Understanding Kingdom of Saudi Arabia - A Comparative Perspective from India

An In-Depth Look at Saudi Arabia that provides a comprehensive understanding of Saudi Arabia, covering key aspects such as geography, water resources, economy, history, governance, culture, Vision 2030, and its ties with India.

1. A Comparative Perspective from India Understanding Saudi Arabia Mariam Fatima & Maimuna Gauher June 23, 2024 V1.1 Class 10 , Delhi Model Virtual School

2. Culture —---- 34 In General —---- 40 Saudi, Vision 2030 —---- 43 Saudi Arabia - India Bilateral Ties —---- 46 Indians in Saudi Arabia --- 49 Geography —---- 3 Water sources for living in Saudi Arabia – 14 Economy —---- 18 History —---- 22 Governance —---- 29 An In-Depth Look at Saudi Arabia, objective is to provide a comprehensive understanding of Saudi Arabia, covering the below indexed topics, and its ties with India. Why this topic? Saudi Arabia plays a crucial role in global politics, economics, and culture. Understanding its various facets helps appreciate its influence and role in international relations, especially with India. Index

3. Geography 01

4. Saudi Arabia is the most extensive country in the vast Arabian Peninsula and the largest nation in the Middle East . The country faces formidable climate challenges, with scorching and arid weather patterns. During the summer season, temperatures frequently surpass 50°C , while in the winter months, certain regions can experience temperatures as low as -7°C. These extreme conditions significantly impact the country's infrastructure, agriculture, and way of life.

5. Middle East in the World Map

6. Middle East in the World Map

7. Peninsula, Gulf and Strait Falls in between Africa and Asia 1 2 3 4 1 & 2. Strait of Hormuz (Named after an Iranian King), 3. Red Sea and 4. Bab el-Mandeb, a strait

8. The blue area in the map indicates the region where people have been living for over a thousand years. In contrast, the yellow area represents the land that has been occupied more recently, within the past 30 to 50 years.

9. The yellow area on the map, where the city of Riyadh is located, was historically used for trade routes to the eastern countries of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This region was strategically important for the exchange of goods, including spices, textiles, and precious metals, between the Arabian Peninsula and the broader Middle East and Asia. The establishment of the modern city of Riyadh and its growth into a major economic and political center has transformed the region's significance and role in trade and commerce.

10. Countries without rivers

11. Empty Quarter: Rub Al-Khali

12. Population in KSA

13. Comparing geographies of Saudi Arabia to India: Size: India: 7th largest country globally, ~3.29 million km² and India is 1.5 times larger than Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia: Largest country in the Middle East, ~2.15 million km² Topography: India: Diverse with the Himalayas, plains, deserts, and coasts Saudi Arabia: Mostly arid deserts with some mountains and fertile valleys Climate: India: Varied with tropical, subtropical, and temperate zones, and a monsoon season Saudi Arabia: Hot, dry, minimal rainfall, extreme temperature fluctuations Vegetation: India: Wide variety due to diverse climate, including forests, grasslands, agricultural land, and biodiversity hotspots Saudi Arabia: Limited vegetation, primarily in oases and fertile valleys due to arid climate

14. Water Sources for living in Saudi Arabia 02

15. Due to limited rainfall and the absence of rivers and lakes, Saudi Arabia relies on two main sources for water: Desalination : Seawater is treated to provide fresh drinking water. Groundwater : Water is extracted from underground aquifers They also treat wastewater for irrigation and industrial use. Desalination, is the process of turning salty seawater into fresh, drinkable water. This is done using two main methods: Reverse Osmosis (RO) : Seawater is pushed through a special filter that removes salt and impurities. Thermal Desalination : Seawater is heated to create steam, which is then cooled to make fresh water, leaving the salt behind.

16. Desalination Plants: Saudi Arabia gets a significant portion of its water supply from desalinated seawater, using advanced technologies in numerous coastal plants.

17. Aspect Saudi Arabia India Desalination Plants Major source, converting seawater to potable water Not commonly used Rainfall Scarce, captured via dams and reservoirs Abundant during monsoon season, primary water source Rivers, Lakes, and Ponds Limited and seasonal rivers, few lakes and ponds Numerous rivers, lakes, and ponds Ground water Extracted from non - renewable aquifers Widely used via wells , and bore wells Dams and Reservoirs Used to capture and store rainwater Capture and store river water for multiple uses Treated wastewater Recycled for agricultural and industrial use Limited use Imported bottled water Supplementery drinking water supply Not commonly used Water Sources: Saudi Arabia vs India

18. Economy 03

19. Economic Overview of Saudi Arabia: Oil Production and Exports : Oil constitutes 90% of export earnings and 40% of GDP. Exports include oil, natural gas, ethane, polymers, plastics, and fibers. Agriculture : Largest global producer of dates, with around 300 varieties. Economic Diversification : Saudi Vision 2030 aims to reduce oil dependence and promote sustainable growth. Increased VAT to 15%, introduced excise taxes on tobacco, soft drinks & energy drinks. Economic Projections : GDP expected to reach $1.106 trillion (nominal) and $2.354 trillion (PPP) by 2024. Income Taxes & VAT: Saudi Arabia does not impose income tax on individuals' salaries or wages. However, there is a zakat (Islamic wealth tax) applicable to Saudi citizens and businesses, primarily on assets rather than income. VAT in Saudi Arabia was initially introduced at 5% in 2018 and increased to 15% in 2020. It applies to most goods and services, including imports, sales and leases.

20. Saudi Arabia is highly dependent on imports for many goods due to limited domestic production

21. Aspect Saudi Arabia India Economy 1.06trillion USD 3.7trillion USD (fifth largest in the world) Population Less than 4Cr 140 Cr Per Capita Income 32,586 USD ( 27 lakh INR) 2,600 USD ( 2 lakh INR) Currency: Saudi Arabia's currency, the Saudi riyal, is pegged to the US dollar, while India's currency, the Indian rupee, is floating and determined by market forces. 1 Saudi Riyal (SAR) equals 22.23 Indian Rupee (INR) (as on 5th June, 2024) Comparing economies of Saudi Arabia to India Growth rate: India's economy has been growing at a faster rate than Saudi Arabia's in recent years, with an average GDP growth rate of 6.7% from 2015 to 2019, compared to Saudi Arabia's average GDP growth rate of 1.7% during the same period.

22. History 04

23. Key Historical Periods in Saudi Arabia: Ancient Civilizations : The Arabian Peninsula is home to ancient civilizations like Dilmun, Thamud, and Lihyan. First Organized State : Established by Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century, marking the beginning of the Islamic era. First Saudi State : Founded in 1744 by Muhammad bin Saud and Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, lasting until 1818. Second Saudi State : Established in 1824 by Turki bin Abdullah, which continued until 1891. Modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia : Established in 1932 by King Abdul-Aziz bin Saud, who unified the various regions and tribes. Current Monarch : King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the reigning monarch. National Day : Celebrated on 23 September, marking the unification of the Kingdom in 1932.

24. Islamic History Overview: Islamic history is deeply intertwined with the Arabian Peninsula, particularly Saudi Arabia. From the birth of Islam in the 7th century to the establishment of the Islamic state, the region played a pivotal role in shaping the course of Islamic civilization. Key Events: Include significant events such as the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad, the Hijra (migration) to Madina, and the conquests that spread Islam across the Arabian Peninsula and beyond. Key Figures: Highlight important figures like Prophet Muhammad, his companions, and the early caliphs who led the Islamic community after his passing. Impact: Emphasize the profound impact of Islamic history on the cultural, political, and religious landscape of Saudi Arabia and the wider Muslim world.

25. Importance of Makkah and Madina Sacred Significance : Makkah and Madina are the most sacred cities in Islam. Makkah is where Prophet Muhammad was born and where the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, is located. Madina is where Prophet Muhammad formed the first Islamic community and where he is buried. Pilgrimage Centers : Muslims worldwide face Makkah during daily prayers and make pilgrimages to Makkah and Madina. The Hajj pilgrimage is a major journey to Makkah, while the Umrah pilgrimage is a smaller, voluntary visit. Spiritual Importance : These cities are vital for Muslims spiritually. They are places for worship, deep thought, and finding inner peace and connection with God. The Kaaba in Makkah City is a sacred black cube at the center of Islam's holiest mosque, while the Green Dome Mosque in Madina is where Prophet Muhammad is buried, a significant pilgrimage site.

26. Pilgrimage (Hajj) Hajj Pilgrimage: Explain the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which every Muslim who is physically and financially able must perform at least once in their lifetime. Rituals: Detail the various rituals performed during Hajj, including the Tawaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba, the Sa'i (ritual walking) between the hills of Safa and Marwa, and the symbolic stoning of the Devil at Mina. Spiritual Significance: Emphasize the spiritual significance of Hajj, where Muslims from diverse backgrounds come together in unity, equality, and devotion to Allah.

27. Visitors from Around the World Diverse Visitors: Showcase the diverse array of visitors who come to Saudi Arabia for religious purposes, including pilgrims from every corner of the globe. Cultural Exchange: Highlight the cultural exchange that occurs during pilgrimages, as Muslims from different countries and backgrounds come together to perform rituals, share experiences, and strengthen their faith. Global Significance: Emphasize the global significance of Makkah and Madina as centers of pilgrimage that attract millions of visitors annually, contributing to the cultural, economic, and social fabric of Saudi Arabia and the Muslim world.

28. History c omparisons with India Saudi Arabia: Rich history dating back to ancient civilizations. Crucial role in early Islamic era. Establishment of modern Kingdom in 1932. India: Home to ancient civilizations and diverse cultural heritage. Influenced by Islamic rule and colonialism. Gained independence in 1947, leading to the formation of the Republic of India. Comparison: Both have ancient roots but divergent historical trajectories. Saudi Arabia's focus on Islamic history contrasts with India's diverse cultural influences. Both experienced significant transformations in the modern era

29. 05 Governance Governance

30. Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has been the King of Saudi Arabia since 2015. Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), age 37, is the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia. As the heir apparent to the throne, he currently serves as Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

31. Comparing Government Systems of Saudi Arabia to India: Saudi Arabia: Type: Absolute Monarchy Leadership: King is the head of state and government; also the Prime Minister. Law: Based on Islamic law (Sharia) and royal decrees; governed by the Basic Law of Saudi Arabia. India: Type: Federal Parliamentary Democratic Republic Leadership: President (ceremonial head of state), Prime Minister (head of government). Structure: Bicameral Parliament (Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha), independent judiciary with the Supreme Court. Law: Governed by a written constitution.

32. Democratic Direct Democracy , Representative Democracy ( Republic Government , Parliamentary Government ), Constitutional monarchy Non-Democratic Authoritarian , Totalitarian , Oligarchy , Technocracy , Theocracy , Dictatorship , Absolute monarchy Other Types Communist , Colonialist , Aristocratic Systems of government can be divided into two main categories, democratic and non-democratic

33. Culture 06

34. Saudi Arabian Culture Saudi Arabia boasts a rich and diverse cultural heritage rooted in traditions, Islamic beliefs, and modern advancements. The culture reflects a blend of ancient customs and contemporary influences, creating a unique cultural landscape.

35. Traditional Customs and Islamic Influence Hospitality: Central to Saudi culture, hospitality is exemplified through welcoming guests with Arabic coffee and dates. Cuisine: Popular dishes include Kabsa (spiced rice with meat) and Shawarma (grilled meat wrap). Festivals: Celebrations include Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, marking significant Islamic events. Religion: Islam shapes daily life, laws, and customs in Saudi Arabia, influencing all aspects of society. Holy Sites: Makkah and Madina attract millions of pilgrims annually.

36. Modern Developments and Social Changes Entertainment: Revival of cinemas, concerts, and cultural festivals as part of Vision 2030. Women’s Rights: Increased workforce participation and legal reforms enhancing women's roles in public life. Tourism: New tourist attractions and events to boost international tourism and showcase Saudi heritage.

37. Arts, Music, and Dance Traditional Arts: Rich tradition of calligraphy, pottery, weaving, and jewelry making. Contemporary Art: Growing art scene with galleries and exhibitions featuring modern Saudi artists. Music and Dance: Traditional music with instruments like the oud, and the Ardah dance performed with swords and chanting.

38. Indian Culture (Unity in Diversity)

39. In General 07

40. The national flag of Saudi Arabia , known as the al-Alam, is a green background with Arabic inscription and a sword in white . The inscription is the Islamic creed, or shahada: "There is no deity but God; Muhammad is the Messenger of God". The national emblem of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia consists of a palm tree on top of two crossed Arab swords . Swords symbolize strength, stamina and sacrifice while the palm tree symbolizes vitality, growth and prosperity. The Saudi Riyal (SAR)_has been the official currency of Saudi Arabia National language: Arabic

41. Saudi, Vision 2030 08

42. Vision 2030 is built around three primary themes: a vibrant society, a thriving economy and an ambitious nation . Launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2016. Aim: Diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil. Focus on economic diversification, public service development, and quality of life improvement. Economic Diversification: Development of new industries (e.g., entertainment, tourism, technology). Promotion of SMEs and foreign investment. Major Projects: NEOM: Futuristic mega-city project. Red Sea Project: Luxury tourism destination. Qiddiya: Entertainment city with theme parks, sports, and cultural attractions. Al-Ula: Heritage and cultural tourism project.

43. Recent Social and Cultural Changes in Saudi Arabia Empowerment of Women: Driving Rights: Women can drive since 2018. Employment: Increased job opportunities and legal reforms for women’s independence. Cultural and Entertainment Expansion: Cinemas: Reopened in 2018 after 35 years. Events: Hosting international concerts, sports events, and festivals like Riyadh Season. Public Spaces and Social Freedoms: Mixed-Gender Venues: Development of parks, malls, and public spaces for families and mixed groups. Tourism: Launch of tourist visas in 2019 to promote cultural and natural sites. Educational and Technological Reforms: Curriculum Updates: Modernized education system and international collaborations. Digital Initiatives: Growth of e-government services and tech hubs for innovation.

44. Saudi Arabia-India Bilateral Ties 09

45. Saudi Arabia and India share a robust and multifaceted relationship. The partnership includes economic, cultural, and political dimensions, underscored by mutual respect and strategic interests. Historical ties rooted in trade and cultural exchanges, evolving into a strategic partnership in recent decades.

46. Trade Relations: Bilateral trade exceeds $30 billion annually. Saudi Arabia is a major supplier of crude oil to India, fulfilling a significant portion of India's energy needs. Investment: Saudi investments in India's infrastructure, energy, and petrochemical sectors. Indian investments in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 projects, including technology and renewable energy. Key Agreements: MoUs in energy, manufacturing, technology, and mining to boost economic cooperation. Economic Cooperation

47. Indians in Saudi Arabia 10

48. Indians in Saudi Arabia - Overview and Employment Population : Over 2.5 million Indians form one of the largest expatriate communities living in Saudi Arabia. Diverse Workforce : Sectors: Construction: Engineers, laborers, project managers. Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, medical staff. IT and Engineering: Software developers, engineers, technicians. Domestic Services: Housemaids, drivers, household help. Economic Contribution : Significant impact on various industries. Boost to economic growth through skilled and unskilled labor.

49. Cultural Integration, Community, and Education Cultural Integration : Celebration of Indian festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Eid. Community gatherings and cultural programs. Community Organizations : Support networks and associations for expatriates. ( https://www.expatriates.com/ ) Engagement in social and cultural activities. Education : Several Indian schools offer CBSE and other Indian curricula. Ensuring quality education and cultural continuity for expatriate children. Social Life : Strong community bonds through social clubs and associations. Support for new expatriates to integrate smoothly.

50. Thank You Mariam Fatima [email protected] Maimuna Gauher [email protected] We would appreciate your feedback to enhance the quality of our content.