Religions

Saudi Arabia's official religion is Islam, and the Quran serves as the country's constitution. The legal system is based on an official interpretation of Islam based on the Sunni jurisprudence of the Hanabali school. Saudi Arabia has a population of about 27 million people, with 80 to 90 percent of the population following Sunni traditions. Shia make up about 10% to 15% of the population. There is almost no religious freedom, and any religion other than Islam is prohibited.

Muslims who did not accept the government's interpretation of Islam were subjected to political, economic, legal, and religious persecution. Individuals have been arrested for insulting Islam. Saudi Arabia values its responsibility as guardian of the two Holy Mosques in Mecca and Medina. Other than mosques, the construction of religious structures is prohibited. The Saudi government is financially responsible for all Sunni mosques in the country, which number over 60,000 in total.

Children born to Muslim fathers are automatically Muslim, and leaving Islam is punishable by death. The death penalty is also applied to blasphemy against Islam. Non-Muslims must convert to Islam in order to become naturalized.