Saudi Arabia
Capital
Riyadh
Population
~35.9 million
Currency
Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Quick Facts
- Languages
- Arabic
- Religion
- Predominantly Sunni Islam (Wahhabism is state-sponsored)
- Climate
- Harsh, dry desert with extreme temperatures
Culture & History
Known for: being the birthplace of Islam (Mecca and Medina), vast oil reserves, and conservative Wahhabi Islamic monarchy
Also famous for: Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, desert landscapes, role in OPEC, recent social reforms under Vision 2030
Food: Kabsa (spiced rice and meat), Shawarma, Dates
Brief History
Unification under House of Saud in early 20th century, discovery of oil transformed country, key player in Middle East politics