The People

The indigenous population is virtually all Arab, except for some Negroid groups. A small minority of Arabs called Bedouins live a nomadic tribal life. Most Saudis belong to the orthodox Wahhabi sect of the Sunni branch of Islam. There is a substantial foreign population, which includes persons from the United States and Europe as well as persons from such Islamic countries as Egypt, Iran, and Pakistan. Arabic is the official language.

Education in Saudi Arabia is free at all levels, but it is not compulsory. There is a shortage of schools and teachers. Illiteracy is estimated at about 75 per cent and is highest among the Bedouins. Universities are located in the major cities.