Saudi Arabia is one of the most fascinating countries in the world, with a rich history that spans centuries. From its Bedouin origins to its rise as a global energy superpower, the kingdom’s story is packed with culture, politics, religion, and conflict. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best books that dive deep into Saudi Arabia’s history, giving you the insights and understanding you need to better appreciate this unique nation.
By Omar Al-Rasheed
Omar is a historian specializing in Middle Eastern studies, with a particular focus on the history and development of Saudi Arabia. He has written extensively on Gulf politics and the modern Middle East.
10. Arabian Sands
Author: Wilfred Thesiger
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 out of 5 (552 ratings)
Wilfred Thesiger’s Arabian Sands is a classic account of his journeys across the vast deserts of Saudi Arabia and neighboring regions. This book offers a vivid description of the Bedouin way of life and the harsh yet beautiful landscape of Arabia.
Why We Choose It: It’s a timeless masterpiece that gives a personal, ground-level view of Saudi Arabia’s environment and people before the discovery of oil.
Fun Fact: Wilfred Thesiger’s travels took him deep into the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter), one of the largest sand deserts in the world. He was one of the few Westerners to ever cross it at the time.
Category: Saudi Arabia History
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9. A History of Saudi Arabia
Author: Madawi al-Rasheed
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 out of 5 (25 ratings)
Madawi al-Rasheed’s A History of Saudi Arabia is a comprehensive and scholarly account that examines the political, economic, and social evolution of the Saudi state from its formation in the early 20th century to the present day.
Why You’ll Love It: The book is a deep dive into the history of Saudi Arabia’s ruling family and offers a nuanced understanding of the kingdom’s internal and external politics.
Fun Fact: Madawi al-Rasheed is a renowned Saudi historian and a critic of the Saudi monarchy, making this book an authoritative but critical perspective on Saudi history.
Category: Saudi Arabia History
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8. Even the Clouds Spread Shade for Him: Volume 1 – The Meccan Years
Author: Yahiya Emerick
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 (1457 ratings)
This book explores the early life of the Prophet Muhammad during his years in Mecca, placing his story within the broader context of Saudi Arabia’s history. It’s a great resource for young readers interested in Islamic history.
Why We Choose It: It’s a simple yet profound introduction to Islamic history in Saudi Arabia, making it perfect for children and young adults.
Fun Fact: Yahiya Emerick is a well-known author of Islamic literature, aiming to make Islamic history accessible to young readers worldwide.
Category: Saudi Arabia History
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7. Vision or Mirage: Saudi Arabia at the Crossroads
Author: David Rundell
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 (257 ratings)
David Rundell’s Vision or Mirage offers a unique inside perspective on the country’s recent efforts to modernize while balancing tradition and change. It examines the kingdom’s strategic choices as it moves into the future.
Why You’ll Love It: This book offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the power dynamics within Saudi Arabia, making it essential for understanding the country’s future.
Fun Fact: David Rundell is a former U.S. diplomat who spent years in Saudi Arabia, giving him an insider’s view of the country’s political landscape.
Category: Saudi Arabia History
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6. 30 Days of Learning and Good Deeds
Author: Bachar Karroum
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 (1457 ratings)
30 Days of Learning and Good Deeds offers a thoughtful look at Islamic traditions, values, and history, especially for younger audiences. It is an engaging guide for kids about learning the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and Saudi Arabia’s historical significance in Islam.
Why We Choose It: It’s an ideal book for families, providing lessons on both Islamic history and moral values that are deeply connected to Saudi Arabia’s history.
Fun Fact: This book is often used by families during Ramadan to teach children about Islamic traditions and history.
Category: Saudi Arabia History
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5. Black Wave
Author: Kim Ghattas
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 (1829 ratings)
Kim Ghattas’s Black Wave provides a compelling look at the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran, a critical component of Saudi Arabia’s modern history. The book explores how the rivalry has shaped the Middle East over the past 40 years.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s an eye-opening analysis of geopolitics in the Middle East, with a special focus on Saudi Arabia’s role in shaping regional dynamics.
Fun Fact: Kim Ghattas has worked as a journalist in the Middle East for years, providing first-hand insights into this complex relationship.
Category: Saudi Arabia History
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4. Blood and Oil: Mohammed bin Salman’s Ruthless Quest for Global Power
Author: Bradley Hope
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 out of 5 (3219 ratings)
Bradley Hope’s Blood and Oil takes readers into the world of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). It’s a gripping narrative of how MBS has reshaped Saudi Arabia’s history and his quest for power and control over the region.
Why You’ll Love It: The book is a fast-paced, thrilling read that gives readers insight into one of the most powerful figures in Saudi Arabia.
Fun Fact: Hope is an investigative journalist who co-authored this book with Justin Scheck, bringing a wealth of expertise to the table.
Category: Saudi Arabia History
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3. A Line in the Sand: A Novel
Author: Miles Spencer
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 (215 ratings)
A Line in the Sand is a captivating historical novel that combines fiction with real events from Saudi Arabia’s history, particularly focusing on the Bedouins and the changing political landscapes of the Middle East.
Why We Choose It: For readers who enjoy historical fiction, this book provides a gripping narrative while offering a lens into Saudi Arabia’s past.
Fun Fact: The author spent several years living in the Middle East, lending authenticity to the story.
Category: Saudi Arabia History
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2. 30 Wonderful Personality Traits to Learn From Prophet Mohammad
Author: Bachar Karroum
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 (124 ratings)
A wonderful book that introduces kids to Saudi Arabia’s history through the life and traits of the Prophet Muhammad. It’s a great educational tool for families during Ramadan or for Islamic learning in general.
Why You’ll Love It: The book is filled with easy-to-understand lessons, and it is a perfect resource for teaching children about Islamic values and Saudi history.
Fun Fact: This book is part of a series that focuses on teaching Islamic history and values to children in a fun and engaging way.
Category: Saudi Arabia History
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1. Saudi Inc.: The Arabian Kingdom’s Pursuit of Profit and Power
Author: Ellen R. Wald
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 (95 ratings)
Saudi Inc. by Ellen R. Wald offers a compelling narrative about how Saudi Arabia transformed itself into a global oil powerhouse. It covers the kingdom’s rise from the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula to its commanding position in global energy.
Why You’ll Love It: This book is perfect for understanding the intricate relationships between Saudi Arabia, oil, and global economics.
Fun Fact: The book provides an in-depth analysis of how the kingdom’s reliance on oil has influenced its domestic and foreign policies.
Category: Saudi Arabia History
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