Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a country located in the Middle East, with a population of over 33 million people. It is the largest country in the world by land area, and 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 capital of Saudi Arabia is Riyadh.
Saudi Arabia is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is home to the holiest cities in Islam, Mecca and Medina, and is the birthplace of the religion. The country is also home to a number of important historical and cultural landmarks, including the ancient city of Petra in Jordan and the ruins of the Nabataean civilization.
Saudi Arabia is an absolute monarchy and the ruling family, the House of Saud, has held power since the 1930s. The country is a major player in the Middle East and is known for its large oil reserves, which have played a significant role in its development and its relations with other countries.
Saudi Arabia Travel Taboo
There are certain cultural taboos and customs that visitors to Saudi Arabia should be aware of when traveling in the country. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Respect local customs and traditions: Saudi Arabia is a Muslim-majority country and it is important to respect local customs and traditions, especially those related to religion. This includes dressing modestly, avoiding public displays of affection, and respecting the country's strict segregation of the sexes.
- Do not bring alcohol or drugs into the country: Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia and possession of these substances can result in severe punishment.
- Be aware of local attitudes towards dress: It is important to dress modestly, especially for women. This means covering your arms and legs and avoiding revealing clothing.
- Respect the local culture and avoid offending the sensitivities of the local population: It is important to be mindful of local customs and to avoid offending the sensitivities of the local population.
Saudi Arabia Local Food
Saudi Arabian cuisine is heavily influenced by the country's Bedouin, desert-dwelling, nomadic heritage. Food is often hearty and filling, and it is meant to sustain people through long days in the desert. Saudi Arabian food is heavily influenced by the flavors of the Middle East, with an emphasis on lamb, chicken, and rice. Some popular Saudi Arabian dishes include:
- Kabsa: a one-pot dish made with rice, meat, and spices
- Machboos: a dish made with rice, meat, and vegetables, and typically served with a tomato-based sauce
- Harees: a porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat
- Shawarma: marinated meat cooked on a spit and served in a pita bread or a plate with vegetables and sauces
- Mandi: a slow-cooked meat and rice dish typically served with a spicy tomato sauce.
- Jireesh: a porridge made from cracked wheat and yogurt, often served as a side dish
Saudi Arabia Festiaval
Saudi Arabia is a Muslim-majority country and many of its festivals and celebrations are religious in nature. Here are a few of the most significant religious festivals and holidays in Saudi Arabia:
- Eid al-Fitr: a holiday that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. The holiday is celebrated with feasts, gifts, and other traditions.
- Eid al-Adha: a holiday that commemorates the willingness of the prophet Abraham to sacrifice his son. The holiday is marked with the sacrifice of an animal, such as a sheep or a cow, and the meat is distributed to the poor and shared with friends and family.
- Hajj: a religious pilgrimage that every able-bodied Muslim is expected to make at least once in their lifetime. Pilgrims gather in Mecca for the annual Hajj, which includes a series of rituals including the Tawaf, the standing at the plain of Arafat, and the Stoning of the Devil.
- Ramadan: The month of fasting and spiritual reflection, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset and break their fast at sunset.
Saudi Arabia History
The history of Saudi Arabia stretches back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation dating back to prehistoric eras. The region has been home to various tribes and cultures throughout history, including the Nabateans and the Quraysh. The Arabian Peninsula has also played a significant role in the spread of Islam, with the prophet Muhammad born in Mecca, and Medina being the first city to adopt Islam as the state religion.
- In the early 20th century, the modern state of Saudi Arabia was founded by Abdulaziz Al Saud. He united the various tribes and regions of the Arabian Peninsula under his rule, and in 1932, he declared the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Since then, the country has been ruled by the Al Saud family.
- Saudi Arabia's strategic location, vast desert lands and oil reserves helped it becoming a major player in Middle East politics and international affairs. Throughout its history, the country has undergone significant economic and social changes, but it remains a deeply traditional society with a strong religious culture.