SAUDI ARABIA WILDLIFE GUIDE

Saudi Arabia has a rich and complex history that dates back thousands of years. The origins of the modern state can be traced to the mid-18th century when Muhammad ibn Saud, the ruler of the Najd region, formed a pact with the religious leader Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, founder of the Wahhabi movement. This alliance laid the foundation for the First Saudi State, which expanded its influence over the Arabian Peninsula.

In the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire sought to control the region and clashed with the Second Saudi State, eventually defeating and destroying it. However, in the early 20th century, Abdulaziz Ibn Saud emerged as a powerful leader and, through a series of military campaigns and strategic alliances, managed to reunify various tribal territories and establish the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932.

Since then, the Saudi monarchy has continued to evolve and consolidate its power. The discovery of vast oil reserves in the 1930s dramatically transformed the nation’s economy and brought unprecedented wealth to the country. Saudi Arabia’s oil wealth has allowed it to become a major player in regional and global affairs, influencing both politics and the economy.

The country’s relationship with the United States has been crucial, solidified by mutual interests in oil and security. Saudi Arabia has played a prominent role in the Arab world, sometimes engaging in regional conflicts and working to promote its interpretation of Islam, though it has faced criticism for its human rights record and conservative social policies.

Country Code: +966.

Crime: Crime in Saudi Arabia is relatively low compared to many other countries. The country’s strict legal system, which is based on Islamic law (Sharia), has been credited with maintaining a sense of social order and security.

Additionally, the Saudi government enforces strict penalties for crimes, including corporal punishment and the death penalty for serious offenses. However, it is essential to note that Saudi Arabia has faced some unique challenges regarding crime and social issues.

Like any society, it has not been completely immune to criminal activities. Some common types of crime in Saudi Arabia include theft, property crimes, drug-related offenses, and traffic violations.

In recent years, the Saudi government has been working to address crime and improve security. They have implemented various measures, such as increasing the number of police officers, enhancing surveillance technologies, and promoting community engagement to prevent crime and respond more effectively when it occurs.

One notable area of concern has been cybercrime, which has seen an increase with the rise of internet usage in the country. The government has taken steps to combat cybercrimes and protect citizens from online threats.

Moreover, Saudi Arabia has also been focused on tackling terrorism and extremist activities, both within its borders and in the broader context of regional security. The country has been a target of terrorist attacks, and the government has undertaken significant efforts to counter radicalization and support international efforts in fighting terrorism.

Currency: Riyal.

Electricity: Type A (2-pin flat), Type B (2-pin flat with grounding pin), Type C (2-pin round), Type G (3-pin rectangular, triangular pattern).

Language: Arabic.

Latitude and Longitude: 23.8859° N, 45.0792° E.

Population: 35.95 million (2021).

Prime Minister: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

United States Embassy, Abdullah Ibn Hudhafah As-Sahmi Street, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh 11693. https://sa.usembassy.gov/

British Embassy, Riyadh, Bin Sulaiman Building, Al-Akariah Plaza, Olaya Main Road, Riyadh 1169. https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-riyadh

Canadian Embassy, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh.  https://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/saudi_arabia-arabie_saoudite/

Australian Embassy, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh.  https://saudiarabia.embassy.gov.au/

Embassy of France, 6 Abu Al-Faraj Al-Isfahani Street, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh 11693. https://riyadh.consulfrance.org/

Embassy of India, B-1 Diplomatic Quarter, P.O. Box 94387, Riyadh 11693.  https://www.eoiriyadh.gov.in/

Embassy of Pakistan, Diplomatic Quarter, P.O. Box 94007, Riyadh 11693. http://www.mofa.gov.pk/riyadh/

Embassy of Egypt, Diplomatic Quarter, P.O. Box 94366, Riyadh 11693. http://www.mfa.gov.eg/

Embassy of China, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh. https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/wjb_663304/

Embassy of Germany, Abu Al-Hareth Al-Nahdi Street, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh 11693. https://riad.diplo.de/

Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in preserving its natural heritage and promoting ecotourism by establishing several national parks across the country. These national parks offer visitors a chance to experience the diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the Kingdom.

Asir National Park

Located in the Asir Region, this park is known for its stunning mountainous landscapes, including the Sarawat Mountains. It offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the cooler climate compared to the rest of the country.

Harrat Lunayyir National Park

Situated in the Al Madinah Region, this park showcases the unique geological features of the volcanic Harrat Lunayyir lava field. Visitors can explore ancient lava flows, volcanic cones, and other volcanic formations.

Farasan Islands National Park

Found in the Red Sea, this park comprises the Farasan Islands and surrounding marine areas. The park is famous for its coral reefs, marine life, and white sandy beaches, making it a popular spot for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Al-Ha’ir National Park

Located south of Riyadh, this park is known for its desert landscapes and the stunning red sand dunes of the Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali). Visitors can experience traditional Bedouin culture and enjoy desert activities such as camel riding and sandboarding.

Al-Mahazat As-Sayd National Park

Situated in the Najran Region, this park is one of the Kingdom’s most prominent wildlife reserves. It provides a protected habitat for various species, including the Arabian Oryx, Nubian ibex, and gazelles, among others.

Uruq Bani Ma’arid National Park

This park, located in the Eastern Province, is characterized by its vast sand dunes and desert scenery. It offers opportunities for camping, stargazing, and experiencing the tranquility of the desert.

Al-Muweileh National Park

Situated in the northern part of the Eastern Province, this park is known for its diverse ecosystem and wetlands. It provides a habitat for migratory birds and offers birdwatching and nature-walking experiences.

Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (The Prophet’s Mosque)

Located in the city of Medina, this mosque is one of the holiest sites in Islam. It serves as the final resting place of the Prophet Muhammad and is an essential pilgrimage destination for Muslims.

Al-Masjid al-Haram (The Grand Mosque)

Situated in Mecca, this mosque houses the Kaaba, the most sacred site in Islam. It is the focal point of the Hajj pilgrimage and one of the largest and most impressive mosques in the world.

Madain Saleh (Al-Hijr)

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an ancient Nabatean city in the Al-Ula region. It features well-preserved tombs, rock-cut facades, and archaeological remnants dating back to the 1st century CE.

At-Turaif District in Ad-Diriyah

Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historical district is located in Riyadh. It was the first capital of the Saudi dynasty and offers a glimpse into the country’s early history.

The Red Sea Coast

Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline boasts beautiful coral reefs, pristine beaches, and diverse marine life. Destinations like Jeddah, Yanbu, and the Farasan Islands are becoming increasingly popular for diving and beach vacations.

Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn)

A short drive from Riyadh, this dramatic geological formation provides breathtaking views from the edge of a plateau overlooking a vast desert landscape.

Riyadh’s Kingdom Centre Tower

This iconic skyscraper in Riyadh offers a Sky Bridge at the top, providing panoramic views of the city and a unique dining and shopping experience.

Taif

Known for its pleasant climate, Taif is a popular summer retreat destination with beautiful gardens, historical sites, and the annual Taif Rose Festival.

Al-Ula

Apart from Madain Saleh, Al-Ula is known for its stunning landscapes of rock formations, desert scenery, and ancient archaeological sites.

Saudi Arabia experiences a diverse range of climates due to its vast geographical expanse, which encompasses deserts, mountains, and coastal regions. Generally, the climate is characterized by extreme temperatures, low humidity, and limited rainfall.

The country can be divided into three main climatic regions.

Desert Climate

The central and eastern parts of Saudi Arabia are covered by the vast Arabian Desert (Rub’ al Khali), which experiences an arid desert climate. Summers are scorching hot, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) or even reaching 50°C (122°F) in some areas. Nights can be relatively cooler but are still warm. Winters are mild during the day, with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F), but can drop significantly at night, sometimes close to freezing. Rainfall is scarce, and sandstorms are not uncommon.

Mediterranean Climate

The western coastal regions, including cities like Jeddah and Yanbu, have a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures usually range from 30-35°C (86-95°F), while winter temperatures average around 20°C (68°F). The region receives more rainfall than the central and eastern areas, especially during the winter months when occasional showers occur.

Mountain Climate

The southwestern region of Saudi Arabia, including the Asir Mountains, has a more moderate climate due to its elevation. Summers are cooler, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F), while winters can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to 5-10°C (41-50°F) or even lower at higher altitudes. This region receives more rainfall than other parts of the country, supporting agriculture and lush landscapes.

It’s important to note that Saudi Arabia experiences significant variations in temperature and weather conditions between day and night, especially in desert regions. Additionally, certain areas in the northern and central regions may see occasional snowfall during the winter months.

Due to the harsh climate, the summer months can be extremely challenging for outdoor activities, and visitors are advised to take precautions to stay hydrated and protected from the sun. Winters offer more comfortable conditions for exploring outdoor attractions and historical sites.