riyadh saudi arabia travel advisory

Skip to main content
Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Saudi Arabia travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: June 5, 2024 06:24 ET

Border with Yemen - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to areas within 80 km of the border with Yemen, due to rocket, missile and mortar attacks on Saudi population centres near the border.

Abha International Airport - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the Abha International Airport, in Asir Province, due to the risk of missile and drone attacks.

Al Qatif and its suburbs - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to Qatif and surrounding suburbs, such as Al Awamiya, in Eastern Province. Ongoing tensions between Saudi security forces and local militants create potential for unrest.

Border with Yemen

Armed groups in Yemen regularly target Saudi interests near the border in retaliation for Saudi involvement in the war in Yemen. Houthi militias regularly launch rockets, missiles and mortars at Saudi population centres near the border.

Exercise extreme caution if you are travelling to or within other parts of southwestern Saudi Arabia
Airports in the area may be closed with little or no notice. Verify your travel plans before leaving for the airport

Northern Saudi border

The Saudi authorities have declared an “out of bounds” zone of 20 km from:

the entire northern border of the country
the border in the Hafr al Batin and Khafji areas in Eastern Province

Violations are punishable by up to 30 months in prison and a SAR 25,000 fine.

Direct access to land border crossings remains available and signs are being placed in areas where vehicles are allowed to cross. Consult local authorities before attempting to cross a land border through this area.

From May to September, 2017, clashes between Saudi security forces and activists and militants have caused casualties in Al Awamiya in the Qatif region of Eastern Province. Although the situation has calmed, tensions remain high and there is a heavy security presence in the area.

Al Awamiya and Al Musawara

Civil unrest and armed clashes may occur. Saudi forces may impose curfews with little or no notice.

If you must travel to Al Awamiya and Al Musawara suburbs of Qatif, exercise extreme caution and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Missile strikes and drones

Missiles and drones have been launched from Yemen into Saudi Arabia, most of which have been intercepted and destroyed by Saudi air defence systems. The majority of these events occur close to the Yemen border, however some have occurred in cities such as Riyadh, Abha, Yanbu as well as in parts of the Eastern Province. Urban areas, military, oil and public facilities, such as airports, may be targeted by these missiles and drones. These events are expected to continue to occur and the situation remains unpredictable. Given the significant range of recent strikes Saudi Arabia, the Red Sea and the Gulf are at risk.

Missile and drone interceptions may cause scattered debris or fragments. Seek shelter during these events, stay away from doors and windows and follow the instructions of local authorities.

If you encounter debris or fragments:

don’t get close to or touch them
move away from them immediately
contact local authorities

There is a threat of terrorism. Attacks have occurred throughout the country. Latest large-scale attacks have targeted the Shia minority in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia’s security forces and places of worship where large groups gather. Further attacks cannot be ruled out.

Targets could include:

government buildings, including schools
places of worship
airports and other transportation hubs and networks
public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Heightened security measures are currently in place and may be reinforced on short notice.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places
Be particularly vigilant during religious holidays and public celebrations. Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks

There is a threat of kidnapping in Saudi Arabia. Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are illegal in Saudi Arabia. They occur predominantly in Shia communities in the Qatif area of Eastern Province. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Security forces quickly prevent demonstrations from forming or gathering momentum.

Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

The next Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca is expected to take place from June 14 to 19, 2024. Traffic in Mecca peaks during Eid al-Adha.

Religious sites during Hajj

There are safety risks at religious sites due to overcrowding. Pilgrims have been killed or injured in stampedes. The sites are far from the Canadian embassy. Contact your travel agent for information on available services and support.

Useful links

Information on entry requirements during the pilgrimage

The crime rate is low. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, especially in crowded areas and at holy sites.

Don’t show signs of affluence
Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Road safety

Roads in larger cities are generally well maintained. Roads in rural areas are less developed, poorly lit and range from pavement to sand or gravel.

Exercise extreme caution when driving
Don’t drive off-road unless you are in a convoy of four-wheel-drive vehicles and with an experienced guide
Ensure you are well prepared with a sufficient supply of gas, water and food, and a cell or satellite phone
Leave your travel itinerary with a relative or friend

Driving risks

Poor driving habits, disregard for traffic laws and road markings, and excessive speed are common and cause fatal accidents.

Only use pre-arranged, licensed taxis. Avoid shared or unregistered taxis.

Marine transportation

Exercise caution if travelling by sea, including for recreational purposes, in the Gulf, particularly around the disputed islands of Abu Musa and Tunbs. Iran and the United Arab Emirates each claim sovereignty over the islands.

Pirate attacks occur in coastal waters and, in some cases, farther out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Saudi Arabian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Saudi Arabia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Tourist visa

You can obtain a tourist visa online before your trip or upon arrival at the airport. The tourist visa allows for multiple entries and is valid for one year. You can stay up to a maximum of 90 days in total per visa. You cannot extend a visa. Muslim tourists can perform Umrah with any type of visa. A specific visa is required to perform Hajj.

Apply for a tourist visa online - Visit Saudi Arabia

Obtaining a visa

You can obtain a visa at an agency authorized by the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia to Canada in Ottawa. If you reside in a foreign country, you may obtain a visa from the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate.

Women entering Saudi Arabia

Women must be met by their sponsors at the port of arrival or risk being denied entry. This does not apply to women entering the country on a tourist visa.

You must present a valid Hajj visa if you travel to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage. This visa is only valid for travel to Jeddah, Mecca and Medina, and for travel between these cities. Non-Muslims are forbidden from travelling to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Pilgrims performing Hajj must travel with a travel agency that is accredited with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

Women of all ages may travel without a mahram (male guardian, such as a brother, father or husband) to perform Hajj or Umrah. A notarized letter of no objection from the husband, son or brother is no longer required.

In the period preceding and during the Hajj pilgrimage, Muslim visitors with a valid Hajj visa will be allowed to board flights to Jeddah, Medina and Taif. Muslim travellers with business or visit visas must enter through any other entry point.

Foreign representatives in Canada
Visit Saudi – Saudi Tourism Authority
Nusuk Hajj Platform – Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah

Entry and exit permits

Holders of residency permits.

If you have a resident permit (iqama), you can't leave the country without obtaining an exit (or exit/re-entry visa if you intend to return to Saudi Arabia) from the Saudi Ministry of Interior. You must have your sponsor's approval to obtain these visas.

Single-entry visa

Single-entry visa holders don't need an exit permit.

Outstanding fees for dependents

Prior to exit, expatriates who have outstanding fees for dependents may be required to pay at the point of exit prior to departure if they have an exit re-entry visa, or on renewal of their exit re-entry visa.

Regional travel

Canadians have been denied entry into Saudi Arabia because their passports bore an Israeli visa, an Israeli border stamp or an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel. Such a stamp would indicate the traveller visited Israel prior to coming to Saudi Arabia.

Health entry requirements

You must produce a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test certificate and proof of a criminal background check if you intend to work in Saudi Arabia.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in Saudi Arabia - 31 August, 2023
COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
Hajj 2024 - 27 May, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Outbreak Monitoring

Meningococcal disease cases linked to umrah travel to saudi arabia.

There have been reported cases of meningococcal disease linked to Umrah travel to Saudi Arabia.

If you are considering travel to Saudi Arabia for the purposes of Umrah, make sure you are vaccinated with a quadrivalent (ACYW) meningococcal vaccine before travelling, as required by Saudi Arabia. Consult a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before travel to discuss vaccination, and to get personalized health advice and other recommendations.

Health requirements (moh.gov.sa)

Immediately seek medical attention if you, your child, or another close contact develops symptoms of meningococcal disease. This can include sudden fever, drowsiness, irritability, headache, vomiting, stiff neck, and a skin rash that spreads rapidly.

Symptoms of invasive meningococcal disease

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

Vaccination is not recommended.
Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.

The flu occurs worldwide.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes. There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination.

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin. • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area. • Wear permethrin-treated clothing. If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living.

There are vaccination entry requirements in place for travellers entering Saudi Arabia for Umrah, Hajj or for seasonal work in Hajj zones.

These include vaccinations for COVID-19, polio, meningococcal meningitis, and yellow fever. Before travelling, make sure you meet all requirements for participating in Hajj or Umrah.

For more information, visit the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Health’s page for Hajj and Umrah health regulations.

Hajj and Umrah Health Regulations - Ministry of Health in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (external)

Large numbers of people in small areas can enable the spread of infectious diseases and increase the risk of injury. Take the time to prepare for your trip and know how to reduce the risks.

In this destination, rabies may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional.

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The risk may vary between regions of a country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

In this country, dengue is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) have been reported in this destination. The risk to travellers is low; MERS is primarily spread through contact with camels or camel-based products (raw milk, meat, urine). It can also spread through close contact, such as when caring for an infected person.

Avoid contact with animals (especially camels), camel-based products, and wash your hands frequently.

Prevention of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)

MERS symptoms range from mild and flu-like to more severe pneumonia-like symptoms, and can result in death.

There is no vaccine or medication that protects against MERS.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

washing your hands often
avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.

Medical services and facilities

Modern medical care is available in large cities. Adequate medical services are available in smaller cities. Immediate cash payment may be required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Legal process

The Saudi judicial system is based on Sharia (Islamic law). The legal process may be slow and cumbersome. Those suspected of, and witnesses to offences may be held for lengthy periods without access to legal counsel or consular officials. If access is granted, it may be severely limited by Saudi authorities. Seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Authorities may place a legal travel ban on individuals involved in ongoing legal cases or investigations, or who have outstanding debts. Saudi citizens are also permitted to place travel bans on individuals.

Drugs and alcohol

Penalties for the import, manufacture, possession and consumption of alcohol, illegal drugs or products containing their ingredients are severe.

Saudi authorities practice zero tolerance and make no distinction between alcohol and soft or hard drugs. Drug offenders may be sentenced to corporeal punishment or death.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Religious proselytism

It's illegal to:

engage in religious proselytizing
criticize Islam
practise any religion other than Islam in public spaces

Be cautious when discussing religious issues.

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

Dress and behaviour

The country’s customs, laws and regulations adhere to Islamic practices and beliefs. Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions in order to avoid offending local sensitivities, especially in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, and in mosques.

Women should observe the strict Saudi dress code and wear conservative and loose-fitting clothes, including a full-length cloak (abaya) and a head scarf. Men should not wear shorts in public or go without a shirt. Seek guidance concerning acceptable clothing before your arrival.

Public spaces

Avoid physical contact, such as holding hands, in public.

Women aren’t allowed to associate with men in public unless the women are accompanied by other family members. A woman can be charged with prostitution if she’s found associating with a man who is not a relative.

Restaurants can have two sections: one for men only, and the family section where families, accompanied females and unaccompanied females are served.

Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice

The Mutawa, also known as the religious police, have harassed, pursued and assaulted foreigners they believe disregard strict Saudi standards of conduct and dress. Often, they will simply instruct women to cover their hair. The Mutawa carry special identification and are typically accompanied by a uniformed police officer.

If you’re stopped by the Mutawa, cooperate and ask them for their credentials. Offer to accompany them to the nearest police station
Don’t hand over identification documents
Inform your sponsors if the police retain your documents

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

The laws of Saudi Arabia prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Further, it is illegal to be transgender. Those convicted may face the death penalty.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Saudi Arabia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to show identification at any time.

Carry identification documents, including your residency permit (iqama) or entry visa, at all times
Leave your passport in a safe place and carry a photocopy for identification purposes

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Saudi Arabia.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Saudi Arabia, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

Marriage between a foreign woman and a Saudi man

A Saudi man who wishes to marry a foreign woman must obtain permission from Saudi authorities. He must also sign a document that gives irrevocable permission to his wife and the children born of their union to enter and exit the country without restrictions. This law has been in effect since 2008, and is not retroactive. Regardless, the foreign spouse and their children may still have difficulty leaving Saudi Arabia.

Common-law unions

Common-law relationships are illegal and are subject to severe punishment, including the death penalty.

Extramarital relations

Extramartial relations are illegal and subject to severe punishment, including the death penalty.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Saudi Arabia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Saudi Arabia by an abducting parent:

act as quickly as you can
consult a lawyer in Canada and in Saudi Arabia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
Request emergency assistance

Royal family

Criticizing the royal family is illegal.

Be cautious when discussing political issues.

Pork Products

It’s prohibited to import and consume pork-based products.

Photography

It’s forbidden to photograph official buildings (e.g. government, military institutions) and holy sites. Seek permission prior to photographing individuals.

Prohibited activities and censorship

Dancing and music are prohibited.

Imported and domestic audio-visual media and reading materials are censored in Saudi Arabia.

Imports and exports

Airport authorities will thoroughly examine all electronic devices entering or leaving Saudi Arabia. Pirated or explicit materials will be confiscated. You may be detained or deported if you don’t comply. If deported, you’ll be barred from re-entering Saudi Arabia.

The importation of any item that is held to be contrary to the tenets of Islam, such as pornographic materials, drugs, alcohol and weapons, is prohibited.

The work week is from Sunday to Thursday.

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Women are now legally allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia.

If you’re involved in an accident:

don’t disturb the scene until the traffic patrol arrives
don’t make any financial arrangement with the other drivers
immediately contact your visa sponsor and the Canadian embassy in Riyadh or the Consulate of Canada in Jeddah

In a traffic accident resulting in personal injury, regardless of fault, drivers may be held for several days until responsibility is determined and restitution is made. If severe injuries or death occur, compensation may need to be paid to the victim’s family for the injuries or loss of life.

Automated ticketing system

Some Saudi cities have implemented an automated traffic ticketing system. All fines issued through this system must be paid before leaving the country. Payment can be made at the airport during regular Saudi office hours.

The currency is the Saudi riyal (SAR).

Heavy rains

Although Saudi Arabia is one of the driest countries in the world, heavy rains occur occasionally between the months of November and February and can cause major flooding. This can severely affect overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services.

Exercise caution
Monitor local news and weather reports
Follow the advice of local authorities

Sand storms

The weather is very dry and hot from May to October. Sand storms and dust storms may occur during the summer months.

Shamals, sand-laden winds from the northern deserts, occur most frequently in early summer and can blow at significant speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. These storms can also cause respiratory problems, which can be fatal for some people.

If a dust storm is occurring:

stay indoors
keep windows closed
be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

police: 999
medical assistance: 997
firefighters: 998
general security: 989

Consular assistance

Bahrain, Oman, Yemen

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Saudi Arabia, in Riyadh, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Search Smartraveller

Saudi Arabia

Latest update.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Saudi Arabia overall due to the threat of terrorism and missile and drone attacks.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Saudi Arabia (PDF 399.86 KB)

The Middle East (PDF 1.45 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Emergency services, fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 997 or go to the hospital.

Traffic accidents

Call 999 or go to the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Saudi Arabia overall.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Saudi Arabia overall due to the threat of terrorism and missile and drone attacks.

See Safety .

Do not travel to areas within 30km of the border with Yemen.

Do not travel to areas within 30km of the border with Yemen due to ongoing conflict in Yemen.

See Safety .

Reconsider your need to travel between 30km and 80km of the border with Yemen.

Reconsider your need to travel between 30km and 80km of the border with Yemen due to the threat of missile and drone attacks.

An increased threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region and ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East. Demonstration and protest activity may occur, and localised security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests.
This may also result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and flight diversions and other travel disruptions.
Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Avoid possible targets such as energy infrastructure. Be alert at places frequented by foreigners and at large-scale entertainment events. Take official warnings seriously.
Demonstrations are illegal. Avoid demonstrations or large public gatherings as they can turn violent. There may be severe penalties for participating in demonstrations or protests.
Missile and drone attacks originating from Yemen and targeting sites in Saudi Arabia are possible. Most attacks are intercepted. Follow the advice of local officials.
Crime rates are low, but theft happens, especially in crowded places and from vehicles. Physical, verbal and sexual harassment can occur.
Be prepared for extreme weather. From June to August, temperatures can exceed 50°C. Sandstorms and dust storms are common.
Driving can be hazardous. The annual road death toll is extremely high.

Full travel advice: Safety

Travellers to Saudi Arabia (excluding residents) must have medical insurance that covers the cost of COVID-19 treatment. This is included in the cost of a tourist visa (eVisa). See further details on the Visit Saudi website.
Cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome have been reported. Avoid contact with camels or products contaminated with camel secretions.
Sandstorms and dust storms can cause allergies and breathing problems. Discuss your travel plans with a doctor if you have an existing condition.
Malaria, including chloroquine-resistant strains, is present in south-western Saudi Arabia. Consider taking anti-malarial medication. Other insect-borne diseases include dengue and leishmaniasis. Use insect repellent.

Full travel advice: Health

Many laws in Saudi Arabia are different to those in Australia, including for same-sex relations and abandoning the Islamic religion. Punishment may include imprisonment and the death penalty. Get professional advice for local legal matters. You may be prevented from leaving the country until issues are resolved.
It’s illegal to mock, provoke or question public order, religious values or public morals. Criticising Saudi Arabia, the royal family, the leadership or Islam is also against the law. These laws extend to social media posts, even if posted many years ago and outside Saudi Arabia. Foreigners have been sentenced to decades in prison for offensive tweets made outside Saudi Arabia years before their visit to the country.
Alcohol is prohibited in Saudi Arabia.
It's against the law to have sexual relations or live together outside of marriage. If you're sexually assaulted, you may face criminal prosecution. Authorities may not consider you to be a victim of crime.
In Saudi Arabia, men and women should dress modestly in public. Cover your shoulders and knees and avoid tight-fitting clothes or clothes with profane language or images.
Same-sex relationships are illegal. Saudi Arabia does not recognise or allow same-sex marriages and rights.

Full travel advice: Local laws

Australian citizens holding valid Australian passports can apply for a tourist visa online or on arrival. Check the Saudi eVisa website for current information on tourist visas. A visa does not guarantee your entry to Saudi Arabia. Check visa conditions before your arrival.
All Saudi visa holders are permitted to perform Umrah throughout the year, except around Hajj time, when only Hajj visa/permit holders can enter Makkah (Mecca). Monitor the media for information about the dates the Hajj time starts.
Saudi Hajj and Umrah Ministry have launched the ‘ Nusuk’ platform to register and facilitate pilgrim procedures for both Umrah and Hajj.
Unless you’re a resident of Saudi Arabia, you must have medical insurance that covers the cost of COVID-19 treatment (see ‘Health’). See further details on the Visit Saudi website.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
For consular help, contact the Embassy of Australia in Riyadh.
Follow the Embassy's social media channels for local information (see 'Local contacts').

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

There is a threat of terrorism in Saudi Arabia. An attack could happen anywhere, at any time.

Several terror incidents have happened in Saudi Arabia in recent years, including those targeted at Saudi security forces.

On occasion, attacks have targeted the minority Shia community in Saudi Arabia’s eastern province.

Expats have died or been injured in attacks that were targeted at others.

Further attacks are possible.

Possible terrorism targets include:

shopping malls
restaurants
recreational facilities
entertainment events
embassies and consulates
other symbols of Western culture

Attacks may be planned or random, large or small. Tactics could include bombings, drive-by shootings or kidnapping .

If you're in Saudi Arabia:

be alert to possible threats and avoid possible targets for a terror attack
always have a clear exit plan in case there's a security incident
monitor the media for new or emerging threats
report any suspicious activity or items to police
take official warnings seriously
follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Civil unrest and political tension

The political situation within Saudi Arabia is currently stable. However, the security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Military tensions remain in neighbouring Yemen. Missiles, explosive-laden drones and explosive-laden boats have targeted civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, including ports and airports. Some attacks have been intercepted by the Saudi military.

Many of these attacks occur close to the Yemen border, especially in the provinces of Jazan, Najran and Aseer (including Abha). Urban centres in the Eastern Province have been targeted, in addition to oil infrastructure in that province. The capital Riyadh, and cities on the Red Sea, such as Jeddah and Yanbu, have also been targeted. Other areas may be targeted from time to time.

Targets have included:

urban areas
oil infrastructure
government facilities
public facilities, such as airports

Such attacks may continue. The frequency of attacks vary and not all individual attacks are always widely publicised.

To stay safe in the event of an attack:

if you hear a loud explosion or if sirens are activated, immediately seek cover
stay away from windows or openings.
seek shelter in the centre of the building at the lowest level possible
be aware that if an incoming missile or drone is intercepted, falling debris can pose a risk
after an attack, stay away from any debris
follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for emerging threats

Demonstrations and protests

Demonstrations are illegal, and any large spontaneous gatherings are unusual. You should avoid these, as they could turn violent. Penalties for participating in demonstrations or protests may be severe.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Kidnapping

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Overall the rate of crime in Saudi Arabia is low.

Theft can occur, including in crowded places, malls and from vehicles.

Carry only what you need. Leave other valuables in a secure place.

Keep vehicle doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even when moving.

Take care when travelling outside towns and cities, and in crowded areas.

Piracy occurs in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

Pirates target all forms of shipping, including:

commercial vessels
pleasure craft
luxury cruise liners
naval vessels

The International Maritime Bureau issues piracy reports.

If you travel by boat to or near Saudi Arabia despite the risks:

monitor piracy reports for the region
exercise extreme caution
be alert to possible threats
avoid confrontation

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Make sure any unused SIM cards are kept in a safe place or deactivated by contacting your service provider, to prevent misuse by others. Do not share any verification code received on your mobile with others. Verify any text message claiming to be from the bank by communicating directly with the bank.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media, even for comments published many years earlier. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Climate and natural disasters

It's very hot in Saudi Arabia. June to August are the hottest months of the year. The temperature can be over 50°C.

Sandstorms and dust storms are common.

If a natural disaster or severe weather occurs:

secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
monitor the media and local sources
follow the advice of local authorities
keep in contact with your friends and family

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Travellers to Saudi Arabia (excluding residents) must have medical insurance that includes coverage for the cost of COVID-19 treatment. If you're entering on a tourist visa (eVisa), coverage for COVID-19 treatment is included in the visa cost. See further details on the Visit Saudi website.

Your policy also needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

You should confirm:

what activities and care your policy covers
that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Resident identity card holders

If you hold a resident identity card (Iqama), your employer must provide medical insurance. Review the policy carefully to confirm what is and isn't covered.

Medical insurance will not cover pregnancy or maternity unless you're married and it's in your insurance policy.

If you're admitted to one of the intensive care units, you won't be allowed to move to another hospital without prior approval by both hospitals as well as your travel insurance provider.

Saudi tourist visas include some medical insurance. Check the Visit Saudi website and the insurance policy website for further information.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

have a basic health check-up
ask if your travel plans may affect your health
plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

General health advice
Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Saudi Arabia . Take enough legal medicine for your trip. Carry your medicine in its original packaging and a copy of your prescription or a dated letter from your doctor that states:

the medicine's brand and scientific (chemical) name
the prescribed dosage and the duration of treatment, and
that it's for your personal use.

Saudi authorities may detain or deport travellers for:

carrying medication to treat HIV/AIDS or hepatitis
testing positive for HIV/AIDS or hepatitis - see Health

Health risks

Cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have been reported in Saudi Arabia.

Other Middle-Eastern countries have reported imported cases from returned travellers.

Avoid contact with camels. Don't consume raw camel milk, undercooked camel meat, or anything contaminated with camel secretions.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, cough, breathing difficulties or diarrhoea.

MERS information card

Sandstorms and dust storms

Sandstorms and dust storms are common. They can cause allergies and breathing problems. During sandstorms or dust storms either stay indoors, wear a mask or seek medical advice.

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria is present in the Asir and Jizan areas by the border with Yemen.

Cases of chloroquine-resistant strains of malaria are reported.

Other insect-borne diseases that occur include:

leishmaniasis

To protect yourself from disease:

make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
use insect repellent
wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases occur. These include:

brucellosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

drink boiled, treated or bottled water with sealed lids
avoid ice cubes
avoid raw and undercooked food
avoid unpasteurised dairy products

Don't swim in fresh water to avoid exposure to waterborne diseases, such as bilharzia (schistosomiasis) .

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Most facilities in major cities offer high to very high-quality services.

Facilities in minor towns and small cities can only do routine procedures.

If you're treated at a private facility, you may need to pay before doctors will treat you.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Facilities for travellers with a disability are different to Australia.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Actions that are offensive or anti-social but not criminal in Australia could be against Saudi law.

If you break Saudi law, even without knowing, the punishment may be severe.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. Ensure that you read carefully the information on our Consular Services Charter to find out what we can and cannot do.

Local authorities have arrested Australians travelling or living in Saudi Arabia and didn't always report these cases to the Embassy of Australia in Riyadh.

If you're arrested or jailed, access for Embassy staff to visit you may not be granted immediately.

Arrested or detained overseas

Penalties for trafficking, possessing or using drugs are severe. These can include the death penalty.

Police may detain you if you're accompanied by someone who is involved in drug cases, including trafficking, possessing or using drugs. You may remain in detention until investigations of all parties are concluded.

Carrying or using drugs

Local and commercial matters

Get professional advice for local legal matters, including , but not limited to :

family law – divorce, child custody and child support
business or employment matters

Understand your rights and obligations. This includes if you're involved in a commercial or employment/labour dispute with your employer or sponsor. Authorities may not let you leave the country until the dispute is resolved. C ommercial or labour dispute cases may take years to finalise.

You also need to understand your rights to make decisions for your children or yourself if you're in Saudi Arabia as a dependent sponsored by a primary visa holder. If you're sponsored and are involved in a custody or domestic violence dispute with the primary visa holder, you may be unable to leave Saudi Arabia for an extended period if the primary visa holder/sponsor refuses to issue an exit visa to allow you to leave the country.

If you wish to marry a Saudi national, your partner will first need a letter of approval from the Ministry of the Interior. Check current requirements and timeframes directly with the relevant local authorities.

Resident identity card

If you're a resident, you must always carry your resident identity card (Iqama).

If you travel on a visa, you should always carry your passport. Saudi authorities have the right to check ID. There are security checkpoints, both in cities and on roads between cities.

Serious offences

Authorities can detain you without charge if you're suspected of committing an offence.

You may have to wait months for legal help or for a court appearance while authorities investigate.

Trials are held under Islamic law and procedures.

People convicted of serious offences can face:

long jail sentences
heavy fines
deportation

Penalties for some offences are severe and can carry the death penalty. These offences include:

serious physical assault
same-sex relations
abandoning the Islamic religion
offences perceived to undermine the state

Illegal items

It's illegal to import, possess or trade in weapons and items held to be 'contrary to the tenets of Islam'. This includes:

pork products
pornography – including images of scantily clad people, particularly women
political and religious books, comics and materials, other than those about Islam
drones, without prior approval

Authorities scan passenger luggage on arrival.

Saudi Customs

Other illegal activities

In Saudi Arabia, it's illegal to:

preach or publicly practice a religion other than Islam
produce or distribute printed or electronic material, without the Ministry of Culture and Information's authorisation
publicly display or wear non-Islamic religious symbols or text
be involved in charity and fundraising activities, including online or via social media without prior approval from local authorities
post advertisements that result in an income on social media without a license from the relevant local Saudi authorities. Violators could face a five-year prison sentence and fines of up to five million Saudi riyals
offend the reputation of tourism in the Kingdom, which may include posting negative reviews online about tourist destinations and activities
say anything blasphemous
have sexual relations or live together outside of marriage
get pregnant or give birth outside of marriage

It's also illegal to:

mock, provoke or question public order, religious values or public morals
criticise Saudi Arabia, its people, policy, the royal family, the leadership or Islam
support any group or organisation considered by Saudi authorities to practice violence
these actions are also illegal in social media posts, even if they were made outside Saudi Arabia and years prior to your visit. Foreigners have received lengthy prison sentences for offensive tweets made in the past.

It's illegal to possess or trade in alcohol in Saudi Arabia. Authorities have detained travellers on arrival when police smelled alcohol on their breath.

It's illegal to take photos of:

government buildings
military sites and checkpoints
diplomatic missions
some religious sites

Get permission before taking photographs of people, especially women and children.

Same-sex relationships are illegal. Saudi Arabia doesn't recognise or allow same-sex marriages and rights. Authorities can impose severe punishment.

Advice for LGBTI travellers

Passports with 'X' gender identifier

You will not be able to enter Saudi Arabia if your passport shows 'X' in the gender field.

Sexual assault

If you're sexually assaulted , you may face criminal prosecution. Authorities may not consider you to be a victim of crime.

Sexual assault victims may be jailed after reporting incidents to local police or when seeking medical help.

If you're a victim of sexual assault, find out about support services as quickly as possible from the:

Embassy of Australia in Riyadh
Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra

Consular officers can't provide legal or medical advice. However, they can provide lists of English-speaking service providers who may be able to help. See 'Local contacts'.

Major Events (music festivals, cultural and sporting events)

If you’re travelling to Saudi Arabia for a major event (for example, the MDLBEAST Music festival), you may need to take extra precautions. Reports of sexual harassment at music festivals, sporting events and other major events are common.

Women face greater risks than men and may be more vulnerable.

These risks include:

unwanted attention
verbal harassment
groping (especially at crowded events)
sexual assault

Safety advice for women attending large-scale events

Although sexual harassment is illegal in Saudi Arabia, it still occurs, particularly in major public events, such as music festivals.

Consider your clothing and dress. Many countries are more conservative than Australia and have different standards for women and men. Dressing conservatively may help you avoid unwanted attention. This includes clothing styles that locals may consider different.

Be aware of your surroundings. If you feel uncomfortable, leave.

Be cautious of unsolicited invitations from strangers, especially if they try to separate you from your travelling companions.

Only use licensed taxis or approved ride-share services (such as Uber, Bolt, or Jeeny). Refuse offers from drivers who approach you.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law

Dual citizenship

The Saudi Government doesn't recognise dual nationality for its citizens. Authorities will seize extra passports if they find them.

If you're a dual national (e.g Australian/UK nationals), and you're travelling with both passports, you can only leave Saudi Arabia with the passport you used to enter.

If you're a dual citizen and entered the country on a non-Australian passport, this limits the consular services we can provide, including if you're arrested or detained.

Dual nationals

Local customs

Always respect religious and cultural sensitivities, rules and customs.

The Saudi weekend is Friday and Saturday.

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Saudi Arabia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws during this time.

Don't eat, drink or smoke in public between sunrise and sunset during Ramadan . Authorities can detain and even deport you for doing so.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Segregation

Segregation in public places is much less strict than it used to be, particularly in Saudi Arabia's major urban centres. However, it may still occur in some areas of public places such as gyms, restaurants and shops. Segregation may be by gender or family.

Accommodation

Individual travellers seeking to share accommodation have sometimes been refused joint occupancy. The situation is changing as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia transforms. You should contact your accommodation provider to seek clarification on the requirements. It is important to respect local customs and act in a culturally appropriate manner.

Further information can be found on the Visit Saudi Official Website .

Saudi Arabia has strict codes of behaviour. You can be fined for violating Saudi Arabia's Public Taste Regulations. Read more on Public decorum .

Locals will be offended if you don't respect these codes. They may interpret this as religious or cultural disrespect.

To avoid offending Saudis, don't be affectionate in public. This includes holding hands.

Get advice on what is acceptable clothing before you arrive.

Both men and women are asked to dress modestly in public. Avoid tight fitting clothing or clothes with profane language or images.

Men and women visiting Saudi Arabia should cover their shoulders and knees in public. If you don’t comply with these requirements, you may face penalties.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.

Travelling from Sudan to Saudi Arabia

See the travel advice for Sudan for information about flying from Sudan to Saudi Arabia.

Y ou need a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia. You can apply for an e-visa at the Visit Saudi website.

Australian citizens holding valid Australian passports can apply for tourist visas online or upon arrival. Requirements and policies can change at short notice. Visit the Saudi eVisa website for current information on tourist visas. A visa does not guarantee your entry to Saudi Arabia. Check visa conditions prior to your arrival.

If you've had a travel ban placed against you in the past to prevent you from re-entering Saudi Arabia, you should check the duration of the ban prior to your arrival, or you may be denied entry to Saudi Arabia.

If you have a previous unresolved legal case in Saudi Arabia, you may be arrested when you arrive. This is regardless of the passport you use to re-enter Saudi Arabia (whether you use an Australian or other passport).

Tourist visas are valid for 12 months and allow for multiple entries starting from the date of issuance. The total period of stay must not exceed (90) days throughout the total 12 months of the visa validity. The visa cannot be extended and cannot be used to gain employment in the country or perform any other paid activities or organise unpaid events in the country.

Ensure that you read and understand the conditions of your visa. A daily fine will be imposed if you overstay your visa or exceed the maximum stay conditions. You won't be permitted to leave the country until the fine is paid in full. In line with the Consular Services Charter , the Australian Embassy cannot waive or reduce fines, or request the local authorities to do so.

Tourists under the age of 18 may not be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia unless accompanied by a guardian.

Australians visiting Saudi Arabia for purposes other than tourism must obtain a separate and special visa from visa agencies accredited to the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. Contact your nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate for more information.

The Nusuk platform has been launched to register and facilitate visas and travel arrangements for Hajj and Umrah.

Only Muslims are allowed to enter Makkah (Mecca) and Madinah.

You may not be allowed to enter through a land crossing, for example the King Fahd Causeway from Bahrain, on a business/visit visa that is annotated “via air’’. Note that this may be written in Arabic. Carefully read and understand the restrictions of your Saudi business/visit visa.

If you’re transiting through Saudi Arabia, you may need a transit visa.

If you overstay your visa, you may face:

a significant fine
detention while waiting to be deported
a ban from re-entering Saudi Arabia

Deportation processes may take time to resolve.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Saudi Arabia for details about visas, currency, customs, vaccination and quarantine rules.

Around Hajj time, Saudi authorities restrict entry to and exit from some airports including Jeddah, Madinah, Yanbu, and Taif to Hajj visas holders only. Other travellers may need to justify their need to travel to any of these cities/airport before they can be allowed to board the flight. You can still enter Saudi Arabia through other entry points. Check with your airline, travel agency and your nearest Saudi Embassy/Consulate for up-to-date information.

Visitors on a single or multiple-entry business, work or tourist visa don't need an exit permit to leave Saudi Arabia.

If you hold a resident identity card (Iqama), you'll need to get an exit/re-entry or final exit permit from the Saudi Ministry of Interior. You must do this through your sponsor.

You may not be eligible for an exit re-entry visa to leave Saudi Arabia if your passport has less than six months validity.

If you're the main visa holder, make sure that all your dependents have valid passports as you may not be allowed to obtain an exit re-entry visa.

See Local laws

It's illegal to work for anyone other than the sponsor or employer officially registered as your employer/sponsor on your residence permit in the Saudi Passports Office’s system.

If you do, you may be punished with:

a ban from entering Saudi Arabia

Holders of any type of visa other than a work visa or a resident identity card (Iqama) are not allowed to work in Saudi Arabia.

Border measures

Travellers to Saudi Arabia (excluding residents) must have medical insurance that covers the cost of COVID-19 treatment.

Visit Saudi Official Website .

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination.

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Saudi Arabia if you're travelling from an area with a risk of yellow fever.

Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF)

Polio outbreaks

Travellers under the age of 15 arriving from countries with polio outbreaks must provide proof of up-to-date polio vaccination.

Embassy or consulate of Saudi Arabia

Travel bans

Authorities may place Australians under a travel ban. This means that you won't be able to leave the country if you're a tourist, visitor or resident identity card (Iqama) holder and you're involved in a dispute about but not limited to:

employment

Authorities are strict with travel bans. They can take months or even years to resolve.

Only Saudi Arabian authorities, and in very limited cases your sponsor, can remove travel bans. Saudi sponsors may have considerable power in dispute negotiations.

Private Saudi citizens may also initiate travel bans against expats.

The government may issue travel bans on people who:

are charged with criminal offences
are under investigation
are involved in financial or labour disputes
have unpaid debts or who have passed bad cheques

Travel bans on women and children

Children living in Saudi Arabia up to the age of 21 with a Saudi Arabian father need permission from a male relative to leave Saudi Arabia.

Saudi authorities have introduced fees for dependants that apply to iqama holders.

If you're an expat with outstanding fees for dependants, you may have to pay the fees before you can:

apply for an exit or re-entry visa
renew your Iqama
leave for the final time

If you're a non-resident, authorities may restrict your entry via air or land to Jeddah, Madinah, Yanbu and Taif during Hajj time. The restrictions may start from one month prior to the Hajj time.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Other passport conditions

If you're travelling on an emergency passport, Saudi authorities will not allow you to enter the country. You must have a full validity passport to enter. You can exit the country on an emergency passport but may be required to provide a police report and/or letter from the Embassy to explain why your passport is different to the passport on which you entered the country.

If you obtain a new passport while in Saudi Arabia to replace your old, lost or stolen passport, you must register the new passport number with the Saudi passport office. Ensure this process is completed prior to your departure, as this service may not be available at airports. Check with your employer/sponsor or the Ministry of Tourism (depending on your visa type) for information on where to complete this process.

If you're travelling on an Australian passport showing ‘X’ in the 'sex' field, authorities will not allow you to enter Saudi Arabia. 'X' refers to those who are indeterminate, intersex or unspecified sex.

Australian travel-related documents issued to non-Australian citizens will not be accepted to enter Saudi Arabia with a tourist visa (even if you obtained the visa online prior to your arrival). You'll need to contact your nearest Saudi Embassy/Consulate for up-to-date advice and information on the acceptance of your travel document and to seek options and confirmation on the appropriate visa that will be accepted to enter the country. If your entry into Saudi Arabia is denied despite holding a valid Saudi visa, the Embassy won’t be able to assist to facilitate your entry.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If you lose your passport before arriving in Saudi Arabia:

you may not be able to enter the country
the Embassy of Australia may not be able to provide you with a new passport , as personal lodgement is compulsory to obtain a new passport
you may have to return to Australia

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

The local currency is the Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR).

When you enter or leave Saudi Arabia, declare amounts of more than SAR60,000 or equivalent per family or group. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Also declare any precious metals worth more than SAR60,000 per family or group.

You can change Australian dollars at commercial banks and exchange bureaus.

ATMs are widely available. Ask your bank if your cards will work in Saudi Arabia.

More information:

Local travel

Driving permit.

If you have a residency permit (iqama), you'll need to get a Saudi driver’s licence.

To drive in Saudi Arabia, you'll need:

a valid Australian driver's licence, and
an International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must get your IDP before departing Australia.

Visitors to Saudi Arabia can only drive hire cars and not privately owned vehicles. You may only be allowed to use your Australian driving licence and IDP for up to 3 months from arrival in the country. Check with the local Traffic Police and your rental company for up-to-date information.

You must carry your driver's licence and vehicle registration when driving. If you're involved in an accident, notify the traffic police and ask for their instructions.

Road travel

The annual death toll on Saudi roads is extremely high. Exercise extreme caution when driving in Saudi Arabia and always wear a seat belt.

Safety hazards include:

drivers ignoring road rules and driving while distracted
bad weather limiting visibility
poor road conditions in some parts of the country
camels straying onto roads

There are checkpoints where you may be required to present identification.

If you plan to drive:

check your insurance covers you
learn local traffic rules and behaviour
know what to do in case of an incident or accident
always keep your car windows up and doors locked, even when moving

Some Saudi cities have an automated traffic ticketing system. If you're fined, you must pay the fine through this system before leaving the country.

Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis and rideshare services

Only use registered taxis and limousines, preferably arranged through your accommodation or licensed rideshare services (such as Uber, Bolt, or Jeeny).

Registered public taxis can be in poor condition, often without meters and without seatbelts .

Don't share taxis with unknown passengers.

Public transport

Saudi Arabia has inter-city bus and limited rail services throughout the country.

Travellers often use limousine services for long-distance travel.

Transport and getting around safely

Boat travel

Many waters near Saudi Arabia are sensitive because of territorial disputes and security issues.

Due to the military conflict in Yemen, military vessels are stationed in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea.

There are ongoing disputes about who has jurisdiction over the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Gulf.

People have reported vessels being inspected and crews detained.

Piracy can occur in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. See Safety

Travelling by boat

Due to military activity in Yemen, flights in the south of Saudi Arabia can be cancelled or rescheduled at short notice. Affected airports include:

Wadi Aldwasir

Check with your travel provider for updates on flights.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Travelling with pets

The Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture must approve all pets imported into Saudi Arabia. Prior permit/approval to bring the pet/s must be obtained. Please contact your airline or visit the Saudia website and the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture for more information and requirements.

Tourism Call Centre

Call 930 (from inside Saudi).

Call +966 92 000 0890 (from outside Saudi).

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

family and friends
travel agent
insurance provider

Highway Patrol

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

General Directorate of Passports

Emergency medical consultation, domestic and child violence services.

If you're in danger, or you/your children have been a victim of domestic violence in Saudi Arabia, consider calling:

local Saudi police on 999
the Saudi National Domestic Violence Hotline on 1919

Call 116 111 for the Child Help Line. The Saudi National Family Safety Program runs this service. They help children access Saudi social services.

When reporting domestic violence:

get a case reference number – all Saudi social and legal help is tied to this case number
document any injuries and get a copy of any medical reports

If you file a police report or use any Saudi victim services, authorities may inform your sponsor or guardian.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Contact the Australian Embassy in Riyadh for consular help.

Embassy of Australia, Riyadh

Diplomatic Quarter Riyadh Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Phone: (+966 11) 250 0900 Fax: (+966 11) 250 0902 Website: saudiarabia.embassy.gov.au/ryad/home X: @AusAmbKSA Facebook: facebook.com/AusEmbKSA

The working week is Sunday to Thursday.

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Saudi Arabia?

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Passports, travel and living abroad
Travel abroad
Foreign travel advice

Saudi Arabia

Safety and security, terrorism .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Saudi Arabia

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Saudi Arabia.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Terrorists have threatened to carry out attacks in the Gulf region, including on:

residential compounds
military, oil, transport and aviation interests
public places, including restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres and mosques

Be aware of your surroundings, particularly during high-profile events, and avoid large demonstrations.

Military activity in the Red Sea area

Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that Travel Advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor Travel Advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.

Political situation

Public demonstrations are illegal. Avoid any protest or demonstration and follow the advice of local authorities.

The crime rate in Saudi Arabia is low, but there is petty crime. There have also been more serious crimes, including crimes against women. Take care when travelling outside towns and cities.

Laws and cultural differences

Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country and Islamic law is strictly enforced. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religion so you do not cause offence. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK.

You should avoid:

showing affection in public
swearing and rude gestures
playing loud music
making critical political statements or behaving in ways the Saudi authorities assess disrupt the public order

Penalties include fines, imprisonment and deportation. See Visit Saudi for information on behaviour.

Personal ID

You must always carry ID. You can get a fine or prison sentence if you do not have any.

If you’re a tourist, carry a copy of your passport and visa.

If you live in Saudi Arabia, carry your residency card (‘Iqama’). Police also accept an electronic version of the Iqama on the Tawakkalna App.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. Ramadan in Saudi Arabia will start around 10 March in 2024 and last for 30 days. During this time, do not:

eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
play loud music or dance
swear in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

check opening hours of shops and restaurants
be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
be patient and show tolerance

Dress code

Men and women must wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the elbow and below the knees. You should also:

avoid tight-fitting clothing
avoid clothes with profane slogans or images
not wear clothing with symbols or slogans that could be viewed as political and lead to arrest

Female travellers do not have to wear the traditional robe (‘abaya’) or cover their hair. See Visit Saudi for more information on dress codes.

It is illegal to practise any religion other than Islam. However, the Saudi authorities accept private practice of other religions.

It is illegal to try and convert people to another religion. You can bring other religious books for personal use. However, you may be prosecuted if you try to import large numbers of religious books.

Alcohol laws and bans

Do not bring alcohol into Saudi Arabia or arrive under the influence of alcohol.

It is illegal to drink alcohol or be drunk in public. British nationals have been arrested for disorderly or offensive behaviour when drinking. You can face severe penalties, including prison, for possession or trade of alcohol.

Illegal drugs penalties

There is zero tolerance for drug offences in Saudi Arabia, and the penalties are severe. If you’re arrested for drug offences, you may have a long period of detention before trial. You can get a prison sentence of up to 5 years and a fine of 30,000 Saudi riyals for possessing even small amounts. Drug dealing and smuggling can result in a death sentence.

Sexual relations outside of marriage

Sex outside of marriage and adultery are illegal, including for tourists. In the most serious circumstances (for example, those involving Saudi nationals) the penalties could include custodial sentences or deportation. There are special arrangements for visitors and unmarried tourists may share hotel rooms.

Pregnancy outside of marriage

If you or your partner becomes pregnant outside marriage in Saudi Arabia, you could both face penalties including imprisonment and deportation. However, in practice legal action is uncommon.

Doctors may ask for proof of marriage during antenatal checks.

To get a birth certificate from the Saudi authorities, you must provide a marriage certificate. The authorities may compare the date of the marriage against the estimated date of conception.

If you’re an unmarried woman who gives birth in Saudi Arabia, you may have difficulties registering the birth of a child in Saudi Arabia. You could be arrested, imprisoned or deported.

Filming, photography and other media restrictions

It is illegal to film or photograph government buildings, military installations and palaces.

If you produce, transmit or distribute printed, digital, audio or video information, you must get permission from the General Authority of Media Regulation (GCAM) in advance. If you do not, you could get a large fine and a prison sentence.

Only photograph local people if you have their consent.

Public statements and criticism

It is illegal to say publicly anything that the Saudi authorities deem disruptive to public order, for example to comment verbally or on social media on:

the Saudi government or authorities, including the police
the King, Crown Prince or Royal Family
The country’s culture, and beliefs and ways of public life
issues that could be perceived as political, including wearing clothing with political slogans or carrying flags or banners

Punishment can include long prison sentences, and can be given even for social media posts published outside Saudi Arabia many years ago.

You’re likely to come under more scrutiny if you’re a British national who also:

carries Saudi citizenship
has close Saudi relatives

Carrying two passports

It is illegal to have two passports in your name in Saudi Arabia. Immigration authorities will take additional passports. You must leave Saudi Arabia using the passport you entered on.

Legal system and due process

The Saudi legal system differs from the UK, for example:

suspects can be held without charge during an investigation
suspects are not always allowed quick access to legal representation

If you’re detained and need consular assistance, British Embassy staff will visit once they know about your case. In some cases, British Embassy staff have not been allowed to visit immediately or have had limited access.

There is no legal aid in Saudi Arabia. You may want to hire a translator if you need to attend a criminal proceeding. Find a translator or interpreter in Saudi Arabia .

Unpaid debts and other financial crimes

You can get a fine, prison sentence, travel ban or deportation for financial crimes, including:

writing a cheque which bounces (including post-dated and ‘security cheques’)
not paying bills (for example hotel bills or car hire)
embezzlement

The Saudi authorities can also freeze your bank account or other assets. You may be liable for cheques you signed on behalf of a company.

If you have unpaid loans or financial commitments, the Saudi authorities may:

prevent you from cancelling your residence permit
stop you leaving the country
block your government services
not allow you to renew your residency card, re-entry visa or exit permits
stop you transferring to a new sponsor (employer)
use your end-of-service benefits to pay outstanding debts

Travel bans

The Saudi authorities may place a travel ban on you if you have outstanding debts or if you’re involved in:

ongoing commercial, financial or labour disputes
legal cases
investigations

If you’re under a travel ban, you cannot leave the country, even if you’re a British national or dual British-Saudi national. The authorities enforce bans, and they take years to resolve. Get legal advice if you’re placed under a travel ban.

If you’re in a commercial dispute with a Saudi company, you may not be allowed to leave the country until it is resolved. Government bodies often keep passports for official purposes. Employers (sponsors) may try to hold onto your passport, but this is illegal.

Deportation

If you’re found guilty of an offence and sentenced to over 3 months in prison, the Saudi authorities can deport you. Sometimes the authorities deport people with shorter sentences, regardless of whether the judgement included deportation. If you’re employed in Saudi Arabia, deportation will impact your employment and may affect your ability to return to Saudi Arabia in the future.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relations are illegal, although legal action is uncommon. All couples should be aware of local customs and avoid showing affection in public.

Visit Saudi says all visitors are welcome, are not required to disclose their personal information, and will have their right to privacy respected.

Being transgender is not recognised in Saudi Arabia. Transgender people could also face difficulties with dress code and access to medical care.

Transport risks

Road travel .

If you’re planning to drive in Saudi Arabia, see information on driving abroad .

You can use a UK photocard driving licence for the first 3 months after you arrive in Saudi Arabia. After that, you must apply for a local licence. Hire care companies may require an international driving permit ( IDP ) .

Standards of driving are poor and there are a high number of serious accidents on the roads. You should:

always wear seatbelts
keep to major roads if possible
travel in convoy and in daylight in rural areas

Some cities have an automated traffic system. Anyone caught speeding or committing other traffic offences will be notified by text of their fine. Fines are recorded on the Absher system, which is linked to your passport, residency or ID card. You must pay any outstanding fines through the system before leaving the country. You can pay at the airport but only during Saudi office hours.

Sea travel

Vessels operating in the Gulf of Oman, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb areas may be at increased risk of attack by pirates. See piracy and armed robbery at sea .

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Heavy rains from November to February can cause flooding. Check weather forecasts in the Arab News and Saudi Gazette (English language newspapers). In a flood, follow Civil Defence advice or call them on 998.

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Environment
Road to Net Zero
Art & Design
Film & TV
Music & On-stage
Pop Culture
Fashion & Beauty
Home & Garden
Things to do
Combat Sports
Horse Racing
Beyond the Headlines
Trending Middle East
Business Extra
Culture Bites
Year of Elections
Pocketful of Dirhams
Books of My Life
Iraq: 20 Years On

Saudi Arabia Covid-19 travel guide: what are the latest rules for visiting the kingdom?

Vaccinated travellers no longer need pre-departure pcr tests and face masks are only required indoors.

Abundant marine life in the Red Sea. Photos: Saudi Tourism Authority

Saudi Arabia has further eased Covid-19 travel restrictions for vaccinated visitors.

Travellers flying to the kingdom no longer need to take a pre-departure PCR or antigen test on arrival.

The new rules also mean that face masks are not required in outdoor places, and social-distancing measures have been relaxed.

Suspensions on 17 countries have also been lifted, with flights once again able to land in the kingdom from a host of African and Asian countries where travel was previously restricted.

The news comes after the number of coronavirus infections in Saudi Arabia dropped by nearly 50 per cent in a week. It is likely to provide a boost to the kingdom ahead of Hajj , one of Saudi Arabia's busiest times for travel, which is due to start in early July.

If you're considering taking a trip to the kingdom, here’s everything you need to know about travelling there, from which vaccines are accepted to what you need to do before setting off, the rules in place when you get there and what to add to your tourism itinerary.

Is Saudi Arabia open to tourists?

A scene in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Photo: Saudi Tourism Authority

Yes, Saudi citizens and residents, GCC nationals, diplomats, health practitioners and fully vaccinated tourists can fly to Saudi Arabia .

What do I need to do before I fly to the kingdom?

A security woman checks the temperature of a woman at Riyadh International Airport, after Saudi Arabia reopened domestic flights, following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia May 31, 2020. REUTERS/Ahmed Yosri

Most visitors to Saudi Arabia need a tourist visa to enter. The multiple-entry e-visa is valid for a year, with tourists allowed to stay in the country for up to 90 days.

It is available online , and travellers can check if they are eligible by identifying their nationality on the dropdown list on the same website.

GCC citizens do not require a tourist visa to visit Saudi Arabia. However, GCC ID cards are not accepted for travel, and all visitors must have their passports with them to ensure entry.

Before flying, travellers must register their details, including comprehensive vaccination information, with Saudi health authorities via this online form . All tourists with a visit visa must also have insurance to cover the cost of any Covid-19 medical treatment during their trip.

Do I need a PCR test to fly?

No, vaccinated travellers no longer need a PCR test to fly to Saudi Arabia. Previous requirements for a negative PCR test result taken no more than 72 hours before departing no longer apply.

Children under aged 18 can travel without being vaccinated or having a negative PCR test result.

Which vaccinations are recognised?

FILE PHOTO: A vial of the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is seen ahead of being administered at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast, Northern Ireland December 8, 2020. Liam McBurney/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo

Saudi Arabia has approved four Covid-19 vaccines for entry: AstraZeneca, Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson. Anyone vaccinated with Sinovac or Sinopharm can travel to the kingdom once a booster shot from one of the four recognised vaccines has also been administered.

Travellers must have received both doses of the vaccine, except for those inoculated with Johnson & Johnson, which is a single-dose shot. To be considered fully vaccinated, the final dose must have been taken at least 14 days and at most eight months before departure. If more than eight months have passed, travellers will need to have a booster shot.

All tourists must also register on the Quddum platform no less than 72 hours before flying to the kingdom.

Do I need to quarantine?

The lush Jazan region in Saudi Arabia. The kingdom has plenty to offer tourists, from mountains and desert dunes to marine adventures and city escapes. Photo: Saudi Tourism Authority / Shutterstock

There’s no need to quarantine in Saudi Arabia as long as you’re fully vaccinated.

Upon return to the UAE, there's no quarantine necessary for travellers arriving in any emirate after the country relaxed its Covid-19 travel requirements , including dropping its green list for travel.

Unvaccinated travellers can fly to Saudi Arabia, but must undertake a five-day period of institutional quarantine at their own expense. This can be booked via the airline they are flying with at least 72 hours before departure.

Passengers who have had a single dose of a vaccine administered in the kingdom, or have been immunised with a vaccine approved by the World Health Organisation but not approved in the kingdom, should undergo a three-day quarantine period.

Will Al Hosn app work in Saudi Arabia?

The UAE’s Al Hosn app is not in use in Saudi Arabia. Instead, the kingdom uses Tawakkalna as a track-and-trace app. Visitors must download it and register their passport details.

Similar to Al Hosn, proof of vaccination on the Tawwakalna app is required for entry to many public places in the kingdom, including shopping malls, cinemas, restaurants and entertainment venues.

Which airlines are flying to the kingdom?

Etihad is one of several airlines flying between the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Photo: Etihad Airways

Several are flying between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, including Etihad Airways, Emirates, Saudia, flynas, flydubai and more.

Travellers can fly to Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah , Madinah and AlUla direct from the UAE.

Dubai to Riyadh and Jeddah were two of the busiest routes in the world in February 2022, according to aviation data firm OAG.

What can I see and do once there?

Saudi Arabia offers rich marine life and some untouched dive sites. Photo: Saudi Tourism Authority

Often called the final frontier of travel, the kingdom is huge, with plenty of things to see and do. From the bustling cities of Riyadh and Jeddah to endless sand dunes, mountain peaks and desert oases, and not to mention its thriving Red Sea coastline , the sprawling destination is unlike anywhere in the world.

“Saudi [Arabia] is the authentic home of Arabia, a destination redolent of the mystique and romance of ancient civilisations, rich in iconic locations and unexpected stories delivered with the unparalleled hospitality for which Saudi people are renowned," said Fahd Hamidaddin, chief executive of Saudi Tourism Authority.

The kingdom is massive – spanning more than 2.15 million square kilometres, it is the 13th-largest country in the world – so there's a wealth of things to do and see.

Caravan by Habitas glamping site opens in AlUla, Saudi Arabia in March. All photos: Habitas

City breaks await in the capital, Riyadh , where centuries-old history sits alongside a modern metropolis, or in port-side Jeddah, with its coveted waterfront and al fresco dining or the ancient maze-like streets of Al Balad . The port city of Jazan is a good jumping-off point for the unspoilt Farasan Islands.

Al Ahsa’s cool desert springs are a good place to escape the midday sun and children will enjoy exploring one of the biggest oases in the world . Ocean lovers can go into the blue as Saudi Arabia’s coastal waters are rich in marine life and home to some of the most untouched dive sites in the world.

If it's deserts you seek, the country has dunes in droves. Pay a visit to the Rub Al Khali or Empty Quarter , a favourite with adventure-seekers, or the Great Nafud Desert, where dunes tower about 1,000 metres in height.

In Taif, mountain peaks, flower fields and ancient souqs await, or visit AlUla , one of the kingdom’s mega-projects where visitors can explore several ancient heritage sites and see the world’s largest mirrored building. You can even take in the historic region from the sky, with a newly launched helicopter tour flying travellers over the kingdom’s first Unesco-listed site.

What Covid-19 restrictions are in place?

Mosques and sporting venues return to full capacity in saudi arabia.

People are no longer obliged to wear face masks in open spaces, except at sites such as the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. Face masks must still be worn in closed areas.

Social-distancing measures have been dropped in most public places.

Travellers and residents must continue to show their health status on the Tawakkalna app before being allowed into places such as cafes, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and cinemas.

Beyond the Headlines: What will it take for Israel and Hamas to lay down arms?

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Saudi Arabia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Saudi Arabia. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

New Meningococcal Disease in Saudi Arabia - Vaccine Requirements for Travel During the Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages May 20, 2024 The Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is one of the world’s largest mass gatherings. Mass gatherings, such as Hajj or Umrah, can increase the risk for infections such as meningococcal disease.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

Chickenpox (Varicella)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
Flu (influenza)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Saudi Arabia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Saudi Arabia. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Saudi Arabia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Saudi Arabia take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find country-specific information about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Saudi Arabia.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Required for all travelers going to Saudi Arabia to take part in the Hajj or Umrah. See the Saudi Arabia: Hajj/Umrah Pilgrimage Yellow Book section for more information.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are sometimes found in Saudi Arabia.

Rabies is also present in some terrestrial wildlife species.

If rabies exposures occur while in Saudi Arabia, rabies vaccines are typically available throughout most of the country.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
Avoid contaminated water and soil
Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

Tick bite
Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
Avoid Bug Bites
Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

Sand fly bite
Avoid animals

Rift Valley Fever

Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
Bite from an infected rodent
Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
Avoid rodents and areas where they live
Avoid sick people

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

Scientists do not fully understand how the MERS virus spreads
May spread from to others when an infected person coughs or sneezes
May spread to people from camels.

Middle East Respiratory virus syndrome (MERS)

Tuberculosis (TB)

Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Saudi Arabia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Saudi Arabia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Saudi Arabia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Saudi Arabia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

Use latex condoms correctly.
Do not inject drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Saudi Arabia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Saudi Arabia. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Saudi Arabia may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Saudi Arabia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Saudi Arabia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

Adobe PDF file
Microsoft PowerPoint file
Microsoft Word file
Microsoft Excel file
Audio/Video file
Apple Quicktime file
RealPlayer file
Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Middle East Chevron

Saudi Arabia Chevron

The Complexities of Traveling to Saudi Arabia

By Felicia Campbell

Full Length Of Teenage Girl Standing Amidst Rock Formation

As the largest country in the Middle East , the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has a rich and diverse landscape: It’s home to the ruins of the Nabatean Kingdom in Al-'Ula, the Rub' al Khali desert, luxurious beach resorts in Jeddah , and the mountains of Taif, where roses bloom alongside groves of the most sought-after dates in the world. The capital, Riyadh, offers a fascinating juxtaposition of ancient souks and modern skyscrapers, along with natural wonders like the cliffs of Edge of the World park just outside the city.

Historically, however, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hasn’t been a tourist destination for Americans.

Until 2019, visas were only issued for official business purposes or for religious pilgrimages to Mecca . Conservative laws and dress codes were enforced by the mutawa (religious police) who made arrests for playing music, wearing too much makeup, or being seen in public with a member of the opposite sex. These laws began to change in 2017 when Mohamed bin Salman became the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and launched Saudi Vision 2030 , a campaign to modernize the country and reduce the reliance on oil revenue. He stripped the power of the mutawa, and women were issued drivers' licenses for the first time. Additionally, movie theaters were built, international music festivals held, and tourist visas became available to visitors from 49 countries, including Americans.

These changes make it an exciting time in the Kingdom, with young Saudis enjoying newfound freedoms to connect with one another and with foreign visitors in public spaces that were for so long segregated. Around the world, social media feeds are being filled with images of this “new Saudi Arabia” as part of a massive marketing campaign by the Ministry of Tourism—it's just part of their plan to invest at least $800 billion by 2030 on everything from transportation infrastructure to entirely new cities.

Despite the intrigue of the newly opened country, there are also many things that haven’t changed and should be considered before booking a flight: significant gender disparity remains, alcohol is still illegal, and queer travelers will find a litany of laws that prevent them from existing as they would at home or, in some cases, at all—so-called “decency mandates” prevent men from wearing women's clothes for example, and trans travelers whose passports don't match their gender identity will likely be denied entry to the country. Even in situations where it might feel like no one is enforcing these rules, know that the government routinely monitors visitors' social media accounts, and compliance is expected for the entirety of your trip.

For some Americans, the cultural clashes feel too great to overcome. “Saudi Arabia is a controversial country to visit, and poses a real dilemma for many travelers,” says Justin Francis, co-founder and CEO of Responsible Travel. For Francis, however, that isn't necessarily a reason not to visit. “I strongly believe it is possible to travel responsibly in destinations with poor ethical records. Frankly, it would be hard to name a single destination with a clean record on the environment, animal welfare, and human rights.”

Anu Taranath, professor, racial equity consultant, and author of Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World , also encourages people to look at their travel decisions from a wider perspective. “Well-meaning Americans become quite vexed when considering going to places where they know a bit about what’s happening to a certain population, but that same conversation, I haven’t seen about home,” says Taranath. “The U.S. has a terrible record of preserving the dignity of Black folks, so would we tell people not to visit? It’s a conversation that never seems to come up.”

She suggests that tourists can use their trips, instead, as opportunities to widen their own perspectives about the world. “It’s an incredible privilege,” she says. “My responsibility is to move through these places with care and grace and learn about lives that are not like mine."

Darrell Wade, co-founder and chair of travel group Intrepid, visited the Kingdom last year, and while he doesn’t feel the country is ready in terms of infrastructure for the brand's organized trips, he would personally return and thinks that the opening of tourism is a good thing for locals and visitors. “I think travel is always a positive force for change," says Wade. “As travelers, we learn about new cultures and ways, whilst the hosts of our destination countries also get to meet new people and learn from them.”

Booking a trip to a country whose laws and values may not align with your own is a personal decision. For those considering a visit to Saudi Arabia, these are some of the key issues American travelers may wonder about, with logistical pointers to keep in mind on the trip itself.

Nada al Nahdi of Qairawan travel group in Jazan

Women's rights and modesty

As part of the effort to introduce a more moderate version of Islamic law, in 2018 women were granted the right to drive, have a passport , travel abroad, live independently without the permission of a male guardian, and, most visibly, they are no longer required to cover their hair with hijab, nor wear the abaya robe or the niqab full face covering. Yet there are still some modesty requirements. It's important to note that most restrictions impact local women more than they do visitors, but travelers are still expected to abide by most laws.

The Best Places to Stay Near Grand Canyon National Park

By Emily Pennington

The Sperry Boat Shoe Renaissance Has Arrived&-Here's How to Style Them

By Charlie Hobbs

What Super-Travelers Always Have in Their Beach Bags

By Kaitlin Menza

40 Films That Will Transport You to Italy

By CNT Editors

Modesty is legally defined and required for locals and visitors, and what’s considered appropriate often depends on the venue. Some Saudi women in larger cities still wear an abaya, but many forgo any kind of head cover. Similar to religious sites throughout the world, there are expectations when entering a mosque: both men and women must be covered to the ankles and wrists and shoe-less, and women should cover their hair.

In general, women should wear loose-fitting clothes that don't show skin above the knee or elbow, and men shouldn’t go shirtless or wear tank tops. Shorts are uncommon across the board.

Wearing clothing considered too revealing or anything that features offensive logos or slogans can result in a fine of 100 SAR/$26 (doubled for subsequent violations). What’s considered offensive isn’t limited to showing too much skin, pornographic images, or drug-related or profane slogans, it is also illegal to try to promote a religion other than Islam. That means wearing a crucifix or any other religious iconography should be avoided.

Olga Aymerich, a research officer for the United Nations in Iraq, was among the first to travel to the Kingdom when tourist visas became available in 2019. She says she observed that the way women dressed varied widely, even between neighborhoods of large cities like Jeddah and Riyadh, so she wore an abaya over her clothes, either open or closed, to avoid standing out. “I just felt more comfortable that way,” she says, adding that she didn’t cover her hair except when visiting religious sites.

Ellie Quinn detailed her time in the Kingdom on her blog, The Traveling Quinn , where she suggests female travelers purchase a robe-like abaya online ahead of time or at any mall upon arrival—good quality, black abayas made with a breathable material are generally available for around $25 (100 SAR), though you'll also find colorful and patterned options.

At gender-segregated public beaches, women swim in burkinis (which look like wetsuits) or in their abayas, and men keep their shirts on. However, at a growing number of private beaches, guests can wear bikinis and swim trunks. It’s a good idea to call ahead to find out what the specific dress codes are as some beaches in Jeddah, at the other end of the spectrum, do not allow abayas.

Gender segregation

Today, unrelated men and women can legally interact with one another in some some public spaces, like malls and coffee shops—yet there are still gendered spaces, from female-only gyms to restaurants in smaller villages that have separate entrances and dining rooms for families and men.

Even at the Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, where Wade recently stayed with his wife, the duo learned that the swimming pool and spa were for men only. “When I asked if there were special hours for women, or another complex somewhere, I just got a ‘Sorry, there are no facilities for women’,” Wade says. He hopes—and expects—that this will change with the greater arrival of international tourism.

As public interactions between men and women are slowly becoming normalized, physical affection between couples still needs to be kept strictly behind closed doors. That means avoiding touching of any kind between opposite genders when in public. Holding hands, kissing, or hugging in public are considered “acts of a sexual nature,” and could incur a 3,000 SAR fine (about $800) for the first offense and a 6,000 SAR for a repeat offense. It is one of 19 public decency offenses punishable by fine , along with things like failure to pick up after your pet (100 SAR/$26) and littering or spitting (500 SAR/ $133).

When meeting someone of the opposite gender, it is customary to place a hand to heart, rather than extending it for a handshake. Conversely, those of the same gender will often greet one another with a hug or a kiss on each cheek. In Bedouin tradition, some men touch noses. Visitors should follow the lead of the local.

Travelers in the Saudi Arabian desert

LGBTQ+ issues

In Saudi Arabia, same-sex marriage is not recognized and homosexual acts are punishable by law, as are any activities seen as disrupting public order and religious values. Social media posts depicting a homosexual relationship can be prosecuted as a cybercrime—making it especially important that queer travelers who decide to visit set profiles to private before arriving.

Some may question why LGBTQ+ visitors would want to visit any of the 69 U.N. member countries that criminalize homosexuality at all. Stefan Arestis and Sebastien Chaneac, who run the travel blog The Nomadic Boys to help inspire and inform gay travelers , have traveled to many of them, including Singapore , Malaysia, and Dubai. The couple have yet to visit the Kingdom, and whether or not to go is a topic of debate between them.

“It’s easy to have an attitude of ‘OMG, I would never dare go to a place that wants to throw me in jail, better to boycott them and spend my hard-earned dollars in a place that welcomes me’," says Arestis. “This way of thinking risks doing more harm than good. It’s more productive to get out there and support the local LGBTQ community ."

Meanwhile, Chaneac isn't convinced it's safe for them to do so. “The opening of tourism is a great thing, because with more tourism, there will be more LGBTQ+ visibility, and that could start to change things," says Chaneac. "But when you’re a gay person, you have to think of other things, like whether the law is on your side.”

Arestis notes that in most places that criminalize homosexuality like Dubai, travelers benefit from a double standard and are rarely penalized for violating local law—but Saudi Arabia is different and the penalties are known for being much more severe and should be taken at face value. “We suggest going back in the closet,” says Arestis.

Parvez Sharma, a gay Indian-American filmmaker who traveled to Saudi Arabia to complete the hajj, an experience he chronicled in the 2015 documentary A Sinner in Mecca, feels this pilgrimage is a beautiful and essential activity for Muslims like himself, but sees that as separate from general tourism.

“People save their entire lives to make the pilgrimage—for Muslims, we have to disregard our feelings [about the Saudi government] and focus on the religious aspects of the journey," Sharma says. He says he wouldn't visit if he didn't have the religious obligation.

According to the private, conservative societal norms, no one will ask about sexual orientation. “There is a thriving gay scene, very underground, and it would be fascinating to see," says Arestis. "If you are not a public figure online, then there is nothing stopping you from going. You just have to be careful and set your social media as private, and perhaps have a rehearsed girlfriend in case it comes up. But people need to understand that if something happens, if they have an interaction, if they are caught meeting or kissing [someone of the same gender], there is no one to protect them.”

Journalism, photography, and freedom of speech

Put simply, Saudi Arabia is a monarchy, where democratic principles of freedom of press and speech do not apply. According to Reporters Without Borders, a group that advocates for press freedom around the world, over 30 editors, writers, and photographers are currently imprisoned for statements in articles, photographs, and even social media posts that were seen as critical of the government. American intelligence agencies have concluded that the government of Saudi Arabi orchestrated the murder of U.S.-based Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a notable dissident of the regime.

While tourists will not likely be writing critical op-eds while in the Kingdom, it is important to note that it is illegal to criticize the government, the royal family, or the Muslim faith in any way, either verbally or on social media. Politics, religion, and sex should not be discussed in a public setting or online, and cursing at someone or using foul language is a fine-able offense, as is using rude gestures.

“It's important to remember you’re a guest,” says Francis. “You’ve chosen to visit, so [you have to] play by the rules of your host country. It’s natural to want to ask questions, but you won’t be helping local people by interrogating them—free speech doesn’t exist here, and you could put them in a very difficult position.”

The most common offense that visitors are cited for in the Kingdom is unauthorized photography : Photographing a person (especially a woman) without permission or taking photos of an accident or crime is illegal and can result in a hefty fine (1,000 SAR/ $266). It is important to be particularly cautious in crowded areas like traditional markets, where it is easy to inadvertently take a photo of someone.

two figures standing above ruins in desert

An ancient city in Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia

Other things to keep in mind when planning a trip to Saudi Arabia

Restrictions for non-Muslim visitors

Mecca is the one city that remains off-limits to non-Muslim tourists. Mecca and Medina are the two holiest cities for Muslims who visit for the Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages. The latter is obligatory for every Muslim who is financially and physically able to make the trip, so roughly 2 million pilgrims travel to Mecca for the Hajj each year, and these visits require a religious visa.

For other travelers interested in visiting a religious site, Jeddah is a better option, as it is home to the only four mosques in the country that allow non-Muslim visitors to enter: Al Taqwa Mosque, the Al Rahma Mosque on the Red Sea, Moroccan-style King Fahd Mosque, and the King Saud Mosque, a nearly 10,000 square meter structure designed by Egyptian architect Abdel Wahed Al Wakil, who is considered the most prominent living authority on modern Islamic architecture.

Prayer timing and Ramadan

Throughout Saudi Arabia, some shops and restaurants will close for 15 to 30 minutes during the five prayer times each day though the latest laws do allow many to stay open at this time. Prayer times change throughout the year according to sunrise and sunset, so check the daily prayer times online or in the local newspaper and plan around them. Playing music during prayers, even in the car or home, is illegal.

It is best to avoid visiting during Ramadan when it is forbidden to eat, drink, or smoke in public from sunrise to sunset. Many shops and restaurants close during the day or operate on shortened schedules, and some tourist attractions shutter for the month. The dates of Ramadan are based on the lunar calendar and change each year.

Nightlife has a different meaning in Saudi Arabia, as alcohol is illegal. The cities come alive after dark, and many coffee shops, shisha patios, and dessert cafes are open until 2 a.m. or later. Families walk the corniche or have evening picnics in the parks, and malls bustle with activity. Restaurants are generally open late to accommodate the lifestyle.

Tour guides

The best way to enjoy the history, culture and natural beauty of Saudi Arabia is to come prepared with a good understanding of the local laws and customs and a willingness to abide by them—a local guide can help you do that, particularly if you don't speak Arabic, and most hotels can provide recommendations of people for hire. Aymerich suggests hiring a new guide in each destination to make sure you’re getting the benefit of hyper-local insights and so you don’t get stuck with someone you’re not happy with for the entirety of your trip. Guides can also arrange for transportation if you want to get out of the city to explore more far flung locations.

To help single female travelers navigate Saudi Arabia, Nada al Nahdi , a Yemeni-Indonesian female traveler and blogger, who was born and raised in the Kingdom, and local Esraa Rayes organize female group travel throughout the country via their company, Qairawan .

Due to the pandemic, there are no more visas issued on arrival, but e-visas are quickly approved for American travelers. The online application includes the option to purchase mandatory insurance for 140 SAR/$37 and pay the visa fee of 300 SAR/ $80. The e-visa typically is emailed within minutes and is valid for one-year with multiple entries and stays of up to 90-days at a time. ( Proof of vaccination and a negative PCR test, taken no more than 72-hours prior to traveling to the Kingdom, are also required as of January 2021.)

“The visa process was so easy, but that was the only thing that was well organized,” Aymerich said, adding that visitors should be prepared to be amenable to changes in their itineraries once they're in the country. “You need to be flexible, willing to ask people for advice, and a little bit lucky. If you are looking for an easy trip, this isn’t it—but if you’re ready for an adventure, to experience new things, there is so much to see in Saudi Arabia, and the people are wonderful and excited to share their culture.”

Recommended

Six Senses Southern Dunes

The St. Regis Riyadh

Middle East Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

What to Know Before Visiting Saudi Arabia

Now that the kingdom is welcoming international travelers, here’s everything you need to know before planning a trip to saudi arabia..

Copy Link copied

A young girl's reflection show in the sideview mirror of a car near Maraya concert hall.

A young Saudi girl near AlUla’s Maraya concert hall, the largest mirrored building in the world. In Arabic, maraya means “reflection.”

Photo by Tasneem Alsultan

Planning a trip to Saudi Arabia can seem mystifying since it’s been off-limits to most international visitors for so long. But the kingdom’s opening to tourism is bringing with it new infrastructure and processes to make the destination accessible: In a matter of minutes, travelers can apply online and receive a multiple-entry eVisa , valid for one year, for about $142. Tour operators such as U.K.-based Wild Frontiers host immersive trips that take travelers from the world’s largest camel market outside Buraydah to ancient petroglyphs around the Jubbah oasis—as well as to the cities of Jeddah and Riyadh. AFAR’s Travel Advisory Council members can also help with planning a trip.

The best time to visit

November to March brings the most pleasant weather in Saudi Arabia, ranging from the 50s in the Hijaz Mountains to the 70s and 80s on the coast. It’s also when the country comes alive with events: AlUla Moments , the MDLBeast music festivals , the Islamic Arts Biennale, the Red Sea International Film Festival, and others.

In recent years, guidelines around women’s attire have relaxed considerably, and it’s no longer mandatory to wear an abaya (the traditional body-length dress) and scarf in public. However, both men and women travelers should respect cultural norms with modest clothing options covering the shoulders and knees when in public. Women should have a scarf on hand if they plan to visit a mosque, as head coverings are required.
Alcohol is prohibited in Saudi Arabia and is not available at restaurants, hotels, venues, or events.
During the month of Ramadan (March 22 to April 20 in 2023), many restaurants will be closed until after sunset. While some hotels continue to serve meals throughout the day for those who aren’t fasting, you should avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours out of respect.
In general across Saudi Arabia, it’s best to avoid public displays of affection.

Where to stay

As the country’s financial, cultural, and culinary hub, Riyadh is the most dynamic city in the nation. The Four Seasons sets you inside the capital’s most distinctive skyscraper, the Kingdom Centre, capped by the soaring Sky Bridge.

On the Red Sea, Jeddah is a relaxed, cosmopolitan city with history dating back to the 7th century. Opened in February 2022, the gleaming Shangri-La Jeddah is a new addition to the hotel landscape.

With Nabataean tombs carved into rocky outcrops across a vast desert, AlUla sits approximately 423 miles north of Jeddah on the historic incense route. It is home to Al-Hijr, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, which was inscribed in 2008.

In 2021, the government unveiled a $15 billion plan to turn the ancient city into an international arts and culture hub. Change is already evident: The hotel Habitas AlUla and Habitas’s nearby caravans blend into an ochre valley studded with contemporary art installations; the Banyan Tree AlUla also debuted in late 2022 near the Maraya concert hall. Three additional resorts from Aman will launch in the AlUla area from 2025-2027, including a tented camp and a “ranch-style” property.

A lighthouse overlooking the ocean at sunset in West Cork, Ireland

🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia

Travel advisories.

There are currently 2 active travel advisories for Saudi Arabia.

The most recent advisory was issued 16 days ago by 🇨🇦 , which recommended Increased Caution .

16 days ago

Issued by 🇨🇦

5 months ago

Issued by 🇺🇸

Updated after periodic review to provide information on the risk of arrest due to social media use and the importation of prohibited items.

Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to the threat of missile and drone attacks. Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to terrorism, the risk of arrest based on social media activity, and importation of prohibited items. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to the following locations due to the threat of missile and drone attacks and terrorism :

Within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border, as well as the cities of Abha, Jizan, Najran, and Khamis Mushayt;
Abha airport;
Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah.

Country Summary : U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission responsibility must adhere to the above travel restrictions. As such, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these locations.

Missile and drone attacks perpetrated by Iran and Iran-supported militant groups have occurred as recently as September 2023. The Islamic Republic of Iran has in the past supplied Yemen-based Houthis and regional proxy groups with weapons to conduct destructive and sometimes lethal attacks using drones, missiles, and rockets against a variety of Saudi sites, including critical infrastructure, civilian airports, military bases, and energy facilities throughout the country, as well as vessels in Red Sea shipping lanes. Past attacks were aimed at targets throughout Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran, Jizan, Khamis Mushayt, the civilian airport in Abha, Al Kharj, military installations in the south, as well as oil and gas facilities.

Debris from intercepted drones and missiles has also represented a significant risk to civilian areas and populations in the recent past. Militant groups have threatened to conduct attacks against locations in Saudi Arabia. U.S. citizens living and working near military bases and critical civilian infrastructure, particularly near the border with Yemen, are at heightened risk if missile, drone, or rocket attacks reoccur.

Terrorism continues to be a concern in Saudi Arabia. Attacks can occur with little or no warning. Past attacks have targeted tourist locations, large gatherings, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Terrorists are also known to time attacks around major holidays and/or in response to military operations. Terrorists have targeted both Saudi and international interests, mosques and other religious sites (both Sunni and Shia), and places frequented by U.S. citizens.

Be advised that social media commentary – including past comments – which Saudi authorities may deem critical, offensive, or disruptive to public order, could lead to arrest . This may include posting, re-posting, or liking comments about Saudi institutions, policies, and public life. U.S. citizens have been convicted for social media activity under Saudi laws concerning cybercrime, terrorism, and disrupting public order. Punishment for social media activity has included prison sentences of up to 45 years in some cases. Saudi courts do not necessarily consider the timeframe of the posts or the location from which they were made to be material to these cases.

The importation of drugs (including marijuana), drug paraphernalia, alcohol, weapons, pork, or any materials that could be considered pornographic or suggestive, is prohibited. Penalties for drug possession, consumption, and trafficking are severe by U.S. standards. An extensive list of banned items is available on our Saudi Arabia country information page .

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Saudi Arabia, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Saudi Arabia.

If you decide to travel to Saudi Arabia:

Visit our website for information on travel to high-risk areas .
Stay alert in large crowds and/or locations frequented by foreign nationals.
Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
Review local laws and conditions before traveling, including our Saudi Arabia country information on arrest notification and the Department of State’s general information on arrests of U.S. citizens abroad .
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Follow the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Country Security Report for Saudi Arabia.
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Yemen Border, Abha airport, and Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Militants in Yemen have attacked Saudi border towns and other sites in Saudi Arabia with armed drones, missiles, and rockets . Civilians that are near the border with Yemen are especially at risk. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Saudi Arabia, including in Qatif.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border as U.S. government personnel and their families are restricted from travel to this area.

Visit our website for information on travel to high-risk areas

Loading ...

Pardon Our Interruption

As you were browsing something about your browser made us think you were a bot. There are a few reasons this might happen:

You've disabled JavaScript in your web browser.
You're a power user moving through this website with super-human speed.
You've disabled cookies in your web browser.
A third-party browser plugin, such as Ghostery or NoScript, is preventing JavaScript from running. Additional information is available in this support article .

To regain access, please make sure that cookies and JavaScript are enabled before reloading the page.

Search Please fill out this field.
Manage Your Subscription
Give a Gift Subscription
Newsletters
Sweepstakes
Travel Tips

Here’s What You Need to Know Before Visiting Saudi Arabia

For the first time in its history, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced that will be opening its doors for tourism by issuing an electronic visa for visitors coming from 49 countries — including the United States.

Anyone over the age of 18 can apply for an eVisa . It costs approximately $120 and is valid for a period of one year with an option for multiple entry, and permits a maximum stay of 90 days in the country. Previously, the Kingdom issued only visitor visas for religious pilgrimage and business visas. This monumental announcement is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s reform program, Vision 2030 , which aims to reduce the country’s reliance on oil and diversify its economy by way of tourism and entertainment.

Over the past two years, the government has also announced the launch of several ambitious projects, including an entertainment mega-city in Riyadh (reportedly, twice the size of Orlando’s Disney World ), a futuristic beach destination along the coast of the Red Sea, and restoration of UNESCO World Heritage sites. By 2030, the government expects 100 million annual visits, increased foreign and domestic investment in hotels and associated amenities, the creation of million jobs, and an increase in tourism revenue from the current 3% to 10% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product, according to Reuters.

To attract Western tourists and market itself as a tourist destination — on par with neighboring Gulf states— Saudi Arabia has eased some of its conservative restrictions, like granting women rights to drive and travel without a guardian, curbing the powers of the moral police, permitting unmarried tourist couples to rent hotel rooms, and relaxing dress codes.

Within the first 10 days of the introduction of the eVisa 24,000 visitors entered the Kingdom, according to Arab News . Although there is a lack of adequate tourism infrastructure, those curious to learn about and experience the country will find Saudi’s natural landscape and its welcoming locals incentive enough to visit.

If you find yourself heading to Saudi Arabia to explore the land uncharted to tourists, here are a few basic and cultural tips for first-time travelers to the Kingdom.

With this news, people are asking: Is Saudi Arabia Safe for tourists? Yes, Saudi Arabia is safe for tourists. As with travel to any other country in the world, be respectful of local rules and customs, be mindful of your surroundings, and carry out due diligence before traveling. Be sure to consult travel advisories before your trip.

Public spaces

Public spaces may be segregated, and you will find separate entrances or seating areas for men and women. Refrain from public displays of affection.

Seek permission before photographing locals. Under the public code of conduct , it is a punishable offense. Other offenses include vandalism of public property, playing music during prayer times, and dress code violations.

Female tourists are not required to wear the abaya (a cloak, previously mandated by the government). However, both men and women should dress modestly, avoiding tight fitting and revealing clothes in public. The official Visit Saudi tourism website provides further details on what this entails.

Stores and restaurants close during prayer times, five times a day. To make the most of your trip, plan your itinerary according to these times.

Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country. While non-Muslims are welcome and permitted to practice their religion in private spaces, preaching in public forums or on social media platforms is prohibited. Malicious propaganda against the country, government, and religion is a severe offense.

The sale, purchase or consumption of alcohol and drugs is illegal in the country.

Social customs

You will find locals to be hospitable, generous, and as equally curious about you as you may be about them. It is not uncommon to be invited to share a meal or a cup of gahwa (Arabic coffee) and dates. Your hosts — and even strangers — will want to extend their welcome and offer a token of their hospitality, like food or even a small gift. It is considered rude to refuse such an offering. Just remember, always accept and consume food and beverages with your right hand.

If you are invited into a Saudi house, remove your shoes, unless your host insists you keep them on. In a traditional Majlis, (a sitting hall with floor cushions) you are expected to sit on the floor. If hosted elsewhere, you can expect a modern setup with armchairs and other furniture.

Saudis encourage and welcome Westerners asking questions about their culture. To avoid offending local sensibilities, it's best to steer clear of political or religious topics of conversation.

Familiarizing yourself with Saudi rituals like greetings and handshakes will always make a favorable impression with your hosts. “Marhaban!” (Welcome) is a common way of greeting and you may respond with “Marhabtain” (I give you two welcomes).

Men shouldn’t extend a handshake to a Saudi woman, unless she does so first. To err on the side of caution, place your hand over your heart and greet with a hello.

Content Search

Saudi Arabia

Construction Statistics Expert

UN Development Programme

Organization: UNDP Saudi Arabia, through Stars Orbit Consultants and Management Development (SOC).

VA No. VA24-81

Position Title: Construction Statistics Expert Consultancy Type: International Expert

Duty Station: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Duration: 3 months

Vacancy Date of Issue: 6 June 2024

Vacancy Closure Date: 12 June 2024

Expected Starting Date: As soon as possible

Office/Unit/Project Description

Saudi Arabia has realised and sustained, for the last four decades, remarkable progress along the socio- economic development path. As a result of this, the Kingdom has been able to move to a high-income country.

The ongoing transformation of Saudi Arabia beneath the Vision 2030 plan is unlocking new possibilities at an extraordinary pace.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) is the statistical reference for Saudi Arabia's socio- economic development. GASTAT provide comprehensive, reliable, up-to-date statistics and value-added services in line with international standards and take the lead in developing a modern statistical sector in order to support decision making.

Scope of Work

The expert of Construction statistics will provide technical assistance to support GASTAT in undertaking Construction statistics. This expertise will extend to the entire value chain of GASTAT's economic statistics surveys, methodology, and indicators. In addition to evaluating, validating, and analysing the collected data.

The Expert will also implement capacity strengthening activities, including training, and mentoring the staff. Specifically, the responsibilities under this assignment include the following:

Technical support:
Reviewing and developing survey methodologies, questionnaires, and data collection methods
Provide technical advice on developing the sampling framework, the process of selecting the sampling units, the levels of representativeness required / sample size for the NPISA.
Reviewing and validating the collected data.
Counselling and assisting in treating and analysing the data.
Providing expert guidance on bridging data gaps using best-practice estimation methods, aligned with international standards.
Extracting and interpreting results for key indicators.
Assisting in the preparation of charts, graphs and other outputs for reporting and presentations.
Reviewing the indicators prior to dissemination.
Perform any other relevant tasks requested by the supervisor.
Capacity Development

In addition to delivering the above-mentioned technical support

The expert will advise the team on the best practices in relation to methodologies and frameworks.
Delivering training to the staff in treating, analysing and visualizing survey data.
Prepare descriptions and documentation of methodologies and procedures for the survey.
Providing coaching and on-the-job-training for the staff as needed

Duration of the Work

The expected duration of the assignment is expected to be up to 3 months with the possibility of extension.

Duty Station

The assignment will be In Country Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He/ She will be embedded within the within the Survey Unit at GASTAT.

If unforeseen travel outside the consultant’s home-based city is requested by UNDP and not required by the Terms of References (ToR), such travel shall be covered by UNDP in line with applicable rules and regulations and upon prior written agreement. In such cases, the consultant shall receive living allowances not exceeding the United Nations (UN) Daily Subsistence Allowance (DSA) rate for such other location(s).

Note : A written approval from UNDP and relevant authorities will be required to facilitate the consultant's travel to any locations than stated on this TOR on official missions where necessary.

Working Arrangements:

The duty station of the Agriculture Statistics Expert is GASTAT at Riyadh - Saudi Arabia
The Agriculture Statistics Expert will work in close collaboration with the Chief Technical Advisor (CTA), other consultants and the relevant GASTAT technical staff.

Institutional Arrangement

The duty station for the Expert is Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He/ She will be embedded within the economic statistics at GASTAT.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Advanced degree, preferably a master’s level in statistics, economics, or other related fields.

Experiences:

Minimum of 7 years relevant professional experience.

Work experience in similar contexts

Full understanding of economic and business concepts, indicators, and frameworks.
The ability to validate, analyse, and treat data.
The ability to conduct researches.
Ability to provide statistical technical advice on different sectors.
Ability to work on own initiative as well as a member of a team and to work under pressure.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
Ability to work on any of the statistical packages to analyse data.
Good understanding and practice of capacity development.

Required Language:

Excellent Arabic or English

How to apply

CV must be submitted online in PDF through SOC’s portal via the following link: https://jobs.my-soc.org/apply/20240606130009/3AKUashXSxZuizby0YFrW9vdH
Use the English language only.
To review the full ToR, click here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15JT6cyBGcTBp8C-7gHicP5pgrFpi2Q8D/view?usp=sharing
Indicate clear years of experience with each job (Month/Year)
If the candidate is currently employed by a government institution, he/she must be able to provide an unpaid leave of absence for the duration of the consultancy.
Only candidates who are short-listed will be contacted.
By submitting your application, you have read the Terms of Reference for this position and agree that any false, wrong, or incomplete information might lead to your disqualification in this recruitment process.

Latest Updates

Starvation of the civilian population as a method of warfare [en/ar], missing persons in situations of armed conflict [en/ar], detention and the right to a fair trial in armed conflict: interplay between international humanitarian law and international human rights law [en/ar], the legality of israel’s military offensive in rafah and attack at tal al-sultan.

Share full article

Stephen Hiltner/The New York Times

The sculpted facade of a 2,000-year-old tomb glows in the late-afternoon sun at Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Crowds of Muslim pilgrims gather outside the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.

Camels march through the desert on the outskirts of the Empty Quarter, the world’s largest sand sea.

For many years these Saudi Arabian scenes, including the lively open-air markets in Jeddah, were off limits to most travelers.

But not anymore. As it undergoes a profound transformation, Saudi Arabia is spending lavishly to lure tourists with its luxe new resorts ...

... its rich cultural heritage ...

... and its sublime natural beauty.

Can the Saudi government persuade would-be visitors to look past — or reconsider — its longstanding associations with religious extremism, ultraconservatism and human rights abuses?

Will the kingdom’s $800 billion bet on tourism pay off?

Supported by

Surprising, Unsettling, Surreal: Roaming Through Saudi Arabia

To witness the kingdom’s profound transformation and assess its ambitious tourism projects, a Times journalist spent a month on the road there. Here’s what he saw.

By Stephen Hiltner

An editor and photojournalist for the Travel section, Stephen Hiltner drove 5,200 miles and visited all 13 of Saudi Arabia’s provinces while reporting and shooting this story.

Wandering alone along the southern fringes of Saudi Arabia’s mountainous Asir Province, some eight miles from the Yemeni border, in a nondescript town with a prominent sculpture of a rifle balanced on an ornately painted plinth, I met a man, Nawab Khan, who was building a palace out of mud.

Actually, he was rebuilding the structure, restoring it. And when I came across him, he hadn’t yet begun his work for the day; he was seated on the side of the road beneath its red-and-white windows — cross-legged, on a rug, leaning over a pot of tea and a bowl of dates.

Two weeks earlier, on the far side of the country, a fellow traveler had pointed at a map and described the crumbling buildings here, in Dhahran al-Janub, arranged in a colorful open-air museum. Finding myself nearby, I’d detoured to have a look — and there was Mr. Khan, at first looking at me curiously and then waving me over to join him. Sensing my interest in the cluster of irregular towers, he stood up, produced a large key ring and began opening a series of padlocks. When he vanished through a doorway, I followed him into a shadowy stairwell.

This, of course, was my mother’s worst nightmare: Traveling solo, I’d been coaxed by a stranger into an unlit building in a remote Saudi village, within a volatile border area that the U.S. Department of State advises Americans to stay away from .

By now, though, more than halfway through a 5,200-mile road trip, I trusted Mr. Khan’s enthusiasm as a genuine expression of pride, not a ploy. All across Saudi Arabia, I’d seen countless projects being built, from simple museums to high-end resorts. These were the early fruits of an $800 billion investment in the travel sector, itself part of a much larger effort, Vision 2030 , to remake the kingdom and reduce its economic dependence on oil.

But I’d begun to see the building projects as something else, too: the striving of a country — long shrouded to most Westerners — to be seen, reconsidered, accepted. And with its doors suddenly flung open and the pandemic behind us, visitors like me were finally beginning to witness this new Saudi Arabia, much to Mr. Khan’s and all the other builders’ delight.

Few countries present as complicated a prospect for travelers as Saudi Arabia.

Long associated with Islamic extremism, human rights abuses and the oppression of women, the kingdom has made strides in recent years to refashion its society and its reputation abroad.

The infamous religious police, which upheld codes of conduct based on an ultraconservative interpretation of Islam, were stripped of their power. Public concerts, once banned, are now ubiquitous. Women have been granted new rights — including the freedom to drive and to travel without permission from a male guardian — and are no longer required to wear floor-length robes in public or to cover their hair.

These changes are part of a broad set of strategies to diversify the kingdom’s economy, elevate its status in the world and soften its image — the last of which is a tall order for a government that has killed a newspaper columnist , kidnapped and tortured dissidents , precipitated a humanitarian crisis in Yemen and imprisoned people for supporting gay rights , among a number of other recent abuses .

Central to the transformations led by 38-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom’s de facto ruler, is a major push for international visitors. It represents a sea change in a country that, until 2019, issued no nonreligious tourist visas and instead catered almost exclusively to Muslim pilgrims visiting Mecca and Medina, Islam’s two holiest cities. In February, by contrast, my tourist e-visa was approved online in minutes.

Saudi Arabia has already transformed one of its premier destinations — Al-Ula, with its UNESCO-listed Nabatean tombs — from a neglected collection of archaeological sites into a lavish retreat with a bevy of activities on offer, including guided tours, wellness festivals, design exhibitions and hot air balloon rides.

Another project will create a vast array of luxury resorts on or near the Red Sea.

Still more projects include the development of Diriyah , the birthplace of the first Saudi state; the preservation and development of the coastal city of Jeddah ; an offshore theme park called the Rig ; and Neom , the futuristic city that has garnered the lion’s share of attention.

All told, the country is hoping to draw 70 million international tourists per year by 2030, with tourism contributing 10 percent of its gross domestic product. (In 2023, the country logged 27 million international tourists, according to government figures , with tourism contributing about 4 percent of G.D.P.)

At-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was the birthplace of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is now the centerpiece of the $63 billion Diriyah project, a new center of culture just outside Riyadh.

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve on a remote island in the Red Sea, opened in late May. (A one-bedroom villa costs about $2,500 per night, excluding taxes and fees.) It is one of 50 properties scheduled to open in the area by 2030.

The preservation and development of Jeddah, a coastal city famous for its historic district built largely from blocks of coral, comes with a price tag of some $20 billion.

Al-Ula is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s tourism ambitions. Part of the city’s Old Town, long crumbling in neglect, has now been painstakingly restored.

To get a sense of these projects and the changes unfolding in Saudi society, I spent a month exploring the kingdom by car. I traveled alone, without a fixer, driver or translator. Per New York Times ethics guidelines, I declined the government’s many offers of discounts and complimentary services.

Much of the time I felt I’d been tossed the keys to the kingdom. But there were moments, too, when I faced a more complicated reality, one epitomized by a road sign that forced me to abruptly exit the highway some 15 miles from the center of Mecca. “Obligatory for Non Muslims,” it read, pointing to the offramp.

To me, the sign broadcast the lines being drawn to compartmentalize the country, which is now marketing itself to two sets of travelers with increasingly divergent — and sometimes contradictory — expectations: luxury tourists at ease with bikinis and cocktails, and pilgrims prepared for modesty and strict religious adherence. It’s hard to know whether the kingdom can satisfy both without antagonizing either.

My trip began in Jeddah, where, after spending two days exploring its historic district, I rented a car and drove eight hours north to Al-Ula, a benchmark for the new Saudi tourism initiatives.

Saudi Arabia

Reporter’s route

Dhahran al-Janub

Wadi al-Disah

Red Sea Resort

The name Al-Ula refers to both a small city and a broader region packed with attractions: Hegra , the kingdom’s first UNESCO World Heritage site and its biggest archaeological draw, is a 30-minute drive north of Old Town, a maze of crumbling mud-brick buildings now partly restored. Between the two, and fanning out to the east and west, are several other archaeological sites, as well as a smattering of resorts, event spaces and adventure outfitters. Farther northeast, beyond Hegra, is the Sharaan Nature Reserve , a vast protected zone used for conservation efforts.

My first priority during my five-day stay in Al-Ula was a visit to Hegra.

Like Petra , its better-known counterpart in Jordan, Hegra was built by the Nabateans, an ancient people who flourished 2,000 years ago. The site contains more than 100 tombs that were carved from solid rock, their entrances adorned with embellishments. Most impressive among them, set apart and standing some 70 feet tall, is a tomb colloquially called the Lonely Castle.

Not long ago, visitors could hire private guides and wander the area on foot, climbing in and out of — and no doubt damaging — the many tombs. Not anymore: I boarded an air-conditioned tour bus and zipped past most of them, stopping at just four locations.

At the penultimate stop, we exited the bus and trudged several hundred feet along a sandy path to the front of the Lonely Castle. Even in the late afternoon, the heat was stifling. I craned my neck to take in the details of the sculpted facade, which emerged like a mirage from one side of a massive boulder: its four pilasters, the rough chisel marks near the bottom, its characteristic five-stepped crown. Ten minutes evaporated, and I turned to find my group being shepherded back onto the bus. I jogged through the sand to catch up.

A few miles north of Hegra, I hopped in the back of a Toyota Land Cruiser — accompanied by an Italian graduate student and his mother — for a drive through the sandy expanse of the Sharaan Nature Reserve.

The scenery was sublime: Slipping through a narrow slot canyon, we emerged into a vast, open desert plain, then settled into a wide valley enclosed by an amphitheater of cliffs. Occasionally our guide stopped and led us on short hikes to petroglyphs, some pockmarked by bullet holes, or to lush fields of wildflowers, where he plucked edible greens and invited us to sample their lemony tang.

Gabriele Morelli, the graduate student, had first come to Al-Ula a few years ago — a different era, he said, given how quickly the place had transformed. He described a version that no longer exists, rife with cheap accommodation, lax rules and a free-for-all sensibility.

Some of the changes, of course, have been necessary to protect delicate ecosystems and archaeological sites from ever-growing crowds. But several people I met in Al-Ula — Saudis and foreigners alike — quietly lamented the extent of the high-end development and the steady erosion of affordability. Many of the new offerings, like the Banyan Tree resort, they pointed out, are luxury destinations that cater to wealthy travelers.

These hushed criticisms were among my early lessons on how difficult it can be to gauge the way Saudis feel about the pace and the pervasiveness of the transformations reshaping their society.

I got a taste of Al-Ula’s exclusivity — and of the uncanniness that occasionally surfaced throughout my trip — at a Lauryn Hill concert in an event space called Maraya . To reach the hall, I passed through a security gate, where an attendant scanned my e-ticket and directed me two miles up a winding road into the heart of the Ashar Valley, home to several high-end restaurants and resorts.

Rounding the final bend, I felt as if I’d stumbled into a computer-generated image: Ant-size humans were dwarfed by a reflective structure that both asserted itself and blended into the landscape. Inside, waiters served hors d’oeuvres and brightly colored mocktails to a chic young crowd.

The surreality peaked when, midway through the show, I left my plush seat to join some concertgoers near the stage — only to turn and see John Bolton, former President Donald J. Trump’s national security adviser, seated in the front row.

Where else, I wondered, could I attend a rap concert in the middle of the desert with a longtime fixture of the Republican Party — amid a crowd that cheered when Ms. Hill mentioned Palestine — but this strange new corner of Saudi Arabia?

The mirrored facade at Maraya, a vast event space in Al-Ula, warps and reflects the surrounding desert landscape.

The building is in some ways a precursor to the kingdom’s most ambitious architectural design: the project at Neom called the Line, a 106-mile linear city that will also feature a mirrored surface.

Lauryn Hill performing in front of a large crowd at Maraya.

After Al-Ula, I drove to another of the kingdom’s extravagant schemes: the Red Sea project, billed as the “world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destination.” After weaving through a morass of construction-related traffic, I boarded a yacht — alongside a merry band of Saudi influencers — and was piloted some 15 miles to a remote island, where I disembarked in a world of unqualified opulence at the St. Regis Red Sea Resort .

I was chauffeured around in an electric golf cart — past 43 beachside “dune” villas and onto two long boardwalks that connect the rest of the resort to 47 “coral” villas, built on stilts over shallow turquoise water. Along the way, I listened to Lucas Julien-Vauzelle, an executive assistant manager, wax poetic about sustainability. “We take it to the next level,” he said, before rattling off a list of facts and figures: 100 percent renewable energy, a solar-powered 5G network , plans to enhance biologically diverse habitats.

By 2030, he said, the Red Sea project will offer 50 hotels across its island and inland sites. Citing the Maldives, he mentioned the kingdom’s plans to claim a share of the same high-end market.

Another prediction came by way of Keith Thornton, the director of restaurants, who said he expects the resort to legally serve alcohol by the end of the year. (While a liquor store for non-Muslim diplomats recently opened in Riyadh, the Saudi government has made no indication that it plans to reconsider its broader prohibition of alcohol.)

The hotel was undeniably impressive. But there’s an inescapable irony to a lavish resort built at unfathomable expense in the middle of the sea — with guests ferried out by chartered boat and seaplane — that flaunts its aspirations for sustainability.

Toward the end of my several-hour visit, I learned that every piece of vegetation, including 646 palm trees, had been transplanted from an off-site nursery. Later, reviewing historical satellite images, I found visual evidence that the island — described to me as pristine — had been dramatically fortified and, in the process, largely remade. Its footprint had also been significantly altered. It was, in a sense, an artificial island built where a smaller natural island once stood.

Something else struck me, too: The place was nearly empty, save for the staff and the Saudi influencers. Granted, the resort had just opened the month before — but the same was true at the nearby Six Senses Southern Dunes , an inland Red Sea resort that opened in November. Fredrik Blomqvist, the general manager there, told me that its isolated location in a serene expanse of desert — part of its appeal — also presented a challenge in drawing customers. “The biggest thing,” he said, “is to get the message out that the country is open.”

Since the country began issuing tourist visas, influencers have been documenting their experiences in places like Jeddah and Al-Ula, their trips often paid for by the Saudi government. Their breezy content contributes to the impression that the kingdom is awaiting discovery by foreign visitors with out-of-date prejudices. To an extent, for a certain segment of tourists, that’s true.

For many travelers, though, the depiction of the kingdom as an uncomplicated getaway could be dangerously misleading.

Speech in Saudi Arabia is strictly limited; dissent is not tolerated — nor is the open practice of any religion other than the government’s interpretation of Islam. In its travel advisory , the U.S. Department of State warns that “social media commentary — including past comments — which Saudi authorities may deem critical, offensive, or disruptive to public order, could lead to arrest.” Punishment for Saudi nationals has been far worse: In 2023, a retired teacher was sentenced to death after he criticized the ruling family via anonymous accounts. As of late 2023, he remained in prison.

Other restrictions are harder to parse. L.G.B.T.Q. travelers are officially welcome in the kingdom but face a conundrum: They might face arrest or other criminal penalties for openly expressing their sexual orientation or gender identity. As recently as 2021, an independent U.S. federal agency included Saudi Arabia on a list of countries where same-sex relationships are punishable by death , noting that “the government has not sought this penalty in recent years.”

When asked how he would convince a same-sex couple that it was safe to visit, Jerry Inzerillo, a native New Yorker and the group chief executive of Diriyah, said: “We don’t ask you any questions when you come into the country or when you leave.”

“Maybe that’s not conclusive enough,” he added, “but a lot of people have come.”

Female travelers might also face difficulties, since advancements in women’s rights are not equally distributed throughout the kingdom.

The changes were more visible in big cities and tourist centers. Ghydda Tariq, an assistant marketing manager in Al-Ula, described how new professional opportunities had emerged for her in recent years. Maysoon, a young woman I met in Jeddah, made extra money by occasionally driving for Uber. Haneen Alqadi, an employee at the St. Regis Red Sea, described how women there are free to wear bikinis without fear of repercussions.

Outside such places, though, I sometimes went for days without seeing more than a handful of women, invariably wearing niqabs, let alone seeing them engaged in public life or tourism. My photographs reflect that imbalance.

As an easily identifiable Western man, I moved through the country with an array of advantages: the kindness and cheery curiosity of strangers, the ease of passage at military checkpoints, and the freedom to interact with a male-dominated society at markets, museums, parks, restaurants, cafes. Not all travelers could expect the same treatment.

Roaming in the far north and south, I often found the earlier version of the kingdom — with lax rules and less development — that had been described to me in Al-Ula.

I trekked to the northern city of Sakaka to see an archaeological site promoted as the Stonehenge of Saudi Arabia: a set of monoliths called the Rajajil Columns thought to have been erected some 6,000 years ago but about which little is definitively known.

My heart sank when I pulled into the parking lot after a five-hour drive and found the columns blocked by a tall fence. Approaching on foot, though, I noticed that a section of the fence had been peeled back and that visitors were wandering freely among the stones, which protruded from the earth like isolated clusters of crooked teeth. I joined the small crowd, if hesitatingly, and was surprised to find no footpaths, nor anything to keep us a safe distance from the columns. In the end I wondered if our access had been officially approved or informally arranged.

My travel experiences were sometimes awkward in other ways, too.

Standing just outside the grounds of the central mosque in Medina, where the Prophet Muhammad is buried, I was detained by a stern member of the Special Forces. (Even after 2019, non-Muslim tourists remained barred from Mecca and Medina, Islam’s two holiest cities. The ban was relaxed in parts of Medina in 2021.)

The guard interrogated me and, after calling a colleague to confer, demanded that I leave the area. “Go,” he said threateningly. Another traveler who witnessed the encounter scurried away to avoid a similar fate.

The unsettling exchange cast a pall over my time in the city, which few non-Muslims have seen. As far as I knew, I’d abided by the rules by staying outside the grounds of the Prophet’s Mosque — a boundary line that I’d confirmed with tourism officials beforehand.

Peering through the perimeter fence — the boundary line for non-Muslims — at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.

The Mosque of Al-Ghamamah, one of the oldest in the holy city.

A sprawling maze of ramshackle residential buildings sits less than a mile from the Prophet’s Mosque.

A guide speaking to a group of visitors near the Hejaz Railway Museum, visible in the distance. (The museum was closed for renovations at the time.)

A group of young men, most of whose families emigrated from Sudan, playing soccer in a field just outside the center of Medina.

More than anything, family and friends wanted to know if I felt safe on my trip — and I did, almost without exception. Petty crime in Saudi Arabia is exceedingly rare. And while parts of the country are under a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory , even my rambling itinerary was approved by a security expert.

Instead of fearing for my safety, I was often preoccupied with how I’d fairly portray a place that elicited such a range of conflicting emotions: joy and distress, excitement and apprehension, sincerity and doubt. So much lay hidden from public view — like the collective anguish over the war raging in Gaza . And so little was easy to categorize, in part because the warmth of everyday Saudis was strikingly at odds with the ruthlessness of their authoritarian government.

In Riyadh, a young man warned me not to speak openly with strangers. “People get arrested here for a tweet ,” he said. “Can you imagine?”

I could, actually. The Saudi columnist Jamal Khashoggi had chronicled his government’s increasingly draconian responses to criticism. “Repression and intimidation are not — and never should be — the acceptable companions of reform,” he wrote in The Washington Post in 2018, just months before he was killed and dismembered at his country’s consulate in Istanbul.

Were we to travel only where we feel comfortable and unchallenged, we’d all be poorer for it. But the question of whether to travel to Saudi Arabia is thornier than that.

It’s easy to see one response, “No,” as yielding to closed-mindedness at the expense of ordinary people — like the kindly vendor Abdullah, who served me local honey at his shop in the southern mountains.

But it’s easy, too, to see “Yes” as an affirmation that might makes right, that amusement outweighs morality, that princely wealth can wipe a stained slate clean.

Sunrise over the mountainous village of Fayfa, some six miles from the Yemeni border.

Abdullah Ghaleb Zaid, a honey vendor, at his shop atop a mountain pass near the southern city of Abha.

Sunset near Jabal Soudah, the kingdom’s highest peak.

Ten days into my trip, I ventured to Wadi al-Disah, a steep-walled valley where I’d booked a tent at a campsite I found on Airbnb. For an additional 300 riyals ($80), my host, Faisal, led me on a four-wheel-drive tour, departing the paved road and weaving through a path along the bed of an ephemeral river. Continually jolted by the uneven terrain, we eased past thick reeds, lofty palms and small bands of visitors who’d nestled into clearings.

As we left, I met a group of young men gathered for a picnic, their sandals scattered around a carpet on which they were preparing their dinner. Delighted to meet an American with a camera, they asked if I’d take a group portrait, then exchanged information with me so I could send them a copy — a scenario by then so familiar that I hardly thought anything of it.

A full day later, some 200 miles away, I was cruising along a lonely highway near the Jordanian border when a Land Cruiser blew past me at an astonishing speed. I felt my compact car rock from its turbulence — and then I watched with a twinge of dread as the car abruptly braked, slowing hard in the left lane until our front ends were aligned. It held steady there.

For a moment I stared straight ahead, hoping to avoid a confrontation. When I finally turned to look, I saw a group of boys grinning wildly and waving through an open window. Then I realized: Improbably, it was three of the young men I’d met the day before. Somehow we’d all followed the same route. And somehow, in the split second it took them to fly past, they’d recognized me. I lifted my camera from the passenger seat and snapped a photograph.

The picture shows three young Saudis on a precipice: endearing, erratic, captivating. I have a sense of where they came from but no certainty about where they’re going. Two are flashing peace signs, and none appears to be wearing a seatbelt. No one is watching the road as their car drifts out of its lane, careening a little recklessly into a hopeful and uncertain future.

Stephen Hiltner’s recent work includes a photo essay about his childhood in Budapest , an examination of A.I.-generated guidebooks and an investigation into the deaths of Russian soldiers in Ukraine . You can follow his travels on Instagram .

Got a question about this story? Drop a note in the comments section. Got a tip? Send him an email .

Stephen Hiltner is an editor, writer and photographer for the Travel section of The Times. More about Stephen Hiltner

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places: Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

The Alaska Highway: On an epic road trip, a family plots a course from Alaska to the Lower 48, passing through some of Canada’s most spectacular scenery .

Minorca: Spend 36 hours on this slow-paced Spanish island , which offers a quieter and wilder retreat than its more touristy neighbors.

Japan: A new high-speed train stop unlocks Kaga, a destination for hot springs, nourishing food and traditional crafts , as an easy-to-reach getaway from Tokyo.

London: The Victoria and Albert Museum is a treasure trove of art and design. Here’s one besotted visitor’s plan for taking it all in .

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

Travel Advisories |
Contact Us |
MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Learn about your destination

Take 90 seconds for safer travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

Enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Saudi Arabia Set to Raise $11.2 Billion Selling Aramco Shares at Lower End of Expectations

FILE PHOTO: General view of Aramco's oil field in the Empty Quarter, Shaybah, Saudi Arabia, January 12, 2024. REUTERS/Hamad I Mohammed/File Photo

By Maha El Dahan, Hadeel Al Sayegh and Yousef Saba

DUBAI (Reuters) -Saudi Arabia is poised to raise more than $11.2 billion selling shares in oil giant Aramco to help fund its spending plans, after pricing the stock at the lower end of its expectations, the company said on Friday.

Aramco shares were priced at 27.25 riyals ($7.27) after the company set a price range of 26.7 to 29.0 riyals.

The offering was covered four to five times, a person familiar with the matter said.

International demand was greater than for Aramco's IPO in 2019, two people said, and included interest from China, elsewhere in Asia as well as Europe, another person said.

Saudi Arabia has been seeking to lure international investment to pour tens of billions of dollars into projects to diversify away from its reliance on oil. Yet foreign investment has repeatedly missed targets.

Foreign demand for this sale was stronger than anticipated, one person said, but Reuters could not establish the proportion that went to international investors.

The Saudi government and Aramco did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Saudi de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 is funding endeavours as diverse as electric vehicles to building futuristic cities in the desert, mainly via its Public Investment Fund (PIF).

The $925 billion sovereign fund, after scaling back some of its flagship "giga-projects", aims to sharpen its focus to drive forward the vision, Reuters has reported.

Proceeds from the share sale are likely to be funnelled to the PIF, sources and analysts have said, though funds could also help plug the kingdom's budget deficit which has risen as the oil price has weakened.

Brent crude was trading just below $80 a barrel on Friday, set for a third straight weekly loss. The IMF projected in April that Saudi Arabia needs oil at $96.2 a barrel to balance its budget.

"It is not clear that oil prices will continue to go up the way they have over the last several years," Edward Al-Hussainy, head of emerging market fixed income research at Columbia Threadneedle, said on the reason for the sale.

The de facto Saudi-led Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies, including Russia, agreed to extend most production cuts into 2025 but outlined a detailed plan for eight members including Saudi Arabia to unwind some voluntary cuts over a year from October, market conditions permitting, which would allow Aramco to sell more oil.

The Saudi government "need this liquidity, and they are very cash poor because of these investment projects," Al-Hussainy said, adding, "they're coming at this from a position of weakness."

Aramco's shares were sold at a nearly 4% discount to where they closed on Thursday, valuing the company at about $1.76 trillion.

The secondary offering, codenamed Project Bond by the banks involved, took months of planning, sources have said. The 2019 IPO remains the world's biggest ever share offering.

Aramco, a cash cow for the Saudi state, has boosted dividends, introducing a new performance-linked payout last year to entice investors even as lower production hit earnings. Saudi Arabia is producing about 75% of its maximum capacity of crude oil.

Some international investors said they were put off by the company's relative high valuation among oil majors, Saudi state control and its positioning in an era of transition away from hydrocarbons.

The Saudi government is selling a roughly 0.64% stake in Aramco and can increase the sale to 0.7% of the oil giant via a so-called greenshoe option, which allows banks to stabilise the price of the offering.

If that option is exercised, the Aramco sale would raise roughly $12.36 billion.

The shares are set to start trading Sunday on Riyadh's Saudi Exchange.

($1 = 3.7504 riyals)

(Reporting by Maha El Dahan and Hadeel Al Sayegh; Additional reporting by Davide Barbuscia; Writing by Yousef Saba and Nadine Awadalla; Editing by Michael Georgy, Christopher Cushing and Elaine Hardcastle)

The Best Financial Tools for You

Credit Cards

Personal Loans

Comparative assessments and other editorial opinions are those of U.S. News and have not been previously reviewed, approved or endorsed by any other entities, such as banks, credit card issuers or travel companies. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter to get investing advice, rankings and stock market news.

See a newsletter example .

10 Best Artificial Intelligence Stocks

Wayne Duggan June 7, 2024

7 Clean Energy ETFs to Buy Now

Jeff Reeves June 7, 2024

How to Become a Millionaire by Investing

Marguerita Cheng June 7, 2024

Top Income Investments in 2024

Kate Stalter June 6, 2024

7 High-Yield Dividend Stocks to Buy

Glenn Fydenkevez June 6, 2024

Lock In High Yield Before Rate Cuts

9 Best Cheap Stocks to Buy Under $5

Ian Bezek June 6, 2024

7 Best ETFs to Buy Now

Jeff Reeves June 5, 2024

Investments by Elon Musk and Tesla

Brian O'Connell June 5, 2024

9 of the Best REITs to Buy for 2024

Wayne Duggan June 5, 2024

9 of the Best Bond ETFs to Buy Now

Tony Dong June 5, 2024

8 Best Defense Stocks to Buy Now

Wayne Duggan June 4, 2024

7 Best Vanguard Funds to Buy and Hold

Tony Dong June 4, 2024

Can AI Pick Stocks?

Marc Guberti June 4, 2024

How Inflation Affects Investments

Rachel McVearry June 4, 2024

6 Best Cryptocurrencies to Buy

John Divine June 4, 2024

7 High-Yield Covered Call ETFs

Tony Dong June 3, 2024

Is Gold a Good Investment Right Now?

Rachel McVearry and Matt Whittaker June 3, 2024

6 of the Best AI ETFs to Buy Now

Online check in
Manage booking
Flight status
Contact us and FAQs
Travelling with animals
Hong Kong and worldwide travel restrictions
Student fares

No messages.

The fast-changing Saudi Arabian capital, Riyadh, is a thriving, sprawling city that blends ancient heritage with a futuristic vision.

Under the Vision 2030 reforms spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the country has opened its doors to the world, inviting international tourists to explore the kingdom’s once-hidden treasures.

The result? A flood of five-star hotels and top-tier international restaurants, transforming the kingdom into a must-visit destination for luxury seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.

From essential travel tips and what to pack, to must-see attractions and the best places to dine, here’s how to make the most of your time in Riyadh.

People walking through King Khalid International Airport.

Credit: Ayman Zaid/Getty Images

STC counter at King Khalid International Airport.

Credit: winhorse/Getty Images

What to know about visiting Saudi Arabia

The currency used is the Saudi Riyal (SAR), and it typically hovers around SAR2 to the Hong Kong dollar. Cash and credit cards – including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express – are widely accepted, and many retailers take Apple Pay and Google Pay.

You’ll be able to pick up a SIM card at one of the booths in King Khalid International Airport or visit an STC , Mobily , or Zain store once you're in the city to get connected. Riyadh also has widespread 5G connectivity, and most hotels, restaurants, and cafés offer fast, free Wi-Fi.

In Saudi Arabia, the workweek kicks off on Sunday and wraps up on Thursday. If you’re visiting during the Holy Month of Ramadan, when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, expect shorter working days, and remember that eating or drinking in public during daylight hours is strictly forbidden. Dates change each year depending on moon sightings.

Credit: adz nano/Getty Images

How to get into Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia significantly relaxed its visa rules for business travellers in 2018, opening online applications for dozens of nationalities. All you need to do is submit an invitation letter from the company you’re visiting along with a recent passport photo, and you’ll hear back with the result within a few days. Tourist visas follow a similar process, although you won’t need an invitation letter to apply.

Immigration lines at King Khalid International Airport can appear dauntingly long, but they generally move quickly. For a swifter arrival, executives can sign up for an Al Tanfeethi membership (SAR26,000/HK$54,100 annually). Passengers using this service are picked up at the airport gate and ferried by buggy to a private terminal, where all the formalities are completed in minutes.

Different vehicles docked at King Khalid International Airport

Credit: Sergey Strelkov/Getty Images

Signage for the pickup area at King Khalid International Airport.

Credit: Ahmed Fahmi/Getty Images

How to get around Riyadh

While taxi drivers hustle for fares at the arrivals hall of King Khalid International Airport, Uber , Bolt , or local ride-hailing app Careem are the best bets for a reliable ride. Order early during peak hours, as long waits and sluggish traffic are not uncommon.

Riyadh’s metro system is nearing completion and will soon provide speedy connections from the airport to key business areas like King Abdullah Financial District and Olaya.

A man helps a couple of tourists to take photos in front of Salwa Palace.

Credit: xavierarnau/Getty Images

What to wear in Saudi Arabia

When packing for Riyadh, opt for modest yet comfortable clothing. While Saudi Arabia has eased its dress restrictions, it’s still wise to respect local customs — particularly in malls, where the rules are a little stricter. Women should opt for long sleeved tops and trousers or skirts that fall below the knee.

Loose-fitting tops and maxi dresses are ideal for staying cool and comfortable while adhering to the dress code. An abaya, the traditional cloak, is not mandatory.

Photos of the exterior of AI Faisaliah tower

Credit: Max shen/Getty Images

A photograph showing the edge of the world

Credit: AFZALKHAN M/Getty Images

Photos of the exterior of a historic Diriayh in Riyadh

Credit: Hussein Abdullah/Getty Images

What to see and do in Riyadh

Riyadh is a city of contrasts, blending the ultra-modern with the deeply traditional. Whether you’re a history buff, a shopping enthusiast or an outdoor adventurer, there’s something here for you.

Start your journey at Al Masmak Palace , an ancient fortress that’s symbolic of Saudi Arabia's unification. Wander through the museum to get a sense of the city’s rich history, then step outside to the lively Deerah Souq, where you can haggle for spices, incense, and traditional crafts.

For a taste of modern Riyadh, head to the towering Kingdom Centre . Here, the Sky Bridge offers stunning views of the cityscape, especially at sunset. Nearby, the Al Faisaliah Centre combines luxury shopping with dining options that range from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants.

Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Edge of the World , around an hour’s drive outside of the city. This dramatic cliff top serves up panoramic views that seem to stretch on forever. The trek to the top is an adventure in itself, offering visitors a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Saudi desert.

An aerial photograph of Bujairi Terrace3.

Credit: Diriyah Gate Development Authority

Credit: VIA Riyadh

Where to eat in Riyadh

The upscale Via Riyadh Mall is a gourmet haven, home to renowned restaurants from around the world. The local branch of Michelin-starred London restaurant Gymkhana brings modern takes on flavours from across India, while ultra-trendy Wagyumafia — a former street food spot — celebrates Japan’s most famous beef with dishes including the brand’s famous Chateaubriand Katsu Sando.

Over in the King Abdullah Financial District , among the gleaming skyscrapers, you’ll find culinary gems that cater to high-end tastes. Il Baretto brings Italian classics in a stylish dining room, plus excellent non-alcoholic cocktails , while the city’s glitterati can be found brunching on healthy stacks of pancakes under floral canopies at AOK Kitchen . Head to Jones the Grocer for laid-back, Australian-style lunches, or Black Tap for exceptional burgers in a neon-clad industrial space.

The city’s most unique dining destination is Bujairi Terrace , an atmospheric collection of traditional sandy-coloured buildings among winding tree-lined paths in the Unesco World Heritage site of Diriyah. Flamingo Room , the Riyadh branch of a perennial Dubai favourite, dishes up contemporary African fare, while Villa Mamas evokes the feeling of a traditional Arabian home with local ingredients and cosy vibes.

A woman sitting in the lounge area at the pool of Four Seasons Riyadh receives a drink from the waiter.

Credit: Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh

Interior photos of the dining area of JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh

Credit: JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh

Where to stay in Riyadh

Riyadh's hospitality scene is nothing short of spectacular, with a range of luxurious options to suit every taste. The big three classics – Four Seasons Riyadh , the Mandarin Oriental at Al Faisaliah, and The Ritz-Carlton – offer guests impeccable service and opulent accommodation in some of the city’s most iconic buildings. But the hotel landscape is evolving rapidly, and a swathe of new luxury properties have opened in recent months.

The airy St. Regis Riyadh at Via Riyadh Mall offers easy access to the city’s top restaurants, while JW Marriott Riyadh , housed in a stunning glass-fronted high-rise tower, boasts breathtaking city views. Mansard Riyadh, with its French Renaissance-style sloped roofs and cream-coloured facade, exudes old-world charm.

To explore more options for places to stay in Riyadh, visit Cathay Holidays .

IMAGES

Saudi Arabia Issues New Travel Advisory For International Travel
Saudi Arabia Travel Restrictions: What You Need To Know
GACA issues new advisory as Saudi Arabia resumes international travel
Saudi Arabia advises citizens against travel to 25 countries including
Saudi Arabia Change Travel Advisory
Travel Regulations

VIDEO

saudi Arabia Riyadh
Saudi Arabia Local traveling advisory

COMMENTS

Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory
Travel Advisory. January 24, 2024. Saudi Arabia - Level 3: Reconsider Travel. O T. Updated after periodic review to provide information on the risk of arrest due to social media use and the importation of prohibited items. Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to the threat of missile and drone attacks. Exercise increased caution in Saudi ...
Travel Advisory: Updated Travel Advisory for Saudi Arabia (May 18, 2022)
The Department of State has revised its Travel Advisory for Saudi Arabia. Travel Advisories for Saudi Arabia, ... Recent attacks were aimed at targets throughout Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran, Jizan, Khamis Mushayt, the civilian airport in Abha, Al Kharj, military installations in the south, as well as oil and gas facilities. ...
Saudi Arabia International Travel Information
U.S. Consulate General Dhahran Off King Saud bin Abdulaziz Road, at the corner of Salaheddin al Ayoubi Street and Prince Fahd bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Street, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia Telephone: (966) (13) 839-5700 Emergency Telephone: (966) (13) 839-5700 Fax: (966) (13) 330-6816 [email protected].
Saudi Arabia Travel Advice: What To Know Before You Go
The Riyadh skyline at night. getty Is travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia safe? Experts say the KSA is safe — to a point. The crime rate in Saudi Arabia is low, according to official sources ...
Travel advice and advisories for Saudi Arabia
Although Saudi Arabia is one of the driest countries in the world, heavy rains occur occasionally between the months of November and February and can cause major flooding. This can severely affect overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Exercise caution. Monitor local news and weather reports.
Saudi Arabia travel advice
Saudi Arabia-Yemen border. FCDO advises against: all travel to within 10km of the border with Yemen. all but essential travel to areas between 10km and 80km from the border with Yemen.
Saudi Arabia updates travel entry rules: All you need to know
A Saudi man wearing a face mask gets his passport from a Saudi Immigration officer, at the King Khalid International Airport, after Saudi authorities lifted the travel ban on its citizens after ...
Saudi Arabia Travel Advice & Safety
Australian Government travel advice for Saudi Arabia. Exercise a high degree of caution. Travel advice level Yellow. Understand the risks, safety, laws and contacts. ... Riyadh Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Phone: (+966 11) 250 0900 Fax: (+966 11) 250 0902 Website: saudiarabia.embassy.gov.au/ryad/home X: @AusAmbKSA
Security Alert: Security Practices for U.S. Citizens Visiting or
The Department of State's Travel Advisory states travelers should "reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to the threat of missile and drone attacks on civilian facilities. Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to terrorism." ... Diplomatic Quarter Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Telephone: (966) (11) 835-4000 [email protected].
Safety and security
FCDO travel advice for Saudi Arabia. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.
Health Alert COVID-19 Travel Restrictions: U.S. Embassy Riyadh, Saudi
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, February 3, 2021. Location: Entry to Saudi Arabia. Event: The government of Saudi Arabia has announced additional COVID-19 related travel restrictions. Beginning February 3, 2021 at 9:00 p.m. local, Saudi Arabia will suspend the entry of people traveling from the United States and 19 other countries, as well as travelers who have been in the ...
Saudi Arabia Covid-19 travel guide: what are the latest rules for
Photos: Saudi Tourism Authority. Saudi Arabia has further eased Covid-19 travel restrictions for vaccinated visitors. Travellers flying to the kingdom no longer need to take a pre-departure PCR or antigen test on arrival. The new rules also mean that face masks are not required in outdoor places, and social-distancing measures have been relaxed.
Saudi Arabia
Be aware of current health issues in Saudi Arabia. Learn how to protect yourself. Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions. New Meningococcal Disease in Saudi Arabia - Vaccine Requirements for Travel During the Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages May 20, 2024 The Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is one of the world's largest mass gatherings.
The Complexities of Traveling to Saudi Arabia
Other things to keep in mind when planning a trip to Saudi Arabia. Restrictions for non-Muslim visitors. Mecca is the one city that remains off-limits to non-Muslim tourists. Mecca and Medina are ...
Saudi Arabia: What to Know Before Visiting
AFAR's Travel Advisory Council members can also help with planning a trip. The best time to visit November to March brings the most pleasant weather in Saudi Arabia, ranging from the 50s in the Hijaz Mountains to the 70s and 80s on the coast.
Saudi Arabia Travel Advisories
There are currently 2 active travel advisories for Saudi Arabia. ... Past attacks were aimed at targets throughout Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran, Jizan, Khamis Mushayt, the civilian airport in Abha, Al Kharj, military installations in the south, as well as oil and gas facilities. ...
Discover Riyadh: Why now is the time to visit Saudi Arabia ...
With a new airline flying in 2025, now is the time to visit. Saudi Arabia's futuristic capital, Riyadh, is a major commercial and financial hub set on a desert plateau in the centre of the country ...
Travel Requirements
SAUDIA uses necessary cookies to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features, and to analyze our traffic.We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners who may combine it with other information that you've provided to them or that they've collected from your use of their services.
Home
The ADS announcement is an important development for group travel to Saudi, as it progresses towards its 2030 goal of welcoming 3 million visitors from China. Saudi Arabia to Host Expo 2030 in Riyadh, Unveiling 'The Era of Change' ... Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, announced as the host city for Expo 2030 at the 173 rd General Assembly of the Bureau ...
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Launches Electronic Service for Issuing
Riyadh, January 30, 2023, SPA -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with the relevant authorities and cooperation with national airlines, has launched the service of issuing (a Transit Visa for Stop-over electronically), to facilitate the arrival in the Kingdom for all purposes, and the procedures for obtaining and automating an entry visa. The Transit visa for Stop-over allows ...
Here's What You Need to Know Before Visiting Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country. While non-Muslims are welcome and permitted to practice their religion in private spaces, preaching in public forums or on social media platforms is prohibited ...
Construction Statistics Expert
VA No. VA24-81. Position Title: Construction Statistics Expert. Consultancy Type: International Expert. Duty Station: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Duration: 3 months. Vacancy Date of Issue: 6 June 2024 ...
Saudi Arabia Tourism: Surprising, Unsettling, Surreal
An editor and photojournalist for the Travel section, Stephen Hiltner drove 5,200 miles and visited all 13 of Saudi Arabia's provinces while reporting and shooting this story. June 5, 2024 ...
External Audit Experienced/Senior Associate
Established in the region for 40 years, PwC has around 7,000 people in 12 countries across the region: Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, the Palestinian territories ...
A guide to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for first time visitors
The fast-changing Saudi Arabian capital, Riyadh, is a thriving, sprawling city that blends ancient heritage with a futuristic vision. Under the Vision 2030 reforms spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the country has opened its doors to the world, inviting international tourists to explore the kingdom's once-hidden treasures.
Travel Advisories
Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory: Level 3: Reconsider Travel: January 24, 2024: Senegal Travel Advisory: Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions: July 31, 2023: ... Saba Travel Advisory: Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions: October 16, 2023: Take 90 Seconds for Safer Travel. Travel Advisory Levels.
Saudi Arabia Travel Guidelines
All customers who are planning to travel to Saudi Arabia must have medical insurance that covers COVIDu001e19 treatment. This excludes citizens, residents, and GCC citizens. The insurance should cover the costs of treatment in outpatient clinics, emergencies, and hospitals, including institutional quarantine for a period of up to 14 days.
Saudi Arabia Set to Raise $11.2 Billion Selling Aramco Shares at Lower
The Saudi government is selling a roughly 0.64% stake in Aramco and can increase the sale to 0.7% of the oil giant via a so-called greenshoe option, which allows banks to stabilise the price of ...
The British boss building a 'world-class national airline' for Saudi Arabia
The Lancastrian boss of a new Saudi Arabian airline is planning to serve 100 cities with a fleet of 200 jets as part of the Kingdom's bid to become a global tourist hub. However, rather than ...
A guide to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for first time visitors
The fast-changing Saudi Arabian capital, Riyadh, is a thriving, sprawling city that blends ancient heritage with a futuristic vision. Under the Vision 2030 reforms spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the country has opened its doors to the world, inviting international tourists to explore the kingdom's once-hidden treasures.

Language selection

Saudi Arabia travel advice

On this page

Border with Yemen - Avoid all travel

Abha International Airport - Avoid non-essential travel

Al Qatif and its suburbs - Avoid non-essential travel

Border with Yemen

Northern Saudi border

Al Awamiya and Al Musawara

Missile strikes and drones

Demonstrations

Religious sites during Hajj

Useful links

Women’s safety

Road safety

Driving risks

Marine transportation

Regular Canadian passport

Passport for official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

Other travel documents

Tourist visa

Obtaining a visa

Women entering Saudi Arabia

Entry and exit permits

Single-entry visa

Outstanding fees for dependents

Regional travel

Health entry requirements

Yellow fever

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Outbreak Monitoring

Routine vaccines

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

Safe food and water precautions

Insect bite prevention

Animal precautions

Person-to-person infections

Medical services and facilities

Keep in Mind...

Legal process

Drugs and alcohol

Religious proselytism

Dress and behaviour

Public spaces

Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Identification

Dual citizenship

Marriage between a foreign woman and a Saudi man

Common-law unions

Extramarital relations

International Child Abduction

Royal family

Pork Products

Photography

Prohibited activities and censorship

Imports and exports

Automated ticketing system

Heavy rains

Sand storms

Local services

Consular assistance

Risk Levels

Exercise a high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Search Smartraveller

Saudi Arabia

Local emergency contacts

Traffic accidents

Advice levels

Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests

Kidnapping

Cyber security

Climate and natural disasters

Travel insurance