Saudi Arabia » Key Facts
Area
Population
Population Density
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Time
Social Conventions
Shaking hands is the customary form of greeting. Invitations to private homes are unusual. Entertaining is usually in hotels or restaurants and although the custom of eating with the right hand persists, it is more likely that knives and forks will be used. A small gift either promoting the company or representing your country will generally be well received.
Women are expected to dress modestly and it is best to do so to avoid offence. Men should not wear shorts in public or go without a shirt. The norms for public behaviour are extremely conservative and religious police, known as Mutawwa’in, are charged with enforcing these standards.
Customs regarding smoking are the same as in Europe and non-smoking areas are indicated. During Ramadan, Muslims are not allowed to eat, smoke or drink during the day and it is illegal for a foreign visitor to do so in public.
Photography: Strictly speaking, photography is not permitted. However, many people do still take photos, but are careful to ask permission of the relevant authority before photographing people or any building.
Electricity
Head of State
Recent History
King Abdullah succeeded the late King Fahd, his half brother, in August 2005. As crown prince, Abdullah had been the effective ruler of Saudi Arabia since the former king suffered a stroke in the mid 1990s.
Regarded in the Arab world as a supporter of wider Arab interests, King Abdullah has criticised US support for Israel and Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territory.
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Information in this section was last updated: Wed Sep 30 2009
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