Discovering Saudi Arabia Through the Lens of its Singapore Ambassador
Ever wondered how a Saudi diplomat manages to juggle religious obligations, travel visas, and the ever‑present drama of global politics? Meet Saad Saleh Al Saleh, the Saudi Ambassador to Singapore, and find out how he’s turning the pilgrimage powder keg into a smooth ride for local Muslims.
Hajj 101: One‑Time‑In‑Lifelong Undertaking
The holy pilgrimage isn’t optional—if you’ve got your body and your bank account in check, you’re expected to head to Mecca at least once. Al Saleh explains how the embassy teams up with MUIS (Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura) to iron out visa logistics and quotas, ensuring every Singaporean Muslim can check off that life‑goal.
Saudi Arabia: From Oil & Camels to Vision 2030
- Oil is great, but it’s not a silver bullet. Relying on crude for future certainty is a shaky bet—so the kingdom is moving on.
- Saudi Vision 2030. Think of it as the nation’s life‑plan with more roads, tech, and a dash of “we’re not just a desert.”
- Women can drive? Yep! The ban lifted, waving a red flag for freedom while still keeping the cultural charm.
Why It Matters
The ambassador talks about how this shift mirrors other seismic changes in the kingdom, from diversifying the economy to opening doors for women. It’s a country that’s trying to “tip the scale” toward stability without losing its identity.
Behind the Scenes with Mission:SG
Singapore, a melting pot of cultures and global ties, hosts a vibrant ambassadorial community. Mission:SG is a seven‑part series that brings you up close with seven ambassadors, exploring their lives and diplomatic missions. If you’re curious about how diplomacy works on the street, this is the show for you—with Chinese and English subtitles for that extra flavor.
