Interesting facts about Saudi Arabia

 

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a country in Western Asia. This country is famous for many things like oil, to be the origin country of Islam, the world’s largest sand desert, coffee, veiled woman, many palaces, the world’s largest oasis, Bedouins on horses and camels, and the coolest thing of all: sword-wielding dance. As you can see they have a very rich and interesting history. This is a quite old nation and many things have changed over the centuries but one thing remained the same. Fabulous sand. They have it everywhere you turn and are quite accustomed to it. The heat and the sand are why their clothes are so much different than everyone else’s. It is specifically designed to protect them from the sun and sand if the wind starts blowing but still it’s very light so they don’t overheat.

Fun facts about Saudi Arabia

Ninety-five percent of the country is a desert or semi-desert. Every day around a hundred camels are sold. The most famous food is Kabsa. Kabsa is widely available across the country from Jeddah to Riyadh. The richest person is the Saudi Arabian prince and his wealth is estimated at around 14.3 billion. Another fun fact – Saudi Arabia is the biggest country without a river in the world. All those facts sound great and a lot of people like hearing them as they decide whether to relocate to Saudi Arabia. However, keep in mind that now, during the global pandemic, relocation can be slower.

Mecca is a holy place and only Muslims can enter.

Living in Saudi Arabia

The standard of living in Saudi Arabia is high, but the costs of living are low. Many ex-pats here enjoy a very good life. This is the reason why people around the world are looking to relocate here. But some things are very different here. For instance – alcohol. Alcohol is something that in New York or any other city is a normal thing. You can walk around the street and drink beer if you want, and nobody cares. You can invite your friends over for some cocktails and have fun. In Saudi Arabia, it is illegal to drink alcohol, just as it is illegal to possess alcohol or make some. You cannot be involved with alcohol in any way. Punishment can vary from public flogging, imprisonment, or deporting. 

Alcohol is illegal, but you can always enjoy a nice fresh fruit juice.

Differences between Saudi Arabia and the USA

If you are looking to relocate, you must know their rules. They don’t have a lot of them but they insist that you follow the ones that they do have. Just like the thing with alcohol. Another thing that is different is eating pork. As they are Muslims, their religion forbids them to eat pork. Even though they don’t care if you, as a non-Muslim eat pork, you can never offer them any as it is a sign of disrespect. But the chances are you won’t even find any pork there. Also, another weird thing for Americans is dating. Technically dating is illegal in Saudi Arabia. But over time, they became more open-minded about that one, but you must be discreet. No kissing in public or hand-holding is allowed if you are not married. A good thing to know is that Saudi Arabia might not be a great place for Christians. They don’t allow Bible in their country, and they do not allow Christians to visit Mecca and some other sites that are considered holy. Also, some apps like Skype and WhatsApp are forbidden and you simply will not be able to use them, but Facebook and Twitter are very popular. As you can see there are many differences. The culture is different but sometimes you just need a whole different place to start your life anew.

Jeddah

Jeddah is a port city located on the Red Sea. This is a modern commercial hub and ex-pats like this city as the rules are a bit less strict. The law is the law and they respect it, but they are more open-minded and interested in different cultures there, especially the younger generations. Because of that, the city has great service when it comes to moving companies, so if you are looking to relocate you will have the help you need to make it less stressful.

Jeddah is a beautiful and modern city.

Moving from the USA

When it comes to moving long-distance, maybe the best option can be air cargo. If you need items shipped quickly this can be your solution. Talk with professional movers about it. Moving from the USA will not be easy, but no international relocation is. First things first, you will be needing a visa. You can apply for it online.

What to pack

Keep in mind that the weather is very hot. Also, women need to adjust their wardrobe a bit before going there. They do not like the skin showing too much. Sunscreen is a must, so are sunglasses. After you are done packing you might want to talk to your movers fourwinds-ksa.com. They can help you even with the packing.

Fun places to visit in Saudi Arabia

The top attraction is the tallest building called Kingdom Centre Tower. If you are in the mood for some shopping and amazing views, you will love it here. Another shopping attraction is the Red Sea Mall. King Fahd Fountain is the most majestic water feature in Jeddah. Al Masmak Fort or Fortress is something you want to see. This fortress is of great importance in Saudi Arabia and it tells a great story about history and the kingdom. For the art lovers, you have Athr Gallery. If you have kids, they will be delighted to see the Al Shallal theme park. They have amazing rides for the adrenaline seekers. They even have artificial lakes and waterfalls there.