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Exploring the traditional and modern culture of Saudi Arabia
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Located on the Arabian Peninsula, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia lies between the Persian Gulf to the east and the Red Sea to the west.

The country is not only renowned for its abundant oil and gas resources but also for its breathtaking natural landscapes and a cultural heritage that spans millennia. The Arabian Peninsula's diverse geography, encompassing coastlines and vast deserts, have given rise to distinct regional climates, shaping unique ways of life over the centuries.

A traditional Saudi Arabian dish of mutton mandi rice is served as a treat for guests. /CGTN
A traditional Saudi Arabian dish of mutton mandi rice is served as a treat for guests. /CGTN

A traditional Saudi Arabian dish of mutton mandi rice is served as a treat for guests. /CGTN

The hospitable Saudi people usually treat their guests to a bumper traditional feast to extend their respect and friendship. Local specialty coffee is also an essential part of any welcome. Saudi coffee is usually enjoyed in small cups. The host will pour coffee for their guests to prevent their cups from ever running empty. The host will not stop until guests shake their cups, which is a signal for the host to stop pouring.

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Besides its traditional culture, Saudi artists are also creating a diverse modern culture through their contemporary art. Visitors can enjoy artworks created by both Saudi and international artists at its many galleries.

A photo taken on September 8, 2023 shows a group of photography works on display at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. /CGTN
A photo taken on September 8, 2023 shows a group of photography works on display at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. /CGTN

A photo taken on September 8, 2023 shows a group of photography works on display at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. /CGTN

Now, this Gulf country with its rich traditions and culture is seeking to attract more tourists. In 2019, Saudi Arabia announced the issuance of tourist visas to visitors from 49 countries, including China. This year, the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) announced that they hoped to have attracted four million Chinese visitors by 2030, according to a Xinhua news agency report.

A series of measures have been launched to make travel more convenient for Chinese visitors, including enrolling China in Saudi Arabia's 3-minute e-visa program, and the introduction of a new 96-hour stopover visa program that offers visitors one-night hotel stays in the country.

The cover photo taken on September 9, 2023 shows the scenery in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. / CGTN
The cover photo taken on September 9, 2023 shows the scenery in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. / CGTN

The cover photo taken on September 9, 2023 shows the scenery in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. / CGTN

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