The largest Middle Eastern country, Saudi Arabia sites bordered by Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Yemen and the United Arab Emirates. As you probably already know, Saudi Arabia’s economy is fueled by petroleum fuel exportation. The majority of Saudi Arabia’s land is uninhabited desert, with most of the population settling along the eastern and western coasts. Plant and animal life is limited because of the extremely hot, desert climate. However, the coral reef on the coast by the Red Sea has an abundant number of ocean creatures. Saudi Arabia’s government centers around a Saudi monarchy.
Saudi Arabia is still working to overcome some of its human rights issues, especially in reference to women. It is important to learn as much as you can about Saudi Arabian customs prior to moving to Saudi Arabia, so that you do not offend any of its native citizens. The country is actually split into 13 emirates—Al Bahah, Northern Border, Al Jawf, Al Madinah, Al Qasim, Ha’il, Asir, Eastern Province, Al Riyadh, Tabuk, Najran, Makkah and Jizan; each emirate having its own capital.
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, has the highest population. The currency used is Saudi Riyal and the official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic. It is definitely a good idea to become familiar with Arabic prior to moving to Saudi Arabia so that you are able to maneuver through your new home easily. Sunset International Shipping strongly suggests contacting your local Saudi Arabian Consulate prior to moving to Saudi Arabia to discuss the different types of visas available. Be sure to do it in plenty of time before your international moving day as visa processing time can be quite long.