12Saudi Arabia

It’s very risky to become a Christian in Saudi Arabia. Not only is it illegal to leave the Islamic faith, but new believers will also face intense opposition from their families and communities. In a shame and honour culture, bringing shame on the family in this way is considered the worst thing a person can do. They can be pressured, disowned, locked away, beaten, or even killed to restore the family’s honour.

Because of this, most Saudi Christians tend to follow their faith quietly and secretly. This can extend to not even telling their own spouse or children about their faith, for fear that extended family members or school staff could discover they’ve left Islam. There are no legal church buildings or meetings. But secret believers have become bolder in recent times, sharing their Christian faith with others on the internet and Christian satellite TV channels. Though Saudi Christians caught doing this have faced serious repercussions.

Most Christians living in Saudi Arabia are temporary workers from other countries. They’re forbidden from sharing their faith with local Saudis and gathering for worship is restricted. Breaking these rules can get them detained and deported.

Meet

It’s too dangerous for any Saudi Arabian believer to share a quote.

What does Open Doors do to help?

Open Doors supports the Body of Christ on the Arabian Peninsula by organising prayer, distributing Scripture resources, and training believers and pastors.