What is the common Arabic phrase used to greet someone in Saudi Arabia?

The phrase "As-salamu alaykum" holds significant cultural and religious importance in Saudi Arabia and across the Arab world. It translates to "Peace be upon you," and is a traditional and widely used greeting among Muslims. This greeting is not just a casual hello; it conveys a genuine wish for peace and goodwill towards the person being greeted.

Using "As-salamu alaykum" is considered a sign of respect and politeness, and it’s customary for the response to be "Wa alaykum as-salam," meaning "And upon you be peace." This exchange helps to foster a sense of community and connection among individuals. While there are other greetings available in Arabic, such as "Marhaba" and "Ahlan wa sahlan," "As-salamu alaykum" remains deeply ingrained in the culture, reflecting both its religious significance and its use in daily interactions.