These documentaries about Saudi Arabia show a land of contrasts and rich cultural heritage and intrigue, that has long been a subject of fascination.
Nestled on the Arabian Peninsula, this Middle Eastern kingdom is home to a tapestry of traditions, modernity, and a unique societal structure.
The vast expanse of its deserts, the luxury of its cities, and the religious significance of places like Mecca make Saudi Arabia a captivating subject for exploration.
Documentaries About Saudi Arabia
In recent years, a wave of documentaries about Saudi Arabia has sought to unveil the layers of this enigmatic nation, shedding light on its history, societal dynamics, and the challenges it faces amid a rapidly changing world.
The Dissident (2020)
The Dissident is a documentary film that primarily focuses on the assassination of Saudi journalist and Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi. Khashoggi was killed inside the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, in October 2018.
The documentary delves into the circumstances surrounding Khashoggi’s death, the alleged involvement of Saudi Arabian government officials, and the broader implications for freedom of the press and human rights. It explores the complex relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States, as well as the global response to the incident.
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Trailer:
Saudi Women’s Driving School (2019)
Saudi Women’s Driving School is a documentary film that explores the historic moment when Saudi Arabia lifted the ban on women driving in June 2018. The documentary follows several Saudi women as they navigate the process of obtaining their driver’s licenses and the broader societal changes that accompany this significant shift in policy.
The lifting of the ban on women driving was part of broader social and economic reforms in Saudi Arabia led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Saudi Women’s Driving School provides a glimpse into the lives of Saudi women and the cultural and social changes taking place in the country.
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Trailer:
Kingdom of Silence (2020)
Kingdom of Silence is another documentary about Saudi Arabia that explores the life and death of Saudi Arabian journalist and Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi.
The documentary provides an in-depth look at Khashoggi’s career, his relationship with the Saudi royal family, and the circumstances surrounding his brutal murder inside the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul in 2018.
The title “Kingdom of Silence” reflects the secretive and often oppressive nature of the Saudi government and its control over information.
The documentary investigates Khashoggi’s critical views of the Saudi government, his self-imposed exile, and the events leading up to his assassination, shedding light on the broader implications for press freedom and human rights.
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Trailer:
Saudi Arabia Uncovered: The Fight For Human Rights (2016)
Saudi Arabia Uncovered was first broadcast as an episode of the ITV current affairs program “Exposure” in 2016. The documentary is notable for providing a rare and critical look into various aspects of Saudi Arabia, including its human rights issues, political system, and the enforcement of strict Islamic laws.
The documentary covers topics such as the treatment of women, the use of capital punishment, and the challenges faced by political activists. It features undercover footage captured by activists and journalists operating covertly within the country.
It’s important to note that “Saudi Arabia Uncovered” received attention for its content and raised awareness about human rights concerns in the country. If you’re interested in documentaries about Saudi Arabia that look into human rights issues, then this is one worth watching.
Architects of Ancient Arabia (2021)
This is an excellent documentary that explores some of Saudi Arabia’s past in ancient times at the desert oasis of AlUla.
It’s narrated by the award-winning actor Jeremy Irons and gives a great insight into some of the ancient riches of the country.
Mysterious Saudi Arabia: The Rise of a Desert Dynasty (2022)
Saudi Arabia is one of the richest countries in the world, but it was not always this way. Rising from a small caravan trading post in the 7th century to its riches today, this documentary explores the history of the country and how it came to be.
Out of these documentaries about Saudi Arabia, this is one of the best ones to watch for the history of the country.
Inside Saudi Arabia | Complete Series
This is a great documentary series that explores how Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman has said he wants to reform, but what that reality is actually like on the ground in the country.
Is it just words? Or are things going to happen…
Watch the full series on YouTube:
Bitter Rivals: Iran and Saudi Arabia
This is a great documentary from PBS Frontline that looks at how and why the famous 40-year rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia exists.
It’s not just about Saudi Arabia and Iran, the reporter explores how this rivalry has caused sectarian violence across the Middle East and he travels to several other countries in the region.
SHOCKING FIRST IMPRESSIONS! 🇸🇦ترجمة عربية INSIDE SAUDI ARABIA (2019)
This is a travelogue documentary series by one of my favourite YouTubers, Peter Santenello.
He travels to countries that have a perceived negative image and tries to connect with the locals and see what it’s like from inside the country. In this series, he explores Saudi Arabia.
Watch all his episodes on YouTube:
THE LINE: Saudi Arabia’s City of the Future in NEOM (2023)
This is a very different documentary compared to the others here as it looks at not the “country itself” but at one of its most recent and ambitious building projects.
The project is called “The Line” which is a planned linear vertical city, and this film, with the help of experts, explores the implications of this revolutionary building idea.
This is one of the more recent documentaries about Saudi Arabia to watch.
Saudi Arabia
These documentaries about Saudi Arabia provide a lens through which you can gain insight into the complexities of Saudi Arabian life, offering a nuanced perspective on a country that continues to be both a global economic player and a guardian of ancient traditions.
If you happen to be in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, then have a look at some of the best hotels in Riyadh to stay in.
For more on the region have a look at the 10 best documentaries about Egypt.
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