Sinhalese in Saudi Arabia

People Name:	Sinhalese
Country:	Saudi Arabia
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	78,000
World Population:	715,400
Primary Language:	Sinhala
Primary Religion:	Buddhism
Christian Adherents:	3.00 %
Evangelicals:	2.00 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	South Asia Buddhist
Affinity Bloc:	South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Sinhalese culture goes back about 2600 years when migrants from what is now northern India went to Sri Lanka. Eventually, these new settlers developed a language which we now call Sinhala, and the people were Sinhalese. Around 250 B.C. they embraced Buddhism, which became part of their identity as a people.

A small number of Sinhalese have migrated to other countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The Sinhalese diaspora spans 20 countries.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Some come to these countries as students, but they are most likely to be on work visas. Every year, they gather with other Sri Lankan expatriates in Saudi Arabia to celebrate the new year.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Unlike the Arab majority, the Sinhalese in Saudi Arabia are almost entirely Buddhist. The strict Wahhabi form of Sunni Islam is the state religion in Saudi Arabia. Proselytism is forbidden, but expatriates are allowed to practice their faith.

What Are Their Needs?

Resources in the Sinhalese language include a complete Sinhalese Bible, an audio New Testament online, JESUS Film, and gospel recordings. The Sinhalese need to have the spiritual hunger it will take to find and use these resources.

Prayer Points

Pray that gospel radio, television, and Christian websites might penetrate the homes and hearts of Sinhalese people living in Saudi Arabia.
Pray that greater unity, effective discipling of believers, and sensitive sharing of faith will occur among the Sinhalese in Saudi Arabia.
Pray for a mighty movement to Christ among the Sinhalese, both in Sri Lanka and in Saudi Arabia.