Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East Region having an area of 2.15 Million sq. km. It has a 4,200km long land border shared with Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar UAE and Yemen. Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam and the home to two of its holiest shrines – Mecca and Medina. During the past decade Saudi Arabia has witnessed a series of socio-economic initiatives focused at the development of the citizens of the country. These initiatives include expanding employment and social opportunities for women, attracting foreign investments, increasing the role of private sector and discouraging local establishments from hiring foreign workers. In 2015 women were allowed to vote and stand for elections for municipal council seats and a total of 21 women won in these elections.