8.10: Saudi Arabia

Learning Objectives

In this section, you will be able to:

• Learn about Saudi Arabia, its Geographic location, famous cities, most famous artifacts, and traditional food and clothes.

Arab Countries of the Gulf are:

• Kuwait.
• Bahrain
• Qatar
• The United Arab Emirates.
• Oman.
• Saudi Arabia.

Facts about Saudi Arabia:

• Official Name: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia المملكة العربية السعودية Al-Mamlakah al-Arabiya as Suudiya
• Capital: Riyadh
• Population: 34,218,000 ( 2019 estimate)
• Currency: Saudi riyal الريال السعودي riyal saudi

• Continent: Asia آسيا Asia
• Official Lagrange: Modern Standard Arabic

Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): Arabian Gulf Countries Map by furfur via Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 4.0

Geographical Location and Flag

Figure \(\PageIndex{2}\): Saudi Arabia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Saudi Arabia is located in the Middle East, occupying most of the Arabian Peninsula. 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. To the west, it is bounded by the Red Sea, and to the east by the Arabian Gulf. The country has a diverse landscape, ranging from the vast deserts like the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter), the largest continuous sand desert in the world, to the coastal plains along the Red Sea and mountainous regions in the southwest. Saudi Arabia's capital and largest city is Riyadh, located in the central part of the country. Its strategic location has made it a key player in the region, especially because of its significant oil reserves and its role in the Islamic world as the birthplace of Islam and home to the two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina.

Famous Cities

The Ka'ba

Jaddah

Riyadh

Dammam

Saudi Arabia is home to several famous cities, each with its own unique significance and attractions.

• Riyadh: The capital city of Saudi Arabia, known for its modern skyscrapers like the Kingdom Centre and Al Faisaliyah Center. It is a cultural and business hub with attractions like the National Museum.
• Mecca: The holiest city in Islam, home to the Kaaba and the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram). It is the destination for millions of Muslims during the Hajj pilgrimage.
• Medina: Another sacred city in Islam, where the Prophet Muhammad is buried. It houses the Prophet's Mosque, a significant religious site.
• Jeddah: Located on the Red Sea, Jeddah is known for its beautiful beaches, historic old town (Al-Balad), and role as a commercial and pilgrimage gateway to Mecca.
• Dammam: A major city in the Eastern Province, known for its oil industry and modern infrastructure. It blends traditional Saudi culture with contemporary urban development.

These cities are not only central to the country's religious and economic life but also showcase Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage and modern development.

Traditional Food:

Saudi Arabia is known for its delicious and traditional cuisine, which reflects the country's rich culture and history. One of the most famous dishes is Kabsa, a spiced rice dish often served with lamb, chicken, or fish. It is flavored with a blend of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and black lime, giving it a unique taste. Another popular dish is Mandi, similar to Kabsa but typically cooked with meat that is slow-cooked underground, giving it a distinct smoky flavor.

Mutabbaq is a savory stuffed pastry that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as minced meat, vegetables, and eggs. Shawarma, a well-loved street food, consists of thinly sliced meat (usually chicken or beef) wrapped in flatbread, often with garlic sauce, pickles, and vegetables.

Dates and Arabic coffee (Gahwa) are also essential parts of Saudi hospitality and culture. Dates are often served as a snack or dessert, while Arabic coffee is a lightly spiced beverage, usually flavored with cardamom, and is often served to guests as a sign of hospitality.

These dishes and traditions offer a taste of Saudi Arabia's culinary heritage, combining rich flavors and warm hospitality.

Traditional Clothing

Traditional clothing in Saudi Arabia is deeply rooted in the country's cultural and religious heritage. Men typically wear the "thobe," a long, white robe that is suited to the hot desert climate. It is often paired with the "ghutra" or "shemagh," a traditional headscarf held in place by a black cord called an "agal." Women usually wear the "abaya," a long, black cloak that covers their clothing, accompanied by a headscarf called the "hijab," and sometimes a face veil known as the "niqab." These garments are not only functional but also symbolize modesty and cultural identity. In recent years, while traditional attire remains prevalent, there has been a growing trend of incorporating modern fashion elements, reflecting a blend of tradition and contemporary styles. The distinctiveness of Saudi traditional dress is also showcased during cultural festivals and celebrations, highlighting the nation's rich heritage and evolving fashion landscape.

Traditional clothing in Saudi Arabia

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia, located on the Arabian Peninsula, is known for its significant role in global energy markets, possessing the world's largest proven oil reserves. Its capital, Riyadh, is a thriving metropolis and a center of political and economic activity. The Kingdom is also home to the two holiest cities in Islam, Mecca and Medina, attracting millions of pilgrims annually during the Hajj season. Governed by a monarchy, Saudi Arabia has recently undertaken extensive reforms under Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying its economy away from oil dependence, promoting tourism, and increasing women's participation in the workforce. The nation's cultural heritage, rooted in Bedouin traditions, coexists with its rapid modernization and ambitious infrastructure projects, such as the futuristic city of NEOM.

Activities

Query \(\PageIndex{1}\)

Interactive Element

You traveled to Saudi Arabia. You sent a postcard to your family. Tell them about famous cities, capital, historical places, and famous dishes.