5 years back, if someone had said that visiting Saudi Arabia is like a cakewalk, no one would have believed it. But today, its travelling landscape has changed. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia opened its doors to tourists in 2019 to offer authentic Middle Eastern experiences. It lets you inside an uncharted new world. The birthplace of Islam is dotted with beautiful attractions belonging to different eras– from the undiscovered and preserved tombs of Al Ula to contemporary skyscrapers and luxurious poolside resorts.
Before you pack your bags and apply for a Saudi visa, here are the must-know travel tips to Saudi Arabia that can save you from stress.
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Travel to Saudi Arabia with a Tourist Visa
Saudi Arabia Visa Approved with Rubber Stamp and flag
What has made travelling to Saudi Arabia a relaxing affair is the ease of getting a visa – now available in over 50 countries. Saudi Arabia eVisa is applied in a matter of minutes and lets you explore the country for 30 days validity. In case you are looking for a longer stay, you can also opt for a 1-year multiple-entry Saudi visa from Dubai. All tourists must comply with the eligible nationalities, documentation and other requirements. To apply for a Saudi visa from Dubai or your hometown, you will need a valid passport, a duly filled application form, proof of accommodation, flight tickets, and a travel itinerary.
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Basic Info About Saudi Arabia
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia visa stamps and currency
- Currency
The currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR).
1 US Dollar = 3.75 SAR
The denominations of Riyal are 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 notes. Several restaurants, hotels and attractions accept major credit cards, but it is always a good idea to carry some local currency. You can also find cash machines at various spots in the country.
- Language
Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia. But English is also widely spoken throughout the country, making it convenient for tourists to communicate with the locals. Some of the common Arabic phrases that can help you start the communication are:
- sabaaH alkhayr (Good Morning)
- masaa’ alkhayr (Good Evening)
- min faDlik (Please)
- na am (Yes)
- la (No)
- šukran (Thank You)
- aläafw (Excuse Me)
- äafwan (You’re welcome)
- momken asawwar (Can I take a photo?)
- Network
Is the internet available in Saudi Arabia? Connecting to the internet in the Kingdom is an easy process. You can buy the SIM card at the airport itself. Those who want to buy it within the country can get it at any nearby shops or stores from their hotels.
Practical Tips for Travellers to Saudi Arabia
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Get your Travel Insurance
One of the major requirements for getting a Saudi Arabia visa is travel insurance. This helps you cover healthcare emergencies in foreign lands at the lowest prices. Often, airlines and travel companies recommend a credible insurer. Verify their reputation once and then align with their terms and conditions.
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Learn the Culture & Customs
The most prestigious place for Muslims across the world, Saudi Arabia follows Islamic practices and traditionalistic values. Besides the modest dress code, there are other cultural norms that one must abide by. From sunrise to sundown, the country prays five times. These prayer times last about 30 minutes. So, ensure that wherever you are, you do not break their protocols. There are times when shops get closed during these prayer times, so you must follow and kindly leave the premises.
Some of the basic public decency acts to follow are:
- Do not play loud music in the residential areas.
- Don’t discuss politics or religion in public.
- Do not litter or throw waste.
- Do not wear revealing or transparent clothes.
- Do not promote or distribute ads in public without a license.
- Do not use curse words or show improper gestures in public.
- Do not take pictures of people without permission.
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Do Smart Packing
One of the head-scratching confusions while travelling is what to pack. You must carry a balance of summer and modest clothes when you travel to a country like Saudi Arabia, which is both a conservative and hot country. Women should tuck in loose-fitting jeans and pants, cargos, long skirts, full-sleeved tops, shirts and a scarf. Men should stick to long pants and shirts. As evenings get chillier, pack a light jacket, a cardigan or a shawl. Sunscreen and a good hat are your best buddies. Since you would have to trek and hike through the arid landscape, carry your trainers/ tennis shoes for uninterrupted exploration. For those long treks, a light backpack or cross-body bag can help you carry the essentials on the way.
What not to pack for Saudi Arabia? The country has a strict policy against alcohol, so never pack alcohol or anything that contains alcohol. If you have some medications, make sure to carry the prescription. Do not carry binoculars or drones, as you are allowed to buy them within the country. Also, ensure that you use these instruments carefully with permission. You are not allowed to bring religious statues, frog meat, gambling games, e-cigarettes, military uniforms or a large collection of expensive jewellery.
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Follow the Dress Code
If you are a first-time visitor to Saudi Arabia, the dress code might seem intimidating. Until a few days before, the Kingdom had a rule for all women to wear abayas, a long gown. But now, the Saudi dress code for females is lenient— and, thus, women no longer need to wear an abaya and head covering mandatorily. But one must respect the local view. Foreign women can don comfortable and decent clothing that covers their knees and shoulders. Skimpy and revealing clothes are a big no while exploring its streets. You will have to wear trousers or skirts that are loose and do not reveal your curves. These full-length clothes dresses are also a saviour from the summer air in the sandy environment. The fashion statement of men is a bit on the lenient side. They wear a white standard-length loose-fitting garment called those with similar colour headdress. Locals have now adopted a tolerant dress code in Saudi Arabia and have reserved these traditional clothes for religious purposes. Swimsuits are allowed in private resorts.
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Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia
The best season to visit Saudi Arabia is autumn and winter. During this period, the temperatures are lower as compared to summer and offer a pleasant environment to tourists. For swimmers, March and April are the best months, as the water in the Red Sea is comfortably warm and filled with stunning coral reefs. The months of October to February are favourable for long drives and treks.
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Transportation
Travelling around Saudi Arabia is affordable, thanks to its range of public transport. There are numerous buses and taxis that take you around the major attractions. Trains are also gradually increasing in popularity. There are economy and business classes in metros. You can download different ride-hailing apps, such as Halal Taxi and Kaiian, for easy booking. But one of the popular ways to explore the hidden places of the country is to drive a car. Get your license before you hop in the driving seat.
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Local Cuisine
Saudi Arabia has a vibrant dining scene for all kinds of foodies, whether you are on a budget and looking for hole-in-the-wall eateries or planning an extravagant holiday by dining at Michelin-star restaurants. Some local dishes in Saudi Arabia that you must try are Kabsa, Mutabbaq, Harees, Mandi, Shakshouka and Jareesh. Rice is one of the staple dishes in the country, served with meat and broth.
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Other Things to Know About Saudi Arabia
- Travelers should know that check-in luggage is thoroughly investigated at the airport by authorities, and any prohibited items if found, could create an unwanted situation for you.
- It is one of the safest countries in the world for female travellers, with no worry about pickpocketing or scams.
- It is important to note that travellers must respect the privacy of locals. Do not take photos of public buildings (including employees) and local women, as it is considered illegal in the country.
- One of the most asked things about Saudi Arabia is how to tip. A nominal tipping is acceptable in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, whether you go out in restaurants, tour with guides or stay in hotels.
- Besides travel insurance, travellers to Saudi Arabia must take vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies.
- It is very important to mind your gender in this country. Unmarried couples are not allowed to live in the same hotel room or any household.
Conclusion
So, before you plan a trip to Saudi Arabia, these tips can help solve all your doubts and confusion. Make the most of this Kingdom as it is gradually topping the charts of tourist destinations.
Author Bio:
Kritika is a passionate travel writer and explorer. With a backpack and camera as her constant companions, she travels the globe for unique cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes.
A travel influencer, adventurer and blogger on a mision to dicover the hidden gems of this beautiful planet. For me traveling isn’t a hobby, but a way of living.
