Saudi Arabia

At a Glance

Saudi Arabia is a vast Arabian Peninsula country with a landscape that ranges from the ancient Nabataean ruins of AlUla and the dramatic Asir highlands to the Red Sea coast and the emptiness of the Rub' al Khali, the largest continuous sand desert on earth. The culture is one of deep Arab and Islamic heritage, and the country is opening gradually to international visitors in ways that offer access to extraordinary ancient sites previously seen by very few. Those who approach with genuine curiosity and respect will find a hospitality rooted in a very old and dignified tradition.

• Women were legally allowed to drive only from 2018.
• Holds roughly 15% of the world's proven oil reserves.
• Has no rivers — all freshwater comes from deserts aquifers or desalination plants.