Saudi Arabia is the largest of all of the Arab countries in the Middle East and is widely seen as center of the region both politically and culturally. Its cultural significance is tremendous as the region is predominantly Islamic and Saudi Arabia is home to the two holiest places in Islam, Mecca and Medina. From a political standpoint it is a major player in the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and is a key ally in the region for the United States.
The current Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (the country’s official name) was proclaimed in 1932 by Abdul-Aziz bin Saud, although its roots can be traced back more than 250 years. Between its history and its modern global importance, it is not surprising that Saudi Arabia is a desirable place for many people to work and live.
The population of Saudi Arabia is about 28 million people, with its overall size in area about 830,000 square miles. Much of this land is covered by desert, but along the coastal regions and the Jabal al-Hejaz Mountains the landscapes are much more forgiving and comfortable. Many Saudis flock to these more comfortable areas for their vacations, especially during the extremely hot summer months when the desert landscapes are sizzling with high heat.
The economy of Saudi Arabia is based predominantly on oil exports; by some estimates their petroleum production accounts for as much as 75% of their entire economy. In recent years the government has worked toward increasing the diversity of the economy by privatizing key sectors such as telecommunications and electricity, and also by launching a massive new city project along its western coastline. Called King Abdullah Economic City, this project is designed to promote more port activity and tourism, as well as more activity in education, finance, pharmaceuticals, and scientific research.
The top industries in Saudi Arabia include the following:
- Oil and Natural gas
- Banking and Financial Services
- IT/Telecoms
Within these various industries and areas there are a number of top employers, such as:
- Oil and Natural Gas – SABIC, National Petrochemical Company, Alujain Corporation, Sahara Petrochemical Company, Saudi Kayan Petrochemical Company, Saudi Industrial Investment Group
- Banking and Finance – Riyad Bank, The Saudi Investment Bank, Samba Financial Group, Arab National Bank, Bank Al Jazira, SABB
- IT/Telecoms – Saudi Telecom Company, Etihad Etisalat Company, Mobile Telecommunications Company Saudi Arabia, Etihad Atheeb Telecom Company
If you want to live and work in one of the richest countries in the world and be part of its dynamic economic changes, diverse culture and hot climate - Saudi Arabia is the place you want to go to find your new job.