Saudi Arabia Travel Guide: Complete Travel Information for Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is a rapidly developing travel destination on the Arabian Peninsula, offering modern cities, UNESCO heritage sites, Red Sea coastlines, vast deserts, mountain landscapes, Islamic history, contemporary cultural events and world-class archaeological sites such as Hegra in AlUla.

The capital is Riyadh. The official currency is the Saudi riyal (SAR). Saudi Arabia uses Arabia Standard Time, UTC+3, throughout the year and does not observe daylight saving time.

1. Entry Requirements & Documents

Passport and visa requirements

Entry requirements for Saudi Arabia depend on nationality, passport type, travel purpose and intended duration of stay. Many eligible travellers can apply online for a tourist eVisa, while others need a visa through a Saudi embassy, consulate, authorised visa centre or sponsor.

Your passport should normally be valid for at least six months beyond your planned arrival date.
Eligible nationals can apply for a multiple-entry Saudi tourist eVisa online.
Visitors not eligible for the eVisa may need a visa arranged through an embassy or authorised provider.
Visa rules for Umrah, Hajj, business, work and family visits differ from tourist-visa rules.
Travellers should carry hotel details, a return or onward ticket and sufficient funds.
Entry regulations can change, particularly around Hajj, Umrah, Ramadan and major events.

Use the official Saudi tourism platform for visa eligibility and visitor information: Visit Saudi – Official Tourism Platform.

Official visa information is available through: Saudi Tourist Visa Portal.

Visa and travel-insurance note

Saudi tourist eVisa arrangements may include mandatory basic health-insurance coverage. However, this basic cover should not automatically be treated as a complete replacement for comprehensive international travel insurance. Check the current policy wording, medical limits, exclusions, evacuation cover and treatment conditions before travel.

Useful travel documents

Passport and visa or eVisa confirmation.
Return or onward travel ticket.
Hotel reservation or host address.
Travel health-insurance certificate and emergency-assistance contact number.
International driving permit if renting a vehicle.
Prescription documents for medication.
Digital and paper copies of passport, visa, bookings, insurance and emergency contacts.

Customs and prohibited items

Saudi Arabia has strict laws on narcotics, weapons, pornography, religiously offensive material, alcohol and certain medicines. Penalties for drug offences can be severe. Carry prescription medication in original packaging with a doctor’s letter and do not bring prohibited substances or equipment.

Alcohol is prohibited for import, sale and public consumption.
Do not bring illegal drugs, weapons, pornographic material or offensive religious content.
Check restrictions for drones, professional filming equipment and satellite communication devices before travel.
Do not export protected cultural objects, archaeological items or wildlife products without permission.

2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Health preparation

Saudi Arabia has modern private hospitals and clinics in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Makkah, Madinah and other major cities. Medical access can be more limited in remote desert, mountain and coastal regions.

Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
Discuss hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tetanus, meningococcal vaccination and other recommendations with a travel clinic.
Hajj and Umrah visitors may have specific vaccination requirements, including meningococcal vaccination rules.
Carry prescription medicine in original packaging with a doctor’s letter.
Pack sunscreen, rehydration salts, basic medication and insect repellent where needed.

Travel health insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Choose cover for emergency treatment, private hospital care, medical evacuation, repatriation, personal liability, road accidents and any higher-risk activities such as diving, desert excursions, hiking or mountain travel.

Check whether the visa-linked insurance policy has adequate medical and evacuation limits.
Confirm that pre-existing conditions are covered where relevant.
Ensure your policy covers activities such as diving, camel riding, desert safaris and hiking.
Carry your insurer’s 24-hour emergency telephone number offline.

Heat and hydration

Saudi Arabia can experience extreme heat, particularly in summer and in desert regions. Avoid prolonged midday sun exposure, carry water, use high-SPF sunscreen and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Medical and health hotlines

Unified emergency number: 911 in designated regions.
Police: 999.
Ambulance: 997.
Fire and civil defence: 998.
Ministry of Health contact centre: 937.

3. Safety & Travel Advisories

General safety

Saudi Arabia is generally considered safe in major cities and established tourist destinations, with relatively low levels of street crime. However, visitors must follow local laws carefully and remain alert to regional security developments, road-safety risks, weather extremes and restrictions around sensitive sites.

Keep passports, money, cards and devices secure in crowded areas.
Use authorised taxis, reputable ride-hailing apps or hotel transfers.
Do not leave valuables visible in vehicles.
Avoid protests, political gatherings and sensitive public discussions.
Do not photograph government buildings, military sites, airports, oil facilities or security personnel.
Check official travel advice shortly before departure and monitor regional developments during your stay.

Border areas and regional developments

Avoid travel close to the Yemen border and other restricted border regions unless essential and specifically authorised. Security conditions, airspace restrictions and transport schedules can change quickly due to regional developments.

Local laws and social rules

Saudi Arabia has strict laws on drugs, alcohol, public order and online behaviour.
Respect Islamic customs, especially during Ramadan and near religious sites.
Dress modestly in public; local expectations vary by location, but conservative clothing is the safest choice.
Public displays of affection should be avoided.
Do not make insulting or critical comments about religion, the royal family, the government or Saudi society.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially women, families and local residents.
Only Muslims may enter the holy cities of Makkah and certain areas of Madinah.

Road safety

Road traffic can be fast and driving behaviour may be unpredictable. Long-distance desert travel requires proper planning, fuel, water, navigation, a reliable vehicle and local knowledge.

Wear seat belts at all times.
Avoid driving at night outside major cities.
Watch for camels, livestock, sand on roads and unlit vehicles on rural routes.
Do not enter desert areas without sufficient water, fuel, maps and a suitable vehicle.
Use licensed operators for dune driving, desert camping and remote excursions.

Official travel advice

4. Emergency & Important Numbers

Emergency numbers

Unified emergency number: 911 in Riyadh, Makkah region, Madinah region and the Eastern Province.
General emergency alternative: 112.
Police: 999.
Traffic police: 993.
Highway security: 996.
Ambulance / Saudi Red Crescent: 997.
Fire and Civil Defence: 998.
Ministry of Health contact centre: 937.
Tourism call centre within Saudi Arabia: 930.
Tourism assistance from outside Saudi Arabia: +966 920 000 890.
Visa and passport inquiries: 992.

Official UK travel advice confirms that travellers can use 911 for ambulance, fire and police emergencies, and that visitors without a Saudi SIM card can call 112 in an emergency. The U.S. Embassy also lists 999 for police, 997 for ambulance and 998 for fire services.

Official emergency information: Saudi Emergency Numbers – stc Saudi Arabia.

Tourism support: Visit Saudi Tourist Care.

Emergency planning checklist

Save 911, 999, 997, 998, 930 and your insurer’s emergency assistance number.
Keep your hotel address, booking details and destination map location available offline.
Carry extra water, fuel, food, sun protection and warm layers on desert and mountain trips.
Share your remote travel itinerary with hotel staff, guides or family members.
Do not rely on mobile reception in remote desert, mountain or coastal areas.
Monitor weather warnings for flash floods, sandstorms and extreme heat.

5. Embassies & Consulates

Consular assistance

Saudi Arabia hosts embassies and consulates in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dhahran. Contact your embassy or consulate if you lose your passport, are arrested, require emergency travel documents, become seriously ill or are involved in a major accident.

Useful embassy and consular links

United States mission contacts

U.S. Embassy Riyadh: +966 11 510 3731.
U.S. Consulate General Jeddah: +966 12 220 5000.
U.S. Consulate General Dhahran: +966 13 839 5700.

Confirm current addresses, office hours, emergency numbers and appointment requirements directly with your embassy before travel.

6. Background on Saudi Arabia & Society

Country overview

Saudi Arabia occupies most of the Arabian Peninsula and borders Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Yemen. It has coastlines on both the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. The country is a major global energy producer and is investing heavily in tourism, culture, sports, transport, technology and entertainment through Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s geography includes the Rub’ al Khali desert, Red Sea coral reefs, mountain ranges in the southwest, oasis regions, volcanic landscapes, major cities and ancient caravan routes. Riyadh is the capital, Jeddah is the main Red Sea commercial gateway, and AlUla is a major heritage destination.

Society, religion and culture

Official language: Arabic.
Religion: Islam is central to public life and national identity.
Holy cities: Makkah and Madinah are major global centres of Islamic pilgrimage.
Culture: Saudi traditions combine Arab, Bedouin, Islamic, coastal, desert and regional influences.
Hospitality: Coffee, dates and shared meals are important expressions of welcome.
Modernisation: The country is expanding tourism, cultural events, entertainment and international business.

Etiquette and respectful behaviour

Dress conservatively in public, particularly in religious, rural and government settings.
Use the right hand when giving or receiving food, money, tea or gifts.
Accepting Arabic coffee or dates is often a polite response to hospitality.
Ask before photographing people, especially women, families and officials.
Respect prayer times, Ramadan customs and restrictions in holy cities.
Avoid insulting religion, the royal family, government institutions or Saudi society.

7. Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate

Saudi Arabia has a predominantly arid desert climate, with extremely hot summers in many inland and desert areas. Conditions vary by region: Riyadh is dry and hot, Jeddah is hot and humid, AlUla has hot days and cooler nights, while the southwestern mountains around Abha can be cooler and greener.

Best time to visit

October to March: Generally the most comfortable time for city visits, heritage sites, desert travel and outdoor activities.
April and September: Hot but manageable with early-morning and evening sightseeing.
May to August: Very hot in much of the country, especially Riyadh, AlUla and inland regions.
Summer in the southwest: Higher-altitude areas such as Abha can be cooler than central and eastern regions.

Clothing recommendations

Wear light, breathable clothes suitable for strong sun and high temperatures.
Bring a hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen and a reusable water bottle.
Pack a light jacket or scarf for strong air conditioning and cooler desert evenings.
Wear modest clothing in public places, religious areas and traditional towns.
Use comfortable closed shoes for heritage sites, desert walks and rocky terrain.
Bring warmer layers for winter nights in AlUla, desert camps and mountain areas.

Weather hazards

Extreme heat can cause dehydration and heatstroke.
Sandstorms and dust can reduce visibility and affect flights or road travel.
Flash floods can occur after heavy rain, especially in wadis and low-lying areas.
Check regional weather alerts before desert, mountain and coastal excursions.

8. Language & Communication

Languages

Official language: Arabic.
English: Widely used in hotels, airports, malls, restaurants, business settings and major tourist destinations.

Useful Arabic phrases

Hello: Marhaba / As-salamu alaykum
Thank you: Shukran
Please: Min fadlak for a man / Min fadlik for a woman
Yes: Na'am
No: La
Excuse me: Afwan
How much is this? Kam hatha?
Where is the toilet? Ayna al-hammam?
Do you speak English? Hal tatakallam al-ingليزية?

Internet, SIM cards and roaming

Saudi Arabia has widespread mobile coverage and fast internet in cities and major tourist areas. Local SIM cards and eSIM services are available from major providers such as stc, Mobily and Zain. Coverage can be weaker in remote deserts, mountains and coastal regions.

Buy a SIM card or eSIM from an official provider or airport outlet.
Carry your passport for SIM registration.
Download offline maps before desert or mountain travel.
Use a power bank for long road journeys and overnight camps.
Respect local laws governing online content and social-media activity.

9. Voltage & Plug Types

Electricity in Saudi Arabia

Voltage: 230 V.
Frequency: 60 Hz.
Plug types: Type G is common, while Type A, Type B and Type C sockets may also be found.

Adapter and converter advice

A universal travel adapter is recommended because socket types can vary by hotel, building and region. Travellers from the United Kingdom often use Type G plugs directly. Travellers from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, most European countries, the United States, Canada and Australia should bring a suitable adapter.

Most mobile, camera and laptop chargers support 100–240 V. Check the label on your device before travelling. Carry a power bank and spare cable for road trips, desert camps and remote sites.

10. Money & Finances

Currency

The official currency is the Saudi riyal (SAR). The riyal is divided into 100 halalas and is pegged to the US dollar. Cash remains useful, but Saudi Arabia is increasingly card- and mobile-payment friendly.

Check current exchange rates: XE Currency Converter for SAR.

Payments and cash

Cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, malls, taxis and larger shops.
Visa and Mastercard are widely used; American Express acceptance is more limited.
Apple Pay, contactless cards and local digital payments are common in cities.
Cash is useful for smaller markets, tips, remote locations and some local services.
ATMs are widespread in major cities, airports and shopping centres.

Price level

Saudi Arabia can be moderately expensive to expensive, particularly for international hotels, private drivers, desert tours, high-end dining, event tickets and premium tourism regions such as AlUla. Local food, ride-hailing, fuel and some domestic services can offer good value.

Tipping culture

Tipping is appreciated but not always compulsory.
In restaurants, check whether a service charge is included before adding around 5–10% for good service.
Small tips are appreciated by hotel staff, drivers, guides and luggage handlers.
Carry small cash denominations for tips on tours and in remote areas.

11. Transport & Arrival

Main airports

King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh (RUH): Main airport for the capital.
King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah (JED): Major gateway for Jeddah, Makkah and Red Sea travel.
King Fahd International Airport, Dammam (DMM): Main airport for the Eastern Province.
Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Madinah (MED): Gateway for Madinah and religious travel.
AlUla International Airport (ULH): Gateway for AlUla heritage and desert tourism.

Airlines and domestic flights

Domestic flights are useful because Saudi Arabia is geographically vast. Saudia, flynas and flyadeal operate many internal routes between major cities and tourism regions.

Rail and public transport

Haramain High Speed Railway: Connects Makkah, Jeddah, King Abdulaziz Airport, King Abdullah Economic City and Madinah.
Riyadh Metro: Major urban rail system serving Riyadh.
Intercity buses: SAPTCO operates long-distance bus routes.
City transport: Available in Riyadh, Jeddah and other major cities, but taxis and ride-hailing are often more practical for visitors.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps

Ride-hailing is usually the easiest way for visitors to travel within major cities. Confirm the pickup location, vehicle registration and fare estimate before entering the vehicle.

Driving and road trips

Saudi Arabia is suitable for road trips, especially around AlUla, Jeddah, the Red Sea, the Eastern Province and the southwest. However, distances are long, desert conditions can be severe and off-road trips require preparation and local knowledge.

12. Accommodation & Practical On-Site Information

Accommodation types

Luxury hotels: Widely available in Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, Makkah, Madinah and Red Sea resorts.
Business hotels: Common in major cities and commercial districts.
Mid-range hotels: Available in most large towns and tourist areas.
Serviced apartments: Useful for families and longer stays.
Desert camps and eco-lodges: Available around AlUla and selected nature destinations.
Pilgrimage accommodation: Extensive choice in Makkah and Madinah, with demand peaking during religious periods.

Recommended areas to stay

Riyadh – Olaya: Business district, malls, restaurants and international hotels.
Riyadh – Diriyah: Heritage attractions, dining and traditional architecture.
Jeddah – Al-Balad: Historic old town and heritage atmosphere.
Jeddah Corniche: Waterfront hotels, restaurants and Red Sea access.
AlUla: Desert landscapes, heritage sites, boutique resorts and camp experiences.
Aqaba is not in Saudi Arabia: For Saudi Red Sea travel, consider Jeddah, Yanbu, Umluj and the southern Red Sea coast.

Opening hours and shopping

Malls, cafés and restaurants often remain open late, especially in the evening.
Friday is the main weekly prayer day; opening hours can differ on Fridays.
During Ramadan, many businesses operate different hours and evening life becomes especially active after sunset.
Government offices and banks may close or operate reduced hours during public holidays.
Carry cash for small purchases, tips and remote destinations.

Major shopping centres

Riyadh Park: Major mall with dining and entertainment.
Kingdom Centre: Landmark tower and shopping destination in Riyadh.
Riyadh Gallery: Large shopping and dining centre.
Red Sea Mall: Major shopping centre in Jeddah.
Mall of Arabia: Shopping, restaurants and entertainment in Jeddah.
AlUla Old Town: Heritage shopping, cafés, crafts and visitor services.

13. Food, Drink & Cuisine

Typical Saudi dishes

Kabsa: Fragrant rice dish with chicken, lamb, fish or other meat, often considered a national favourite.
Saleeg: Creamy rice dish associated with the Hijaz region.
Jareesh: Crushed wheat dish cooked with meat, yoghurt or spices.
Matazeez: Small dough pieces cooked in a stew with meat and vegetables.
Mutabbaq: Filled layered pastry popular in Jeddah and western Saudi Arabia.
Harees: Wheat and meat porridge often associated with Ramadan.
Maamoul: Date- or nut-filled biscuits.
Dates: A central part of Saudi hospitality and cuisine.

Drinks

Arabic coffee, often flavoured with cardamom and served with dates.
Black tea, mint tea and spiced tea.
Fresh juices, fruit cocktails and non-alcoholic malt drinks.
Arabic beverages such as qamar al-din during Ramadan.
Alcohol is prohibited in Saudi Arabia.

Food hygiene and dietary needs

Saudi Arabia has a wide range of restaurants, from local family establishments to international fine dining. Food hygiene is generally good in established venues. Choose busy restaurants, eat freshly cooked food and drink bottled water when travelling in remote areas.

Halal food is standard throughout Saudi Arabia.
Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available in Riyadh, Jeddah and major tourism destinations.
Clearly explain allergies through a translation app if necessary.
Carry snacks and water for long desert drives, heritage-site visits and remote excursions.

14. Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time zone

Time zone: Arabia Standard Time, UTC+3.
Daylight saving time: Saudi Arabia does not observe daylight saving time.
Difference from Central Europe: Usually two hours ahead of Germany, Austria and Switzerland in winter, and one hour ahead during Central European Summer Time.
Difference from the United Kingdom: Usually three hours ahead in winter and two hours ahead during British Summer Time.

Important public holidays

Saudi Founding Day: 22 February.
Eid al-Fitr: Date changes annually according to the Islamic calendar.
Eid al-Adha: Date changes annually according to the Islamic calendar.
Saudi National Day: 23 September.

Saudi Founding Day marks the foundation of the first Saudi state in 1727. Saudi National Day on 23 September commemorates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Public holidays can affect banking, government services, accommodation availability, domestic travel and attraction opening hours.

Ramadan and the Hajj period are especially important. Restaurant hours, transport demand, hotel prices and visitor access can change significantly during these periods.

Official AlUla holiday guidance: Saudi Arabia Public Holidays – Experience AlUla.

15. Attractions & Highlights

Riyadh and central Saudi Arabia

At-Turaif District in Diriyah: UNESCO World Heritage site with restored mud-brick architecture and Saudi heritage.
Kingdom Centre Tower: Riyadh landmark with panoramic city views.
National Museum of Saudi Arabia: Major museum on Arabian history, culture and religion.
Masmak Fortress: Historic fort associated with the formation of modern Saudi Arabia.
Edge of the World: Dramatic escarpment landscape outside Riyadh; use an experienced operator and check access conditions.

Jeddah and the Red Sea coast

Al-Balad: UNESCO-listed historic district in Jeddah, known for coral-stone buildings and wooden balconies.
Jeddah Corniche: Waterfront promenade, beaches, cafés, sculptures and views of the Red Sea.
King Fahd Fountain: Famous Jeddah landmark on the Red Sea coast.
Red Sea diving: Coral reefs, snorkelling and diving opportunities from Jeddah, Yanbu and other coastal areas.
Umluj: Coastal region with beaches, islands and clear water.

AlUla and north-western Saudi Arabia

Hegra: Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, with Nabataean rock-cut tombs.
AlUla Old Town: Historic mud-brick settlement and visitor district.
Elephant Rock: Natural sandstone formation near AlUla.
Dadan and Jabal Ikmah: Ancient kingdoms, inscriptions and archaeological sites.
Maraya: Mirror-clad concert hall and cultural venue.

Mountains, oases and natural landscapes

Al-Ahsa Oasis: UNESCO-listed palm oasis in the Eastern Province.
Abha and Asir: Mountain scenery, cooler temperatures, heritage villages and hiking.
Rijal Almaa: Heritage village in the Asir region.
Farasan Islands: Red Sea islands known for beaches, diving and wildlife.
Rub’ al Khali: The Empty Quarter, one of the world’s largest sand deserts; visit only with qualified guides.

Official tourism and attraction information: Visit Saudi.

16. Nightlife & Events

Evening life

Saudi Arabia does not have an alcohol-based nightlife scene. Evening life centres on restaurants, cafés, shisha lounges, shopping malls, concerts, festivals, sporting events, family entertainment, desert camps and hotel dining.

Riyadh: Fine dining, cafés, entertainment districts, concerts and seasonal festivals.
Jeddah: Waterfront dining, cafés, heritage walks and Red Sea leisure.
AlUla: Desert dining, stargazing, cultural performances and heritage events.
Abha: Mountain cafés, local markets and cooler summer evenings.
Red Sea coast: Resorts, diving centres and beachside dining.

Festivals and events

Riyadh Season: Large programme of entertainment, concerts, sports, food and cultural events.
Jeddah Season: Events, concerts, waterfront activities and cultural programmes.
Winter at Tantora: AlUla festival featuring music, culture, art and heritage experiences.
Saudi National Day: Celebrations, fireworks, concerts and public events around 23 September.
Founding Day: Cultural events and celebrations around 22 February.
Diriyah Season: Sports, food, heritage and entertainment events.

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