Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is located in Western Asia. It is the largest state in that area and the second-largest in the Arab world. It constitutes most of the Arabian peninsula and is bordered by Iraq on the north and Yemen on the south. To its west lies the Red Sea while the Persian Gulf lies to its east. The estimated population of Saudi Arabia is 27 million. However, foreigners make up a significantly large portion of the population.

Saudi Arabia has a petroleum-based economy. It is very well known for its large oil reserves; it has about 260 billion barrels. The oil industry accounts for about 90% of export earnings and 70% of budget revenues. It is the world’s leading producer and exporter of oil. Saudi Arabia’s oil wealth is the reason for it’s rapid economic growth. In 1974, specifically, the country experienced a sharp rise in petroleum revenues. As a result, Saudi Arabia became one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Although it experienced a glut in the mid-1980s, the country continues to pursue rapid industrial expansion and stays the leading oil exporter in the world.

Saudi Arabia is ruled under an absolute monarchy. No written constitution exists for Saudi Arabia, however, it is said that the Quran serves as the countries constitution. Saudi Arabia’s current king is King Abdullah. The king is responsible for legislative, executive, and judicial functions. He also presides over what is known as the Council of Ministers. The royal family, or the descendants of King Abdul Aziz Al Saud, dominates the political system. Saudi Arabia is unique in that it gives the ulema, or the body of Islamic religious leaders, a direct role in government. Neither national elections nor political parties exist in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia’s culture and traditions can be traced back for centuries. Much of it is derived from the strict Wahhabi form of Islam. Limitations on things such as dress and behavior are enforced both through the law