249 SAUDI ARABIA: The Good and The Bad

Saudi Arabia is a country that is known for its rich culture and history, as well as its modern developments and economic prosperity. But while the country has made economic and social progress in recent decades, it’s also important to recognize that every country has its own set of issues and challenges.

I’ve started launching episodes about my visit to Saudi Arabia, and in the first one that came out on Tuesday, it may have sounded like there’s nothing bad about this country. And even though I loved my visit and met some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met, there are still challenges.

In this episode I will share what I think is both good and bad about this country.

THE GOOD ABOUT SAUDI ARABIA

Let’s dive in and start with some of the things that are good about Saudi Arabia:

GOOD: Culture and history

Saudi Arabia is home to a number of historical and cultural sites that are of great importance to the country and the region. The city of Mecca is the holiest site in Islam and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. It is also home to the Kaaba, a sacred stone building that is the focus of the annual hajj pilgrimage. Medina, another city in Saudi Arabia, is also considered a holy city and is the burial place of the Prophet Muhammad. These cities are of great significance to Muslims around the world and are a source of pride for the country.

GOOD: Economy

Saudi Arabia is a major player in the global economy, with a GDP of over $800 billion. The country is rich in natural resources, particularly oil, which accounts for a significant portion of its wealth. The government has also invested heavily in modernizing and diversifying the economy, with initiatives aimed at boosting tourism, technology, and other sectors. As a result, Saudi Arabia has a high standard of living and a strong infrastructure.

GOOD: Education

Education is a priority in Saudi Arabia, with the government investing heavily in the education sector. The country has a number of top-ranked universities, including King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, which are known for their research and innovation. The government also provides free education to all citizens, from primary school through to university.

GOOD: Health care

Saudi Arabia has a well-developed health care system, with a number of hospitals and clinics located throughout the country. The government invests heavily in the health care sector, providing free medical care to all citizens. The country is also home to a number of renowned medical facilities, such as the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, which is known for its advanced medical technology and expertise.

GOOD: Infrastructure

Saudi Arabia has a modern infrastructure, with a well-developed transportation system and a number of major cities connected by highways and airports. The country has also invested heavily in its telecommunications infrastructure, with high levels of Internet and mobile phone penetration. These investments have contributed to the country's economic development and have made it easier for people to live, work, and travel within the country.

GOOD: Natural beauty

Despite its desert climate, Saudi Arabia is home to a number of beautiful natural landscapes. The country has a number of parks and nature reserves, including the Asir National Park, which is home to a number of endangered species. The country's coastlines, including the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, are also popular destinations for tourists and offer a range of activities such as diving, fishing, and water sports.

GOOD: Modern developments

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has undergone a number of modern developments, including the construction of new cities, such as King Abdullah Economic City and NEOM, which are designed to be centers of innovation and economic growth. The country has also invested heavily in its tourism sector, with initiatives aimed at promoting the country as a destination for both religious and recreational tourism.

THE BAD ABOUT SAUDI ARABIA

There are also a number of issues that have been the subject of criticism and concern. Let’s have a look at some of the things that might not be good about Saudi Arabia.

BAD: Treatment of women

One issue that has received significant attention is the treatment of women in Saudi Arabia. The country has a strict system of gender segregation, and women are subject to a number of legal restrictions and limitations on their freedom of movement and expression. For example, women in Saudi Arabia are required to have a male guardian, who has the authority to make decisions on their behalf and to control their movements. Women are also required to wear a traditional head covering, known as a hijab, in public.

BAD: Lack of political freedoms

Another issue that has been the subject of criticism is the lack of...