Saudi Arabia

Geographical location: Middle East

Bordering countries: The United Arab Emirates and Qatar in the east; Kuwait, Iraq and Jordan in the north; Yemen and Oman in the south

Landscape: Deserts, sand dunes, mountains, and fertile valleys

Climate: Hot and arid climate, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C in summer

Population: Over 35 million people

Capital city: Riyadh

Other important cities: Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina

Language: Arabic

Religion: Predominantly Muslim

Currency: Saudi riyal

Cuisine: Famous for kebabs and flatbread

Famous tourist attractions: Al-Ula area, Red Sea coast, and Hegra Archaeological Site

Interesting historical facts: Ancient Nabataean civilization’s rock-carved ruins in the region; founded in 1932 by King Abdul-Aziz Al Saud, establishing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Islamic holy city of Mecca is off-limits to non-Muslims