Saudi Arabia Tourism FAQS

Saudi Tourism FAQS, Saudi Tourism Travel Tips, Saudi Arabia Tourist Info.

In this article, we will cover everything all questions you have and will give you full answers.

Can I wear jeans in Saudi Arabia?

Both men and women are asked to dress modestly in public, avoiding tight-fitting clothing. Women should cover their shoulders and knees in public.

What do female tourists wear in Saudi Arabia?

modest and should cover her shoulders and knees in public.

Is it OK to wear shorts in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, It’s ok in archeological sites and dessert but it’s not allowed in religious sites.

What should I pack for Saudi Arabia?

Packing lists always vary between men and women, but in the case of packing for a trip to Saudi Arabia, women should make sure and have some essentials like loose pants, long skirts, long-sleeve shirts, and a scarf. Until recently, the law requires women to wear modest clothing, which means arms and legs should be covered,

Men, on the other hand, should avoid wearing shorts in Saudi Arabia and stick to long pants and conservative t-shirts, meaning shirts with no offensive language, slogans, or imagery.

Packing list essentials for a trip to Saudi Arabia

  • Loose-fitting jeans
  • Plenty of t-shirts (at least two per day because sightseeing is sweaty business!)
  • Trainers/Tennis shoes
  • Sandals
  • A light jacket (evenings and shopping malls can get chilly! Travelers going to Asir Province during winter should pack a heavy coat. It snows in Abha!)
  • A cardigan, or a couple of light long-sleeved shirts
  • Sunglasses
  • Moisturizing nasal drops (Saudi Arabia is dry! Nasal drops are available at any pharmacy if you forget them.)
  • Hand cream
  • Lip balm with sunscreen
  • A good hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Swim suit (if you’re planning on visiting beaches)
  • A dust mask (just in case you’re lucky enough to experience a sand storm in Saudi Arabia.)
  • A comfortable backpack or cross-body bag

Can a single female travel to Saudi Arabia?

A single female traveler is one of the best ways for women to explore the world and especially Saudi Arabia and to become more confident and empowered travelers. There is no doubt that solo travel in Saudi Arabia is usually an amazing life experience. We recommend checking this link, here are some tips for solo travelers: https://saudiarabiatours.net/women-traveling-alone-in-saudi-arabia/

Can unmarried couples stay in hotels in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, unmarried couples can share hotel rooms, Hotels do not typically check for a marriage certificate or even ask couples whether they are married, so there should be no issue checking in.

Are non-Muslims allowed in Saudi?

Non-Muslims can travel to all cities in Saudi Arabia except Medinah and Mekkah, Not allowed to non-Muslims to enter Mecca and Medinah.,

Can Tourists drink alcohol in Saudi Arabia?

Alcohol of any kind is banned in Saudi Arabia.

Is Saudi Arabia safe for tourists?

Tourists have been visiting Saudi Arabia and Saudi Arabians have a well-earned reputation for warmth and kindness toward visitors. Saudi Arabia cities are generally very safe, especially in areas where tourists frequent.

How much should I tip?

– The amount depends on the situation. In a restaurant, it is good to give between 5 and 10% tips directly to the waiter even when there is service added to the bill. The service tax does not go to the waiter. For a small favor, like carrying luggage or parking a car, a few Saudi riyals would be appropriate. Not more than five. Often times in Saudi Arabia you will find someone tending to the bathroom to keep it clean. Giving them one Saudi riyal is an appropriate amount.
– Tipping your tour guide and vehicle driver is completely optional but should be considered if you’re provided with great service. If you decide to tip feel free to give what you think your experience was worth.

How to get a Saudi tourist visa?

Applying for a tourist visa to Saudi Arabia is easy. If you are from one of the 49 eligible countries, you can apply through the eVisa website. Holders of US, UK, or Schengen visas can apply for the visa upon arrival.

Saudi Arabia is opening its doors to the world through its new tourist visa. Visitors will have the chance to discover and experience the warm hospitality of the Saudi people, the rich heritage, the vibrant culture, and Saudi Arabia’s diverse and breathtaking landscapes.

The visa will be a one-year, multiple-entry visa, allowing tourists to spend up to 90 days in the country.

you can find here more information: https://saudiarabiatours.net/saudi-tourist-visa/

Can you visit Mecca or Medina as a tourist?

No. The new tourist visa to Saudi Arabia does not allow travel to these cities, and passports, as well as visas, are checked before entering those zones. It is necessary to come with an Umrah or Hajj visa to see these places, which requires being Muslim.

Saudi Arabia and other middle eastern countries !

Each Middle Eastern country has unique vibes and Saudi Arabia is just another place with its own kind of history, customs, diverse people, food, and landscape.

Night life if any ?

Surprisingly Saudis tend to stay up till late which means places are still open even pass midnight. These places are malls, cinemas, concerts, and restaurants. Lounges and cafes are the most common and busy during the night.

Can I go to Makkah and Madinah ?

Non-Muslims are not allowed to visit the holy sites due to religious reasons.

How locals see us ?

People are used to foreigners since 30 % of the population is non-Saudi and it has been this way for a very long time. If you are coming as a tourist they tend to be more interested to help out or invite you, remember that the population is mostly young and with the internet age everyone is connected and has a reasonable overview about what’s happening around them.

Saudi Arabia as layover ?

With the new visa system that can be obtained online or on arrival, being in Saudi for a long layover is possible from the main airports that are Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.

What is the currency of Saudi Arabia and where can I get it changed?

The currency of Saudi Arabia is called Saudi Riyal or SAR with 1 SAR being equal to INR 19.93. The denominations come in 1 Riyal, 5 Riyals, 10 Riyals, 20 Riyals, 50 Riyals, 100 Riyals, 200 Riyals and 500 Riyals. You can load money into your prepaid forex card ahead of your trip. You could carry any other currency such as USD and get it changed at a government bank or currency exchange booth. But for any local transaction, you need to keep Riyal handy as no other currency is accepted. You can carry up to SAR 60,000 or foreign currency equivalent into and outside of Saudi Arabia. For any amount bigger than this, you would have to declare. Do not carry Israeli Sheqel as it is prohibited in the Kingdom.

What is the time difference between India and Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia falls in the GMT+3 of Arabian Standard Time. India is 2 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Saudi Arabia.

How are tourists expected to dress up in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is a country that is governed by the Islamic law, and a traveller from outside the country is expected to respect these laws. When travelling around in Saudi Arabia and visiting the local attractions, men need to dress up conservatively. They cannot wear loud accessories, sleeveless shirts or shorts, while women are required to keep their knees and shoulders covered at all times. If you wish to blend in, you can buy yourself an Abaya which is a full-length dress that covers your clothing, or wear a headscarf. Both Abaya or the headscarf need to be black, or of a dark colour.

Do Indians need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia?

As an Indian citizen you need to get yourself a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia. There are different visa categories depending on your requirement. For all categories of visa, you need to complete the online application form on www.mofa.gov.sa. Once you have submitted the form, a print-out of the form along with the reference or mofa number needs to be submitted to the consulate along with the necessary documents. Make sure your passport has a validity of at least 6 months from the date of application, and at least two blank pages for stamping purposes. You also require a recent passport-size photograph against a white background.

Are tourists allowed to visit Mecca or Medina?

No, a regular tourist visa to Saudi Arabia does not allow visitors to these cities, and your passport and visas are thoroughly checked before entering these regions. You can visit these places on a Hajj or Umrah visa, and you can get such a visa only if you are a Muslim.


Contact us for more information on:

Saudi Tourism FAQS

Saudi Tourism Travel Tips.

Saudi Arabia Travel Guidelines

Saudi Arabia Travel Restrictions

Saudi Tourism Authority

Saudi Arabia Travel Guide Book

Is Saudi Arabia Safe for Travel

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