Culture of Saudi Arabia

Overview

Saudi culture is rooted in Arab and Islamic traditions and in the customs of the Arabian Peninsula. It places a strong emphasis on hospitality, family, honour and poetry.

Hospitality

Hospitality is a central value. Guests are traditionally welcomed with Arabic coffee (qahwa) and dates, and the serving of coffee is governed by elaborate customs. The generosity of the pre-Islamic poet Hatim al-Tai remains a cultural ideal.

Poetry

Poetry is one of the most highly regarded art forms in Saudi culture. Both classical Arabic poetry and the vernacular Nabati poetry are widely practised, and televised poetry competitions attract large audiences.

Dress and crafts

Traditional dress includes the thobe for men and the abaya for women, often worn with the ghutra or shemagh headdress. Traditional crafts include weaving, pottery, metalwork and the making of incense and perfume.

Festivals

Cultural festivals such as the Jenadriyah National Festival celebrate the Kingdom's heritage with poetry, camel racing, crafts and traditional music.