The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Middlee East

Editor's Notes

• #5: Pre-Islamic Arabia: Before the advent of Islam in the 7th century, the Arabian Peninsula was inhabited by various tribes, and the region played a significant role in trade between the empires of Rome, Persia, and beyond. The city of Mecca, located in present-day Saudi Arabia, was a major center of commerce and religion. The Prophet Muhammad and the Rise of Islam (7th century): In the early 7th century, the Prophet Muhammad began preaching the message of Islam in Mecca. After facing persecution, he and his followers migrated to Medina in 622 AD in what is known as the Hijra. Over the following years, Islam spread rapidly in the Arabian Peninsula, and the Prophet Muhammad eventually returned to Mecca in triumph. His teachings laid the foundation for the Islamic faith. The Rashidun Caliphate (632–661): After the death of Prophet Muhammad in 632, the first four caliphs, known as the Rashidun Caliphs, led the Islamic community. Under their leadership, the Islamic Empire expanded, including the Arabian Peninsula. The Umayyad and Abbasid Caliphates (661–1258): Subsequent caliphates, such as the Umayyad and Abbasid, played key roles in governing the vast Islamic Empire, but the Arabian Peninsula remained a crucial cultural and economic center. Ottoman Empire (16th–20th centuries): The Ottoman Empire gained control of the Arabian Peninsula in the 16th century. However, in the 18th century, a revivalist movement known as Wahhabism emerged in the central Arabian region of Najd, led by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab. This movement sought to purify Islam and return to its original teachings. The First Saudi State (1744–1818): Muhammad ibn Saud, the leader of the Al Saud family, formed an alliance with Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab in 1744. Together, they established the First Saudi State, which controlled parts of the Arabian Peninsula. However, it was eventually defeated by the Ottoman Empire in 1818. The Second Saudi State (1824–1891): The Al Saud family, with the support of the religious leader Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, established a second Saudi state in the early 19th century. This state also faced conflicts with the Ottoman Empire and was ultimately destroyed in 1891. The Third Saudi State (Founded in 1902): Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, a descendant of Muhammad Ibn Saud, recaptured Riyadh in 1902, marking the beginning of the modern Saudi state. Over the following decades, Abdulaziz, also known as Ibn Saud, continued to consolidate his power over the Arabian Peninsula through military conquests. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (1932–present): In 1932, Abdulaziz formally united the various regions he had conquered and declared the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The country has been ruled by the Al Saud family ever since. Saudi Arabia has played a significant role in regional and international affairs, particularly due to its status as the birthplace of Islam and its significant oil reserves.
• #7: Islamic Influence: Religious Significance: Saudi Arabia is home to Islam's two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina. The country's culture is profoundly shaped by Islamic principles and practices. Conservative Interpretation: The official interpretation of Islam in Saudi Arabia is conservative, and the legal system is based on Islamic law (Sharia). The religious authorities play a significant role in regulating various aspects of daily life. Traditional Dress: Men's Attire: Men typically wear a thobe, a long white robe, along with a head covering like a ghutra or shemagh, held in place by an agal. Women's Attire: Women traditionally wear an abaya, a black cloak-like garment, over their clothing. They may also cover their hair with a headscarf (hijab) or niqab. Family and Social Structure: Family Values: Family is highly valued, and extended families often live in close proximity. Respect for elders and strong familial ties are integral to Saudi society. Gender Segregation: Public spaces often have gender segregation, with separate areas for men and women in certain establishments. Hospitality: Generosity: Hospitality is a significant cultural value, and Saudis are known for their generosity towards guests. Offering food, dates, and Arabic coffee is a common practice. Cuisine: Traditional Foods: Saudi Arabian cuisine is influenced by Middle Eastern and Bedouin traditions. Common dishes include rice, lamb, chicken, and various types of bread. Dates and Arabic coffee are often served as symbols of hospitality. Arts and Crafts: Calligraphy: Arabic calligraphy is considered an art form, often featuring verses from the Quran. It is used to decorate buildings, manuscripts, and various objects. Traditional Crafts: Weaving, pottery, and other traditional crafts have historical significance and continue to be practiced.
• #11: Monarchy: King: The king is the supreme authority in the country and holds significant powers. The position of the king is hereditary, passing from one member of the Al Saud family to another. Succession: The process of succession typically involves the king's sons, and the crown prince is usually designated to succeed the king. However, the actual appointment can be subject to royal family consensus. Council of Ministers: Appointed by the King: The king appoints the members of the Council of Ministers, which is the executive branch of the government. This council is responsible for implementing policies and making decisions on various matters. Legislative Authority: Consultative Assembly (Majlis Ash-Shura): While Saudi Arabia does not have a fully elected parliament, it has a Consultative Assembly, known as the Majlis Ash-Shura. Members of the Shura Council are appointed by the king and serve in an advisory capacity. The king may also consult the council on certain issues. Legal System: Sharia Law: The legal system in Saudi Arabia is based on Islamic law (Sharia). Sharia principles influence both civil and criminal laws in the country. Regional Governance: Governorates: The country is divided into administrative regions, each led by a governor appointed by the king. These governors are responsible for overseeing local governance and development. Role of Religious Authorities: Religious Influence: Islamic principles, as interpreted by the conservative Wahhabi doctrine, play a significant role in the country's legal and social norms. The religious establishment has influence in shaping policies and societal practices.
• #16: Saudi Arabia is ranked 22 of 145 out of the countries considered for the annual Global Firepower review.
• #25: Arab League: Saudi Arabia is a member of the Arab League, an organization that aims to promote economic, cultural, and political cooperation among Arab countries. The league addresses regional issues and concerns, and Saudi Arabia has actively participated in its activities. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): Saudi Arabia is a founding member of the Gulf Cooperation Council, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. The GCC promotes economic integration and security cooperation among its member states. Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC): Saudi Arabia leads the IMCTC, a coalition of Islamic countries aimed at addressing terrorism and extremism. The coalition focuses on coordinating efforts to counter terrorist threats and promote regional stability. OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries): As a major oil-producing nation, Saudi Arabia is a key member of OPEC. The organization collaborates on setting oil production quotas and stabilizing global oil prices. Islamic Cooperation: Saudi Arabia participates in various organizations promoting Islamic cooperation, such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). These platforms address issues affecting the Muslim world and promote unity and collaboration. United Nations (UN): Saudi Arabia is a member of the United Nations and actively participates in diplomatic and humanitarian efforts on the international stage. The country has contributed to peacekeeping missions and engages in discussions on global issues. Bilateral Relations: Saudi Arabia has established diplomatic relations with numerous countries worldwide. It engages in bilateral agreements covering various fields, including trade, investment, and cultural exchange. U.S.-Saudi Alliance: Saudi Arabia has historically maintained a close relationship with the United States, rooted in diplomatic, economic, and security cooperation. The alliance has involved military cooperation, with the U.S. providing military assistance and support to Saudi Arabia. Counterterrorism Cooperation: Saudi Arabia collaborates with various countries and international organizations in efforts to combat terrorism. The country has implemented measures to counter extremist ideologies and enhance global security.
• #29: Largest in middle East and 18th in world
• #33: Universal Coverage: Positive Step: Since 2019, Saudi Arabia boasts universal healthcare coverage, providing free access to basic medical services for all citizens and residents. This has significantly improved access to healthcare, particularly for lower-income individuals. Challenges Remain: Despite universal coverage, challenges persist in access, quality, and efficiency. Some rural areas face shortages of medical personnel and specialized facilities. Structure of the System: Three-Tiered System: The system operates on three tiers: primary care centers, secondary care hospitals, and tertiary care hospitals. Each tier offers different levels of service complexity. Private Sector Involvement: While the government plays a significant role, private healthcare providers also contribute to the system, offering specialized services and catering to higher-income segments of the population. Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Significant achievements include rising life expectancy, improved vaccination rates, and investments in medical infrastructure. Saudi Arabia boasts advanced facilities in some areas, particularly cardiac care and organ transplantation. Weaknesses: Concerns remain regarding: Inequality: Disparities exist in access and quality of care between urban and rural areas, and between wealthier and less privileged populations. Shortage of Healthcare Professionals: A lack of Saudi doctors and nurses necessitates reliance on foreign medical personnel, leading to potential challenges in cultural understanding and communication. Overreliance on Specialists: Over-reliance on specialist care can result in bypassing primary care and potentially inefficient utilization of resources. Ongoing Developments: Vision 2030: The ambitious Vision 2030 aims to improve efficiency, quality, and access to healthcare through initiatives like: Telemedicine: Utilizing technology to expand access to consultations, particularly in remote areas. Preventive Care: Emphasizing preventative measures and health education to reduce reliance on complex and expensive interventions. Private sector engagement: Encouraging increased involvement of private healthcare providers to diversify and enhance the system.