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Overview
Saudi Arabia occupies the bulk of the Arabian Peninsula and is the Arab world's largest country by area. For most of modern history it was largely closed to leisure tourism, but since 2019 the kingdom has opened to international visitors as part of its Vision 2030 economic diversification programme. The shift has been rapid: new hotels, museums, and entertainment venues have appeared in quick succession, while ancient sites that were previously inaccessible are now receiving visitors.
The country's geography ranges from the volcanic basalt plains of the northwest to the vast Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) sand sea in the south, the fertile Asir highlands along the southwestern edge, and more than 2,700 km of Red Sea coastline. This physical variety means the experience of traveling within Saudi Arabia differs dramatically depending on where you are.
Riyadh, the capital, is a sprawling inland metropolis that offers museums, modern architecture, and a rapidly expanding dining and cultural scene. Jeddah, the historic Red Sea gateway, has a UNESCO-listed old quarter — Al-Balad — and a more cosmopolitan atmosphere. Mecca and Medina are the two holiest cities in Islam; entry to Mecca is restricted to Muslims, and Medina's central religious sites have similar restrictions. Beyond cities, destinations such as AlUla, Hegra, and Diriyah are drawing international attention for their archaeological depth.
Travelers should approach Saudi Arabia with an open mind and thorough preparation. Laws, customs, and social expectations differ meaningfully from many Western countries, and understanding them in advance makes for a smoother and more respectful journey.
Before You Go
Visas
Saudi Arabia introduced a tourist e-visa in 2019, opening the country to nationals of many countries for the first time. Visa rules, eligibility, and fees change — verify current requirements through TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official Saudi Arabian government immigration portal before booking anything.
Health
Consult a travel health clinic at least four to six weeks before departure. Requirements and recommendations for vaccinations can change, particularly around the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage seasons when disease-prevention protocols are heightened. Carry any prescription medications in original, clearly labeled containers, and check in advance whether your medication is permitted — some substances legal elsewhere are controlled in Saudi Arabia.
What to pack
- Loose, modest clothing is strongly recommended for all travelers regardless of gender; shoulders and knees should generally be covered in public spaces and religious sites.
- Sunscreen, a hat, and electrolyte supplements are practical essentials given the intense heat outside the cooler months.
- A universal adapter: Saudi Arabia uses the UK-style Type G plug in many buildings, though Type A/B sockets also appear.
- Download offline maps and translation apps before arrival; connectivity in remote desert areas can be limited.
Currency and Payments
The Saudi Riyal is pegged to the US dollar. ATMs are widely available in cities. Credit cards are broadly accepted in hotels, malls, and restaurants, though cash remains useful in souks and smaller establishments. Verify current exchange rates before travel.
Getting There
Saudi Arabia has several international airports, with King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh being the main entry points for international travelers. King Fahd International Airport in Dammam serves the Eastern Province. NEOM Bay Airport in Tabuk serves the northwest.
Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) and Flynas are the primary national carriers, operating an extensive network of international and domestic routes. Most major global airlines also serve Riyadh and Jeddah. Flight times vary significantly depending on origin: roughly 6–7 hours from major European hubs, 3–4 hours from East African cities, and 15+ hours nonstop from the US West Coast.
Overland entry is possible from neighboring Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries — Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain (via the King Fahd Causeway), the UAE, Qatar, and Oman — but border crossing procedures and requirements should be confirmed well in advance, as they are subject to change. Sea entry via Red Sea cruise ports is also possible for cruise passengers.
Getting Around
Domestic Flights
Domestic air travel is the most practical way to cover Saudi Arabia's vast distances. Saudia and Flynas operate frequent connections between Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Abha, Tabuk, AlUla, and other regional airports. Book in advance, particularly during holidays and pilgrimage seasons.
Driving
Saudi Arabia has an extensive highway network and driving is one of the most flexible ways to explore. International driving permits are generally required alongside your home license — verify current requirements. Road conditions on main inter-city highways are generally good; desert off-road driving requires a 4WD vehicle, experience, a GPS device, and ideally a travel companion vehicle. Fuel is widely available and relatively inexpensive by international standards.
Urban Transport
Riyadh has a modern metro system (Riyadh Metro) covering several lines across the city — a practical and affordable option for getting around the capital. Jeddah relies more heavily on taxis and ride-hailing apps (Uber and Careem both operate widely). Ride-hailing apps are generally reliable in major cities and are often the easiest option for visitors who don't have a rental car.
Intercity Bus
Saptco (Saudi Public Transport Company) operates intercity bus routes connecting major cities. Journey times between distant cities can be long, and most visitors prefer to fly for long-distance travel, but the bus network is functional and widely used by residents.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in Saudi Arabia spans international five-star chains in Riyadh and Jeddah, mid-range business hotels in regional cities, and an expanding eco-lodge and heritage camp sector in destinations like AlUla. The main international hotel brands — Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, IHG, Accor, and others — are well represented in major cities.
In AlUla, a number of designed heritage camps and boutique properties have opened in recent years, catering to the growing cultural tourism market. These tend to book up quickly during the cooler visiting season (November to March) — reserve well in advance. Verify current listings and pricing directly with properties or through established booking platforms.
Budget accommodation options exist but are less varied than in comparable destinations in the region. Prices at the upper end of the market can be high, particularly during major events, public holidays, and Ramadan. Serviced apartments are a practical option for longer stays or family groups and are available in most major cities.
Things to See & Do
AlUla and Hegra
AlUla, in the Medina region, is arguably Saudi Arabia's most compelling heritage destination for international visitors. The ancient Nabataean city of Hegra (also known as Mada'in Salih) — Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site — features well-preserved rock-carved tombs and monumental facades comparable to those at Petra in Jordan. The surrounding AlUla valley has additional geological and archaeological layers, including the ancient Dadan and Lihyan kingdoms. The Royal Commission for AlUla has developed visitor infrastructure substantially; check the Experience AlUla website for current tour availability and booking requirements.
Diriyah
Just outside Riyadh, Diriyah is the ancestral home of the Al Saud family and the original capital of the first Saudi state. The At-Turaif district is a UNESCO-listed mud-brick citadel complex offering a window into pre-modern Arabian architecture. Significant development work is ongoing in the broader Diriyah area; verify which sections are open before visiting.
Riyadh
The National Museum of Saudi Arabia near the Al-Masmak Fortress is a logical starting point for understanding the country's history. Al-Masmak itself — a mud-brick fortress from the late 19th century — is a key historical landmark. Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn) is a dramatic escarpment about 90 km northwest of the city offering sweeping views over the Tuwaiq cliffs; access typically requires a 4WD and is best done with a knowledgeable guide.
Jeddah
Al-Balad, Jeddah's historic district, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of narrow coral-stone merchant houses decorated with ornate wooden mashrabiya balconies. The Corniche offers a long waterfront promenade, and the King Fahd Fountain — one of the world's tallest fountains — is visible from it. The Red Sea coast near Jeddah has diving and snorkeling opportunities on reef systems; verify current operator listings locally.
Asir Region
The southwestern Asir highlands around Abha offer a climate and landscape unlike the rest of the country — cooler, greener, and characterized by terraced mountain villages. Rijal Almaa, a restored traditional village, and Asir National Park are the main draws. The region has a distinct cultural character and receives significant domestic tourism.
Other Notable Sites
- Farasan Islands (Red Sea): A remote archipelago with coral reefs, migratory birds, and ancient ruins; access requires planning.
- Madain Saleh / Al-Hijr: See Hegra above.
- Jubbah Rock Art: Prehistoric petroglyphs in the Ha'il region, listed as a UNESCO site.
Food & Drink
Saudi cuisine reflects the country's geography and trading history. Staples include kabsa (slow-cooked spiced rice with meat, the de facto national dish), mandi (meat and rice cooked in a tandoor pit), jareesh (crushed wheat cooked with meat and spices), and mutabbaq (stuffed pancake, commonly found as street food). Dates in many varieties are ubiquitous and eaten at all times of day. Fresh flatbreads such as khameer and regag are common accompaniments to meals.
Saudi Arabia is a dry country — the sale and public consumption of alcohol is prohibited by law. Non-alcoholic alternatives, including Arabic coffee (qahwa, flavored with cardamom and saffron), tea, fresh juices, and an enormous variety of soft drinks, are universally available. Qahwa served with dates is a traditional gesture of hospitality that visitors will encounter frequently.
The dining scene in Riyadh and Jeddah has expanded substantially in recent years, with a wide range of international cuisines now available alongside local food. Malls and commercial districts contain many familiar international chains. For authentic local food, look for traditional restaurants and smaller family-run establishments in older neighborhoods.
Ramadan significantly affects food service: restaurants may not serve food during daylight hours or may operate under modified arrangements. If you visit during Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking in public during fasting hours is not permitted regardless of your religion — be prepared to eat in your hotel room or at designated venues. Verify current practice on arrival.
Practical Information
Emergency Contacts
Verify all emergency numbers through official Saudi government sources before travel, as they can vary by region and service. Widely cited numbers include 911 (general emergency), 997 (ambulance), 998 (fire), and 999 (police) — confirm these are current upon arrival.
Internet and SIM Cards
SIM cards from Saudi telecom providers (STC, Mobily, Zain) are available at airports and mobile phone shops. Data speeds are generally good in urban areas. Some websites and apps available in other countries are restricted in Saudi Arabia — verify access to specific services before relying on them.
Electricity
Saudi Arabia operates on 220V/60Hz. Plug types vary: Type G (UK-style three-pin) is common, but Type A and B sockets also appear. Carry a universal adapter.
Tipping
Tipping is not formally required but is appreciated in restaurants and for hotel staff. A tip of 10–15% is considered generous in dining settings. Verify whether a service charge has already been added to your bill.
Time and Business Hours
Business hours vary by sector and can differ from Western norms. Government offices typically operate Sunday through Thursday. Many retail businesses run late into the evening. Always confirm hours for specific attractions before visiting, as they can change during religious holidays and Ramadan.
Safety
Saudi Arabia has a generally low rate of street crime, and visitors rarely report petty theft or personal safety incidents of the kind common in high-tourism destinations elsewhere. That said, standard travel precautions apply: keep valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings, and use reputable transportation.
The legal system operates under Islamic law (Sharia) and differs substantially from legal systems in many visitors' home countries. Behaviors that are legal elsewhere — including possession of alcohol, certain medications, or particular publications — may carry serious legal consequences in Saudi Arabia. Research the legal context carefully before departure and keep within the law at all times.
Road safety is a meaningful concern. Traffic accidents are a significant cause of injury in the region. Drive defensively, wear seat belts, and avoid driving after dark in unfamiliar desert areas.
The geopolitical situation in the broader region warrants attention. Check your government's official travel advisory for Saudi Arabia before and during your trip — these advisories are updated when security conditions change. The Saudi-Yemeni border area in the southwest has historically been subject to heightened security caution; heed any advisory guidance about proximity to border zones.
Local Culture & Etiquette
Islam is central to public life in Saudi Arabia. The country observes five daily prayer times, during which many shops and businesses close temporarily. Mosques broadcast the call to prayer (adhan) audibly throughout cities and towns. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter mosques in most cases, and the cities of Mecca and Medina have specific access restrictions for non-Muslims that must be respected.
Modest dress is expected of all visitors, regardless of gender, in public spaces, government buildings, and religious sites. Women are no longer legally required to wear the abaya in public (a change introduced in 2019), but conservative dress remains culturally expected and practically advisable across much of the country, particularly outside Riyadh and Jeddah's most cosmopolitan areas. Men should similarly avoid shorts and sleeveless tops in traditional settings.
Public displays of affection are considered inappropriate. Photography requires care and cultural sensitivity — always ask permission before photographing people, and avoid photographing government buildings, military installations, and religious sites without clear permission. Social norms around gender interaction in public have evolved noticeably since 2018, but remain different from many Western countries; observe local cues.
The weekend in Saudi Arabia falls on Friday and Saturday. Government offices and many businesses are closed on these days. Friday prayers (around midday) are an important time when most commercial activity pauses. Public holidays follow the Islamic calendar and shift each year relative to the Gregorian calendar — confirm dates before scheduling time-sensitive plans.
