Despite agreements on religious freedom and enjoying a favorable status with Western nations, Saudi Arabia has one of the world's worst human rights records. Any person involved in evangelism or who converts a Muslim faces jail, expulsion or execution. Even foreigners visiting are not allowed to gather for worship. On March 25, 2004, Brian O'Connor, an Indian national was arrested in Saudi Arabia under false alcohol and pornography charges, as well as charges related to Bible studies and preaching Christianity. He was later convicted on the alcohol charges and sentenced to ten months in prison and three hundred lashes; a sentence he was to appeal. However, he was unexpectedly and unconditionally deported from Saudi Arabia on November 1 without any reason being given. He was taken to the Riyadh airport, allowed to embrace friends who had gathered to see him off, and then put on a plane to India. It is clear that the Lord is at work in Saudi Arabia, even in the most difficult circumstances. Speaking to Compass Direct, O'Connor reported that, during his seven months in prison, he was able to lead twenty-one fellow prisoners to faith in Jesus Christ. "I was there for a purpose," he testified. "And on the flight home today, I shared with another man who prayed with me to receive Christ."

In March, 2004, King Fahd bin Abdulaziz formally endorsed the establishment of the National Human Rights Association.  Saudi Arabia has signed agreements on religious freedom and enjoys a favorable status with Western nations.  Despite all this, Saudi Arabia has one of the world's worst human rights records. Any person involved in evangelism or who converts a Muslim faces jail, expulsion or execution. Often false drug charges are used against those evangelizing. Even foreigners visiting are not allowed to gather for worship. Since 1992  there are more than 360 cases of Christian expatriates being arrested for participating in private worship. Despite this, the Defense Minister, Prince Sultan, told reporters in March 2003 that Christians are free to worship privately, but reiterated that no church buildings will be allowed. He said, "We are not against religions at all ... but there are no churches - not in the past, the present or future." With the death of King Fahd, persecution of believers has not improved, but has been on the rise under the new King Abdullah.

• Pray for Christians working secretly to share the message of Christ in Saudi Arabia.
• Pray that nations of the world will pressure Saudi Arabia to act on their agreements and recognize the rights of their citizens.