divided into thirteen regions. Each is headed by an Emir (governor) who is appointed by the King. Emirs generally handle local affairs. Economy the Modern kingdom of Saudi Arabia was founded on September 23, 1932 by King Abdul Aziz Al-Saud. Shortly thereafter, oil was discovered and to this day, remains the basis of its economic development. Saudi Arabia accounts for more than a quarter of the world's total oil revenues. Saudi's largest non-petroleum sector is agriculture. It provides around ten percent of the country's revenue. Crops consist of wheat, rice, corn, and dates. Gains are also being made in poultry, dairy and livestock (sheep and camels). My PerspectiveHaving had the opportunity to visit this exotic location, I feel qualified that I can provide a unique perspective on its comparison to the United States. On first arrival, the cultural shock is immense. The Muslim religion is extremely enforced. There are actually "religious police" that make sure the Islamic law is being upheld. Women must walk three feet behind men and remained completely covered from wrist to ankle. There is no alcohol or any material deemed pornographic allowed in the country. During the Olympics, the women's gymnastics events were not televised in certain regions because it was thought to be pornographic in nature. There is also a strong terrorist threat to Americans, especially military personnel that travel to Saudi Arabia because of the political unrest and corruption mainly in the surrounding nations. Marketing TechniquesIronically, Saudi Arabia does have many of the comforts produced by the U.S. marketplace. The U.S. is Saudi Arabia's top importer. there is everything from Coca-Cola to Hershey's. They have McDonald's, Burger King, even a Hard Rock Cafe. The American marketing strategy tends to cater to the younger, more liberal generation of Saudi's. There are also a few things that American companies sell that one may ...
