Oil was discovered in Saudi Arabia in the 1930s but largescale production did not begin until after World War II
Father and Son
Medium: 18kb The photograph above shows how the Saudi Arabian traditional style of clothing has change little over the past 50 years. |
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Does it fly?
Medium: 19kb You can't help but wonder what they were going to do with the plane. |
After the discovery of oil in the 1930s Saudi Arabia became transformed from a predominantly Bedouin society to a country with major urban centers, ports, a vast network of highways, and the most modern communications systems. From the 1950s to the 1970s more financial resources were used in the building of a modern Saudi Arabia than in any other country during a comparable period. The result was a vast transformation of the land and the life of its inhabitants, while at the same time Islamic Law has continued to be strictly observed and Islam continues to be the guiding principle of society.
 
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The Complete Idiot's Guide to Understanding Saudi Arabia by Colin Wells Some call them a friend to the U.S.; others a foe. Now get the facts on this complex and crucial nation. A detailed and comprehensive overview of this complex Middle Eastern country, this book covers Arabia's early history, the rise of the House of Saud, the discovery of Saudi oil, Islamic fundamentalism, day-to-day-life, and the country's connection to 9/11, as well as the country's future. Colin Wells's concise, informative, and intelligent book is an excellent starting point for those who know little about the kingdom. |
Saudi Arabian Trivia
The Saud Royal family considers itself first and foremost as Khadim Al-Haramayn (servant of the two Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah). In October 1986 King Fahd adopted the title King Fahd Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.