Country Profile: Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam, is strategically located in the Middle East, bordered by the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. The country benefits from significant oil reserves, accounting for approximately 17% of global proven oil reserves, which drives its high-income economy. Governed as an absolute monarchy, Saudi Arabia has seen substantial reforms aimed at modernizing its economy and society, particularly under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The population is predominantly Arab and Muslim, with efforts being made to enhance women's rights and promote social reforms.
Geography
Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the world without a river, encompassing an area of 2,149,690 square kilometers, equivalent to about one-fifth the size of the United States. The country is characterized by a harsh, dry desert climate with considerable temperature variations and extensive coastlines along both the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. Most of the population has settled in the central region, particularly in cities like Riyadh, Mecca, and Medina.
- Geographical Coordinates: 25° N, 45° E
- Total Coastline: 2,640 km
- Land Boundaries: 4,272 km with neighboring countries
- Highest Point: As Sarawat range at 3,000 m
- Natural Resources: Includes petroleum, natural gas, and minerals like gold and copper.
People and Society
Saudi Arabia's estimated population is 36,544,431 as of 2024, with a gender distribution of approximately 57% male and 43% female. The society is predominantly Arab, with 90% of the population identifying as Arab and 10% as Afro-Asian. Arabic is the official language, and the country follows a strict interpretation of Sunni Islam, with only limited religious diversity allowed for expatriates.
- Urbanization Rate: 85% of the total population live in urban areas
- Literacy Rate: 97.9% (2024 est.)
- Median Age: 32.8 years (2025 est.)
- Birth Rate: 13.41 births/1,000 population (2025 est.)
- Life Expectancy: 77.2 years (2024 est.)
- Total Fertility Rate: 1.84 children per woman (2025 est.)
Economy
The economy of Saudi Arabia is heavily reliant on oil, with the country being a founding member of OPEC. The Vision 2030 initiative aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil revenue by enhancing private sector participation and attracting foreign investment. Despite a significant poverty rate, GDP per capita remains high at $62,700 (2024 est.).
- GDP (PPP): $2.213 trillion (2024 est.)
- Unemployment Rate: 3.9% (2024 est.)
- Industry Sector Contribution: 44.8% of GDP
- Agriculture Sector Contribution: 2.5% of GDP
- Youth Unemployment Rate: 13.8% (2024 est.)
- Public Debt: 13.1% of GDP (2016 est.)
- Exports: $360.897 billion (2024 est.)
Government
Saudi Arabia operates as an absolute monarchy, with the king serving as both head of state and government. The country’s governance framework is established by the Basic Law of 1992, which is based on Islamic principles. The king is supported by a cabinet composed mainly of royal family members, and there is no formal political party system.
- Capital: Riyadh
- Current King: King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
- Crown Prince: Mohammed bin Salman (since 2017)
- Legislative Body: Shura Council with 151 appointed members
- Suffrage Age: 18 years for municipal elections
Military and Security
Saudi Arabia maintains a significant military presence to address both domestic and regional security concerns. The Saudi Armed Forces consist of various branches, including the Royal Saudi Land Forces and the Royal Saudi Air Force. Significant military expenditures reflect ongoing modernization efforts and strategic partnerships, particularly with the United States.
- Active Personnel: Approximately 250,000
- Military Expenditures: 7.1% of GDP (2024 est.)
- Major Military Suppliers: US, UK, and France
- Voluntary Military Service: Available for men (ages 17-40) and women (typically 21-40)
Energy
Saudi Arabia holds one of the largest energy resources globally, with extensive oil and natural gas production. The country aims to increase its renewable energy capabilities as part of its broader Vision 2030 strategy.
- Total Petroleum Production: 11.174 million bbl/day (2023 est.)
- Natural Gas Production: 121.219 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
- Electricity Access Rate: 100% of the population (2022 est.)
- Electricity Consumption: 383.512 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Environment
The Kingdom faces environmental challenges including desertification and the depletion of underground water resources. Saudi Arabia is party to several international environmental agreements and is taking steps to address issues related to waste management and pollution.
- Urban Population: 85% (2023)
- Total Annual Municipal Solid Waste: 16.126 million tons (2024 est.)
- Percent of Waste Recycled: 18.8% (2022 est.)
- CO2 Emissions: 656.511 million metric tonnes (2023 est.)
Transportation
Saudi Arabia has a well-developed transportation network that supports its economy, particularly in oil exports. The country operates numerous airports, railways, and a significant merchant marine fleet.
- Total Airports: 90 (2025)
- Railways: 5,410 km (2016)
- Merchant Marine Fleet: 433 vessels (2023)
Communications
Saudi Arabia boasts a high rate of internet usage and widespread access to telecommunication services. The media is primarily state-controlled, with a strong presence of satellite TV broadcasters.
- Internet Users: 100% of the population (2023 est.)
- Mobile Cellular Subscriptions: 52.5 million (2023)
- Broadband Subscriptions: 14.5 million (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 36,544,431 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 2,149,690 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $2.213 trillion | 2024 estimate |
| Energy Consumption per Capita | 349.692 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 13.41 births/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.9% | 2024 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 77.2 years | 2024 estimate |
| Literacy Rate | 97.9% | 2024 estimate |
Explore more about this country: