13 reasons why Saudi Arabia is unique

Saudi Arabia is a country most of us are familiar with. Resting in the Middle East, it is popular for its natural oil reserves, Islamic heritage and rich culture. It is a country that has the most influx of Muslims as it hosts the two holiest cities in Islam. Mecca and Madinah are the two cities that are Sacred for Muslims.

Holding its uniqueness for its incredible architecture, massive date production and Islamic culture, Saudi Arabia is among the countries people look forward to visiting. You can book a ticket from any airline in the world but Saudi Airlines booking often is a cheaper yet the most comfortable option. Here is a list of things for which Saudi Arabia is famous:

Islamic Law

Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country. It is a country where Islamic law, i.e. the Shariah laws are implemented strictly. Thus, the laws are set according to the teachings of the Qur’an and the Hadith. Thus, some of the laws might be different from that of other countries. Thus, if you are travelling to Saudi Arabia. Do a little research on the laws especially on dressing modestly and on no alcohol consumption.

The Hospitality Culture

Saudi Arabia is a hospitable country. The culture of the country is welcoming and thus the people make all the effort to make the guest feel happy and comfortable. This is also in accordance with the Islamic teachings and the sunnah of the Holy Prophet PBUH, which allows Muslims to be generous and hospitable towards their guests. The act of being generous towards the guests is known as  “diyafa”. It incorporates welcoming guests with an open heart, serving them generously and taking care of their comfort.

The Unique Male Attire

The males in Saudi Arabia wear traditional white attire. You will witness this attire exclusively in the Gulf countries. The Traditional white dress is in accordance with cultural heritage and religious values. Nonetheless, it is practical as well as it is best suited for the hot desert climate. Men usually wear a Thobe, which is an Ankle-length robe. It is usually white in colour, with minimal details and is made out of light and comfortable fabric. It is often complemented with a Ghtra and Agal which is the head covering to remain protected from the sunlight. A Bisht is worn over the robe on formal occasions. It is similar to a cloak.

Dates

Dates are what Saudi Arabia is best known for, Saudi Arabia is blessed with the finest kinds of dates. Also, Saudi Arabia is the largest producer of dates in the world while not compromising on quality.  Dates have been cultivated in Saudi Arabia for thousands of years now. The dates trees are capable of withstanding the harsh desert weather. The Dates thus make an important snack in Saudi Arabia. It is full of nutrients and is a potential source of energy.

When I am in Saudi Arabia, you will be fed with different kinds of dates. You will also witness different kinds of dates and festivals.

Cities and places that make Saudi Arabia famous

These are a few of the cities that have allowed Saudi Arabia to become famous among the masses.

Riyadh

The capital city of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is located on the eastern part of the Najd plateau. The political and economic centre of the country was founded in the 18th century. Riyadh, being a metropolitan city, plays a pivotal role in the economic decision-making and the growth and development of the country. The city has transformed itself from a small oasis to an architectural magnificent. It is a city full of events and entertainment.  

Mecca

The most famous city in Saudi Arabia is Mecca. It is a city that has great religious significance. It houses the Holy Kaaba and the Great Mosque. Muslims from all over the world find it sacred. The city is also the birthplace of the Holy Prophet PBUH and has an embedded number of landmarks. Around the year in general and during Hajj in specific, there is a huge influx of Muslims towards Mecca for performing Hajj and Umrah.

Madinah

Another city that holds great significance in Islam is Madinah. It is a city of great significance and importance. The city is almost as important as Mecca as it is among the sacred places on Earth for Muslims. The Prophet’s Mosque is located in Madinah. Madinah is also the city where the Prophet PBUH has been buried. The city had hosted the Muslims during the Prophet PBUH’s era. When they were not allowed to live in Mecca, they were welcomed by the people of Madinah and thus, the city is from where Islam flourished.

Jeddah

Jeddah is another famous city in Saudi Arabia. It is the second-largest city in the country. It is very famous for its coastal location on the Red Sea. It is a gateway to Mecca and Madinah and is a major contributor to the economic development of the country.

Jeddah is a city full of colours. It has great coastlines, well-developed and maintained beaches, picture-perfect resorts, lavish restaurants and playful parks. It is among the cities you should definitely explore!

Famous Landmarks of Saudi Arabia

There are a number of famous landmarks in Saudi Arabia. Here are a few of the most famous ones:

Masjid al-Haram

The Great Mosque of Mecca, famously known as the Masjid al-Haram, is a famous landmark of Saudi Arabia. It is also the most sacred mosque in Islam. It was initially built by the Prophet Ibrahmis A.S. and Hazrat Ismail A.S. The mosque was built to offer Muslims a place for worship. Over the years, the leaders of the Kingdom have made certain extensions and renovations for easing the accommodation of the pilgrims.

Modern architecture has been laid to perfectly complement the traditions and essence of Islamic culture. The architecture of the courtyards, prayer halls, the Mataf, and the Tawaf area is a treat to the eyes. The Grand mosque also hosts the Madam-e-Ibrahim and Zam Zam well. Both of which have great Islamic significance.

Kingdom Center Tower

The Kingdom Center Tower is yet another famous place in the kingdom. It is an iconic skyscraper, beholding uniqueness for its architectural style and unique design. The 992 feet tall tower is an architectural marvel of Sir Norman Foster. The tower not only stands as a testament to modern aesthetics but also serves its purpose seamlessly. It hosts shopping malls, apartments, restaurants, and offices. The innovative observation deck allows people to witness the view of  Riyadh’s skyline and landscapes.

King Fahd Mountain

This mountain is located in the Asir region of the southern-west of the Kingdom. King Fahd Mountain holds itself high in the Sarawat mountain range. It is a green rugged mountain that is  8,200 feet tall and gives a treat to the eyes when witnessed from far behind. When on top of the mountain, you can view the landscape, valleys, canyons, and plateaus.

The mountain is much famous among the locals and the expats. It offers adventurous treats such as hiking, trekking, and camping. People are often seen visiting the mountain and spending time there in nature to relax with family and friends.

The famous people of Saudi Arabia

There are a number of famous Saudis who have made us proud, here are the two most prominent ones!
Mohammed bin Salman

Mohammad Bin Salman, who is commonly known as MBS, is the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia. He was born on August 31, 1985. He is known for his strategic reforms and his dedication to uplifting the Saudi economy.

Mohammed bin Salman is holding several influential positions within the Saudi government. He came to power in  2015 after being appointed as  Minister of Defense. He has an ambition of implementing the Saudi Vision 2030 plan. He is known for his liberal decision making such as uplifting driving bans on women, improving entertainment avenues and undergoing cultural reforms. Such has helped Saudi Arabia to become less vulnerable to oil price shocks.

Rania Nashar

Rania Nashar is famous as she made history by becoming the first female CEO of a major Saudi bank. This actually was a milestone achieved by Saudi women by breaking stereotypes. She proved that women too in Saudi Arabia can excel in the male dominant corporate sector. She is known for her leadership skills and is now appointed as the CEO of the Samba Financial Group. She tends to motivate the young females of Saudi Arabia to participate in the economic uplift of the country.

The list does not end here, Saudi Arabia is a place full of history and full of exciting ventures. You can always find out more about what makes Saudi Arabia famous by visiting it yourself!