Belgium – a stunning cultural pearl of all of Europe with numerous medieval cities, historical sites, and parks. This small country in the heart of Europe will surprise you and encourage to return.
Belgium is a beautiful balance between metropolitan cities and nature. This European country has a rich history and culture, complemented by stunning attractions. The country’s three regions, Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels, are wonderful destinations, attracting tourists with their scenic landmarks. The history of UNESCO-listed Brussels sites starts from the 14th-century guildhalls surrounding the elegant Grand Place to the Art Nouveau townhouses of Victor Horta, created in the early 20th century. Belgium sits at the crossroads of medieval and modern Europe; from canal-riddled fairytale cities like Bruges and Ghent to the urban centers of Antwerp and Brussels.
This nation has been at the forefront of Europe’s history, and many of the continent’s most important events took place across the country. It was in Belgium that Napoleon met his rival at the battle of Waterloo; and during the First and Second World Wars, Belgium was at the frontline. The World War I battlefields of Ypres are now important pilgrimage sites and some of the most popular places to visit in Belgium.
The natural beauty of this country is inexplicable. There are many magnificent parks and forests across the country to enjoy cycling, walking, or hiking, including the Ardennes forest that covers an area of over 11,000 square kilometers, the third in the country, as well as Hallerbos forest well-known for its stunning purple carpet of bluebells, blooming in mid-April. Those looking to spend the night in a unique location surrounded by nature can book an overnight stay at Tree Tents in Han, in the heart of a wildlife park. You will have the pleasure of admiring breathtaking views of the former Lesse river valley from a secluded tent in a tree and enjoy observing deer, horses, and other local fauna in their natural habitat.
Brussels is considered the diplomatic capital of Europe with the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. The capital is one of the most multicultural and multinational cities after Washington, D.C. and Dubai.
The diversity of tourists to Belgium is notable. Belgium hosts a number of top festivals that take place all-year-round. Tomorrowland, one of the largest electronic music festivals, attracts thousands of tourists annually. Moreover, Belgium is a growing hub for fashion enthusiasts with the diamond capital Antwerp and burgeoning high-fashion. Gourmets will be delighted to enjoy the international cuisine of the Middle East, Latin America, Asia, and Africa.
The opportunity to taste renowned products such as Belgian chocolate and beer, as well as fries and waffles, will make this adventure an unforgettable experience for all your senses.
Bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia
The first Belgian legation was opened in Jeddah in 1954, and the first Belgian ambassador was appointed in 1964. The first ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Belgium was appointed in 1963. Since Saudi Arabia and Belgium established diplomatic relations, the two countries have strengthened and deepened these strong ties with regular state visits. An early highlight in the relations was the state visit of King Faisal to Belgium in 1967 and the state visit of King Baudouin to Saudi Arabia in 1975.
Regular communication between the governments of the two countries takes place in Riyadh, Brussels, or during international meetings through the discussion of trade or political cooperation in the region and beyond. The Belgium embassy in Riyadh is responsible for Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Yemen, while the Saudi embassy in Brussels is responsible for diplomatic relations with the Kingdom of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
Belgium’s cooperation with Saudi Arabia extends to the political, administrative, professional, and cultural fields, encompassing various official collaboration, as well as private initiatives. Belgium also holds bilateral cooperation with Saudi Arabia through the EU and GCC partnerships that began with the signing of a cooperation agreement over 30 years ago. It is of high importance to mention that the EU-GCC ministerial meetings take place regularly and aim to discuss all current global and regional problems, thus to strengthen the political dialogue between the EU and the GCC on topics of common interest.
Saudis enjoy spending time in Belgium. Once they discover the country, they tend to return and explore it even more. The evidence is the growing number of visas issued by the Embassy of Belgium to the Kingdom. There are also Saudi students in Belgian colleges and universities, pursuing medical studies or graduate courses in management and engineering. On a more popular scale, there have been several notable football player exchanges between Belgium and Saudi Arabia. Thus, four Belgian players participated in various Saudi football leagues, and two Saudi players were members of Belgian football teams.
The economic relationship between Belgium and Saudi Arabia has remained stable and firm in the past years as the countries have expanded their cooperation as trade partners and investors. In 2019, Saudi Arabia was Belgium’s 31st biggest export client (€1.8 billion) with chemicals and machinery. Many Belgian companies operate in the Gulf region in a wide range of domains, such as construction, engineering, dredging, transport, medicine, and consultancy.
Where To Go
Ghent is a university city with carefully preserved historical sites and architecture. During your trip to the medieval center, be sure to explore the 1,000-year-old fortress, three medieval towers and the glorious two-row house on each side of the river, within a walking distance.
Knokke Zwin National Park is great for relaxing walks or bike rides through wonderful scenery, just minutes away from the busy shopping streets of Knokke. Visitors can also enjoy nature excursions, including bird watching, as well as exploring endemic fauna and unique flora.
Built in 1893 by Victor Horta, the Tassel House is the first manifestation of the Art Nouveau style in Brussels. It was the first house where Horta applied his theories – the exposed metal structure, the integration of the decor with the structure, the fluidity of the spaces, and the skylights in the middle of the building. The house is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and today is occupied by the European Food Information Council (EUFIC).
The Citadel of Dinant is an incredible merger of architecture, history, and nature, paying tribute to the best
of Belgium. Located on a rocky outcrop and accessible both by steps (402 to be exact!) or a cable car, the citadel offers a spectacular panorama overlooking the splendid Meuse Valley.
Only two hours from Brussels, Durbuy, the smallest city in the world, and with a population of just 500, has retained a charming medieval atmosphere.
What To Do
Take a boat trip through the channels of Bruges. For centuries, the canals winding through Bruges have been the veins for the city and are a splendid way to treat yourself with the magnificent views around every bend. Discover secret gardens, romantic bridges, and medieval façades reflecting in the water while swan families will float past.
Explore the world diamond museum, DIVA. Each day, around 220 million dollars worth of diamonds pass through Antwerp’s Diamond Quarter. The district has a turnover of $54 billion annually, making it one of the top-grossing areas in the world.
Taste the Belgian food culture. From chocolate to beer, waffles to fries, Belgian cuisine is one of the most loved in the world, that tastes better on one’s home lawn.
Stay at a fairy tale castle. There are more castles per square mile in Belgium than anywhere else in the world. With over 3,000 to explore, it can be hard to know where to start.
Discover the caves of Han. Located in the heart of the very first Belgian UNESCO Global Geopark, Han Cave will take you on a journey to the center of the Earth. These are stunningly beautiful concretions with mesmerizing chamber sizes.
