I was in Saudi Arabia back in 1990-91 during the Gulf War working a military contract. That place was HOTTER than hell. 118 degrees is not a problem over there. I drank more bottled water in that time frame than any time in my life. I wish I could tell you something more positive. Though I didn't have to contend with IED's, Scuds were a danger and always the chemical attacks were a major concern. I spend about 7 months or so in country. The oil was set ablaze by Saddam in Kuwait, and the skies all over Saudi were dark and the sand black from the oil. It was just a nasty place to be back then. In all that mess, I found some fun moments and made the best out of the situation. I remember containers full of HORMEL dinners. They beat the hell out of those MRE'S. Also trade MRE'S with the third country nationals. They got some good food such as rice and chicken and curry. We traded with the Germans and their liverwurst and cheese and crackers were great.