Asia · Western Asia

Saudi Arabia

Capital: Riyadh
Population: 34,813,867
Region: Asia
Languages: Arabic

Fun fact

Saudi Arabia is home to the world's largest continuous sand desert, the Rub' al Khali, which covers about a quarter of the country. Despite its arid landscape, the nation is a global leader in desalination technology and produces millions of cubic meters of fresh water from the sea every day. Interestingly, it is one of the few countries in the world where no permanent rivers exist, relying instead on underground aquifers and modern reclamation projects. The country also hosts the world's largest camel market in Buraidah, where thousands of animals are traded daily.

Currency

The currency of the kingdom is the Saudi Riyal, designated by the ISO code SAR. Before the first official Saudi coins were minted in the 1920s, various foreign currencies like the Maria Theresa thaler circulated throughout the Arabian Peninsula.

Flag symbolism

The flag features a vibrant green field, which is the traditional color representing Islam and is said to be the favorite color of the Prophet Muhammad. Centered on this green background is the Shahada, or Islamic declaration of faith, written in white Thuluth script. Below the script is a horizontal white sword that points toward the hoist side, symbolizing the kingdom's strength and the justice applied in upholding the faith. Because the Shahada is considered holy, the flag is printed with identical designs on both sides to ensure the script is always read correctly and is never hoisted at half-mast.

Emblem history

The national emblem of Saudi Arabia was officially adopted in 1950 and consists of two crossed scimitars positioned below a date palm tree. The swords represent the two historic houses of Najd and Hejaz, which were united by Ibn Saud to form the modern kingdom through strength and bravery. The date palm tree signifies the nation's vitality, growth, and the prosperity that comes from its cultural heritage. Together, these elements convey the message that prosperity can only be achieved and protected through justice and the defense of the realm.