Information about Saudi Arabia

Geography and history Regions and resorts Nature Climate Transport Money and shopping Attractions Tourism Accommodation Kitchen Culture Weather Map

Geography and history Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia stands as one of the most significant and wealthiest nations on the Arabian Peninsula, where a deep respect for Islamic traditions meets the authority of a monarchy. When you visit, you are greeted by an atmosphere that feels like a classic Eastern tale combined with incredible modern luxury and unique architecture. The country is famous for its massive oil reserves, but the real charm often lies in the rhythmic sound of the call to prayer and the captivating local culture.

Geographically, the Kingdom is divided into thirteen distinct districts and covers a massive area of over two million square kilometers. While Arabic is the official language that defines the culture, you will find that a large portion of the population speaks English quite fluently. The total population is currently over twenty-seven million people. Interestingly, about seventy percent of the residents are locals, while the remaining thirty percent are immigrants who have come to work and live there.

For a long time, the country felt like a locked treasure chest, remaining a mystery to the average traveler due to its very strict religious rules. Historically, only diplomats or people traveling for high-level business were granted entry. However, things have changed significantly in recent years as the Kingdom began to open its doors to the wider world. Since late 2019, foreigners have been welcomed with open arms, and getting a visa is now a simple process that takes only a few minutes online.

A huge part of the landscape is dominated by vast deserts that serve as home to various Bedouin tribes. These people are among the most resilient and proud groups on the peninsula, having adapted to an incredibly harsh environment over many centuries. They have learned to live with very little food and water, often building their traditional homes from the leaves of local desert plants. It is a testament to human endurance in a place where the sun dictates the pace of life.

Most of the modern population is concentrated in large urban centers, particularly along the western and eastern coastlines where life is more temperate. The history of the modern state actually goes back to the eighteenth century, though the path was not easy. During the sixteenth century, the region was under Ottoman rule, which led to the collapse of earlier emirates established by the Saudi family.

The turning point came in 1932 when Abdulaziz ibn Saud was proclaimed king, finally uniting the regions of Hejaz and Nejd to form the Saudi Arabia we know today. Soon after, the discovery of oil changed everything, providing the wealth needed to transform the nation. Under the leadership of the Al Saud royal family, the country has undergone a staggering transformation. In just five decades, what was once a quiet desert land has become one of the most influential and richest countries on the planet.

Regions and resorts Saudi Arabia

Nature Saudi Arabia

The landscape of the Kingdom is mostly a high desert plateau, sitting at elevations ranging from three hundred to sixteen hundred meters. When you look around, you see a lot of flat highlands covered in desert and semi-desert plants. Because the sun is so intense and rain is so rare, there are almost no permanent rivers flowing through the land. This makes water incredibly precious, and most of it comes from deep underground sources scattered across the country.

There are about three hundred of these natural underground outlets that sustain life and farming. One of the most famous spots is the Al-Ahsa oasis in the eastern part of the country, which is actually one of the largest in the world. It sits about sixty kilometers away from the Persian Gulf and is famous for its incredibly clear and fresh springs. Places like this are like green jewels hidden in a sea of sand and rock.

The wildlife in this region is surprisingly varied, despite what you might expect from such a dry climate. You can find the same kind of wild cats that were once depicted in ancient Egyptian tombs. The desert is also home to over sixty types of lizards and thirty-five species of snakes. If you look closely, you might spot some of the eighty species of mammals, including the legendary camel which can drink over a hundred liters of water in a single sitting.

In protected areas like Jabal Shada, you can find caracals, which are beautiful wild cats with distinctive black tufts on their ears. These creatures have a very ancient history and were highly regarded by civilizations thousands of years ago. However, travelers need to be careful because the desert also hosts some dangerous residents. Vipers are common, and if you hear a hissing sound, the best thing to do is stop moving immediately and look around before slowly backing away.

Scorpions are another thing to watch out for, as they like to hide under rocks or in small burrows during the heat of the day. On a lighter note, you might encounter the Ethiopian hedgehog in the desert scrub. These tiny creatures are about the size of a human palm and spend their days hiding from the sun. Once the sun goes down, they come out to hunt and can move surprisingly fast, reaching speeds of up to twenty kilometers per hour.

The bird population is mostly made up of birds of prey like falcons, hawks, and vultures, which soar high above the plains. You will also find various types of rodents like ground squirrels and jerboas scuttling through the sand. Interestingly, the country is home to several types of foxes, including the sand fox and the tiny Fennec fox. Some people even keep these small, large-eared foxes as pets because of their unique appearance.

The waters surrounding the country are just as full of life as the land. The marine environment features around two thousand different types of coral and a huge variety of fish. If you go diving or fishing, you might see tuna, dorado, and sailfish swimming in the clear blue water. It is a completely different world compared to the dry interior of the country.

As for the plants, the desert areas are dotted with white saxaul and camel thorns, which locals sometimes use as a traditional remedy for coughs. You will also see plenty of wormwood and milkvetch growing in the sand. In the mountains, the greenery is much thicker, with wild olive trees, acacias, and tamarisk trees. The oases are where things really get lush, with date palms, bananas, and citrus fruits growing alongside fields of grain.

Climate Saudi Arabia

The weather in the Kingdom can be quite unpredictable and varies greatly depending on where you are. It is not uncommon for one part of the country to be dealing with a powerful storm while another area is suffering through a heatwave. Generally speaking, the climate is dry and falls into the tropical or subtropical categories. Summers are famously intense, with daytime temperatures often climbing to forty-two degrees, though it cools down to about twenty-five at night.

In the higher mountain regions, the weather is completely different, and it is not unusual to see snow during the winter months. These areas can receive up to four hundred millimeters of rain a year, which is a lot compared to the desert where you might only see a hundred millimeters. Most of the rainfall across the country happens between December and April. The Rub' al Khali desert is known for having some of the most extreme temperature swings you can imagine.

During the day in this vast desert, the heat can reach a blistering fifty degrees Celsius. However, as soon as the sun sets, the temperature can plummet all the way down to six degrees. If you are planning a trip to northern areas like Tabuk during the winter, you definitely need to pack warm clothes and an umbrella. Meanwhile, in the Asir mountain region, winter mornings are often characterized by thick, heavy fogs that blanket the landscape.

There are parts of the Rub' al Khali where it literally does not rain for several years at a time. In these regions, seasonal winds are a major factor, often kicking up massive sandstorms that reduce visibility to zero. These storms usually follow a period of unbearable heat and can turn into full-blown hurricanes of sand. When they hit, they can completely cover buildings and cars in a layer of fine dust within minutes.

Springtime usually starts around the middle of March and lasts until June. This is the period when the country sees the most rain, but it also brings strong winds known as the Samum and Khamsin. Around the capital, night temperatures usually stay around twenty degrees, while the north remains a bit cooler. Many people find that November is actually the best time to visit because the air and sea are both perfectly warm.

In November, the conditions are ideal for swimming, trying out water sports, or just relaxing on the beach. The weather in the capital, Riyadh, is relatively mild compared to other spots because the city sits over five hundred meters above sea level. In the summer, the humidity there is very low, so even though it hits forty degrees, it feels a bit more manageable than on the coast.

Cities like Mecca can get much hotter, with summer temperatures frequently reaching fifty degrees. The sun shines there for about thirty-four hundred hours every single year, which is incredible. If you are heading there in the summer, it is wise to wear light, natural fabrics that cover your knees and shoulders. This is true for both men and women, and you should never forget a hat and some strong sunscreen.

The eastern coast is often considered one of the most difficult places to be during the peak of summer. Even though the temperature might be around forty degrees, the humidity often goes above ninety percent. This combination makes the air feel very heavy and sticky, which can be quite a shock if you are used to a drier climate. It is the kind of weather where you really appreciate a good air conditioning system.

Transport in Saudi Arabia

Getting around the Kingdom is fairly straightforward thanks to a well-developed network of four international and fifteen domestic airports. The main international hubs are located in Riyadh, Jeddah, Medina, and Dammam. These airports are served by all the major global airlines, making it easy to fly in from almost anywhere. Once you are inside the country, domestic flights are a great way to reach the more remote or distant regions without spending days on the road.

One thing that surprises many visitors is just how cheap fuel is here. With gas prices around thirteen cents per liter, driving is easily the most popular way to travel. The government puts a lot of effort into maintaining the roads, and there are about fifty thousand kilometers of high-quality paved highways. Most of these are wide, eight-lane roads that make long-distance driving much less stressful than in many other countries.

Renting a car is a popular option and can be done at any major airport or in most big cities. You generally need to be at least twenty-one years old and have an international driving permit along with a credit card. A significant change happened in June 2018 when the ban on women driving was finally lifted. Now, women can get their licenses just like men and are even allowed to drive heavy trucks or motorcycles if they wish.

While the main cities have incredible roads, you might find more basic dirt or gravel paths if you venture deep into rural villages. For those who prefer not to drive, public transport is available in all the major urban areas. Intercity buses are a very common and affordable way to get from one city to another. The state-run bus company operates a fleet of modern, air-conditioned coaches that are quite comfortable for long trips.

The only downside to taking the bus is that it usually takes a lot longer than driving yourself or taking a taxi. If you value your time and want to get around quickly, taxis are everywhere. You can find both official marked taxis and private drivers, though the official ones usually charge a bit more for the peace of mind they provide. They are a very convenient way to navigate the busy streets of cities like Riyadh or Jeddah.

For those who enjoy train travel, the country has a railway system that covers hundreds of kilometers. The main line connects the capital city directly to the major ports on the Persian Gulf. The trains are modern and offer a high level of service, making them a popular choice for both locals and tourists. You can easily pick up tickets at any of the train stations along the route.

Finally, the country also has a very sophisticated maritime logistics system. While this is mostly focused on the massive scale of oil exports, the ports are vital to the nation's economy. Water transport plays a huge role in how the country interacts with the rest of the world. Whether by air, land, or sea, the infrastructure here is designed to handle a lot of movement efficiently.

Money and shopping in Saudi Arabia

Traveling in the Kingdom is generally very safe, so you likely won't run into any trouble when it comes to handling your money or exchanging currency. The local currency is the Saudi Riyal, which is subdivided into one hundred halalas. You will find currency exchange offices almost everywhere, from the moment you land at the airport to the various banks and shopping malls scattered across every city. It is a very hassle-free process for any visitor.

Most banks open their doors around nine-thirty in the morning and stay open until four-thirty in the afternoon. ATMs are very easy to find in almost any neighborhood, and they generally accept all the major international cards like Visa and MasterCard. The exchange rate for the US dollar is usually fixed at around three point seventy-five riyals. It is always a good idea to keep some cash on you for smaller shops, but cards are widely accepted in bigger places.

Shopping is a huge part of the local culture, and you will find everything from traditional street markets to massive, high-end malls with luxury boutiques. Many tourists like to pick up an arafat, which is the iconic checkered scarf that everyone recognizes. Other popular souvenirs include beautifully crafted prayer beads, intricate gold and silver jewelry, and the famous curved daggers that are a symbol of traditional heritage.

If you wander through the local bazaars, you will be surrounded by the smells of spices and natural oils. You can find traditional sweets like Turkish delight, baklava, and sorbet that make for great gifts. Some people even buy camel milk that has been specially sealed in travel-safe packaging to take home. Another thing that catches the eye of many visitors is the stunning Arabic calligraphy, which you can buy as framed art to decorate your home.

When you are in Medina, make sure to look for the Ajwa dates, which are considered some of the best in the world. They have a special religious significance and are known for their health benefits, making them a top choice for travelers. What makes them unique is that they are slightly dry on the outside but incredibly soft and sweet on the inside. They are unlike any other dates you have likely tasted before.

Oud oil is another luxury item that is very popular in the region. It is extracted from the agarwood tree, and the resin is used to create intense, woody perfumes. Even the small pieces of wood are used as incense, which people burn during special celebrations and holidays. Giving oud oil or perfume as a gift is seen as a sign of great respect and generosity in local culture.

You can often find small pouches of oud sticks at market stalls, which are a much more affordable way to take that scent home with you. The warm, earthy aroma is a great way to remember your trip. For the best shopping experience in the capital, head to the Al-Thumairi market. If you are in Medina, the old bazaar is the place to go, offering everything from cheap trinkets to high-end luxury goods.

One important thing to remember is that shops usually close for about thirty minutes during prayer times. If you prefer a quieter shopping experience without the crowds, it is best to go early in the morning. Don't be afraid to bargain a little at the traditional markets, as it is often expected and can lead to a much better price. It is all part of the local experience and makes for a more interesting day out.

Main attractions Saudi Arabia

When you think of Saudi Arabia, the first place that usually comes to mind is the city of Mecca. This place holds a special spot in the hearts of millions because it is where the Prophet Muhammad was born, making it the most sacred city in the entire Islamic world. It is tucked away just about an hour's drive from the shores of the Red Sea, and it really manages to wow everyone who visits with its incredible mix of ancient history and stunning modern architecture. Every single year, you will see millions of people making their way here for the Hajj pilgrimage, creating a sea of believers from every corner of the globe.

It is important to keep in mind that Mecca is only open to Muslims, and people of other faiths are actually not allowed to enter the city limits. If you are able to go, you absolutely have to see the Kaaba, which is that famous cube-shaped shrine. According to local legends, this unique structure was actually built by angels who came down from the heavens. The building itself is a massive black rectangle standing over thirteen meters high, and it is decorated with some of the most beautiful and intricate gold calligraphy you will ever see.

They have been working on restoring and maintaining this site since way back in the early 7th century. Whenever Muslims pray, no matter where they are in the world, they always turn to face the direction of the Kaaba. On certain special days, those visiting are allowed to get really close to the shrine, and some even get the chance to reach out and touch its ancient walls, which is a deeply emotional experience for many.

Another landmark you cannot miss is the King Fahd Fountain, which is actually taller than the Eiffel Tower. It was first turned on back in 1983 and quickly earned a spot in the Guinness World Records. It shoots water up to a staggering height of 312 meters, which is just mind-blowing when you see it in person. At any given second, there are about 19 tons of water hanging in the air above the fountain, and the water blasts out at speeds reaching 375 kilometers per hour.

Speaking of world records, the country also hosts one of the biggest flower festivals on the planet every year in the city of Yanbu. It is a massive event where visitors can walk along the world’s largest carpet made entirely of living flowers. Besides the blooms, you can see rare butterflies, let the kids enjoy various carnival rides, and stick around for some pretty spectacular fireworks displays in the evening.

If you are more into art and culture, the Al-Hamra open-air museum is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon. It features more than twenty works by world-famous artists like Joan Miró, Henry Moore, and Alexander Calder. People really flock to the kingdom these days for the breathtaking mountain views, the powdery white beaches, and that unique Arabic architecture. Whether you are exploring the desert, walking through parks filled with rare animals, or just staring at the emerald-colored water, there is always something beautiful to look at.

Tourism in Saudi Arabia

If you are looking for a beach getaway, Saudi Arabia has some pretty amazing options along both the Persian Gulf to the east and the Red Sea to the west. The water stays warm and crystal clear throughout the year, and the sand on most of these beaches is incredibly soft and white. One thing you will notice is that local residents usually swim in modest, covered clothing to respect their religious traditions. For tourists, it is generally expected that men wear t-shirts and longer shorts, while women often opt for more modest swimwear.

Most of the popular beach resorts that travelers love are clustered along the Red Sea coast. Places like Yanbu al-Bahr and Silver Sands are known for being super clean and well-maintained, offering plenty of comfortable lounge chairs, umbrellas, and safe play areas for children. If you are the type of person who prefers a more rugged and untouched natural setting, you should definitely check out Haql beach. It feels very wild and remote, and on a clear day, you can actually look across the water and see the coastline of Egypt in the distance.

For those who crave a bit of action and adventure, the white sands of Half Moon Bay on the Persian Gulf are the place to be. This area is a huge hub for all kinds of water sports and outdoor fun. You can spend your day cruising around on luxury yachts, trying your hand at water skiing, or heading out for a day of fishing. It is also a fantastic spot for diving, especially if you want to explore what lies beneath the surface of the gulf.

The Red Sea is world-famous among snorkeling and diving enthusiasts for a reason. The underwater world here is teeming with life, and you can find some truly rare sights, like the stunning black corals that are hard to find anywhere else. Because the country was closed off to most tourists for such a long time, the marine environment has stayed in its pristine, original state. It is not uncommon to spot pods of dolphins or even majestic humpback whales while you are out on the water.

Under the surface, you will find thousands of different fish species, along with sea urchins, moray eels, and even deep-sea sharks. The absolute best times to go snorkeling are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is perfect. During these seasons, there is almost no rain, the water temperature sits comfortably between 25 and 28 degrees Celsius, and the visibility underwater is amazing, often reaching up to 30 meters.

If you need a break from the water, the Asir Mountains offer some of the highest peaks in the entire kingdom. The scenery there is just incredible, with lush gardens full of lime and pomegranate trees and forests filled with plants you won’t see anywhere else. The views looking down over the desert from the mountain ridges are something you will remember forever. In the desert itself, you might see people practicing a crazy sport where they drive SUVs on just two wheels over the dunes. It is a huge adrenaline rush, and sometimes you will even see brave passengers climbing out onto the roof while the car is tilted.

Sports are a big deal in the country, especially golf and football, and it is great to see that women have recently been allowed to join the crowds at these events. There are some world-class golf courses available for tourists who want to practice their swing. You also cannot talk about Saudi culture without mentioning falconry. It started as a way to hunt for food, but today, owning a falcon is a huge status symbol. These birds are treated like family, sometimes even flying in first class on planes, and people travel from all over to see them at the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival.

Accommodation in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is often called the cradle of ancient civilizations, and you can really feel that history everywhere you go. It is a place where ancient religious sites and historic old towns sit right next to some of the most modern and luxurious developments in the world. Nowadays, the country is full of high-end hotels that are designed to show off the very best of Arabian hospitality and style. Whether you are looking for a five-star suite or a cozy boutique spot, the options are honestly impressive.

The range of places to stay is actually quite broad, so you can find something regardless of your budget. Most of the big international hotel chains have a presence here, but if you want something truly unique, you might look into staying in one of the converted palaces. These buildings give you a taste of what royal life is like, with incredible service and décor that reflects the kingdom's heritage. It is a side of the country that many travelers are just starting to discover.

Along the coast and in the mountain regions, you will find endless resorts and beautiful private chalets. These are perfect if you are looking for a bit of privacy and want to enjoy the natural beauty of the peninsula without being in the middle of a busy city. They usually come with top-notch service and all the amenities you would expect for a relaxing holiday. It is pretty easy to find a place that fits exactly what you are looking for in a vacation rental.

If you are a younger traveler or just trying to save your money for more excursions, the youth hostels are a great alternative. They are surprisingly good and often include perks like free Wi-Fi and breakfast, and you can usually find options for private rooms and bathrooms if you don't want to share a dorm. It is a smart way to see the sights without draining your savings account, and it's a good way to meet other people who are exploring the country.

You might be surprised to learn that you can find decent places to stay starting at around 32 dollars a night. Renting a property here for a longer stay is actually quite a bit cheaper than in places like Dubai or Qatar. Plus, when you rent a place, things like your water, electricity, and basic maintenance are often already included in the price. This makes it a very attractive destination for people who want to stay for a few weeks or even a month to really soak in the culture.

For a completely different experience, you should definitely try camping out in the wild. The country has some spectacular spots for this in the mountains, the vast deserts, and deep within historic valleys. The atmosphere at these campsites is so peaceful, and the views of the stars at night are unlike anything you will see near a city. You can spend your time hiking during the day and then sit around a campfire at night, just enjoying the silence and the natural beauty of the desert landscape.

Kitchen and dishes Saudi Arabia

The food in this mysterious kingdom is a direct reflection of the long-standing traditions of the people who live there. Since it is an Islamic country, the local cuisine has been shaped by religious guidelines and the different cultures that have crossed through the region over the centuries. You will find that most traditional dishes revolve around a few key ingredients like lamb, fresh fish, and plenty of vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes. They also use a lot of grains, dates, and citrus fruits, all brought to life with a huge variety of aromatic spices.

Saudi people are famous for being incredibly welcoming to anyone who visits. When you enter a home or a traditional restaurant, you will likely be greeted with a cup of hot, fresh coffee and some sweet, sticky dates. For locals, making sure a guest is completely full is a matter of pride and honor. Because of this, don't be surprised when your food arrives on massive platters meant for sharing. The portions are almost always very generous.

No matter what you order, you can count on being served a type of fresh, hot bread called Lafa. It is a very thin flatbread, similar to what some might call lavash, and it is baked in extremely hot traditional ovens. It is the perfect tool for scooping up dips or wrapping around pieces of grilled meat. It usually arrives at the table still steaming, and the smell of fresh bread is everywhere in local eateries.

Before the main course arrives, it is common to start with a couple of different salads. One unique option is called Hinini, which is made from a mix of dates, bread, cardamom, and a bit of butter. Another staple is Fattoush, a refreshing salad that uses pieces of toasted or fried flatbread mixed with fresh vegetables and a ton of different green herbs. These starters are great for waking up your taste buds before the heavier dishes come out.

For snacks and appetizers, you will often find things like squash or eggplant caviar, which are rich and flavorful spreads. They also serve various types of local cheeses alongside bowls of salty olives. These small plates are usually meant to be enjoyed slowly while you chat with your companions. It is a very social way of eating where the conversation is just as important as the food itself.

When it gets to the main dishes, Al-Arisa is one of the most popular choices. It is a traditional recipe made by slow-cooking meat with whole boiled wheat until it reaches a thick, hearty consistency. Another huge favorite is Mansaf, especially for people who love tender lamb. It is usually served on a large bed of rice or bulgur, depending on the region's preference. It is a very filling and comforting meal that is often served at big family gatherings.

If you like smoky, spiced flavors, you have to try Haniz or Mandi. Both are made with lamb that is seasoned with a blend of sharp spices and then cooked in a traditional tandoor oven, which gives the meat a distinct flavor. Then there is Sarid, a dish that you will see a lot during the holy month of Ramadan. It is a simple but delicious meal made by soaking pieces of fresh bread in a rich meat or fish broth until it absorbs all the flavors.

You might also recognize Shakshuka, which is a popular breakfast dish made of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce with chili peppers and herbs. Falafel, those famous fried chickpea balls, are also a common sight and make for a great quick meal. For dessert, the go-to choice is often Muhallebi. It is a creamy milk pudding made with rice flour and topped with a sweet sugar syrup. There is even a legend that it was named after an Arab general who loved it so much that the chef named the dish in his honor.

To wash it all down, most people reach for black tea, which is the most loved drink in the country. It is usually brewed with a variety of fresh herbs and is served at everything from formal business meetings to casual chats with new friends. Coffee is the other big one, and in Saudi Arabia, it is almost always flavored with fragrant cardamom. Drinking coffee and tea is a huge part of the daily rhythm here and is the ultimate sign of hospitality.

Culture and traditions Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, Islam is not just a religion; it is the foundation for all the laws and the way of life. It shapes every custom and tradition you will see while you are there. The society is very traditional and deeply religious, and the rules of the faith apply to everyone, from the average person on the street all the way up to the royal princes. There is even a special group often referred to as the morality police who make sure that public behavior follows these established religious rules.

Things have been changing quite a bit recently, especially for women. Not that long ago, women didn't even have their own passports and had to be listed under their husband's or father's documents. According to local customs, women are expected to wear an abaya in public, which is a long robe that isn't supposed to be see-through or show the shape of the body. Recently, however, women have gained the right to drive cars, get jobs, leave the house on their own, and even go to stadiums to watch sports.

The family structure is very traditional, with the man acting as the head of the household. Men are allowed to have more than one wife, though there are strict rules against things like gambling and drinking alcohol. If someone is caught breaking these rules, the punishments can be quite serious. Men also tend to dress traditionally, usually wearing a long silk or cotton shirt called a thobe and a headscarf known as a ghutra. It is a look that has remained popular for generations.

Family life is patriarchal, and fathers generally have the final say in many important decisions, including who their daughters will marry. If a couple decides to split up, the man can initiate a divorce at any time, and usually, the children will stay with him. For a woman to ask for a divorce, the process is much more complicated and takes a long time, often requiring at least six witnesses to support her case in court.

When it comes to entertainment, public dancing is generally not allowed unless it is a traditional folk dance. These traditional dances are usually performed only by men. Dancing with members of the opposite sex in public is considered very inappropriate and goes against the country's moral standards. You will also notice that people don't keep dogs as pets inside their homes because they are seen as religiously unclean. Cats, on the other hand, are very popular and highly respected because the Prophet Muhammad was known to be very fond of them.

There are some specific rules of etiquette you should know if you visit. For instance, the left hand is considered unclean, so you should always use your right hand for shaking hands or passing items to someone else. It is also a good idea to avoid using big hand gestures or keeping your hands in your pockets while talking. Conversations about politics or religion can be a bit sensitive, so it is usually better to avoid those topics unless you know the person very well.

You should also be careful with cameras. Taking photos of local women is strictly forbidden, and you should always ask a man for permission before taking his picture. Anything belonging to the royal family is also off-limits for photography. Public gatherings are generally not allowed unless they are for prayer or religious reasons. Because of the country's oil wealth, the standard of living is quite high, and many locals prefer not to do manual labor, so you will see a lot of immigrants from other countries doing those types of jobs.

The government puts a lot of money into the future of its citizens, with over 20,000 schools and colleges across the country. Education is completely free, and the state will even pay for students to go to university in other countries. Healthcare is also free, not just for the people who live there, but even for the pilgrims who come to visit the holy sites. Friday is the most sacred day of the week, so the weekend usually falls on Friday and Saturday. People stop to pray five times a day, and the whole rhythm of the country revolves around these spiritual moments.