18 Fun facts About Saudi Arabia
- Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East, covering an area of about 2.15 million square kilometers.
- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was founded in 1932 by Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, who united various tribes to form the country.
- Saudi Arabia is home to the world’s largest continuous sand desert, known as the Rub’ al Khali or the Empty Quarter.
- The official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic.
- The capital city of Saudi Arabia is Riyadh, which is also the largest city in the country.
- Mecca and Medina, two of Islam’s holiest cities, are located in Saudi Arabia. Every year, millions of Muslims travel to Mecca to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.
- Saudi Arabia is known for its vast oil reserves. It is the largest exporter of petroleum in the world.
- The traditional Arabic coffee, known as “Qahwa,” is a significant part of Saudi Arabian culture and hospitality.
- The national symbol of Saudi Arabia is the palm tree.
- Saudi Arabia has a unique weekend. The weekend in Saudi Arabia falls on Friday and Saturday, with Friday being the main day of rest and prayer.
- Women in Saudi Arabia were granted the right to drive in June 2018, marking a significant milestone in the country’s history.
- Saudi Arabia has a rich archaeological heritage. The ancient city of Al-Ula, with its remarkable rock formations and ancient tombs, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The traditional dress for Saudi men is the “thobe” or “dishdasha,” a long white robe, while women wear an “abaya” and a headscarf.
- Saudi Arabian cuisine is diverse and includes dishes like Kabsa (a spiced rice dish), Shawarma, Falafel, and dates.
- The Saudi Arabian national day is celebrated on September 23rd each year, marking the day the Kingdom was founded.
- The Kingdom Tower in Jeddah, currently under construction, is set to become the tallest building in the world upon completion.
- The traditional music of Saudi Arabia includes forms like “Najdi,” “Hejazi,” and “Sawt,” which combine poetry, rhythm, and instruments such as the oud and tabla.
- Camel racing is a popular sport in Saudi Arabia, and the country has even developed robotic jockeys to replace child jockeys in races.
- These facts offer a glimpse into the diverse culture, history, and traditions of Saudi Arabia, a country with a rich heritage and a unique place in the world.