Country Profile

As the single largest economy in the Middle East and North Africa, and home to an estimated 16.1% of the world’s proven oil reserves, Saudi Arabia is a key player in the region and around the world. This chapter provides an outline of the economy, population and demographics, climate, history, religion, and system of government, as well as information about the Kingdom’s energy resources. This chapter includes viewpoints with Prince Khalid al Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Governor, Makkah Province; and David Cameron, UK Prime Minister. It also includes interviews with Shaukat Aziz, former Prime Minister of Pakistan; and Abdullah Al Sheikh, Speaker of the Majlis-Ash-Shura.