Makkah (Mecca), Saudi Arabia Photo credit: Basil D Soufi
There is a certain stark beauty to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is home to the sacred cities of Medina and Mecca, the spiritual centre of the Islamic world. On the other hand, it also boasts spectacularly modern metros which attract plenty of visitors with its shopping and entertainment but, being a theocratic state, most of its annual visitors are pilgrims, permitted access on special religious visas.
Others come to this oil-rich nation on sponsored business trips, generally finding little time or facility for leisure and pleasure. Saudi Arabia is intent on keeping its traditions, culture and religious heritage free of western interference or influence.
Its cities are modern and bustling centres which can be thoroughly enjoyed by those who visit the country. The Royal capital, Riyadh, offers a multitude of sights to see and explore. The historical city of Jeddah is also a popular spot where people can enjoy
a unique seaside experience alongside the locals who often flock there for staycations.
Occupying most of the Arabian Peninsula and bordered by no fewer than eight Middle-Eastern states, Saudi Arabia manages its highly-controlled religious society alongside the onslaught of modernity through the oil-boom industry. If visitors are informed about and prepared for the inevitable culture shock, Saudi Arabia can make for a memorable and unique holiday, as well as an eye-opening cultural experience to a world not often understood by western travellers.
Key Facts
Language:
Arabic is the official language in Saudi Arabia, but English is widely understood.
Passport/Visa:
All visitors require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, and visas are only granted to those with sponsorship in the country. Tourist visas are hard to get, granted only to selected groups on a limited basis. Everyone who enters the Kingdom should have a valid passport with at least six months validity in addition to the appropriate visa and a return ticket, with all necessary documents. Muslim women entering the Kingdom alone must be met by a sponsor or male relative and have confirmed accommodation for the duration of their stay. Entry may be refused to any visitor arriving in an intoxicated state, men wearing shorts, women in tight clothing or with legs and arms exposed, and to couples displaying affection in public. There are special requirements for pilgrims undertaking the Hajj or visiting holy sites. It is strongly recommended not to hold passports containing any Israeli visa or stamp when entering or transiting Saudi Arabia as entry may be
refused.
Currency:
The Saudi currency is the Riyal (SAR), divided into 100 halala. Foreign currency can be changed at banks and exchange bureaux. Banking hours are generally Saturday to Wednesday from 8am to 12pm. Some banks also choose to open again later in the afternoon and stay open into the evening, from 5pm to 8pm. All major credit cards are accepted at shops, hotels and restaurants in Saudi Arabia, with ATMs being widely available.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 220 volts, 60Hz. Three-pin, flat-bladed plugs are in use, in addition to round/flat-bladed two-pin plugs, as well as flat-bladed two-pin plugs with a third, round pin for grounding.
Travel to Saudi Arabia
Overview
Although not especially celebrated for its tourism opportunities, Saudi Arabia has some wonderfully enriching sites making it a memorable destination. Apart from the religious pilgrimages, there is growth in Saudi Arabia's leisure tourism sector, promising for those hoping to visit the country on holiday.
The cities are bustling and vibrant. Riyadh offers excellent hotels and some breathtaking sights, including the Al Faisaliah golden geodesic dome, which is one of the tallest buildings in the region, and the Al Musmak Castle, an important landmark and heritage site.
The historic city of Jeddah is certainly worth the visit. The preserved ancient city is listed as a tourist site, as it is the city's seafront corniche. It's a popular spot with the air of a British seaside resort, drawing the country's own domestic holidaymakers. Among it all, the magic of Arabia shines through in the souks (markets) where vendors
enthusiastically tout everything from carpets to camel milk.
Rules and regulations can sometimes make sightseeing difficult for foreigners wanting to travel independently, so booking tours is the safest and most stress-free option. However, sites like the ruins of 15th-century Dir'aiyah (the nation's first capital) and trips to the world's largest camel market make for one-of-a-kind experiences which make some sightseeing a must in this somewhat enigmatic country.
Climate in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has a typical desert climate of blistering hot days and cool nights, and is one of the driest countries in the world. Summers can be extremely hot with temperatures rising to 130ºF (55ºC) in some areas, and the hottest months are June, July and August. The higher inland areas are cooler. Coastal cities are humid and hot year round while sandstorms blow anywhere in the country, some lasting for days. The best time to visit is from November to April in the period between winter and spring.
Health Notes when travelling to Saudi Arabia
Anyone arriving in Saudi Arabia from a country infected with yellow fever requires a vaccination certificate for entry. People travelling to perform Hajj and Umrah are required to be inoculated against meningitis before travel and must present a vaccination certificate on arrival. Respiratory infections are common among pilgrims during the Hajj and Ramadan season.
There is a malaria risk in the south and parts of the western region of the country and visitors should take advice on anti-malarial precautions at least four weeks before leaving. Both an outbreak of cerebral malaria and Rift Valley Fever have occurred in Jizan, with Dengue fever also having been reported.
Food poisoning is a risk outside the good hotels and visitors should only drink bottled water. The standard of medical care and facilities in Saudi Arabia is high, but treatment is expensive so travel insurance is strongly advised.
Safety Notes when travelling to Saudi Arabia
Safety in Saudi Arabia is a concern to some extent. All travel within 60 miles (100km) of the border with Yemen is not advised due to the clashes along the Saudi-Yemeni border.
Travellers should ensure they have individual security arrangements, remain vigilant and avoid public gatherings. Visitors should be particularly alert in public places frequented by foreigners such as shopping malls, restaurants and hotels and in the desert outside Riyadh.
Pilgrims are increasingly being targeted by pickpockets in Mecca and Medina and are advised to take care of personal possessions. In recent years pilgrims have died due to overcrowding and stampedes at events during Hajj. Religious police patrols rigorously enforce codes of behaviour and dress prescribed by Islamic law and visitors should respect these.
Customs in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country, meaning Sharia law is strictly enforced. No alcohol, pork products or religious books and artefacts not related to Islam are permitted in the country. There are no bars in Saudi Arabia, and alcohol is served nowhere to anyone of any religious persuasion.
Dress should be conservative at all times, and women should take particular care not to offend. Visitors are advised to familiarise themselves with behaviour and dress codes before entering the country. Homosexual behaviour and extramarital sexual relations are illegal and can carry the death penalty. It is also illegal to be transgender.
Photography of local people, government buildings, military installations and palaces is not allowed. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. The right
hand should be used for everything, including eating and the giving and receiving of things, as the left is considered unclean. It is illegal to hold two passports, and second passports will be confiscated if discovered by immigration authorities.
Duty Free in Saudi Arabia
Travellers to Saudi Arabia do not have to pay duty on 600 cigarettes or 100 cigars or 500g tobacco, perfume or cultured pearls for personal use, or goods up to the value SAR3,000. Duty is payable on cameras and other electronic goods, and refunds on these are available if the articles are re-exported within 90 days.
Strictly prohibited are pork, narcotics, alcoholic drinks, anti-Islamic goods and publications, gambling devices, weapons and ammunition, explosives, fireworks, unlabelled medication, goods which prominently display flags of another country, goods bearing names and pictures of celebrities, wild animal hides, counterfeit money. Other prohibited items include formula milk, natural sand, and natural pearls.
Doing Business in Saudi Arabia
If you are looking to do business in Saudi Arabia, prepare yourself for a unique experience. The Saudi corporate world is perhaps the most foreign of any of the Gulf nations, and in all likelihood you are going to have to remain flexible and to learn new skills, in order to make a real success of your time in the country. It is vitally important to understand that Saudi society is underpinned by fervent belief in the tenets of Islam.
The business culture of Saudi Arabia is prototypically Arabic, in that a great emphasis is placed on personal relationships between business associates. Saudi businessmen will always prefer to do business with people they are familiar with, or people who they feel they can trust, so it's worth putting in the time and effort to cultivate business relationships. In Saudi Arabia, business meetings will most likely be lengthy and subject to numerous interruptions and personal digressions. You will be judged on your
conduct in meetings, so treat them as necessary parts of the relationship-building process.
Despite the heat, business dress in Saudi Arabia is strictly smart, formal and conservative, especially for women, who must take extreme care not to wear anything too revealing. The official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic, though English is widely spoken and widely understood in the business world. Hours of business are generally from 8am to 12pm, and then 3pm to 6pm, from Sunday to Thursday.
Communication in Saudi Arabia
The international dialling code for Saudi Arabia is +966. Mobile telephone coverage is extensive, even in remote parts of the country. Internet facilities are available in most towns and cities.
Tipping in Saudi Arabia
Service charge is usually included in bills at hotels. Elsewhere a tip of 10 percent can be offered for services rendered. Taxi drivers can be given 10 percent of the fare.
Passport/Visa Note
All visitors require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, and visas are only granted to those with sponsorship in the country. Tourist visas are hard to get, granted only to selected groups on a limited basis. Everyone who enters the Kingdom should have a valid passport with at least six months validity in addition to the appropriate visa and a return ticket, with all necessary documents. Muslim women entering the Kingdom alone must be met by a sponsor or male relative and have confirmed accommodation for the duration of their stay. Entry may be refused to any visitor arriving in an intoxicated state, men wearing shorts, women in tight clothing or with legs and arms exposed, and to couples displaying affection in public. There are special requirements for pilgrims undertaking the Hajj or visiting holy sites. It is strongly recommended not to hold passports containing any Israeli visa or stamp when entering or transiting Saudi Arabia as entry may be
refused.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens require a passport and visa to enter Saudi Arabia, and must be valid for the duration of their stay.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadians require a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months from the date of arrival, and a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British passport holders require a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months from the date of arrival, and a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australians require a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months from the date of arrival, and a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish passport holders require a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months from the date of arrival, and a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealanders require a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months from the date of arrival, and a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
Entry requirements for South Africans:
South Africans require a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months from the date of arrival, and a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
Tourist Offices
The Supreme Commission for Tourism, Riyadh: +966 (0)1 480 8855 or http://www.scta.gov.sa.
Saudi Arabia Embassies
In the United States:
Saudi Arabian Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 342 3800.
In Canada:
Saudi Arabian Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 237 4100.
In the United Kingdom:
Saudi Arabian Embassy, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 (0)20 7917 3000.
In Australia:
Saudi Arabian Embassy, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 (0)2 6250 7000.
In South Africa:
Saudi Arabian Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa +27 (0)12 362 4230.
Foreign Embassies in Saudi Arabia
American Embassy
United States Embassy, Riyadh: +966 (0)1 488 3800.
Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Riyadh: +966 (0)11 488 2288.
British Embassy
British Embassy, Riyadh: +966 (0)11 481 9100.
Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Riyadh: +966 (0)1 488 7788.
Irish Embassy
Irish Embassy, Riyadh: +966 (0)1 488 2300.
New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Riyadh: +966 (0)1 488 7988.
South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Riyadh: + 966 (0)1 422 9716.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Saudi Arabia
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Saudi Arabia, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Saudi Arabia. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
When traveling in Saudi Arabia, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Saudi Arabia, see malaria in Saudi Arabia.
Although rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Saudi Arabia, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends this vaccine only for these groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to remote areas in Saudi Arabia
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Saudi Arabia. The government of Saudi Arabia requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Saudi Arabia, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Saudi Arabia. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
When traveling in Saudi Arabia, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Saudi Arabia, see malaria in Saudi Arabia.
Although rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Saudi Arabia, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends this vaccine only for these groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to remote areas in Saudi Arabia
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Saudi Arabia. The government of Saudi Arabia requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Note: Since 2012, MERS (Middle East respiratory syndrome) has been identified in multiple countries in the Arabian Peninsula, including Saudi Arabia, and in travelers to the region. Please refer to the MERS in the Arabian Peninsula travel notice for more information.
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
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
Food that is cooked and served hot
Hard-cooked eggs
Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
Food served at room temperature
Food from street vendors
Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
Unpasteurized dairy products
”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
Bottled water that is sealed
Water that has been disinfected
Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
Carbonated drinks
Hot coffee or tea
Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
Tap or well water
Ice made with tap or well water
Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
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.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
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.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Walking
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.
Flying
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.
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.
Be aware of current health issues in Saudi Arabia. Learn how to protect yourself.
Alert Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions
MERS in the Arabian PeninsulaJune 28, 2017The following countries in or near the Arabian Peninsula have confirmed MERS: Bahrain, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudia Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Neighboring countries where precautions are recommended: Iraq, Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza, and Syria.
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.
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.
Currency
The Saudi currency is the Riyal (SAR), divided into 100 halala. Foreign currency can be changed at banks and exchange bureaux. Banking hours are generally Saturday to Wednesday from 8am to 12pm. Some banks also choose to open again later in the afternoon and stay open into the evening, from 5pm to 8pm. All major credit cards are accepted at shops, hotels and restaurants in Saudi Arabia, with ATMs being widely available.
Exchange rate for 1 SAR - Saudi Riyal
0.00BMD Bermudan Dollar
0.25EUR Euro
0.27USD U.S. Dollar
0.21GBP U.K. Pound Sterling
40.79JPY Japanese Yen
0.36CAD Canadian Dollar
0.24CHF Swiss Franc
0.40AUD Australian Dollar
10.50UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
118.37KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
24,817.75LBP Lebanese Pound
1.30LYD Libyan Dinar
1.83BOB Bolivian Boliviano
0.00NPR Nepalese Rupee
0.00OMR Omani Rial
0.00QAR Qatari Rial
0.36SGD Singapore Dollar
2.89SEK Swedish Krona
0.00TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
0.00VEF Venezuelan Bolivar
15.50DOP Dominican Peso
0.00HRK Croatian Kuna
4.52MXN Mexican Peso
162.79XOF West African CFA Franc
0.00PGK Papua New Guinean kina
0.00BSD Bahamian Dollar
0.00FJD Fiji Dollar
0.00HNL Honduran Lempira
35.69DZD Algerian Dinar
0.00MMK Myanma Kyat
0.00BWP Botswana Pula
0.99PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
250.23CLP Chilean Peso
103.15AMD Armenia Dram
6.21CZK Czech Koruna
4.70MDL Moldova Lei
37.30ISK Icelandic Krona
3,355.00UZS Uzbekistan Sum
0.99ILS Israeli New Sheqel
0.19JOD Jordanian Dinar
0.00KWD Kuwaiti Dinar
10.17UYU Uruguayan Peso
0.00MUR Mauritian Rupee
0.00NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba
2.90NOK Norwegian Krone
1.07PLN Polish Zloty
0.00LKR Sri Lanka Rupee
9.81THB Thai Baht
0.98AED U.A.E Dirham
1.36BRL Brazilian Real
1.23RON Romanian New Leu
2.08HKD Hong Kong Dollar
162.79XAF Central African CFA Franc
6,774.24VND Vietnamese Dong
234.21ARS Argentine Peso
0.00XCD East Caribbean Dollar
0.00GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal
2.68MAD Moroccan Dirham
0.00BHD Bahrain Dinar
0.27PAB Panamanian Balboa
0.45AZN Azerbaijan Manat
1,045.24COP Colombian Peso
23.58KGS Kyrgyzstan Som
96.53HUF Hungarian Forint
2.90TJS Tajikistan Ruble
4,285.93IDR Indonesian Rupiah
12.79EGP Egyptian Pound
362.32KRW South Korean Won
1,988.23PYG Paraguayan Guaraní
1.26MYR Malaysian Ringgit
135.54CRC Costa Rican Colón
0.45NZD New Zealand Dollar
74.09PKR Pakistani Rupee
24.37RUB Russian Rouble
4.94ZAR South African Rand
0.84TND Tunisian Dinar
0.00BBD Barbadian Dollar
0.49BGN Bulgarian Lev
8.62TRY Turkish Lira
15.27PHP Philippine Peso
8.62TWD New Taiwan Dollar
310.60NGN Nigerian Naira
0.00XPF CFP Franc
0.00GHS Ghanaian Cedi
0.00JMD Jamaican Dollar
0.00ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder
0.00BND Brunei Dollar
29.04RSD Serbian Dinar
1.93CNY Chinese Yuan
1.85DKK Danish Krone
0.93TMT New Turkmenistan Manat
22.24INR Indian Rupee
Exchange Rate for U.S. Dollar to Saudi Riyal
1 USD = 3.75 SAR
Exchange Rate for Euro to Saudi Riyal
1 EUR = 4.03 SAR
Exchange Rate for Canadian Dollar to Saudi Riyal
1 CAD = 2.74 SAR
Exchange Rate for U.K. Pound Sterling to Saudi Riyal
1 GBP = 4.71 SAR
Exchange Rate for Australian Dollar to Saudi Riyal
1 AUD = 2.47 SAR
Exchange Rate for New Zealand Dollar to Saudi Riyal
1 NZD = 2.25 SAR
Exchange Rate for South African Rand to Saudi Riyal
1 ZAR = 0.20 SAR
Dammam Airport (DMM) King Fahd International Airport http://www.the-saudi.net/kfia
Location: Dammam King Fahd International Airport is located about 30 miles (50km) northwest of Dammam, in eastern Saudi Arabia.
Time: Local time is GMT +3.
Getting to the city: Public buses run to Dammam from the airport, leaving every 30-60 minutes.
Car rental: Various car hire companies operate from the airport, including Budget and Avis.
Airport Taxis: There are numerous taxis avaliable. The trip from downtown to the airport takes around 30 minutes by car.
Facilities: The airport offers duty-free shops, restaurants and cafeterias, banks and currency exchange facilities, a mosque, and smoking areas.
Parking: King Fahd International Airport has a multi-storey parking garage with short and long-term facilities.
Riyadh Airport (RUH) King Khalid International Airport http://www.riyadhairports.com
Location: Riyadh The airport is situated 22 miles (35km) from Riyadh city centre.
Time: Local time is GMT +3.
Contacts: Tel: +966 1 221 1000.
Transfer between terminals: The terminals are linked by moving walkways.
Getting to the city: Terminal 5 is connected to the Metro Yellow Line which runs to King Abdullah Financial District. Free shuttles ferry passengers to nearby hotels and prepaid airport taxis are available for transport to the city.
Car rental: Car rental counters are located in the lobby and include Hertz and several local companies. Women are allowed to drive but cannot travel with a man unless they are related.
Airport Taxis: Taxis are available at the airport. Fares into downtown Riyadh will never be less than SAR 70. A trip from King Khalid Airport to downtown Riyadh takes 30 minutes. However, scammers and touts will try to charge tourists up to SAR 200, which is grossly overpriced. It is recommended that visitors have the address of their destination written in Arabic.
Facilities: Facilities include restaurants, bars, and cafeterias, banks and ATMs, a first aid clinic, various shopping opportunities, currency exchange, and visitor information. A mosque is located in the centre of the passenger terminal. Facilities for the disabled are good.
Parking: Two multi-level garages are located directly in front of the passenger terminals, on either side of the mosque, which are connected to the terminals by walkways.
Jeddah Airport (JED) King Abdulaziz International Airport http://www.jed-airport.com
Location: Jeddah The airport is situated 12 miles (19km) from Jeddah.
Time: GMT +3.
Contacts: Tel: +966 2 684 2227
Transfer between terminals: There is no free transport provided between terminals. Passengers are required to pay for a taxi.
Getting to the city: Taxis are available and fares can be negotiated with the driver. There is a bus service connecting to the city but this tends to be crowded and unpleasant and is usually avoided by visitors. The Haramain High Speed Railway was recently connected to the airport.
Car rental: A number of car rental companies are represented at the airport, including Avis and Budget.
Airport Taxis: Taxis are available and fares can be negotiated with the driver.
Facilities: Although it has been extended and renovated several times, Jeddah's airport remains crowded and chaotic. There are three terminals, with the North Terminal being used exclusively for international flights. There are money exchange facilities, a restaurant, a cafeteria and shops in this terminal. There are also two restaurants in the South Terminal. The vast Hajj terminals contain prayer and rest areas, markets, a clinic, banking services, and a mosque.
Parking: Parking is available outside each of the terminals.
Overview of the Attractions in Saudi Arabia
Although not especially celebrated for its tourism opportunities, Saudi Arabia has some wonderfully enriching sites making it a memorable destination. Apart from the religious pilgrimages, there is growth in Saudi Arabia's leisure tourism sector, promising for those hoping to visit the country on holiday.
The cities are bustling and vibrant. Riyadh offers excellent hotels and some breathtaking sights, including the Al Faisaliah golden geodesic dome, which is one of the tallest buildings in the region, and the Al Musmak Castle, an important landmark and heritage site.
The historic city of Jeddah is certainly worth the visit. The preserved ancient city is listed as a tourist site, as it is the city's seafront corniche. It's a popular spot with the air of a British seaside resort, drawing the country's own domestic holidaymakers. Among it all, the magic of Arabia shines through in the souks (markets) where vendors
enthusiastically tout everything from carpets to camel milk.
Rules and regulations can sometimes make sightseeing difficult for foreigners wanting to travel independently, so booking tours is the safest and most stress-free option. However, sites like the ruins of 15th-century Dir'aiyah (the nation's first capital) and trips to the world's largest camel market make for one-of-a-kind experiences which make some sightseeing a must in this somewhat enigmatic country.
Kingdom Centre Riyadh
The place to see and be seen in Riyadh is at the remarkable Kingdom Centre, the fifth tallest building in Saudi Arabia, owned by a Saudi prince and built to an unusual elliptical award-winning design. The 99-storey colossus contains a hole that visitors can walk across on the sky-bridge on the highest floor. Besides accommodating modern offices, apartments, the Four Seasons Hotel and a fitness club, the Kingdom Centre also houses a state-of-the-art three-level shopping mall with more than 160 stores, anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue and Debenhams department stores. The centre also boasts dozens of world-class international restaurants.
Address: Al-Urubah Road, between King Fahd Road and Olaya Street, in the Olaya business district
Website: http://www.kingdomcentre.com.sa
The National Museum Riyadh
Opening time: Saturday to Thursday 8am-8pm, Friday 4pm-8pm.
Admission: SAR10 adults, free for children and students.
Chief among the multitude of museums in Riyadh, the National Museum is truly a must. Incorporating local art, religion and culture that explore the diverse and intriguing histories of the Arabian kingdoms, the National Museum welcomes many visitors each year. Artefacts such as ancient documents, furniture, weapons and more, dating as far back as the Stone Age, are on display. Unlike most attractions in Riyadh, the museum charges a small entrance fee. Other city museums worth visiting include the King Abdulaziz Military Museum and the Museum of Antiquities and Folklore.
The clay and mud brick fort of the Masmak Fort is an important landmark and heritage site in the centre of Riyadh. Built around 1865, the site is associated with the foundation of the Saudi Arabian kingdom as the original stronghold of King Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Rasheed. The castle was the setting of the Idn Saud's legendary raid in 1902, where a spear was hurled at the main entrance with such force that the head is still intact in the main arch. Visitors can explore its impressive rooms, pillared mosque, gate, watchtowers and well.
The spectacular Murabba Palace sits just outside the original city walls. Built in the early 1900s, the palace originally functioned as the private accommodation for the king of Saudi Arabia. Serving as an institute and library devoted to preserving Arabian history, the palace has been preserved as a living example of the country's royal life in days gone by and is a favourite with history enthusiasts. On the ground floor are the guard's room and storerooms, while upstairs visitors can view the reception salons, political offices and private apartments.
Address: Khazzan Street
Website: http://www.arriyadh.com/Eng/Tourism
City of old Diriyah Riyadh
Opening time: Saturday to Thursday 8am-6pm, 3am-6pm on Fridays.
Admission: Free
The ruins of the historically significant city of Diriyah, standing statuesque and silent in the desert about 12 miles (20km) northwest of Riyadh city centre, make for an interesting excursion. The city, originally the stronghold of the powerful Saud family, was the site of an important Islamic reform movement around 1745, when two influential imams called for the people to return to the true faith and abandon heresy, polytheism and superstition. In its heyday, the city was the biggest in the Arab Peninsula, but was overtaken by Riyadh after being destroyed by the Turks in the early 19th century. The ruins of many of the mud-brick buildings remain for visitors to explore.
Souq Al Alawi Jeddah
The oldest and most traditional market in Saudi Arabia, the Souq Al Alawi in Jeddah is a wonderful way to immerse oneself into local culture and see how shopping among traders and pilgrims is done in this unique part of the world. In this bustling market, visitors can find anything from beautiful Islamic art, to one of a kind Arabic jewellery. Crowded and buzzing, the market has made a name for itself and is truly a sight to behold. Visitors are encouraged to bargain, with haggling being the name of the game.
Address: Al Alawi Lane
Mecca Jeddah
As the birthplace of Muhammad and the site of his first revelation of the Quran, Mecca is the holiest city in the Islamic world and is the direction towards which the world's Muslims pray five times per day. The pilgrimage to Mecca as part of the Hajj is the centrepiece of Islam's Five Pillars and a peak experience in the life of any devout Muslim. Unfortunately, the city cannot be visited by non-Muslims.
The key sites in Mecca are the Masjid al-Haram, the Grand Mosque, which is the largest mosque in the world and can accommodate one million worshippers; Jabal Rahmah At Arafah, the tall white pillar marking the place where Adam and Eve met after 200 years of separation; and Muzdalifah, where pilgrims pray and collect stones to be used in the Hajj rituals. Hira, another important landmark, is a cave on the mountain Jabal Al-Nûr where Mohammed received his first revelations from the angel Jibreel.
Mecca is located in the
Sirat Mountains, 45 miles (72km) from Jeddah. The city's entire economy depends on the Hajj, and the large number of pilgrim immigrants from all over the globe have made it one of the most diverse in the Muslim world. The area is also considered an important archaeological site, with fossil discoveries dating back nearly 30 million years.
Ta'if Jeddah
Located in the mountains near Mecca, Ta'if is a popular summer holiday resort in Saudi Arabia. One of the few places in the region open to non-Muslims, Ta'if is a lush region known for its rose farms, as well as grapes, pomegranates and honey production; there are said to be more than 3,000 gardens in the area. The fragrant valleys are especially good for hiking, but those less keen on a workout can take a cable car to the top of the mountain in Al Hada. There are also some good restaurants and shops in Ta'if, and a popular souvenir is the rose water and perfume made from the rose farms in the area.
There are plenty of things to see and do in Ta'if, such as the Al Rudaf Park, a large natural park with interesting rock formations and a small zoo. Around 25 miles (40km) to the north is the Rock Carving Site that was the site of a huge pre-Islamic souq or gathering place. Another interesting place is Wadi Mitna, the sanctuary for the Prophet
Mohammed in the year 662. Visitors to Ta'if should also be sure to visit Al Shafa, a small village high in the mountains with incredible views. Non-Muslim visitors to Ta'if should be aware that they will need to take the non-Muslim Bypass when driving from Jeddah, which adds a few miles to the journey.
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