Along the Gulf coast is a low fertile plain giving way to limestone ridges inland. Absoute monarchy since 1932. English is spoken in business circles. The majority of Saudi Arabians are Sunni Muslim, but Shia Muslims predominate in the Eastern Province. Full IDD is available.
Major hotels provide facilities.
Telegrams can be sent from all post offices. Post is delivered to box numbers. Airmail to Europe takes up to a week. Surface mail takes up to five months. English-language dailies include Arab News, Saudi Gazette and Riyadh Daily .