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In his interview with FOREIGN PRESS, Alamri offers his perspective on the role foreign correspondents play in America. 

What do the Americans not know about your country? 

Saudi Arabia is a stable country in the Middle East. The country might be viewed unfavorably because the media leans right or left, pushing their narrative. It’s already known for being a desert, oil-rich-producing country, but Saudi Arabia is far more than that.

The country, which includes 13 provinces and 46 cities, is rich in diverse cultures and civilizations, with many natural resources like mountains, deserts, and seas. It’s the heartland of two holy Muslim mosques where over two billion Muslims worldwide turn toward five times a day during their prayers. Saudis are proud, eager, and ambitious, working tirelessly to change the country to its vision of 2030. 

There is more to Saudi Arabia, but I’d rather the readers learn more about it. 

For your country’s audience, why does US news reporting matter? 

The U.S. is literally holding the world by its economy and technology. A White House or State Department statement has a significant impact on every part of the world, including Saudi Arabia. Everything we use has something that originated from the U.S. What happens in the U.S. affects the entire world. 

When a foreign journalist comes to the United States to work as a foreign correspondent, what are the major challenges they face? What challenges did you face when you first moved to the U.S. as a foreign journalist? 

I call my challenges “duties.” Nothing is perfect, but with ambition and hope, we can be successful. I faced the typical challenges of learning the language, improving my skills and understanding the American system. Journalism is not an easy job. Each of us faces the same duties – be it a foreign or an American journalist. We all look for exclusives and scoops. At the end of the day, all stories make their way to readers. They are the judges of this mechanism. They decide which stories are good and bad, regardless of the writer’s nationality. 

What was the biggest disappointment in your experience as a foreign correspondent? 

My biggest disappointment occurs when exclusives go to the American press and not me. Every day, it feels like I’m constantly running a marathon that has no end.  

Muath Alamri is a foreign correspondent for Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper in Washington DC.

What was the most significant success you’ve had?

The most significant success is when I write something new. When I don’t repeat myself, I compete with myself. I always strive for better. I feel satisfied when I hear people talk about my story and distribute it. 

How can a foreign journalist build resources and report in the United States? What tips would you like to share from your experience with prospective foreign journalists?

My advice would be to be patient and friendly to everybody. Trust is the most critical aspect of the job. Without trust, you lose credibility. Trust cannot be separated from patience and kindness. Read everything that comes from the government, media, think tanks, and universities, as they will help build your resources and improve your story. 

How has your career as a foreign correspondent in the US shaped you as a professional and person?

After 10 years as a journalist (six years in the U.S.), I think my experience in the U.S. has had a significant impact on me. A single U.S. year provides you with the equivalent of 10 years’ worth of experience in different places. Media is powerful here, and the competition is real. It’s a pleasure to experience that. I wish every Saudi journalist could realize the same experience I have had. 

Would you like to share a message with your colleagues in the foreign correspondents’ community?

Thank you for the opportunity. My message to my colleagues is never to give up. You shape luck by working hard.