Saudi Arabia, one of the most distinctive countries in Saudi Arabia, is recognized due to its rich culture and ancient traditions. The recognition of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was solely dependent on the religious significance and the presence of two holiest cities, Makkah and Madinah, in the kingdom. Millions of Muslims travel to the kingdom of Saudi Arabia in order to perform Umrah and this number is rapidly increasing by every passing day. UK Muslim can book Cheap Umrah Packages to perform their sacred pilgrimage and Saudi Arabia together.
The identity of the kingdom is entangled in its ethnic and religious roots. Saudi Arabia is the birth place of Islam which forms the basis of its judicial law and daily customs. Along with the customs, the kingdom also has diverse landscape. The ancient culture and landscape can be experienced in the traditional souks that take place in the modern cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah. This guide articulates various cultures and a variety of landscape that you will witness during your trip to the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabian Culture
Saudi Arabia has long been a cradle of Arab and Islamic culture and heritage. Despite the rapid changes that it has witnessed under the Vision2030 in the recent decade, Saudi Arabia has been able to blend modernity with tradition and still reflects its unique identity in the Arab world. Some of the insights of the Saudi Arabian culture.
Daily Life and Social Customs
As a tourist, it is one’s responsibility to respect the culture and traditions of the kingdom. Learning about the daily life and social customs is one of the best ways to respect Saudi culture so that you can fully enjoy your experience in Saudi Arabia. All the aspects of Saudi history, architecture, art and daily lifestyle reflect the vibrancy of its culture. Saudi Arabia is known for the hospitality and warmth of the people there, deep religious faith and a strong emphasis on family and hospitality.
Languages spoken in the Kingdom
The official language of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia is Arabia, however there are several regional languages such as Najdi and Hijazi, that are practiced within specific regions. English language is also practiced in business and education.
Religious practices in Saudi Arabia
Religion usually occupies a central place in Saudi culture as Islam is the official region of the state of Saudi Arabia. The daily five prayers are a part of routine and usually the shops are closed during the prayer times out of respect for these times of worship. The visitors and tourists are required to respect these customs as the laws in Saudi Arabia are based on Sharia law. These rules usually include the prohibitions on alcoholic beverages, gambling, and the practice of non-Islamic religious practices in public.
Hospitality and culture
Hospitality is the core value in the Saudi society. Arabs are usually known for their generosity and are quite eager to invite the guests into their homes for food or coffee. They usually serve Arabic coffee and dates to the guests as the welcome drink. If you travel to the kingdom of Saudi Arabia, you will experience all these traditions and customs as a guest and traveller. For people who want to perform Umrah along with exploring the traditional side of the kingdom, availing Cheap Ramadan Umrah Packages is the best option as you can perform Umrah along with exploring the traditions and customs of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Diverse Landscapes of Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s landscape is diverse and comprises of deserts, lush oases and rugged mountains. The empty quarter with the endless dunes stretches into the horizon and the golden sand shifts with every gust of wind. In contrast to the arid landscapes the lush oasis found in the Al-Ahsa are a sight to watch. The diversity within Saudi Arabia’s landscape mirrors its rich culture which is a blend of history and innovation. Some of the spots that define the variety of landscape are mentioned in the guide below.
Wadi Al Disah
Located near Tabuk in the north of country, Al Disah valley looks like an otherworldly mix of the Grand Canyon and the Monument valley. It is an epic collection of sandstone columns in a vast hollow where the dusty amber desert is interrupted by a valley of swaying high grasses and palm trees. Whether you get in on foot or by car, make sure to reach the spot as the sun casts an ethereal glow over the sculptural rock formations.
Hegra
Hegra is the most recognizable sights in Saudi Arabia and showcases the monumental rock-cut tombs suspended in the majestic desert at Hegra, near AlUla in the heart of the kingdom. Aman, Banyan Tree and Tulum born habitas are among the hotel groups that are opening eco and heritage sensitive camps in this region which could transform it into the bid destinations and tourist attractions.
Edge of the world
Situated to the west of the capital Riyadh, the edge of the world is a geological wonder which is a great towering wall of striated sandstone that rises improbably from the plain ancient ocean bed which is reddish in color. This destination can be reached by a four-wheel-drive and there is an uninterrupted view from the top across the arid landscape. This is the place where wild camels can still be seen rambling across the ancient caravan routes.
Saudi Arabia, undoubtedly, is the best destination to visit and by following the rules and customs you can enjoy your stay to its best. Most Saudis maintain the traditional dress. Men usually were a long white thobe and cover their heads and women abayas with hijab in public. Although there is no compulsion on visitors to wear abaya but they must wear modest clothes that are loose fitted and shows no skin. Photography is not encouraged here and you must seek approval before capturing people and official buildings. As long as one follows All these rules, they can enjoy their trip to the maximum potential.
