When people ask, what is it in Saudi Arabia, they are often referring to the Kingdom’s profound role as a global energy powerhouse, a custodian of Islamic heritage, and a nation in rapid transformation. Officially known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it is the largest country in the Middle East and the Arab world, defined by vast deserts, strategic coastlines, and a culture deeply rooted in tradition yet aggressively modernizing. Understanding this nation requires looking beyond the headlines to examine its geography, governance, economic pillars, and the everyday realities of its people.
Geography and Strategic Position
Saudi Arabia occupies roughly 80% of the Arabian Peninsula, sharing borders with Jordan and Iraq to the north, Kuwait to the northeast, Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates to the east, and Oman and Yemen to the southeast. The Red Sea coastline to the west features the Hejaz mountains, while the eastern province hugs the Persian Gulf. This location makes it the world’s central pivot between Europe, Asia, and Africa, a fact amplified by its control over the Bab-el-Mandeb strait and vast oil reserves situated beneath its sands.
Government and Political Structure
The Kingdom operates as an absolute monarchy, with the King serving as both head of state and government. Since 2015, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has ruled, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) wielding significant influence as the de facto ruler and Chairman of the Council of Ministers. The political system is centered around the Al Saud family, whose legitimacy is intertwined with the custodianship of the two holy mosques in Mecca and Medina, blending religious authority with state power.
Key Institutions
The Consultative Assembly (Majlis al-Shura) – an advisory body with limited legislative review.
The Council of Ministers – executive body appointed by the King.
The judiciary – based on Sharia law, with the Supreme Court as the highest judicial instance.
Economic Powerhouse and Vision 2030
For decades, Saudi Arabia’s economy has been synonymous with oil, accounting for the vast majority of government revenue and export earnings. However, low oil prices and geopolitical shifts have driven the ambitious Vision 2030 plan, aimed at diversifying the economy. This initiative seeks to develop sectors like tourism, entertainment, technology, and logistics while privatizing state assets through programs like Saudi Arabian Airlines and the Public Investment Fund.
Economic Sectors at a Glance
Culture and Society
Saudi culture is deeply influenced by Islamic principles, with daily life revolving around prayer times, Ramadan fasting, and adherence to dress codes, though recent reforms have relaxed some restrictions. The arts, once conservative, are now flourishing with initiatives like the Riyadh Season festival, film festivals, and public concerts. Meanwhile, the younger generation, better educated and digitally connected, is reshaping social norms while balancing traditional values with global trends.
Social Reforms
Women’s right to drive and increased workforce participation.
Entertainment sector liberalization, including concerts and cinemas.
Tourism visas introduced to welcome international visitors.
