Restricted
Saudi Arabia
Islam originated in Saudi Arabia approximately 1,400 years ago, and the religion’s founder, Muhammad, declared that no other religion should exist on the Arabian Peninsula. Saudi Arabia is also home to the Islamic city of Mecca, where pilgrims journey to complete their Hajj, one of the religion’s five pillars. Because of its prominence in Islam, Saudi Arabia has long been foundational to both the Islamic faith and Islamic extremism. However, in recent years, the government led by Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman Al Saud has begun a process of modernizing the nation, creating a new openness to American and Western European tourists and businesses. The government’s reforms have included limits on the activity of its oppressive “religious police” and relaxed laws that have long restricted women’s freedom to work and travel. Many Saudis have come to know Christ through digital media, travel abroad and exposure to faithful Christians inside and outside the country. Some Saudis are disillusioned by Islam and are more open to the gospel than ever before. While many are working to reach locals with the gospel, many more workers are needed.
Major Religion
Nearly all Saudi nationals are Sunni Muslims, with a small population of Shiites. Because of the many foreign workers in the country, 4 percent of the population is Christian.
Persecutor
Families, communities and the government severely persecute Christian converts from Islam and work to restrict evangelism and Bible distribution.
WHAT IT MEANS TO FOLLOW CHRIST IN SAUDI ARABIA
Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s most restricted and difficult environments for Christians, especially those who convert from Islam. One church has been allowed for foreign Christian workers, but no other churches are permitted. Conversions from Islam are considered apostasy by law and are punishable by death. But Saudis who convert are more likely to be killed by family members than to be imprisoned or otherwise punished by the government.
Access to Bibles
Many Saudis are creatively accessing Scripture through the internet and other digital media. Give Bibles
VOM Work
VOM covertly helps seekers and provides aid to Christian converts from Islam. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry
Pray for Saudi Arabia
- Pray that churches will be allowed to worship freely as the country is becoming more open.
- Pray for Saudis who are threatened after converting to Christianity. Ask the Lord to protect them and give them wisdom.
- Pray the Lord will soften the hearts of Saudis to the gospel and many will watch and listen to Arabic Christian media.
- Pray for the protection and witness of the many expatriate household workers, some of whom are Christians.
- Some Saudis who came to faith in Christ have been imprisoned and tortured. Pray that they will be strengthened.
