Saudi Arabia, officially known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is a Islamic kingdom located in Western Asia. It is bordered by Jordan and Iraq to the north, Kuwait to the northeast, Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates to the east, Oman to the southeast, and Yemen to the south. The country covers an area of approximately 2,150,000 square kilometers and is the largest state in the Arab world by area, as well as the second-largest in Asia after China. In terms of population, the capital and largest city, Riyadh, has over 7 million inhabitants, while Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, has around 2 million inhabitants.
Expat destinations in Saudi Arabia
Demographics of Saudi Arabia:
Ethnic groups
Arab 92% (mostly Sunni Muslim), Afro-Asian and other 8% (mostly Shia Muslim)
Languages
Arabic (official) 100%
Religion Overview
Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country, where adherence to the principles of the Arabic religion is a fundamental part of Saudi culture. The vast majority of the population belongs to the Sunni Muslim sect, which is widely practiced. There is a significant Shia Muslim minority concentrated mainly in the eastern provinces, where they make up the majority of the population.
Major Religions
Climate
Saudi Arabia has an arid desert climate with extremely hot and dry conditions during most of the year, particularly in the interior regions where the temperature can soar over 50°C (122°F). The coastal regions, however, have a milder climate due to the influence of the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf.
Economy Overview
Saudi Arabia is the largest oil producer in the world, with petroleum and related products making up the bulk of exports and fiscal revenues. However, in recent years, the country has embarked on a series of economic reforms aimed at diversifying its economy and reducing its heavy dependence on oil.
Key Industries
- Petroleum and natural gas
- Aluminum and other metals
- Chemicals
- Construction
- Food processing
- Textiles and garments
Major Companies
- Aramco (Saudi Aramco)
- Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (Sabic)
- National Commercial Bank (NCB)
- Al-Rajhi Holding
- Saudi Oger Ltd.
- Bilkhalifa Holding
Culture and Language Overview
The cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia is deeply rooted in Islam, which has played an integral role in shaping the country's identity and values. The country is renowned for its traditions, hospitality, and keenness to protect its rich cultural heritage.
Cultural Highlights
- Hajj (annual pilgrimage to Mecca)
- Camel racing
- Arab music and dance
- Traditional crafts (such as pottery, embroidery, and carpet weaving)
- Saudi cuisine (including famed dishes such as machboos, saj, and qahwa)
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Saudi Arabia is one of the most geographically vast countries in the world. Its terrain is mostly desert, with vast sand and rock deserts sweeping across its interior. The country is home to a number of significant geographical features, including the Red Sea coastline, the vast Purple Heart Desert, and the ancient city of Medina, which is considered to be the second holiest city in Islam after Mecca.
Notable Landmarks
- Kaaba (a shrine at the center of the Al-Haram mosque in Mecca)
- Al-Masjid al-Ḥarām (the Great Mosque of Mecca)
- Al-Ḥarām Mosque (a mosque in Medina)
- Prophet's Mosque (a mosque in Medina)
- Al-Turaif (an ancient mud-brick village in Al-Ahsa oasis)
National Holidays
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Prophet's Birthday (12th Rabi' al-awwal)
- Isra and Mi'raj (27th Rajab)
- Labor Day (May 1)
- King's Renewal Day (23rd of September)
- National Day (23rd of September)
- Prophet Muhammad's Farewell Pilgrimage (8th or 9th Dhu al-Hijjah)
- Al-Adha (Fesival of Sacrifice, November 2022)
Political Stability
The Saudi Arabian government is an absolute monarchy headed by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The country operates under a legal system based on Sharia law and other statutes enacted by the Council of Ministers.
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