Highlights
The Regions
The Basics
The Location
Saudi Arabia is located in the Middle East and borders Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates. With coasts to the East and West, you can enjoy beaches both on the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf.
Capital City
Riyadh is the captivating capital of Saudi Arabia. With a population of over 7,5 million people, it's a metropolis where skyscrapers, world-class restaurants, museums, and traditional markets all share the cityscape.
Airports
As Saudi Arabia is a big country with long stretches of uninhabited land, there are several international airports; Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, and Dammam all have major airports, each named after a royal, making cross country travel easy and smooth.
Language Spoken
Arabic is the official language, with a specific dialect called Gulf Arabic, or Khaleej. Not to worry, English is widely spoken throughout the country, so you are welcome to strike up convo with the locals.
Currency
The national currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi riyal, with the currency code SAR. However, credit cards and contactless payments are also widely accepted.
Visas
Most travellers will require a tourist visa. The multiple-entry visa is valid for one year and will allow visitors to stay in the country for up to 90 days. Please find more information on the visa application here.
Electricity
Saudi Arabia has 230V supply voltage, so you may need an adaptor if your appliance isn’t designed for 230 volts. The plug is type G, the same as in the UK and Ireland.
Vaccinations
In terms of COVID-19, please check the latest travel restrictions before booking and travelling to Saudi Arabia or any transit countries.
Emergency Calls
Police: 999
Saudi Ambulance: 997
Traffic accidents: 993
Civil Defense: 998
When to Visit
Saudi Arabia Tours
More about Saudi Arabia
Discover diverse, awe-inspiring landscapes that will take your breath away. Swim in turquoise waters filled with coral reefs and mesmerising marine life. Enjoy stunning historical sites that serve as a window to the past. And explore a vast, dazzling desert that’ll surpass even your wildest dreams.
A thousand and one adventures await you in Saudi Arabia – so, start planning the trip of a lifetime today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia?
As of 2019, travellers can obtain a tourist visa to visit Saudi Arabia. Check this helpful link to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa online through our visa partner, Sherpa. In some cases, you may also be allowed to obtain a visa upon arrival.
Are there any travel restrictions for Saudi Arabia?
For the most up-to-date travel information, please check the following websites:
- Visit Saudi
- COVID-19 Info: Travel Restrictions By Country
- Your official government website
Do you tip in Saudi Arabia?
Tipping is common in Saudi Arabia, but not in all cases. For example, while a taxi driver or tour guide will generally expect a tip, a high-end spa will not. Additionally, if a service charge is added to your bill, then no additional tip is required.
Can I book a Saudi Arabian adventure on TourRadar?
Of course! With the largest selection of multi-day adventures around the world, TourRadar is the perfect place to find your Saudi adventure. From hiking and scuba diving to once-in-a-lifetime stargazing experiences in the desert, you'll find everything and more!
What are the public holidays?
Saudi Arabia has three public holidays each year. National Day, Eid Al Fitr, and Eid Al Adha.
While Saudi's National Day is always celebrated on September 23, the dates for Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha differ according to the Islamic lunar calendar.
During the holy month of Ramadan, the rhythm of the country changes into a mellow, spiritual one.Is travel insurance mandatory?
Not only do we at TourRadar strongly recommend travel insurance, but many of our operators require it. Moreover, if you're planning to travel abroad, comprehensive insurance coverage is now a mandatory entry requirement for some countries. Travel insurance from our award-winning partner, Cover Genius, allows you to book an adventure on TourRadar with complete peace of mind knowing that you’re covered in case your trip doesn’t go according to plan.
What's the phone code and which providers are there in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia’s country code is 00966 There are three mobile network providers in Saudi Arabia. These are:
- STC
- Mobily
- ZainHow can I exchange currency?
All banks in the kingdom offer currency exchange services. Exchange bureaus are located at airports, some shopping centres, and various other locations throughout the country. Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted throughout the kingdom. ATMs are also widely available.
Is there a dress code?
The dress code is dependent upon the individual establishments, some casual, others keen on sophistication. Places of worship, however, will require you to dress modestly while visiting. Men and women should dress conservatively, and cover knees and shoulders - no shorts, or sleeveless shirts. Optionally, visiting women can wear an abaya, a full length cloak that covers clothing, or a headscarf. Both of these items should be dark or black in colour.
What's the etiquette in Saudi Arabia?
Bad language, loud behaviour, and encroaching on other people’s boundaries are all considered disrespectful. Respectful public decorum is always advised.