Saudi Arabia dates back to 1932 when King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud unified the various tribal regions of the Arabian Peninsula into one single kingdom. From its leadership in global energy markets to its role as the birthplace of Islam, the Saudi kingdom plays an influential role on the world stage. Perhaps reading about this country will inspire you to go on a teen travel tour! Here are some key facts about Saudi Arabia: Key Facts About Saudi Arabia Details Population 34,480,724 Official Language Arabic Capital Riyadh Currency Riyal Bordering Countries Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, UAE, Oman, and Yemen Area 830,000 sq mi (2,150,000 sq km) Before we begin exploring 5 fun facts about Saudi Arabia, learn how people greet each other in Saudi Arabia! Finished? Let’s go! 5 Fun Facts About Saudi Arabia The same family has ruled Saudi Arabia for over 90 years Kingdom of oil: Saudi Arabia exerts global energy dominance In 2016, the Saudi government launched Vision 2030, the largest economic diversification plan in the kingdom’s history Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam The largest country in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia, plays an outsized role in global regional security
1. The same family has ruled Saudi Arabia for over 90 years The Al Saud family has ruled Saudi Arabia since King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud unified the Arabian Peninsula in 1932. King Fahd began Saudi Arabia’s economic modernization through infrastructure development. After King Fahd died, King Abdullah expanded reforms from 2005 to 2015, granting Saudi women voting rights in municipal elections. Today, King Salman bin Abdulaziz governs with the support of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a key figure driving modernization under Vision 2030 (See Fun Facts About Saudi Arabia #3). Though the Shura Council offers guidance as a consultative council to the royals, ultimate authority in Saudi Arabia lies firmly with the royal family. >>Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was recognized as one of the world’s best cities for food in 2025, according to Time Out (March 15, 2025).
2. Kingdom of oil: Saudi Arabia exerts its global energy dominance Saudi Arabia holds 17% of the world’s oil reserves, ranks second globally in petroleum production behind the United States, and is the largest exporter of crude oil (2024 U.S. Energy Information Administration). The Kingdom’s vast reserves and controlled production capacity give it significant influence in global oil markets. Its location in the Arabian Gulf enhances its strategic importance in the energy sector. As a founding member of OPEC, Saudi Arabia plays a key role in stabilizing oil markets. By balancing supply and demand, it maintains its leadership in shaping the global energy landscape. This leadership and leverage in “energy diplomacy” was demonstrated during the 1973 Oil Embargo, when Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, stopped oil exports to nations supporting Israel during the Yom Kippur War. >> Discover how other nations like Brunei navigate oil rich economies. 3. In 2016, the Saudi government launched Vision 2030, an economic diversification plan Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman launched Vision 2030 in 2016 to reduce reliance on oil through foreign investment in technology and build a more diversified private sector. Vision 2030 goals: Increasing non-oil revenue to $266 billion Boosting private sector GDP contribution to 65% Raising female workforce participation to 30% Female workforce participation in Saudi Arabia has already surpassed the initial Vision 2030 goal, with current estimates at 36,2%. Explore Travel Programs in Europe 4. Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam In 610 CE, Prophet Muhammad received revelations that laid the foundation for Islam in what is now Saudi Arabia. Northern Saudi Arabia is home to sites like AlUla and ancient Nabatean tombs, which have artifacts that date back to pre-Islamic times. Modern Saudi Arabian governance is based on Islamic law (Sharia), drawn primarily from Sunni Islam teachings. The Quran is the constitution of the kingdom. Saudi Arabia officially holds the title of “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques” because the holy cities of Mecca and Medina are in its territory. Travel tip: The best time to travel to Mecca or Medina is from November to March, with cooler weather and lower humidity. 5. Saudi Arabia plays an outsized role in global regional security as the largest country in the Middle East Saudi Arabia provided military bases and logistical support for Operation Desert Storm in 1990-91 when Iraq invaded Kuwait. Saudi Arabia led troops alongside multinational forces from 35 other countries to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation. Saudi Arabia is still a key player in security around the Persian Gulf region, addressing terrorism, piracy and diplomatic crises through the Gulf Cooperation Council. References: U.S. Energy Information Administration: Website Investopedia: 10 Countries with The Most Natural Resources Vision 2030: Overview and Vision