Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Kingdom of Arabia, usually just known as Saudi Arabia, is a country located on the Arabian Peninsula in the Middle East. Established in 1932 by King Abdulaziz Al Saud, it was founded through the unification of various tribal regions under his leadership. Saudi Arabia is an absolute monarchy, with the king serving as both the head of state and the head of government. The country is known for its vast oil reserves, which have made it one of the world's leading oil producers and exporters, playing a key role in the global energy market.
It's religion is overwhelmingly Islam, as it is also home to Islam's two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina, making it a centre of religious significance for Muslims around the world. Every year, millions of Muslims travel to Mecca to perform the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The country is governed by strict interpretations of Islamic law (Sharia), particularly in its social and legal systems, and its political landscape is deeply influenced by the royal family and religious authorities.
Saudi Arabia's greatest ally is the United States. The two countries have maintained a close and strategic relationship since the 1940s, primarily due to shared interests in energy, security, and regional stability. Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s leading oil producers, and the U.S. has long relied on its oil exports, while Saudi Arabia benefits from American military support and technology. This partnership has also been strengthened by mutual concerns over regional threats, particularly from Iran, as well as counterterrorism efforts.