Though Saudi Arabia's tourism industry has grown from strength to strength in recent times, new visitors often have questions about the Kingdom given how recently it has opened up to tourists.
How safe is it for tourists? Can women travel solo? Can you really fry an egg on the pavement during the peak of summer? (Very, yes and sometimes!)
It always helps to be well-informed about a destination before you visit – an awareness of cultural differences and what to expect will ensure a smoother trip for everyone. Here are some key Saudi Arabia travel tips that will ensure you have the holiday of a lifetime.
1. Women routinely travel solo
Saudi’s crime rate is very low, and while petty crime such as pickpocketing does happen, tourists can generally expect to feel safe and relaxed while out and about. It’s now legal for unmarried couples to travel together and share hotel rooms. Equally, women regularly travel solo throughout the Kingdom.
It has been legal for women to drive in Saudi for several years and women taxi drivers are relatively commonplace. You can even specifically request a woman taxi driver with Uber or use women-only ride-hailing apps such as Wsslini if that makes you more comfortable when getting around.
2. Check your passport and visa requirements before you travel
Almost all tourists need a visa to travel in Saudi Arabia but the good news is, it’s an extremely easy process. Citizens of most countries, including all European Union member states can get an e-visa online. It costs SAR 395-535, allows for stays of up to 90 days, and is processed instantly. Visa on arrival is also available for these countries.
Citizens of the United Kingdom also have the option of applying for a visa waiver, which is a cheaper option at SAR 150, but the application takes 24 hours and must be submitted a maximum of 48 hours before travel. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Saudi Arabia and you can apply through the Saudi visa platform website – then you’re good to go!
3. Respect local dress codes when you’re out and about…
The most commonly asked question by Saudi first-timers is about what to wear, and it’s definitely worth a bit of planning. Both men and women should avoid revealing clothing to abide by the rules of the Public Decorum Charter – this means loose, opaque clothing that reaches past the elbows and knees. Women don’t need to cover their heads or wear an abaya, but both might be required (or just considered more respectful) when visiting a religious site.
Otherwise, it’s a personal choice and some women who don’t typically wear a headscarf carry one to have the option. A scarf is often convenient when moving from the hot outdoors into air-conditioned spaces.
4. …including at the beach
When it comes to public swimming areas such as beaches, pools and waterparks, the rules can vary a lot. Some have women-only zones or times when the dress code is relaxed slightly, and swimwear revealing knees and shoulders is allowed.
It will be clearly signposted online or at the venue if this is the case. Otherwise, in a mixed, or “family” area, women swim in loose trousers and t-shirts, and men wear long loose shorts. In a handful of private resorts, the rules are relaxed further still and bikinis are allowed, but this is never the case at public beaches and pools.
5. Don’t drink alcohol
Drinking alcohol is strictly forbidden in Saudi Arabia, and liquor isn’t sold in restaurants, hotels or resorts – consuming or selling alcohol is a serious offence. While there has recently been a very slight relaxing of the rules to allow the strictly controlled sale of alcohol in Riyadh to non-Muslim diplomatic missions and ex-pat workers, this doesn’t apply to tourists.
6. Carry cash
Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops, however, it's always a good idea to carry some cash. If you’re travelling outside major cities or paying for small items in souqs or at snack stalls, make sure you’ve got some money with you.
7. Plan your meals carefully if travelling during Ramadan
During Ramadan, many Muslims fast between sunrise and sunset, a practice strictly observed throughout Saudi Arabia. If you’re a non-Muslim visiting the Kingdom during the holy month of Ramadan, you need to avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public areas during the day.
Restaurants won’t be open and picnicking or eating your own food while out and about during the day is a strict no-no. After dark, it’s a different story. Iftar is the sunset meal that breaks the fast and is often a social occasion with a great atmosphere. It can be a nice chance for non-Muslims to join in a meaningful cultural moment too.
8. Remember that Friday is a holy day in Islam
Friday and Saturday are the Saudi weekend days, and Friday is the holiest day of the week for Muslims. Avoid making appointments or plans in the morning, and expect most businesses to be closed at least in the mornings until after Friday prayer.
