Verified Facts
Official NameKingdom of Saudi Arabia
CapitalRiyadh
Population35.3 million
Area2,149,690 km² (830000 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic
CurrencySaudi riyal (ر.س)
TimezoneUTC+03:00
RegionAsia / Western Asia
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Notable Achievements
| Category | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Science | King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) | A world-class research university that ranks among the top in the world for citations per faculty member |
| Sports | Saudi Pro League | A top-tier professional football league that attracts international players and coaches |
| Arts | Diriyah Season | A cultural and entertainment festival that showcases Saudi art, music, and theater |
| Development | Neom City Project | A $500 billion megaproject to build a futuristic city powered by renewable energy |
| Innovation | Saudi Technology Ventures (STV) | A venture capital firm that invests in startups and emerging technologies |
| Global Contributions | King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSRelief) | A humanitarian organization that provides aid to refugees and disaster victims worldwide |
| Sports | Saudi Arabia's Olympic Medal Wins | Saudi athletes have won Olympic medals in sports such as equestrian, athletics, and wrestling |
| Development | Red Sea Development Project | A luxury tourism project that aims to develop 50 islands and create 70,000 jobs |
Cultural Treasures
- The At-Turaif District in Diriyah is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the historic capital of the Saudi state.
- The Hejaz Railway is a historic railway that showcases the country's rich transportation history.
- The Najd Village in Riyadh is a cultural heritage site that preserves traditional Saudi architecture.
- The Janadriyah Cultural Festival is an annual festival that celebrates Saudi culture, music, and art.
- The Al-'Ula archaeological site is a historic city that dates back to the 6th century BC and features ancient rock-cut tombs.
People & Global Impact
- Prince Sultan bin Salman Al-Saud is a Saudi astronaut who became the first Arab and Muslim to travel to space in 1985.
- Nawal El Moutawakel is a Saudi-born Moroccan athlete who won the first Olympic gold medal for a Muslim woman in 1984.
- Dr. Hayat Sindi is a Saudi medical scientist who has made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology and has been recognized as one of the most influential women in the Arab world.
- The Saudi diaspora has made significant contributions to the global economy, with many Saudi expatriates holding key positions in international business and finance.
What Visitors Love
- The hospitality of the Saudi people is renowned for its warmth and generosity, with visitors often commenting on the welcoming nature of their hosts.
- The cuisine is a unique blend of Middle Eastern and international flavors, with popular dishes such as kebabs, falafel, and shawarma.
- The scenery of Saudi Arabia is diverse and breathtaking, with deserts, mountains, and coastlines offering a range of landscapes to explore.
- The Masmak Fortress in Riyadh is a historic fort that dates back to the 19th century and offers a glimpse into the country's rich history.
- The Red Sands dunes near Riyadh are a popular destination for desert safaris and offer stunning views of the Arabian Desert.
- The Farasan Islands in the Red Sea are a protected marine reserve and offer a unique opportunity to see coral reefs and marine life.
Hidden Gems
- The Edge of the World is a scenic spot near Riyadh that offers breathtaking views of the Acacia Valley and is a popular destination for hiking and camping.
- The Al-Ahsa Oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest oases in the world, featuring ancient forts, mosques, and traditional villages.
- The Rijal Almaa village is a historic village in the Asir Region that is known for its traditional architecture and stunning mountain scenery.
- The King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Quran in Medina is a unique facility that produces millions of copies of the Quran every year and offers guided tours.