In this blog, you will explore the 14 most amazing facts about the remarkable country of the Middle East. Here, are the:
1. The Largest Country in the Middle East
Saudi Arabia is the largest landmass in the Middle East, covering more than 2.1 million square kilometres, making it the 13th largest nation worldwide. The country has a vast expanse, including deserts, mountains, valleys, and gorgeous coastlines.
2. Home to Mecca and Medina
Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam and is home to two of its most important cities: Mecca and Medina. Millions of Muslims make the journey to Mecca each year for the Hajj, a religious pilgrimage that forms part of the Five Pillars of Islam.
The Prophet Muhammad rests in Mecca, the city of his birth, and Medina, where he is buried. The best time to explore these cities is February; you can get February Umrah packages from any good travel agency and perform Umrah while exploring more places. This month, there will be less heat and pleasant weather to explore more.
3. The Kingdom of Oil
Saudi Arabia is among the largest oil producers globally. It ranks second in global proven oil reserves, right after Venezuela. The country’s economy is keyly reliant on oil exports. The oil wealth has transformed Saudi Arabia from a kingdom of desert into a fully developed, modern state.
4. Desert Dominates the Landscape
Saudi Arabia is, generally speaking, a desert nation. The Arabian Desert, which covers much of the nation’s area, ranks among the largest deserts internationally. The ‘Empty Quarter’ or Rub’ al Khali is, at about 650,000 square kilometres, known as the world’s largest sand desert.
5. The Capital – Riyadh
Riyadh is both the capital and the largest urban area of Saudi Arabia. Its current urban core is distinguished by significant skyscrapers, wealthy hotels, and extensive shopping centres. Riyadh acts as the political and financial centre of the nation and plays a key role in the nation’s culture and history.
6. A Hub for Pilgrims
Each year, millions of Muslims from different parts of the world assemble in Saudi Arabia during the holy pilgrimage to Mecca, called Hajj. In 2019, over 2.5 million made the trip for the pilgrimage. Supervising a large crowd of visitors demands an extensive infrastructure and effective organisation.
7. The Role of Women is Changing
Over the last few years, Saudi Arabia has introduced a suite of reforms to innovate how women engage with society. Starting in 2018, women gained permission to drive. More women are finding employment and are permitted to go to sporting competitions at stadiums. The reforms known as Vision 2030 include these changes.
8. One of the Hottest Places on Earth
Saudi Arabia is among the warmest spots on the planet. In several areas, temperatures may reach over 50°C (122°F) each summer. Some parts of the country go for years without experiencing rain, as they receive little rainfall.
9. The Hejaz Railway
The Hejaz Railway was a historically important railroad during the first decades of the 20th century. It tied together Medina in Saudi Arabia and Damascus, now part of Syria. The railway, first built to transport pilgrims, is a key element of Saudi Arabia’s historical patrimony. At this time, we can access the conserved parts of the railway.
10. Saudi Arabia is Rich in History
Though most of the nation is desert, Saudi Arabia possesses many archaeological riches. Al-Ula is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated destinations, where guests can view ancient tombs as well as buildings carved into rock that look like Petra’s in Jordan. These old cities help to commemorate the kings who ruled over the Arabian Peninsula in their day.
11. Camels are Highly Valued
Saudi Arabia has depended on camels culturally and economically for centuries. In the past, they were meant for transportation along with trade operations. Currently, camels retain much value, and racing them is a familiar practice. You can find camel beauty contests, where the most captivating camels take away the prizes! Interesting, right, you can also explore all of these adventures and perform Umrah. Muslims can take all-inclusive Umrah packages from any good travel agency and explore many other places by customising their deals to make their journey more exciting.
12. Largest Producer of Dates
Saudi Arabia is among the world’s leading producers of dates. Dates are essential to the Saudi diet, given that Saudi Arabia has more than 400 different types. The abundant growth of date palms in the deserts of the oases makes them a central food throughout Ramadan.
13. The Red Sea and Diving
Saudi Arabia’s coastline along the Red Sea is famous for its coral reefs and marine life. The Red Sea is one of the world’s finest places for scuba diving. Scuba divers can see all the action happening in thriving coral reefs, corroded ships, and an array of fish and marine life.
14. Saudi Arabia Hosts Major Sporting Events
Saudi Arabia has become a setting for international sporting competitions in the last several years. It has organised Formula E races, challenged boxers internationally, and even staged wrestling from WWE. The government regards sports as an instrument to attract tourists and encourage a more physical way of life for its citizens.
