It is a known fact that the Saudis want to develop non-religious tourism to become a major source of income for the country. They have announced new tourism strategies in their Vision 2030. The Saudis want regular tourism income to eclipse religion based income for the country.
There are many ways of reading this. Diversification of income is a good strategy. But another reason that is being suggested is that the Saudis wish to be weaned off religion itself.
The rash of rock concerts, entertainment shows, Samba dancers and other government funded hedonistic pursuits seem to indicate this new direction in Saudi Arabia.
And here is more news about the Saudis possibly making changes to the Saudi Arabian flag - which carries a very forceful religious identity ie the shahadah or the declaration of faith.
- Saudi Arabia to change its national anthem, green flag
- Saudi flag features proclamation of faith in Arabic
- flag identifies country as birthplace of the religion
- kingdom hosts pilgrims from around the world
- kingdom's Shura Council voted in favour of changes
- amending flag, slogan, national anthem
- The council has not disclosed further details
- idea result of rapid changes the kingdom undergoing
- changes to support Vision 2030 to overhaul economy
- crown prince emphasises Saudi nationality, national pride
- one example : Feb 22 is now Founding Day, a public holiday
- to commemorate 18th-century attempt to found Saudi state
- govt renamed Arabic coffee as Saudi coffee to raise Saudi identity
My comments : The name 'Saudi' is not the name of a country or a people. Saudi is a family name. This is the only country in the world that is named after a family that still rules the country. It would be better to call themselves simply Arabia.
Anyway it looks like the Saudis are moving away from religion.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.
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