Major Cultural Attractions
Saudi Arabia is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a long history. The country has many museums, historical landmarks, and natural attractions that are popular tourist destinations. One of the most famous is the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, which is the holiest site in Islam and the destination of the Hajj pilgrimage. Other notable attractions include the Al-Ula archaeological site, which features stunning rock formations and ancient ruins, and the Madain Saleh, a UNESCO World Heritage site that features well-preserved tombs and monuments from the Nabataean civilization.
In addition to cultural landmarks, Saudi Arabia is also known for its stunning natural landscapes. The country is home to the Red Sea, which offers world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities, and the Rub’ al Khali desert, the largest sand desert in the world.
Socialising and Leisure Activities
Saudi Arabian people are known for their love of hospitality and socialising, and social gatherings often involve sharing food and drink with friends and family. One of the most popular ways to socialise in Saudi Arabia is by having a “majlis,” a traditional Saudi Arabian gathering where guests are served tea and dates.
In addition to socialising, people in Saudi Arabia also enjoy leisure activities such as shopping, visiting the beach, and going to the cinema. The country has a growing entertainment industry, with theme parks, concerts, and sporting events becoming increasingly popular.
Sports are also an important part of the Saudi Arabian culture, with football (soccer) being the most popular sport. Other popular sports include basketball, volleyball, and handball. Saudi Arabia has produced many successful athletes, including footballer Yasser Al-Qahtani and Olympic medalist Hadi Soua’an Al-Somaily.
Expat Social Scene
Saudi Arabia is a popular destination for expats, with many people from all over the world coming to live and work in the country. As a result, there are many expat clubs, societies, and organisations that cater to the needs of expats.
One of the largest expat organisations in Saudi Arabia is the American Business Group of Riyadh (ABGR), which provides support and networking opportunities for American expats and local businesses. They organise events and activities that promote business development and cultural understanding.
There are also many international clubs and societies throughout Saudi Arabia, which cater to specific nationalities or interests. For example, the British Society in Riyadh provides a platform for British expats to socialise and connect with each other. The Filipino Association in Saudi Arabia is another popular organisation, which offers support and networking opportunities for Filipino expats.
In addition to expat organisations, there are also many international schools throughout Saudi Arabia. These schools cater to the children of expats and provide a multicultural environment for them to learn and grow. Some of the most popular international schools include the British International School Riyadh, the American International School of Jeddah, and the International Indian School in Riyadh.
Saudi Arabia offers a unique blend of cultural attractions and leisure activities for both locals and expats. Whether you’re interested in exploring the country’s rich cultural heritage, enjoying the great outdoors, or socialising with fellow expats, there is something for everyone in Saudi Arabia.
The country’s natural landscape provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor recreation, with the Red Sea and the Rub’ al Khali desert offering plenty of opportunities for adventure. Saudi Arabian people are also known for their love of hospitality and socialising, with food and drink being central to many social gatherings.
For those interested in cultural attractions, Saudi Arabia has many museums, historical landmarks, and natural wonders that are worth visiting. The Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and the Al-Ula archaeological site are two of the most significant cultural sites in the country.
The expat community in Saudi Arabia is well-established, with many organisations and clubs catering to the needs of expats from all over the world. From international schools to cultural festivals, there are many opportunities for expats to socialise and connect with others in the community.
However, it’s important to note that Saudi Arabia has strict social and cultural norms that must be followed. For example, alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited, and women must follow a strict dress code. It’s important for expats to educate themselves on the country’s cultural norms and respect them while living in Saudi Arabia.
Overall, Saudi Arabia offers a unique and diverse range of leisure and entertainment options for both locals and expats. With a growing entertainment industry and a rich cultural heritage, there is always something new to explore and enjoy in this beautiful country.