Government of Saudi Arabia

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a monarchy with a political system rooted in Islam's cherished traditions and rich culture. It's rules and regulations are governed by the Holy Qu'ran and Sunnah (teachings and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), which call for peace, justice, equality, consultation, and respect for the rights of the individual.

Since the beginning of the first Saudi state in the 18th century through the founding of the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by the late King Abdul Aziz Ibn Abdul Rahman Al-Saud, the shari'ah (islamic law) has been the pillar and source of Saudi's basic system of government. It identifies the nature of the state and it's goals and responsibilities, as well as the relationship between the government and it's citizens.

A royal decree in 1953 established Saudi Arabia's Council of Ministers. During the 1950's and 1960's, 20 government ministries were founded. The Council of Ministers, in conjunction with the King, formed the executive and legislative branches of government. This was the first step taken toward formalizing the long established Islamic system of popular consultation, which has always been practiced by Saudi rulers. In the Majlis, weekly meetings open to all, members of the general public can approach the King and leaders at the local, provincial, and national levels to discuss issues and raise grievances.

The basic system of government identifies the nature of the state, it's goals and responsibilities, as well as the relationship between the ruler and citizens. It identifies the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as an Arab and Islamic sovereign state; its religion is Islam and its constitution is the Holy Qu'ran and the Sunnah.

The King, who also acts as Prime Minister, ensures the application of the Shari'ah and the states general policy, and supervises the protection and defense of the nation. The Crown Prince is appointed by the King. Members of the Council of Ministers assist the King in the performance of his duties.

The new bylaws introduced for the system in 1992 further explain that the purpose of the state is to ensure the security and rights of all citizens and residents. It emphasizes the importance of the family as the nucleus of Saudi society. The family plays a vital role by teaching its members to adhere to Islamic values.

In definig the relationship between the ruler and the people, the system emphasizes the equality of all Saudi citizens. All are equal before God and in their concern for the well-being, security, dignity, and progress of their nation. All citizens also are equal before the law.

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<CENTER>Source: Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia, Washington, DC</CENTER>

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