Cultural Diversities

The Saudi Arabian state was first established in the central region of the Arabian Peninsula in the early 18th century. Modern Saudi Arabia was founded in 1932 by King Abdul Aziz Bin Abdul Rahman Al-Saud. The nation experienced remarkable growth over a short period, spurred by the discovery of oil in the 1930s. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia enjoys a long and rich history that traces its roots back to the earliest civilizations of the Arabian Peninsula.

Conservative dressing is a must while in Saudi Arabia. Saudi men regardless of social status don traditional garb called "thobe," a loose fitting robe, and a headpiece called a "gutra". In public places, Saudi women are only seen in a black cloak called an "abayah" (I call it the ninja suit, no offence though), plus a scarf and veil to cover her head and face. Clothing in natural, light fibers are advisable to make the heat tolerable in Riyadh. Temperatures can go up to 40°C during the day.... And sweaters and cardigans are required to counter the chill of the Arabian nights. Weather conditions are at the extremes in this part of the world.

Islamic law forbids eating pig and drinking alcohol, and this law is followed very strictly throughout Saudi Arabia. Arabic unleavened bread (khobz) is eaten with almost everything. The other staples are grilled chicken, felafel (deep-fried chickpea balls), shwarma (spit-cooked sliced lamb), and fuul (a paste of fava beans, garlic and lemon). I've not tasted all of these food, but those that I've tasted, of course no fight with food in Singapore lah... :P