Changes in Saudi Arabia are happening at a dizzying pace: introducing a Western lifestyle, opening ancient historic sites to the public, changing social rules, economic development/diversification, etc.
Posted Nov 28, 2025
1) In 1980, the population of Saudi Arabia was 6.0 million; approximately 30-35% were expatriates. In 2025, the population is 37.9 million; approximately 44% are expatriates.
2) Until recently, non-Muslims were not allowed to visit Madinah, the second most holy site in Islam. But now, with the exception of the Prophet's Mosque and area, all the city is open to non-Muslims.
3) Since 2018, a high-speed train travels between Jeddah, Mecca, and Madinah.
4) Not so long ago, women of all nationalities had to sit at the back of public buses, i.e., they could not sit with men at the front of the bus. Now women drive cars!
5) Only a few years ago, Saudi women rarely worked outside the home. Today, approximately 35% of Saudi women hold positions outside the home.
