Saudi Arabia Travel

Known as a hiker’s paradise, a haven for divers, and a magnificent melting pot of the old world and the new, Saudi Arabia has an adventure for everyone. Discover diverse, awe-inspiring landscapes that will take your breath away. Swim in turquoise waters filled with coral reefs and mesmerising marine life. Enjoy stunning historical sites that serve as a window to the past. And explore a vast, dazzling desert that’ll surpass even your wildest dreams. A thousand and one adventures await you in Saudi Arabia – so, start planning the trip of a lifetime today!

The Highlights

Riyadh

A fantastic fusion of the old world and the new, Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia. Discover the city’s riveting history through its markets, mosques, and museums, or explore its modern side by shopping in a luxury mall and visiting the King Fahd International Stadium (which hosted a BTS concert in 2019). Regardless of your travel style, there’s an adventure for you in Riyadh.

Jeddah

An ancient port city on the Red Sea, Jeddah was shaped by Makkah-bound pilgrims and traders alike. Today, it’s an influential cultural hub with luxury hotels and medieval buildings. Visitors can step back in time as they explore the historic Al Balad (old town) by day and then enjoy first-rate accommodations at night. To top it all off, Jeddah is also famous for its seafood and pristine coral reefs.

Makkah

Known as the holiest city in the Islamic world, Makkah, or Mecca, is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. Every year, millions of Muslims visit this sacred city to perform Hajj and Umrah, the pilgrimages of Islam. The main attraction is the magnificent and massive Grand Mosque. However, if time allows, many also explore some of Islam’s most important tombs and battlefields.

Medina

Islam’s second holiest city after Makkah, Medina is home to the famous and beautiful Al Masjid an Nabawi complex, also referred to as the Prophet’s Mosque. The city played an instrumental role in the Prophet Muhammad’s life, making it a dream destination for many Muslims. In addition to its holy sites, Medina offers several wonderful museums like the Hejaz Railway Museum and Al-Madinah archeological museum.

Al-‘Ula

Located in Saudi Arabia’s northwestern region, the ancient city of Al Ula was once at the crossroads of the Silk Road and the Incense Route. Today, it’s a hidden gem just waiting to be explored! Hike or ride a camel through the enchanting Arabian desert; visit historic Hegra (Mada’in Saleh), the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site; and enjoy views of magnificent Elephant Rock from high above in a helicopter.

Dammam

A modern metropolis located on the Persian Gulf, Dammam is renowned for its beautiful clear-blue beaches, scenic islands, and historical sites. Enjoy a boat ride to the impressive man-made Al Marjan Island, relax on world-class beaches in Half Moon Bay, and learn about the Saudi culture at the 5-story Heritage Village. This exciting city will capture your heart and have you returning again and again.

The Location

Saudi Arabia is located in the Middle East and borders Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates. With coasts to the East and West, you can enjoy beaches both on the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf.

Capital City

Riyadh is the captivating capital of Saudi Arabia. With a population of over 7,5 million people, it’s a metropolis where skyscrapers, world-class restaurants, museums, and traditional markets all share the cityscape.

Main Airport

As Saudi Arabia is a big country with long stretches of uninhabited land, there are several international airports; Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, and Dammam all have major airports, each named after a royal, making cross country travel easy and smooth.

Language Spoken

Arabic is the official language, with a specific dialect called Gulf Arabic, or Khaleej. Not to worry, English is widely spoken throughout the country, so you are welcome to strike up convo with the locals. 

Currency

The national currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi riyal, with the currency code SAR. However, credit cards and contactless payments are also widely accepted.

Visas

Most travellers will require a tourist visa. The multiple-entry visa is valid for one year and will allow visitors to stay in the country for up to 90 days.

Electricity

Saudi Arabia has 230V supply voltage, so you may need an adaptor if your appliance isn’t designed for 230 volts. The plug is type G, the same as in the UK and Ireland.

Vaccinations

In terms of COVID-19, please check the latest travel restrictions before booking and travelling to Saudi Arabia or any transit countries.

Emergency Calls

Police: 999
Saudi Ambulance: 997
Traffic accidents: 993
Civil Defense: 998

When to Visit

Peak Season

NOVEMBER TO FEBRUARY

With balmy daytime temperatures and lovely cool nights, Saudi Arabia truly comes alive during this period! Enjoy world-class hiking through the Alhada Mountains, explore enchanting cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, or embark on a desert camping excursion unlike any other.

Low Season

JULY TO AUGUST

Over Saudi Arabia’s summer months, the temperatures peak causing people to flock to the Red Sea for an aquatic adventure. Visitors can enjoy turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and magnificent marine life while they snorkel, scuba dive, or simply relax and savour the serene surroundings.

FAQs

FAQs about Saudi Arabia

  • Do I need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia? As of 2019, travellers can obtain a tourist visa to visit Saudi Arabia.
  • What are the public holidays? Saudi Arabia has three public holidays each year. National Day, Eid Al Fitr, and Eid Al Adha.
    While Saudi’s National Day is always celebrated on September 23, the dates for Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha differ according to the Islamic lunar calendar.During the holy month of Ramadan, the rhythm of the country changes into a mellow, spiritual one.
  • What’s the phone code and which providers are there in Saudi Arabia? Saudi Arabia’s country code is 00966 There are three mobile network providers in Saudi Arabia. These are:
    – STC
    – Mobily
    – Zain
  • How can I exchange currency? All banks in the kingdom offer currency exchange services. Exchange bureaus are located at airports, some shopping centres, and various other locations throughout the country. Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted throughout the kingdom. ATMs are also widely available.
  • Is there a dress code? The dress code is dependent upon the individual establishments, some casual, others keen on sophistication. Places of worship, however, will require you to dress modestly while visiting. Men and women should dress conservatively, and cover knees and shoulders – no shorts, or sleeveless shirts. Optionally, visiting women can wear an abaya, a full length cloak that covers clothing, or a headscarf. Both of these items should be dark or black in colour.
  • What’s the etiquette in Saudi Arabia? Bad language, loud behaviour, and encroaching on other people’s boundaries are all considered disrespectful. Respectful public decorum is always advised.

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Saudi Arabia Travel
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