Culture and History of

Saudi Arabia

 NAME:AARYAN.S
 CLASS:8B
Ancient History
Saudi Arabia is a country rich in history and culture, deeply
influenced by its Islamic heritage, traditional customs, and its
pivotal role in the Middle East. Here's an overview:
• Pre-Islamic Arabia: Before the advent of Islam, the Arabian
Peninsula was home to a variety of tribes, each with its own
customs and practices. Major civilizations like the Nabateans
(who built Petra) and the Himyarites (who ruled in southern
Arabia) left a lasting imprint. Trade routes through Arabia
connected the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
• Islamic Birthplace: Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam,
with Mecca and Medina being two of the most sacred cities in
Islam. Prophet Muhammad was born in Mecca in 570 CE, and
his revelation of the Quran in the 7th century spread rapidly,
shaping the region’s history and culture.
The Formation of Saudi Arabia

• First Saudi State (1744–1818): The foundations of modern

Saudi Arabia were laid by the Al Saud family. In the 18th
century, Muhammad ibn Saud, an important tribal leader, allied
with the religious leader Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab,
founder of Wahhabism, a strict form of Islam. This alliance
helped form the first Saudi state, which lasted until 1818, when
it was defeated by the Ottoman Empire.
• Second Saudi State (1824–1891): Following the collapse of the
first state, the Al Saud family regained control of Riyadh,
marking the beginning of the second Saudi state. This period
was marked by conflicts and instability.
• Third Saudi State (1932–present): In 1932, Abdulaziz ibn Saud
unified the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, incorporating the various
regions of the Arabian Peninsula under his rule. This marked the
establishment of modern Saudi Arabia. The discovery of oil in
1938 transformed the kingdom into a major global economic
player.
Religion
• Islamic Influence: Islam is central to Saudi culture, and
the Kingdom is regarded as the guardian of the two
holiest cities in Islam, Mecca and Medina. Every year,
millions of Muslims travel to Mecca to perform the Hajj
pilgrimage, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
• Wahhabism: The state religion of Saudi Arabia is
Wahhabism, a conservative branch of Sunni Islam. It
emphasizes strict adherence to Islamic law and has
influenced the kingdom's policies and society, especially
in the areas of gender roles, dress codes, and public
behavior.
Culture
• Traditions and Customs: Saudi culture is rooted in Bedouin
traditions. Hospitality is a vital part of social life, with
welcoming guests and offering Arabic coffee (qahwa) and
dates being a common practice. Music, poetry (especially
the art of Nabati poetry), and traditional dance (like the
Ardah) play significant roles in cultural celebrations.
• Dress: Traditional dress is important in Saudi society. Men
typically wear the thobe (a long, white robe) and the
ghutra or shemagh (headscarves), while women wear the
abaya (a black robe) and often a niqab (face covering).
Modesty in dress is highly emphasized in public spaces.
• Cuisine: Saudi cuisine is a blend of Arabian, Middle
Eastern, and Islamic culinary traditions. Dishes like kabsa (a
rice dish with meat and spices), hummus, falafel, and
sambousa are popular. Dates, yogurt, and Arabic coffee are
essential parts of meals.
Modernization and transformation

• Oil Economy: The discovery of oil in the late 1930s

revolutionized Saudi Arabia. It became one of the
world’s largest oil exporters, fueling rapid economic
development, modernization of infrastructure, and the
rise of a wealthy elite.
• Vision 2030: In recent years, Saudi Arabia has
undergone significant economic and social reforms
under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin
Salman. Vision 2030 is a program aimed at diversifying
the economy away from oil dependence, enhancing
tourism, and promoting social reforms, such as
increasing the role of women in the workforce and
improving the entertainment
Society and Governance

• Monarchy: Saudi Arabia is an absolute monarchy, with the

king holding extensive power. The royal family, the House
of Saud, plays a significant role in politics and governance.
• Legal System: Saudi Arabia’s legal system is based on
Sharia (Islamic law), which governs many aspects of daily
life, including family matters, business transactions, and
criminal justice.
• Women’s Rights: Historically, women in Saudi Arabia have
faced significant restrictions, but recent reforms have
granted them more freedoms. Women can now drive, travel
without a male guardian's permission, and participate in a
wider range of activities, including sports and business.
Arts and Architrcture

• Architecture: Saudi Arabia has some of the most

impressive modern architecture, including the King
Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, the Kingdom Tower,
and the Al-Faisaliah Tower in Riyadh. Traditional Arabian
architecture, like mud-brick houses and fortresses, can
still be found in places like Diriyah and Al-Ula.
• Arts: Although the kingdom traditionally had limited
room for artistic expression due to religious and cultural
conservatism, in recent years, the arts scene has
expanded. The government has supported initiatives in
music, film, and visual arts, with cultural festivals and
art exhibitions becoming more frequent.
Key Festivals
• Eid al-Fitr: Celebrated at the end of Ramadan, this
holiday marks the breaking of the fast and is a time for
feasting, giving charity, and family gatherings.
• Eid al-Adha: This festival coincides with the Hajj
pilgrimage and commemorates the willingness of
Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to
God.
• Saudi National Day (September 23): The day marks the
unification of Saudi Arabia in 1932. It is celebrated with
national pride, parades, concerts, and fireworks.
• Saudi Arabia’s culture and history are deeply
intertwined with the Islamic faith and the Bedouin
traditions of the Arabian Peninsula, and as the country
moves into the future, it continues to evolve while
holding onto its ancient roots.
 One of the Largest Projects In
KSA
• AMAALA: Is a luxury tourism destination being developed along the Red
Sea coast in northwestern Saudi Arabia. Covering 4,000 km², this year-
round destination will offer exciting activities across all interests –
including sea and sun, sports, arts, and culture – ensuring all guests have
the experience of a lifetime.

• Riyadh Sports Boulevard:The Sports Boulevard in Riyadh will be a 135-

kilometer-long linear park, spanning the city from west to east and
linking more than 50 sports sites. Visitors will have access to 220
kilometers of cycling paths and more than 134 kilometers of pedestrian
paths in eight different areas.