Capital: Riyadh.
Area: 2,149,690 sq. km.
Population: 26,939,583 people.
Official language: Arabic.
Official currency: Saudi riyal.

Saudi Arabia is one of the most “closed” countries in the world. To visit it, you will have to fulfill a number of conditions and rules. But anyone who has seen its endless deserts at least once and felt the influence of local culture is unlikely to regret that he ended up there...

Saudi Arabia occupies about 80% of the Arabian Peninsula, the largest in the world. In the north and northeast it borders with Jordan, Iraq and Kuwait, in the east with Qatar and the UAE, and in the south with Oman and Yemen. Saudi Arabia is connected to the island state of Bahrain, which is located in the waters of the Persian Gulf, by the huge King Fahd Bridge. It sits entirely on stilts driven into the bottom of the bay.

On the political map between Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Oman, the border is drawn not as a solid line, as is usually done, but as a broken line, because this border is conditional. It runs through the desert and is not marked on the ground. Because of this, the area of ​​the country is always indicated approximately.

The inhabitants of the country are Muslims. They live according to Sharia (Islamic law), which foreigners may find very strict. For example, in Saudi Arabia, public entertainment (theatres, cinemas, etc.), rallies and parades are prohibited, there are no holidays here except religious ones, you cannot have pets, and for theft a hand is cut off...

Celebrating New Year and Christmas is prohibited in Saudi Arabia. These are Christian holidays, for which there is a punishment.

Saudi Arabia is an absolute theocratic monarchy. This means that power in the country (both secular and spiritual) belongs to the king and is not limited by anyone else. The role of the constitution in the state is performed by the holy book of Muslims - the Koran.

King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia is one of the richest rulers in the world. His fortune totals $63 billion.

At the beginning of the 20th century. Saudi Arabia was one of the poorest countries in the world, now it is one of the richest. Oil, huge deposits of which were found in the country, helped the Saudis get rich. Thanks to “black gold”, over the past 20 years, Saudi Arabia has transformed from a backward medieval state to a modern developed state.

Saudi Arabia is the world leader in oil production.

Gasoline in Saudi Arabia is several times cheaper than water, and not because there is little of it in the desert, but because the oil from which it is obtained is very abundant.

They say that in Saudi Arabia, men own everything and women own nothing. A woman here has few rights. She can only go out when accompanied by a man, even if he is only 6 years old! She is prohibited from driving or working. In the country, even stores are divided into women's and men's.

Garden in the desert

Go outside the city and find yourself... in the desert. Yes, this is possible not only in the imagination, but also in reality. The capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, is surrounded by deserts. Walk just a short distance and the city streets give way to endless hot sands.

The life of Riyadh is divided into two periods: before the discovery of oil fields and after. When black gold was found in the country, the Saudi king spared no expense in rebuilding the main city. He invited the best engineers and designers who created an oasis called Riyadh (translated from Arabic it means "garden".)

You can find out what Riyadh of the past looked like by walking around the central part of the city - al-Bataa. A quarter with narrow streets and low adobe houses is still preserved here.

At first glance, it will seem that no one lives in them anymore. But satellite dishes on the roofs will tell you that this is not so.

Riyadh is famous for its camel market, which attracts buyers and sellers from all over the Middle East. The price of a “ship of the desert” here reaches tens of thousands of dollars!

Riyadh is a city of mosques. There are more than 150 of them here, and each one is different from the others!

The capital of Saudi Arabia is considered one of the hottest cities in the world. In summer the air temperature rises to +45 °C! It almost never rains here. Despite this, the city is recognized as the greenest capital in the Middle East. This unusual fact can be explained by the fact that Riyadh lies in a small but fertile lowland.

Modern Riyadh is a city with wide streets and glass skyscrapers, among which there are some very interesting buildings. For example, the Kingdom Center is the tallest building in Saudi Arabia. The height of the skyscraper is 311 m, it has 99 floors! Because of appearance locals nicknamed it "the bottle opener".

In the future, an unusual metro station should appear in Riyadh. It will be built in the form of a huge bowl with a large hole on top. Through it, the sun's rays will penetrate deep into the station and illuminate it. Thus, the Saudis plan to use a natural light source.

20 km from Riyadh is the old capital of Saudi Arabia - Diraya. Once this city was very rich, trade routes passed through it, but then it was destroyed. Only a few palaces and mosques remain from it. Archaeological excavations are currently being actively carried out in the city.

Saudi Arabia loves football very much. The national team of this country has become the champion of Asia more than once. King Fahd Stadium is one of the most remarkable buildings in the capital: it is built in the form of an Arab tent.

In an ocean of sand

On the physical map of the world, Saudi Arabia is shaded yellow. This means that the country's territory is occupied by deserts.

The largest of the Saudi deserts is the Rub al-Khali. Translated from Arabic it means “empty quarter”. Only the desert, contrary to its name, occupies not a quarter of the country, but its entire third! Rub al-Khali is a boundless sea of ​​hot sand, which, thanks to the wind, is constantly moving. The height of sand waves (dunes) can reach 250 m, and this is the height of a nine-story building! There are legends about the sands of this desert. They say that they buried more than one caravan under them.

And once upon a time, an entire city, Ubar, drowned in a sandy stream. It was big shopping mall where many rich people lived. But wealth made them greedy and evil. There was a city, it was there, and it floated away... As if it had disappeared forever in the desert...

In the north of Saudi Arabia lies the “sister” of the Rub al-Khali - the Great Nefud desert. She is called the most beautiful in the world. In the morning the surface of this desert is bright red, and in the evening it is white. It transforms due to the fact that its grains of sand contain a lot of iron and change color depending on the lighting. This is the hottest and stuffiest place on earth. During the day, the temperature in the desert rises to 60 degrees, and the sand warms up to 70! Life here exists only in oases where the “bread of the desert”—dates—grows.

In the desert you can observe fantastic phenomena, such as stone roses. Bizarre flowers are created underground over the years. They consist of gypsum and sand, and are obtained due to the strong evaporation of water. Over time, thanks to the wind, they end up on the surface. These stone flowers are considered a trophy. They are hunted by fossil collectors. One such desert flower costs thousands of euros!

The King of Saudi Arabia regularly holds prayers for rain. This ritual is one of the traditions of Saudi Arabia. It was started by the Prophet Muhammad himself.

The east and west of Saudi Arabia are different. The climate on the Red Sea coast is more favorable for life. The Hijaz and Asir mountains stretch here, where the highest point of the country is located - the city of An-Nabi Shuaib (3353 m). They prevent heated air from entering from the center of Arabia and serve as a barrier against sand. On the east coast it is very hot, and the air humidity is so high that a wet scarf hung in the sun does not dry for a long time.

Baboon monkeys are literally attacking the people of Saudi Arabia. In the mountains, due to the heat, they have nothing to eat, so they move closer to people. Baboons run freely through the streets of Saudi cities and steal local residents: they break into houses or cars and steal vegetables and fruits.

In the summer, residents of Saudi Arabia, like Belarusians, go to the south of the Arabian Peninsula. Only we strive for warmth, and the Saudis strive for coolness, because on the southern coast it is not as hot as in the center or north of Arabia.

IN winter time A wind rises over the Arabian Peninsula, causing strong sandstorms. Clouds of sand and dust cover most settlements Saudi Arabia. Car traffic is closed in cities, children do not go to school, life comes to a standstill. Everyone is trying to sit out this period at home.

It is the largest state on the Arabian Peninsula and one of the richest powers on the planet. It is here that the most important pilgrimage centers of the Muslim world are located, and the local oil reserves are openly envied by the most prosperous countries of our time. WITH different sides The Saudi kingdom is washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf, as well as the Arabian and Red Seas, delighting the eyes of amazed guests arriving on these mysterious shores.

Peculiarities

The monarchy is flourishing in Saudi Arabia and is currently led by the son of the founder of the state from the Saudi dynasty, Abdullah ibn Abdul Aziz al-Saud. The symbol of the country's economy is the oil refining industry, thanks to which the state's welfare has been maintained at the highest level for a long time. Among the regular buyers of oil and gas are the USA, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and other prosperous powers. The harsh Sharia laws under which the kingdom lives are an integral part of the image of Saudi Arabia in the West and often cause discontent among international organizations monitoring the observance of human rights. Punishments for violations of Islamic laws here are indeed very severe. A small offense can cost a person a certain amount of money, and a large one can cost a person his head, in the literal sense of the word. The religious police vigilantly monitor compliance with standards of behavior and morality.

The country's territorial expanses are mainly formed from rocky and sandy deserts, where lichens, white saxaul, tamarisk, acacias and other plants grow. Often found in oases date palms, bananas, citrus fruits, grains and garden crops. Wildlife, despite the arid climate, is very diverse and is represented by many individuals, including antelopes, gazelles, wild donkeys, hares, jackals, hyenas, foxes, wolves, as well as dozens of species of birds and rodents. A significant disadvantage of the state's political structure is serious youth unemployment and too much dependence on the financial generosity of the ruling royal family.

general information

The territory of Saudi Arabia is quite vast and covers an area of ​​just under 2 million 150 thousand square meters. km, which is the 12th indicator in the world. The population is about 27 million people. Arabic is used as the main language. The monetary currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). 100 SAR = $SAR:USD:100:2. Time zone UTC+3. Local time coincides with Moscow. Mains voltage 127 and 220 V at a frequency of 50 Hz, A, B, F, G. Country telephone code +966. Internet domain.sa.

A brief excursion into history

Since ancient times, the lands between the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea were occupied by Arab tribes, and in the 1st millennium BC, the Minaan and Sabaean kingdoms existed in the southern part of the Arabian Peninsula. At the same time, in the historical region of Hijaz, many centuries ago, pilgrimage centers of the Islamic world arose - Mecca and Medina. It was in Mecca that the Prophet Muhammad began to spread Islam at the beginning of the 7th century, and a little later settled in Medina, which later became the capital of the Arab Caliphate. In the late Middle Ages, Turkish rule was established on the peninsula.

The birth of the first Saudi state began in 1744, with the active participation of the ruler of the city of Ad-Diriyah, Muhammad ibn Saud, and the preacher Muhammad Abdul-Wahhab. It existed for only 73 years until it was destroyed by the Ottomans. The second Saudi state, founded in 1824, suffered the same fate. The creator of the third was Abd al-Aziz, who captured Riyadh at the beginning of the 20th century, and then subjugated the Najd region. In September 1932, after the unification of the Hijaz and Najd regions, modern Saudi Arabia was formed, whose king was Abd al-Aziz. In subsequent decades and to this day, the royal throne has been regularly inherited, while international relationships relations with the West still remain very moderate and not too open, allowing Saudi Arabia to maintain its relative closeness and confidentiality on the world political stage.

Climate

The country has an arid climate with minimal rainfall throughout the year. The air temperature in the winter months on the coast fluctuates between +20..+30 degrees, and in the summer the thermometer regularly exceeds +50 degrees. In desert areas it is somewhat cooler. In the summer, at night, the temperature there can drop to 0 degrees. Precipitation, depending on the region, falls only in winter and spring, and even then in small quantities. It is recommended to come here from September to October or from April to May, when it is not too hot and the sea winds sufficiently freshen the air.

Visa and customs regulations

Visiting Saudi Arabia by citizens of Russia and Ukraine is possible only with a transit, student, work, business or visitor visa. In addition, group visas are accepted for Hajj pilgrims to Mecca. Regular tourist visas to the country are not issued. During the application process, women must provide a copy of their marriage document or confirm their relationship with the man accompanying them on the trip. Without the latter, they are prohibited from leaving the airport transit zone. Local customs regulations provide for a complete ban on the transport of alcohol and printed materials in Hebrew. The death penalty is applied for drug trafficking.

How to get there

There are 4 international airports in Saudi Arabia, one of which is in the capital, King Khalid. The most convenient flight option is flights with transfers to or. In addition, the kingdom can be reached through, and after a few more European countries. There are a number of large seaports on the Persian Gulf coast that receive ferries from, and.

Transport

Rail and bus commuter services are developed within the country. The roads are of very high quality. Women under 30 years of age are allowed to drive only when accompanied by men.

Cities and resorts

Saudi Arabia is one of the most closed and mysterious countries in the world. Over the years, this Arab state preserves its culture, religion, traditions and customs, hidden from human eyes. For many travel lovers, a visit to the country of the sheikhs is a pipe dream, due to restrictions on foreign tourists, which, however, only makes it even more attractive and alluring.

The most important holy city of Muslims around the world is where the founder of the religion, Prophet Muhammad, was born. This is also where Holy Mosque Haram, accommodating up to 700 thousand people at a time. In the center of the mosque stands the Kaaba sanctuary, the corners of which are oriented to the four cardinal directions. The Kaaba is covered with a black silk blanket (kiswa), the upper part of which is decorated with sayings from the Koran embroidered in gold. The door to the sanctuary is made of pure gold and weighs 286 kg. In the eastern corner of the Kaaba there is a Black Stone, which is surrounded by a silver rim. In accordance with Muslim tradition, God gave this Black Stone to the first man expelled from paradise, Adam, after his sincere repentance.

Tradition says that the stone was originally white, but over time it turned black from the touch of sinners. Just a few meters separate the Kaaba from another Muslim shrine - the Maqam Ibrahim stone, which contains the imprint of Abraham's foot. In the Haram mosque flows the sacred spring of Zamzam, given to Ismail at the time when he, along with Hagar (Hajar), perished in the desert from unbearable thirst. It was around this source that Mecca subsequently arose. According to the basics of Islam, every Muslim is obliged to visit Mecca at least once in his life.

Another holy city of Muslims is, because it is here that the Prophet’s Mosque is located, in which the grave of the prophet is located, Abu Bakr (the first caliph and the father of one of Muhammad’s wives) and Umar ibn Khattab (the second caliph) are buried nearby. It must be said that in total there are about a hundred such religious buildings in this city, which are made in various architectural styles.

You can admire the magnificent buildings of embassies and consulates. Be sure to visit the beautiful national park Asir.

Despite the fact that it is one of the most modern cities in the Middle East, it has still retained the historical appearance of a typically eastern city, representing a fortress with a medieval majestic flavor, winding narrow streets where you can get lost, adobe houses whose facades face to the yard. Here is the royal palace and the Jamida Mosque.

If you prefer an active holiday, you will be pleasantly surprised by the variety of entertainment offered. Thus, the traditional sport of the residents is camel racing. Both in the capital and in the most remote Bedouin camp, regardless of the time of year, you can watch racing, dressage, as well as various team games in which camels are directly involved. Equestrian sports are no less popular here, and everything related to horses is of enduring value for local residents.

An actively developing type of recreation in the country is scuba diving in the waters of the Red Sea. It must be said that foreign tourists appreciated the untouchedness, as well as the species diversity of this clear sea.

One cannot fail to mention deep-sea fishing in the waters of the Gulf and directly on the Red Sea. At the same time, ancient original fishing methods are used to catch fish, which can easily compete with modern types of fishing, which is why such fishing tours are quite popular today.

Saudi Arabia is a fairly closed state, the tourism potential of which consists of the unique nature of the deserts, the combination of ancient traditions and modern trends, as well as many religious places of the Islamic world, which are the main reason for more than 90% of foreign citizens visiting the country.

Accommodation

Hotels of all categories are available throughout the Kingdom. Most tourist cities have the opportunity to rent an apartment for a short period of time; the owners of Shigka-maafroosha are located in hotel lobbies, offering their services to tourists. 4-5* hotels are quite expensive, but you get an excellent level of service, and the hotel restaurant will be open even during Ramadan.

Saudi Arabia is one of the most closed and at the same time the most visited states in the world. It is located on the Arabian Peninsula, where it is washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. Until recently, mainly religious pilgrimage developed in the kingdom, but in last years Active work is underway to introduce tourist visas.

General information about Saudi Arabia

This country amazingly combines highly developed technologies and Islamic ones. Islam is the official religion of Saudi Arabia and has a direct influence on all aspects of its life. Even the country's constitution was written in strict accordance with the sunnahs of the holy scripture. By the way, the constitution states that the official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic.

The area of ​​Saudi Arabia is more than 2 million square meters. km. Thanks to this, it is among the 20 largest countries in the world. Despite such a territory, its population density is relatively low. Thus, as of 2017, the population of Saudi Arabia is just over 33 million people. Of these, 55.2% are men and 44.8% are women.

The official currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi riyal, or riyal. The current king is depicted on the banknotes.

Saudi Arabia's ISO code is SA. This means that the country is a member of the UN organization and its specialized agencies.

Geolocation

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the largest state on the Arabian Peninsula, occupying 80% of its territory. The rest are located in Yemen, Iraq and Syria.

Due to the fact that the country occupies a border position between Africa and Eurasia, many still have difficulty determining its location. Some tourists find it difficult to answer the question of where Saudi Arabia is located on the world map. Turning the globe, you can see that the kingdom is located neatly between two continents. Those who do not know what continent Saudi Arabia is located on will be interested to know that it is Eurasia. The country occupies a border position between Africa and continental Asia.

Climate and nature of Saudi Arabia

The country is located about 2000 km from the equator, but, nevertheless, its influence is very noticeable here. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is characterized by both tropical, subtropical and sharply continental climates. The average air temperature in July is +38°C, and in January – +22°C.

Border geographical position Saudi Arabia and its proximity to the equator are the reason that there are many deserts on its territory, which are combined under one name - the Great Deserts. Seasonal winds (samum, khamsin, shemal) and sandstorms dominate here. The average annual precipitation is 70-100 mm.

Many travelers are interested in how many rivers there are in Saudi Arabia. There are no permanent sources in the country. Rivers form after heavy rains and dry up after a while.

Government system and symbols of Saudi Arabia

The kingdom is famous not only for its Muslim shrines. Until 1928, there was a tomb in Saudi Arabia in which the first woman on Earth was supposedly buried. Religious authorities destroyed and concreted the burial site. In 2015, Gabriel's Ark was found in Saudi Arabia. 4,000 people died trying to dig it out. Some blame this on plasma emission, others on crushing.

Hotels in Saudi Arabia

Until recently, the country's entire tourism industry was aimed at serving religious pilgrims. It was on them that everyone was oriented. Despite the narrow target audience, the country has a wide variety of accommodation options. The most famous hotels are:

• Radisson Blu in Riyadh;
• Raffles Makkah Palace in Mecca;
• Crowne Plaza in Jeddah;
• Mövenpick Hotel in Medina.

You can count on more or less secular conditions in Jeddah. This city in Saudi Arabia provides excellent conditions for a holiday on the Red Sea. The level of service here meets all European standards.

In order to develop the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia, the tallest hotel in the world, The Abraj Kudai, will soon open. It will consist of twelve 45-story towers, which will have 10,000 rooms, 70 restaurants and 5 helipads.

Restaurants and cuisine of Saudi Arabia

The culinary traditions of the kingdom developed under the influence of natural and climatic conditions and the customs of Islam. For the most part, Saudi Arabian cuisine is similar to other Middle Eastern countries. Her recipes are based on the use of lamb and chicken, rice and a huge amount of seasonings. Pork is not eaten in the country, and all other types of meat are prepared in strict accordance with Halal. A large role in local feasts is given to tea, coffee and a variety of sweets.

You can appreciate the color and variety in the best restaurants:

• The Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh;
• Pullman Zamzam in Mecca;
• Le Méridien in the Medina;
• Belajio in Jeddah.

According to the laws of Saudi Arabia, drinking alcohol is prohibited here.

Public life

The Kingdom has 25% of the world's oil reserves, and is therefore one of the largest exporters of raw materials on the world stage. This has a significant impact on the standard of living in Saudi Arabia. VAT here is only 5%, and any local resident can take out an absolutely interest-free loan. But the market system is deprived of a large part of the working population – women. In general, the rights of the fairer sex, or rather the lack thereof, still excites residents of the Western world. The head of state of Saudi Arabia determines what women in the country should look like. For a long time they had to wear a black abaya, which protected them from the gaze of strangers, and only in March 2018 this requirement became a thing of the past.

The country has a low crime rate. According to the customs of Saudi Arabia, public order is maintained by representatives of the Sharia police. However, since 2016, her rights have been significantly curtailed.

The culture of Saudi Arabia has developed and continues to develop in accordance with the traditions of Islam. Construction is prohibited here Christian churches, Jewish synagogues and Buddhist temples. Five times a day, a devout Muslim is obliged to perform the prayer called for by the muezzin.

Transport in Saudi Arabia

The country is one of the world's largest oil suppliers, which has affected all its industries. Characteristic for Saudi Arabia high level automotive development. The total length of all its roads is almost 222,000 km.

There are 208 in total in Saudi Arabia. Six of them have international status. These are the airports:

• King Fahd in Em Dammam;
• King Abdulaziz in Jeddah;
• King Khalid in Riyadh;
• Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz in Medina;
• Al-Asa in Al-Hofuf;
• Prince Abdul Mohsin bin Abdulaziz in Yanbu.

The length of the railways in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is several hundred kilometers. Construction is currently underway on a 440 km long line that will connect Mecca and Medina. Public transport in the country is underdeveloped. It is easier to travel within the cities of Saudi Arabia by taxi.

How to get to Saudi Arabia?

Until now, the country's air gates were only open for charter flights carrying pilgrims. They are operated by Royal Jordanian and Qatar Airways, whose planes fly three times a week. In addition, many airlines around the world (Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Alitalia, KLM, Air Canada) send regular flights here, and from 2018 it will be possible to fly to Saudi Arabia from Russia.

From Egypt, Sudan, Iran and Eritrea you can get to the economic capital of Saudi Arabia, Jeddah, by ferry. They depart from Suez, Port Sudan, Em Dammam and Massawa.

Saudi Arabia is connected to all neighboring countries except Iraq through regular bus services. Approximately 5-7 buses a day come from Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait. Minibuses from Oman and Jordan also travel through the UAE.

Citizens of Russia and CIS countries need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. You can enter the country with a guest, transit, student, work, business and tourist visa. There are also types of visas such as pilgrimage (for Hajj or Omra) and for permanent residence.

Saudi Arabia, the map of which is presented below, is a country in the southwestern part of Asia, occupying about 80% of the area. The origin of its name is associated with the royal Saud family, which founded the state and continues to be in power in it to this day.

general description

The area of ​​Saudi Arabia is 2.15 million square kilometers. The state borders Kuwait, Iraq, Jordan, UAE, Qatar, Yemen and Oman. In addition, it is washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba. Its capital is Riyadh, which is home to more than five million people. Other major cities in Saudi Arabia are Jeddah, Mecca and Medina. Their population exceeds the one million mark.

Political structure

In March 1992, the first documents regulating the state and the basic principles of its governance were adopted. Based on them, the country of Saudi Arabia is a theocratic absolute monarchy. Its constitution is based on the Koran. The Saudi dynasty has been in power since 1932. The King has full legislative, executive and judicial powers. Its powers are only theoretically limited by local traditions and Sharia norms. The government has been functioning in its current form since 1953. It is headed by the king, who determines the main directions of its activities. There is also a Council of Ministers in the country, which is entrusted with not only executive but also legislative functions. All decisions taken by this authority are approved by decree of the King of the country of Saudi Arabia. The population of the state is obliged to comply with them. Administratively, the country is divided into thirteen provinces.

Economy

The local economy is based on private free enterprise. At the same time, one cannot help but note the fact that control over the key ones is exercised by the government. The state boasts the largest oil reserves on the planet. It accounts for about 75% of his income. In addition, Saudi Arabia is the world leader in the export of black gold and plays a leading role in OPEC. The country also has reserves of zinc, chromium, lead, copper and

Population

The first census of local residents was carried out in 1974. From that time to the present day, the population of Saudi Arabia has almost tripled. The country is now home to almost 30 million people. The vast majority of local residents are Arabs, a significant portion of whom have retained a tribal organization. Now there are more than 100 tribal associations and tribes in the country. It should also be noted that approximately one fifth of the population is made up of foreign workers. Based on official UN statistics, as of 1970, the country's infant mortality rate was 204 infants for every thousand births. Now there has been a significant positive shift in this indicator. In particular, thanks to the improvement in the standard of living and medical care in the country, out of a thousand newborns, only 19 children die.

Language

Arabic is the official language in a country like Saudi Arabia. The population uses mainly the Arabian dialect in everyday life, which comes from el-fuskhi. Within it there are several dialects that are close to each other. At the same time, city dwellers and descendants of nomads speak differently. Literary and spoken languages have minor differences from each other. In religious contexts, the classical Arabic dialect is mainly used. Common languages ​​among people from other countries are English, Indonesian, Urdu, Tagalog, Farsi and others.

Religion

Saudi Arabia is considered the center of the Islamic world. The country's population is almost in full force professes this particular religion. According to various estimates, up to 93% of local residents are Sunnis. The rest of the representatives of Islam are predominantly Shiites. As for other religions, approximately 3% of the country's inhabitants are Christians, and 0.4% are other faiths.

Education

Higher education in the country, although free, is not compulsory. A good job and a comfortable life in Saudi Arabia are possible without it. Be that as it may, there are a number of programs operating here, the main goal of which is to reduce the level of illiteracy among local residents. Currently, there are 7 universities and 16 higher education institutions in the country. educational institutions. All of them are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry higher education. Approximately 30 thousand students study abroad annually. Over the past few decades, the government has significantly increased spending on education. At the same time, the state requires a comprehensive reform in this area, which should create a new balance between modern and traditional teaching methods.

Medicine

Saudi Arabia is one of the most advanced countries in the world in terms of medicine. The population of the state has the right to receive related services free of charge. This applies to both residents of megacities and representatives of Bedouin tribes who roam in the desert. Every year the government allocates about 8% of the local budget for healthcare, which is simply a gigantic amount. Mandatory immunization of newborns is enshrined in law. The epidemiological control system, which was created in 1986, made it possible to completely defeat and eliminate such terrible diseases as plague and cholera.

Demographic problems

According to scientific research, if the current numbers of residents in the country continue (over the past 30 years they have been about 4% of the population per year), then by 2050 the population of Saudi Arabia will reach 45 million. In other words, very soon the country’s leadership will have to solve the problem associated not only with providing jobs to citizens, but also with ensuring a decent old age for currently working Saudis. This task is not so simple even for a state with such impressive oil reserves. The emergence of such problems is associated, first of all, with positive changes in the areas of nutrition and medical care, as well as with the improvement of living conditions in the country.

The official name is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Al Mamlaka al Arabiya as Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia). Located in southwest Asia, it occupies most of the Arabian Peninsula. Area 2240 thousand km2, population 23.51 million people. (2002). The official language is Arabic. The capital is Riyadh (over 2.77 million people, with suburbs 4.76 million people). Public holiday - Day of Proclamation of the Kingdom - September 23 (since 1932). The monetary unit is the Saudi rial (equal to 100 halalam).

Member of OPEC (since 1960), UN (since 1971), GCC (since 1981), Arab League, etc.

Sights of Saudi Arabia

Geography of Saudi Arabia

It is located between 34° and 56° east longitude and 16° and 32° north latitude. In the east it is washed by the Persian Gulf, in the west and southwest by the Red Sea. The Red Sea is located between the shores of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, stretching from northwest to southeast. In the northern part of the sea there is the artificial Suez Canal, connecting to the Mediterranean Sea, the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba (off the coast of Saudi Arabia), separated by the Sinai Peninsula. The sandy, sometimes rocky shores of the Red Sea are slightly indented throughout and are bordered by coral reefs with coral bays. There are few islands, but south of 17° north latitude they form numerous groups, one of the largest is the Farasan Islands, belonging to Saudi Arabia.

Surface currents are seasonal. In the southern part of the sea, from November to March, the current is directed north-northwest along the coast of the Arabian Peninsula. To the north, this current weakens, meeting the opposite one, running along the coast of Africa. From June to September there are southern and southeastern currents in the Red Sea. The tides are mostly semidiurnal. In the northern part of the sea, winds sometimes reach the strength of a storm. The Persian Gulf has shallow depths (average - 42 m), currents form a counterclockwise circulation. In the Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman, the direction of the current changes seasonally: in summer from the ocean to the Persian Gulf, in winter - vice versa.

Saudi Arabia is bordered to the north by Jordan and Iraq, and to the northwest by Kuwait, Bahrain (maritime border), Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. The southern borders with Oman and Yemen are not defined.

More than 1/2 of the territory of Saudi Arabia in the southeast is occupied by the Rub al-Khali desert, or Great Sandy Desert, with an area of ​​approx. 650 thousand km2. In the north of the country there is part of the Syrian Desert, and the Nefud Desert, covering an area of ​​​​approx. 57 thousand km2, extends further to the south. In the center of the country there is a plateau crossed by several small rivers that dry up during the dry season. In the southwest of the country there are small mountain ranges and its highest point is Mount Jabal Sauda (3133 m). Narrow coastal plains lie along the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf.

The subsoil of Saudi Arabia is rich in the most important types of raw materials - oil, natural gas, iron, copper, gold and other non-ferrous metals, there are deposits of rock salt, uranium, etc. In terms of oil reserves, the country ranks 1st in the world - 25.2%, or 35.8 billion tons. Reserves natural gas 5400 billion m3. Mineral resources, other than oil and gas, are still poorly studied and are mined in extremely small quantities.

The soils in Saudi Arabia are mostly sandy and rocky; gray soils are found in the northern part of Arabia; red and red-brown soils are found in the south. The most fertile lands are located on the shores of the Red Sea.

The climate is hot, dry, mostly tropical, in the north - subtropical. Average temperatures in July are above +30°C, in January +10-20°C. Precipitation approx. 100 mm per year, in the mountains up to 400 mm. January temperature in Riyadh is +8-21°C, in Jeddah +26-37°C. The July temperature in Riyadh is +26-42° C, and in Jeddah - +26-37° C. However, in the mountains in winter there are sub-zero temperatures and snow.

There are no permanent natural reservoirs on the territory of the country, except for small pools in oases; sometimes temporary lakes form after rains. There are significant reserves of groundwater.

The flora of the interior regions is extremely poor, there are desert grasses, thorny bushes, in fertile areas there are thickets of tamarisk and acacia, and in oases there are date palms. The fauna is represented by antelopes, foxes, gazelles, hyenas, ostriches, panthers, wild cats, wolves, mountain goats, rabbits, and Indian badgers. Among the birds, the bustard, pigeon, and quail stand out. Among the predators are eagles and falcons. The sea is rich in fish.

Population of Saudi Arabia

In the total population approx. 23% are non-citizens of the kingdom (2002).

The average annual growth rate of the indigenous population is 3.27% (2002). In 1974 - 92 the population grew from 6.72 to 16.95 million people. The population in the 15-24 age group is growing especially rapidly.

Birth rate 37.25‰, mortality 5.86‰, infant mortality 49.59 people. per 1000 newborns, average life expectancy is 68.4 years, incl. men 66.7, women 70.2 (2002).

Sex and age structure of the population (2002): 0-14 years - 42.4% (men 5.09 million people, women 4.88 million); 15-64 years old - 54.8% (men 7.49 million people, women 5.40 million); 65 years and older - 2.8% (men 362.8 thousand people, women 289.8 thousand). Urban population 85.7% (2000). 78% of the population aged 15 years and over are literate (84.2% of men and 69.5% of women) (2002).

Ethnic composition: Arabs - 90%, Afro-Asians - 10%. The indigenous Saudis stand out, whose ancestors lived in the country for centuries - approx. 82%, Yemenis and other Arabs who arrived in the country after the 1950s. during the oil boom - approx. 13%, Berber nomads, whose numbers are declining. Languages: Arabic, European languages ​​are also used.

The state religion is Islam. Almost all Muslims are Sunnis. Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam, founded by the Prophet Muhammad. The entire life of the country is subject to strict laws and rules that have a thousand-year history. Men and women are prohibited from drinking alcoholic beverages. Breeding pigs and eating pork is prohibited. Mecca is the cradle of Islam and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad; the main shrine of the Muslim world is located there - the ancient sanctuary of the Kaaba. The second religious center is Medina, where the prophet is buried. Among the duties of a Muslim is fasting during Ramadan, the 9th month of the Muslim calendar (from late February to late March), when Muslims abstain from food and drink, and avoid entertainment and other pleasures until sunset. One of the pillars of Islam is the Hajj, a pilgrimage to Mecca that must be completed at least once in a lifetime. Millions of pilgrims from all over the world gather in Mecca.

History of Saudi Arabia

In the 1st millennium BC. The Minaan kingdom arose on the Red Sea coast with its capital at Karna (modern Hoida in Yemen). On the east coast was Dilmun, which was considered a political-cultural federation on the shores of the Persian Gulf. For almost 1,500 years, no important events took place on the territory of modern Saudi Arabia. In 570 AD The Prophet Muhammad was born in Mecca, and the teachings of Islam literally turned the entire history of Saudi Arabia upside down. Muhammad's followers, known as caliphs (caliphs), conquered almost the entire Middle East.

The Arabs of the Arabian Peninsula were aware of many technical and construction achievements. In agriculture already in the 5th-6th centuries. an iron plow was used, iron ore was mined and metal was smelted; already in the pre-Islamic era, the Arabs created their original writing - the Sabaean script in South Arabia and later, in the 5th century. - Nabataean script, on the basis of which modern Arabic writing developed.

With the emergence of the caliphate, whose capital was first in Damascus and later in Baghdad, the role of the prophet’s homeland became less and less significant.

In 1269, almost the entire territory of modern Saudi Arabia was under Egyptian rule. In 1517 power passed to the rulers of the Ottoman Empire. All R. 18th century The state of Najd was founded, which was independent of the Ottoman Empire. In 1824, Riyadh became the capital of the state. In 1865, an outbreak broke out in the country Civil War, and the weakened country was divided among neighboring states. In 1902, Abdelaziz ibn Saud captured Riyadh, and by 1906 his troops controlled almost all of Najd. He achieved recognition of the state by the Turkish Sultan. Based on the Wahhabi creed, Ibn Saud continued to unify the country under his rule, and by 1926 he managed to practically complete this process. The USSR was the first to establish normal diplomatic relations with the new state in February 1926. In 1927, Ibn Saud achieved recognition of the sovereignty of his state by Great Britain. In 1932 he gave the country the name Saudi Arabia. After this, the penetration of foreign, primarily American, capital into the country, associated with oil exploration and development, increased. After the death of ibn Saud in 1953, his son Saud ibn Abdelaziz became king, who continued to strengthen the position of the country, taking into account the position of the Arab League on pan-Arab issues. In 1958, the need for more modern policies led to the transfer of prime ministerial powers to the king's brother, Emir Faisal, who expanded capitalist reforms in the economy. On November 7, 1962, the law abolishing slavery was passed.

In August 1965, a 40-year dispute between Saudi Arabia and Jordan over the border was resolved. Since 1966, an agreement was signed with Kuwait on dividing the neutral zone on the border of the two countries into equal parts. Saudi Arabia has recognized Jordan's claims to the port city of Aqaba. In 1967 - 1st half. 1970s Saudi Arabia took an active part in defending the interests of Arab countries and began to provide greater financial assistance to Egypt, Syria, and Jordan. The increasing role of the country was facilitated by the repeated expansion of oil production and exports. In 1975, an agreement was signed with Iraq on equal division of the neutral zone on the border between the countries.

In October 1973, Saudi Arabia imposed an embargo on oil supplies to the United States and the Netherlands. Since the 1970s the kingdom began to play an increasingly important role in OPEC. On March 25, 1975, Faisal, who became king in November 1964, died in an assassination attempt. In 1975 - 82, the king of S.A. was Khaled, and the prime minister was Emir Fahd. With the active participation of Fahd, state building and economic modernization of the country began at an accelerated pace. Under the influence of threats in the region from Iran and the Marxist regime in Yemen, Saudi Arabia initiated the strengthening of the armed forces of the monarchies of the Arabian Peninsula and encouraged the strengthening of the American military presence. The Kingdom took an active part in the liberation of Kuwait from Iraqi occupation in 1991. In March 2001, Saudi Arabia signed a final agreement with Qatar to resolve the border dispute between the two countries and a demarcation line was drawn.

Government and political system of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is an absolute theocratic monarchy with a cabinet of ministers. Saudi Arabia is an Islamic state, the role of the country's Constitution is played by the Koran, which defines ethical values ​​and gives instructions. In 1992, the Basic Nizam on Power was adopted - an act regulating the system of government.

Administrative division of the country: 13 administrative regions (provinces, or emirates), within which 103 smaller territorial units have been allocated since 1994.

The largest cities: Riyadh, Jeddah (over 2 million people, with suburbs 3.2 million), Dammam (482 thousand people), Mecca (966 thousand people, with suburbs 1.33 million), Medina (608 thousand people) (estimate 2000).

Principles of public administration: the basis of the legislative system is Sharia - the Islamic code of laws based on the Koran and Sunnah. The king and the council of ministers operate within the framework of Islamic law. State acts come into force through decrees of the king. IN public administration the principles of consultation (shura), ensuring consensus, equality of all before the law, the source of which are Sharia norms, are applied.

The highest body of legislative power is the king and the Advisory Council, appointed by the king for 4 years and consisting of 90 members from different strata of society. The council's recommendations are presented directly to the king.

The highest executive body is the Council of Ministers (appointed by the king). This body combines executive and legislative functions and develops proposals in the field of domestic and foreign policy.

The king is the head of state, the head of the highest legislative body, and the head of the highest executive body.

The composition of the Advisory Council and the Council of Ministers is appointed by the king. The Advisory Council has a chairman and is half renewed in composition by new term. The issue of the possible introduction of an elected representative body is currently being considered.

Outstanding statesman Saudi Arabia is considered primarily by King Abdulaziz ibn Saud, who for 31 years fought for the unification of the kingdom and managed to achieve this, establishing an independent state, which he ruled until 1953. He made a great contribution to the formation of statehood. King Fahd ibn Abdelaziz ibn Saud played a major role in the successful implementation of programs for the economic modernization of the country and the use of its potential opportunities. Even before ascending the throne, he was the country's first minister of education, developed a plan for reforms in education, and during his reign ensured the constant development of a long-term program of economic reforms and the rise of Saudi Arabia's authority in the international arena. On November 24, King Fahd accepted the title of "Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques" (the mosques of Mecca and Medina).

In the administrative units of the country, power is exercised by the emir of the province, whose appointment is approved by the king, taking into account the opinions of the residents. Under the emir, there is a council with an advisory vote, including the heads of government agencies in the region and at least 10 citizens. The administrative units within the provinces are also headed by emirs, who are responsible to the emir of the province.

Not in Saudi Arabia political parties. Among the leading organizations of the business community is the Saudi Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Riyadh (unites the country's major entrepreneurs), several dozen chambers of commerce in the country. The Supreme Economic Council was recently created with the participation of representatives of the state and business circles.

The activities of trade unions are not provided for by law. Among other public organizations great importance have structures involved in the dissemination of Islamic values, primarily the “League for the Promotion of Virtue and Condemnation of Vice.” There are more than 114 charitable organizations and more than 150 cooperative organizations in the country. The Saudi Red Crescent Organization has 139 branches in all parts of the country. Its activities are supported by the state. A system of cultural societies, literary and sports clubs, and scout camps has been created. There are 30 sports federations. Clan, tribe, family are the traditional foundations of Saudi society. There are more than 100 tribes in the country, which in the recent past settled in the same quarter in cities. They undergo certain changes under the influence modern image life. A group of Muslim clergy and theologians is considered an influential social stratum. The strengthening of modern social strata continues: entrepreneurs, workers, and intelligentsia.

The domestic policy of Saudi Arabia is based on adherence to the Islamic faith in all spheres of life, the government’s concern for stability in the country and the welfare of its citizens, the comprehensive development of the education system, social services, health care.

Foreign policy includes the following principles: Islamic and Arab solidarity, the country’s desire to act from a peaceful position in resolving all regional and international conflicts, the active role of Saudi Arabia in international affairs, good neighborly relations with all countries, non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries.

Armed forces consist of the army and the National Guard. Paramilitary forces include the forces of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. In 1997, the Armed Forces of Saudi Arabia numbered 105.5 thousand people, incl. 70 thousand in the Ground Forces, 13.5 thousand in the Navy, 18 thousand in the Air Force and 4 thousand in the Air Defense Forces. The total strength of the National Guard was approx. 77 thousand people (1999). The Air Force (in 2003) has 294 combat aircraft, not counting transport aircraft, etc. The ground forces are equipped with French and American tanks (1055 units), armored personnel carriers, and Hawk missiles. The air defense troops are equipped with Patriot and Krotal complexes and fighter-interceptors. The fleet has several dozen large ships and boats for various purposes, and 400 boats are at the disposal of the coast guard.

Saudi Arabia has diplomatic relations with Russian Federation(established with the USSR in February 1926. In April 1938, diplomatic relations were frozen. Restored at the ambassadorial level in September 1990).

Economy of Saudi Arabia

The economic development of modern Saudi Arabia is characterized by a high share of the oil industry, with a gradual expansion of production in related industries and a number of manufacturing industries.

Saudi Arabia's GDP, calculated using purchasing power parity, was $241 billion. GDP per capita $10,600 (2001). Real GDP growth 1.6% (2001). Saudi Arabia's share of the world economy (share of GDP) at current prices is approx. 0.4% (1998). The country produces almost 28% of the total GDP of Arab countries. In 1997, Saudi Arabia provided 13.9% of world oil production and 2% of gas. Inflation 1.7% (2001).

Number of employees: 7.18 million people. (1999). Most of those employed in the economy, approx. 56%, represented by immigrants.

Sectoral structure of the economy by contribution to GDP (2000): agriculture 7%, industry 48%, service sector 45%. In 2000, the mining industry accounted for 37.1%, the manufacturing industry - approx. 10%, GDP structure by employment: services 63%, industry 25%, agriculture 12% (1999). According to 1999 data, greatest number employed - 2.217 million people. - was in the field of finance and real estate, 1.037 million people. - in trade, restaurant and hotel business, 1.020 million people. - in construction. The rest were employed in other sectors of the service sector and industry, incl. OK. 600 thousand people - in processing.

Many of Saudi Arabia's well-known large companies grew out of traditional family-owned business groups. The industrialization of Saudi Arabia was carried out with the leading role of the state, therefore the economy is still dominated by companies and corporations with a high share of state capital, private capital is present in them on shares with the state capital. There are companies with foreign capital. The Saudi National Bank, Al-Rajhi Banking and Investment Corporation, grew in the 1970s and 80s. from the oldest money-changing office of the Al-Rajhi family, which owns 44% of the bank's shares. National Industrialization Co. and National Ecological Development Co. are the country's first large companies of industrial and agricultural development, respectively, created with a predominance of private capital. The state oil company Saudi ARAMCO and the state holding company for oil and mineral resources PETROMIN with its system of subsidiaries in various areas of the oil industry from oil production to the production of oils, gasoline, etc. includes 14 large companies and serves as the basis of the entire structure of the industry. Some of these companies have foreign shareholding (McDermott, Mobil Oil Investment). In petrochemicals and heavy industry there is a similar structure, the central place is occupied by the holding company SABIC (Saudi Basic Industries Corp.), created in 1976, 70% of the capital of which belongs to the state. The role of private capital in this area of ​​the economy is higher. Among the large companies are Kemya, Sharq, Ibn Sina, Hadid, Sadaf, Yanpet. In other sectors of the economy, large companies include Arabian Cement Co. (cement production), Saudi Metal Industries (steel reinforcement), Az-Zamil Group (real estate, marketing), etc. There are various banks and insurance companies in the country.

The main industry is oil and gas, which accounts for the largest share of Saudi Arabia's GDP. It is controlled by the state through state authorized organizations and companies. K con. 1980s The government completed the purchase of all foreign shares in the Saudi ARAMCO oil company. In the 1960-70s. The country experienced a rapid increase in oil production: from 62 million tons in 1969 to 412 million in 1974. This coincided with the outbreak of the global energy crisis in 1973 after the Arab-Israeli war. In 1977, Saudi oil exports generated $36.5 billion in revenue. In the 1980s Oil prices have fallen, but the oil and gas industry continues to generate significant revenues (approx. USD 40 billion per year), amounting to approx. 90% of the country's income comes from exports. Oil development is carried out at state-owned fields. It is produced from 30 major fields and exported through a system of pipelines, oil storage facilities and ports along the country's coast. In 2000, 441.4 million tons of oil and 49.8 million m3 of gas were produced. Saudi Arabia plays an important role in the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). In 2001, the country's quota in OPEC production was more than 7.54 million barrels. oil per day.

In the field of gas utilization, the largest project was the construction in 1975-80 unified system collection and processing of associated gas, through which gas is exported and supplied to petrochemical enterprises. Production volume - 17.2 million tons liquefied gas(1998). In the field of oil refining, there are 5 largest oil refineries in Yanbu, Rabah, Jeddah, Riyadh and Ras Tannur. The latter processes more than 300 thousand tons. Most of the production is of fuel oil and diesel fuel. The production of automobile and aviation gasoline and jet engine fuel has been established.

Large SABIC-controlled plants located in the industrial centers of Jubail, Yanbu and Jeddah carry out petrochemical and metallurgical production. In 1990 - 96, the volume of production increased from 13 to 22.8 million tons. 12.3 million tons of petrochemical products, 4.2 million tons of fertilizers, 2.8 million tons of metals, 2.3 million tons of plastics were sold on the market. By 1997, SABIC's production volume reached 23.7 million tons, and by 2000 production capacity was planned to increase to 30 million tons. Petrochemical products include ethylene, urea, methanol, ammonia, polyethylene, ethylene glycol, etc.

The mining industry is poorly developed. In the beginning. 1997 A state mining company was created. Currently, gold deposits are being developed northeast of Jeddah. In 1998, approx. 5 tons of gold, 13.84 tons of silver. Salt and gypsum are being developed.

From the beginning 1970s In Saudi Arabia, the construction materials industry developed rapidly due to the construction boom. The basis of the industry is the production of cement; it increased from 9,648 thousand tons in 1979 to 15,776 thousand in 1998. Glass production has been developed.

The metallurgical industry is represented by the production of reinforcing steel, steel rods, and some types of shaped rolled products. Several enterprises have been built.

In 1977, a plant of a Saudi-German truck assembly company began producing products. There is a small shipyard in Dammam that produces oil barges.

Important industries - desalination sea ​​water and energy. The first desalination plant was built in Jeddah in 1970. Water is now supplied from the coast to the central cities. From 1970-95, the capacity of desalination plants increased from 5 to 512 million US gallons of water per year. It was electrified approx. 6,000 cities and towns throughout the country. In 1998, electricity production amounted to 19,753 MW; in 1999, production capacity reached 23,438 MW. Electricity demand is expected to grow at an annual rate of 4.5% over the next two decades. It will be necessary to increase its production to approx. 59,000 MW.

The light, food and pharmaceutical industries are developing rapidly. Light industry is mainly represented by craft-type enterprises. The country has more than 2.5 thousand enterprises producing food and tobacco products, 3,500 carpet, textile, clothing and footwear factories, more than 2,474 woodworking factories, and 170 printing houses. The government encourages the development of manufacturing enterprises with private capital. Based on the results of issuing licenses in the 1990s. the highest priorities were the creation of production of petrochemical goods and plastics, metalworking and mechanical workshops, the production of paper products and printing products, food, ceramics, glass and building materials, textiles, clothing and leather goods, and woodworking.

Share of agriculture in Country's GDP in 1970 was only 1.3%. During 1970-93, the production of basic food products increased from 1.79 million to 7 million tons. Saudi Arabia is completely deprived of permanent watercourses. Land suitable for cultivation occupies less than 2% of the territory. Despite this, Saudi Arabian agriculture, subsidized by the government and using modern technologies and technology has become a dynamically developing industry. Long-term hydrological studies, begun in 1965, revealed significant water resources, suitable for agricultural use. In addition to deep wells throughout the country, Saudi Arabia's agriculture and water industries rely on more than 200 reservoirs with a total capacity of 450 million m3. The agricultural project in Al-Hasa alone, completed in 1977, made it possible to irrigate 12 thousand hectares and provide jobs for 50 thousand people. Other major irrigation projects include the Wadi Jizan project on the Red Sea coast (8 thousand hectares) and the Abha project in the Asirah mountains, in the southwest. In 1998, the government announced a new agricultural development project worth $294 million. The area of ​​cultivated land by mid. 1990s increased to 3 million hectares, the country began to export food, food imports decreased from 83 to 65%. According to the export of wheat from S.A. in the 2nd half. 1990s ranked 6th in the world. More than 2 million tons of wheat, more than 2 million tons of vegetables are produced, approx. 580 thousand tons of fruit (1999). Barley, corn, millet, coffee, alfalfa and rice are also grown.

Livestock farming is developing, represented by the breeding of camels, sheep, goats, donkeys and horses. An important industry is fishing and fish processing. In 1999, approx. 52 thousand tons of fish. Fish and shrimp are exported.

The length of the railways is 1392 km, 724 km have two tracks (2001). In 2000, 853.8 thousand passengers and 1.8 million tons of cargo were transported by rail. Road transport numbers more than 5.1 million vehicles, of which 2.286 million are trucks. The length of roads is 146,524 km, incl. 44,104 km of paved roads. In the 1990s. The construction of the Trans-Arabian Highway was completed. Pipeline transport includes 6,400 km of pipelines for pumping oil, 150 km for pumping petroleum products and 2,200 km of gas pipelines, incl. for liquefied gas. Maritime transport has 274 vessels with a total gross cargo capacity of 1.41 million tons, of which 71 large vessels have a capacity of St. 1000 tons, including 30 tankers (including those for transporting chemicals), cargo ships and refrigerators, there are also 9 passenger ships (2002). 90% of cargo is delivered to the country by sea. The fleet transported 88.46 million tons of cargo in 1999. The largest ports are Jeddah, Yanbu, Jizan on the Red Sea coast, and a number of other ports are expanding. Dammam is the 2nd most important commercial port and the country's largest port in the Persian Gulf. Another major port in the Gulf is Jubail. The largest oil port is Ras Tanura, through which up to 90% of oil is exported. There are 25 commercial airports in the kingdom. The largest international ones are the airport named after. King Abdulaziz in Jeddah (halls can simultaneously accommodate 80 thousand pilgrims, cargo turnover is about 150 thousand tons per year), airport named after. King Fahd in Dammam (12 million passengers per year), airports in Riyadh (15 million passengers per year) and Dhahran. Others are the airports in Haile, Bisha and Badan. Saudi Arabian Airlines is the largest in the Middle East. In 1998, 11.8 million passengers were transported.

In Saudi Arabia, the communications system has 3.23 million fixed telephone lines and more than 2.52 million users mobile phones, OK. 570 thousand Internet users (2001). 117 television channels are broadcast. The country is actively participating in the creation of pan-Arab satellite communications. There are several national television and radio channels and approx. 200 newspapers and other periodicals, incl. 13 daily.

Trade is a traditional area of ​​economic activity in Saudi Arabia. Mostly industrial and consumer goods are imported. To encourage national industry, a 20% duty is imposed on goods that compete with locally produced goods. The import of alcohol, drugs, weapons, and religious literature into the country is strictly regulated. Other service industries are related to real estate, financial transactions, in which the activities of foreigners are limited.

Until recently, the development of tourism was mainly associated with serving pilgrims coming to Mecca. Their annual number is approx. 1 million people In the end 1990s a decision was made to make foreign tourism the most important service sector. In 2000, approx. $14.4 billion. There were 200 hotels in the country.

Modern economic policy is characterized by state participation in the main sectors of the economy and limiting the presence of foreign capital. At the same time, with the con. 1990s a course is being pursued to simultaneously expand the activity of national private capital, privatization, and stimulate foreign investment. Oil and gas production remains in the hands of the state. Social policy includes providing social guarantees for the population, support and subsidies for youth and families. At the current stage, this is combined with stimulating the training and retraining of national personnel to work in industry and the private sector of the economy.

The country's monetary system is characterized by the provision of the national currency with the help of foreign exchange earnings from oil exports and a liberal exchange rate regime. Control for money circulation and the banking system is carried out by the Currency Agency. Independent activity of foreign banking capital is not yet permitted. In a number of joint banks with foreign capital, the controlling stake is national. There are 11 commercial banks and special development banks, as well as funds for financial assistance Arab countries. Banks operate under the Islamic system and do not charge or pay fixed interest.

The country's state budget is formed by 75% from revenues from oil exports. Taxes until the end 1990s were absent, except for religious ones. In 1995, indirect taxes were estimated at S$1,300 million. rials (less than 0.3% of GDP). Currently, corporate income tax and personal income tax are being introduced. individuals. The introduction of a value added tax, etc. is being considered. The largest items of budget expenditures: defense and security - 36.7%, human resource development - 24.6%, public administration - 17.4%, healthcare - approx. 9% (2001). Budget revenues are 42 billion US dollars, expenses are 54 billion (2002). There is significant domestic debt. External debt estimated at US$23.8 billion (2001). Gross capital investment - 16.3% of GDP (2000).

The standard of living of the country's population is relatively high. Average wage in industry $7,863.43 per year (2000).

The country's trade balance is active. The value of exports is 66.9 billion US dollars, imports are 29.7 billion US dollars. The main export item is oil and petroleum products (90%). Main export partners: USA (17.4%), Japan (17.3%), South Korea (11.7%), Singapore (5.3%), India. Machinery and equipment, food, chemicals, cars, and textiles are imported. Main import partners: USA (21.1%), Japan (9.45%), Germany (7.4%), UK (7.3%) (2000).

Science and culture of Saudi Arabia

Education is given great attention. In the end 1990s education expenses - St. 18% of the budget, the number of schools at all levels exceeded 21,000. In 1999/2000, the number of students in all forms of education was approx. 4.4 million people, and more than 350 thousand teachers. Education for girls is managed by a special supervisory board; they amounted to approx. 46% of students in mid. 1990s Education is free and open to all citizens, although not compulsory. The university system includes the Islamic University of Medina, the University of Petroleum and Mineral Resources. King Fahd in Dhahran, University. King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah. King Faisal University (with branches in Dammam and Hofuf), University. Imam Mohammed ibn Saud in Riyadh, Umm al-Qura University in Mecca and the University. King Saud in Riyadh. There are also 83 institutes. A special department deals with schools for sick children. In the scientific and technical town named after. King Abdelaziz, research is being conducted in the field of geodesy, energy, and ecology.

Saudi Arabia is a country with ancient cultural traditions. Many architectural monuments embody Arabic and Islamic fine arts. These are old castles, forts and other monuments in all parts of the country. Among the 12 main museums are the National Museum of Archeology and Folk Heritage and the Al-Masmak Fortress Museum in Riyadh. The Saudi Society for Culture and Arts, with branches in many cities, organizes art exhibitions and festivals. The art center near Abha hosts exhibitions of local and regional artisans, and has a library and theater. The system of literary clubs and libraries is widely developed. Saudi literature is represented by a wide range of ancient and modern works, poetry (odes, satire and lyrics, religious and social themes) and prose (short story), and journalism. Creative festivals are interesting. The National Cultural Heritage Festival in Jenadriya, north of Riyadh, brings together local and foreign scholars in the humanities, with participation from all parts of the country, covering fine arts, folk dance, painting, literature, and poetry. The famous camel races are held.

The Islamic religion leaves its mark on cultural life. The government has established 210 Islamic cultural centers around the world to explain Islamic culture. Local customs include reserved behavior and one should not talk to women except the staff. Muslims pray 5 times a day and take off their shoes when entering the mosque. Non-Muslims are prohibited from entering the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.