For many, the country of Saudi Arabia is shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Many associate it with coffee, oil, and large swathes of arid desert – but what is Saudi Arabia known for beyond that?
Here are 5 Saudi Arabia facts that may help you at trivia night someday!
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- The official emblem of Saudi Arabia is a date palm above two crossed swords. (source) The date palm represents vitality and growth while the swords represent justice and strength rooted in faith.
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- The Grand Mosque of Mecca in Saudi Arabia is the most expensive building ever constructed. (source) The construction as well as major renovations and expansions over time has equated to $115.2 billion when adjusted for inflation. It is also the largest mosque in the world!
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- Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam. (source) It is also home to Islam’s two holiest shrines in Mecca and Medina. In fact, the king’s official title is the “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques”.
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- Saudi Arabia has an oil-based economy. (source) It possesses around 16% of the world’s known petroleum preserve and is the largest exporter of petroleum. The petroleum sector accounts for about 87% of the country’s revenue, 90% of export earnings, and 42% of GDP.
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- Saudi Arabia is home to the world’s largest continuous sand desert. (source) It is called the Rub Al-Khali, or “Empty Quarter”. It is approximately 620 miles long and 310 miles wide. The terrain is studded with sand dunes that can reach up to 820 feet high!
Featured image photo credit: Prof. Mortel, 2020. Originally found on Wikimedia.org. Image was resized and cropped. Creative Commons 2.0.
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