The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia lies at the crossroads of Asia and Europe. Once predominantly agricultural, the country's economy has centered around its rich oil reserves since the 1970s. Despite modernization, the influence of ancient customs remains strong in Saudi Arabia. From sandy desert dunes to the coral reefs of the Red Sea, from the holy cities of Mecca and Medina to the sprawling metropolis of Riyadh, and from nomadic desert Bedouin to abayahclad Muslim women, this book presents the awesome landscape and alluring culture of an influential Middle Eastern power.