The Lifestyle in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is not only the birthplace of Islam, but it is also the largest country in the world without a river. It is located north of Yemen in the Middle East and shares parts of its borders with the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf.

History of Saudi Arabia

The modern state of Saudi Arabia was founded in 1932 by Abdulaziz Al Saud. He ruled the country until his death in 1953 as an absolute monarchy. Since that time, six of his sons have reigned, in succession:

• Saud, who faced opposition from inside the royal family and was deposed.
• Faisal, who came to the throne in 1964. He was murdered by a nephew in 1975. During his reign, Saudi Arabia’s wealth and political significance grew dramatically.
• Khalid reigned during a time of dissent; In 1979, Islamic extremists temporarily seized control of the Grand Mosque.
• Fahd became the king in 1982. During his time on the throne, Saudi Arabia became the largest oil producing country in the world.
• Abdullah became Fahd’s successor in 2005. He brought in several mild reforms to modernize the country’s institutions and has increased its political participation
• Salman became king in 2015.

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Saudi Arabia’s People

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The official language spoken is Arabic. The majority of the population are Arabs (90 percent) and the rest are Afro-Asian (10 percent).

Saudi Arabia is home to a large number of expatriates belonging to a number of religious faiths that make up more than 30 percent of its population. Despite this fact, most forms of public worship which are inconsistent with the government-sanctioned interpretation of Sunni Islam are restricted. Non-Muslims are not permitted to hold Saudi citizenship and non-Muslim places of worship are not permitted.

Working in Saudi Arabia

Over six million foreign workers are employed in Saudi Arabia and are an important part of the country’s economy. Men working in Saudi Arabia need to take care to make sure that they are conservatively dressed in public at all times. Women must wear an Abaya (a long black dress and cloak covering their entire bodies) every time they venture out of doors and cover their hair. Most foreign women do not cover their hair, but it is a good idea to bring a headscarf in case they are requested to do so.

Religious Beliefs

The official religion in the country is Muslim. Most citizens (85-90 percent) are Sunni, and the minority are Shia or other (10-15 percent). Other religious faiths being practiced in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Cuisine

There are a number of different kinds of breads available in the country. Examples include a spiced bread called hawayij, a flat bread called fatir, and arikah. Hummus, a dip made out of mashed garbanzo beans, garlic, lemon and tahini, is a staple food as well. Several types of rice are used to prepare dishes, and this ingredient is used either as a base or a side dish. Tabbouleh is a type of salad made from bulgur, tomatoes, garlic, onion, and parsley.

The national dish of Saudi Arabia is called kappa. It is made with chicken and rice, and served with vegetables. Several styles of kebabs exist, and are usually served with a base of either roast chicken or lamb and vegetables served in pita bread.

As a Muslim country, no alcohol is served. It is a crime to consume or transport it in the country. The traditional drinks are coffee and tea. Juice, milk and soft drinks are also available.

Saudi Arabia’s Economy

Saudi Arabia is an oil-based economy that possesses about 16 percent of the world’s proven petroleum reserves. It is the largest exporter of petroleum and the country plays a leading role in OPEC. The petroleum sector is responsible for approximately 80 percent of Saudi Arabia’s budget revenues, 90 percent of its export earnings and 45 percent of its GDP.

Traveling to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has a number of strict laws regarding personal conduct while in the country. For example, when Saudi men meet they will often greet each other with a kiss on the cheek. This does not mean that husbands can kiss their wives in public. Handholding between a husband and wife is acceptable, but not kissing and cuddling, even if meeting at the airport after an extended absence.

Do not swear or make obscene gestures while visiting Saudi Arabia. People are easily offended in this country. If someone decides they do not like you or something you are doing, the best course of action is to leave the situation as soon as possible.

When visiting Saudi Arabia, it’s important that you carry your passport/visa with you at all times. If you happen to get stopped and don’t have valid ID, you will be treated as an illegal and will be taken off to jail. Most of the police officers don’t speak English and will not be very helpful.

Before you go to Saudi Arabia to work, it’s a very good idea to learn how to speak Arabic. You’ll be able to understand the local people and be able to speak to them in their own language. It will lower the risk of misunderstandings and increase the likelihood that you can develop lasting friendships during your stay. London Arabic can devise a completely customized course of study based on your unique needs so that your time is spent only on learning the topics that will be most beneficial to you. Contact us now to learn more.