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Al Naslaa in Saudi Arabia
Flag of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia

Travel guide & places to visit in Middle East

Plan Your Visit Explore Regions Mark as visited
Capital
Riyadh
Currency
Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Language
Arabic (official)
Best time
November, December, January

About Saudi Arabia

High-income oil economy. Vision 2030 diversification: tourism (AlUla, Red Sea), entertainment, tech, NEOM mega-project.

Geography

Area: 2,149,690 sq km

  • • Desert: extremely hot summers (50C+), mild winters

Government

Type: absolute monarchy

Capital: Riyadh

Economy

GDP: $833.5 billion

petroleumpetrochemicalscementfertilizerconstructiontourism (growing)

Demographics

Population: 36,408,820

Languages: Arabic (official)

Religions: Muslim 93% (Sunni 75-85%, Shia 10-15%)

Travel Essentials

Contact & Emergency

Phone Code: +966

Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)

fire: 998

police: 999

ambulance: 997

Practical Info

Electricity: 220V / 60Hz / Type A, B, G

Driving: Right

Water: Safe to drink

Tipping

  • • 10-15% in restaurants
  • • Not expected elsewhere

When to Visit Saudi Arabia

Best Months

November, December, January, February, March

Peak Season

Nov-Mar (pleasant weather)

Off Season

Jun-Sep (unbearable heat 45-50C)

  • Feb

    Saudi Seasons festivals

  • Sep

    Saudi National Day (Sep 23)

Top Destinations in Saudi Arabia

  • 1AlUla (Hegra/Madain Saleh, UNESCO)
  • 2Riyadh (Edge of the World, Diriyah)
  • 3Jeddah (Al-Balad old town, Red Sea)
  • 4Mecca (Muslims only)
  • 5Medina (Muslims only)
  • 6Red Sea coast
  • 7NEOM
  • 8Abha (Asir Mountains)
  • 9Al Ahsa Oasis

Cultural Tips

  • Saudi Arabia recently opened to tourism (2019) — tourist visas now available
  • Dress modestly (women no longer required to wear abaya but should dress conservatively)
  • Alcohol is completely banned
  • Prayer times: shops close 5 times daily for 20-30 minutes
  • Segregation is relaxing but some family sections remain
  • Photography: always ask permission, never photograph military/government buildings

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can tourists visit Saudi Arabia?

    Yes! Tourist e-visa available since 2019 for 49+ nationalities. Apply online. 90 days multiple entry.

  • Is Saudi expensive?

    Moderate. Budget: $60-100/day. Mid-range: $120-250. Hotels are good value. Food is reasonable. No alcohol expenses!

  • Can non-Muslims visit Mecca?

    No. Mecca and Medina are restricted to Muslims only. This is strictly enforced.

What to Buy in Saudi Arabia

Dates Arabic coffee sets oud perfume prayer beads Arabic calligraphy gold jewelry

Countries Bordering Saudi Arabia - Cross-Border Travel Guide

Plan seamless cross-border travel to countries bordering Saudi Arabia. Discover visa requirements, border crossings, and multi-destination trip opportunities.

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