Saudi Arabia Travel Guide (2024) | Everything you need to know

Tourist Information About Saudi Arabia

Useful Information About Saudi Arabia

Cost of Living in Saudi Arabia

Quality of Life in Saudi Arabia

General Etiquette, Cultural Insights and Tips

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  Greetings: Greetings are formal and respectful in Saudi Arabia. Men usually greet with a handshake and often a kiss on each cheek if they are well acquainted. Women may greet other women with kisses on both cheeks but typically do not shake hands with men in public. Always use the right hand for greetings and other interactions, as the left is considered unclean.

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  Punctuality: Saudis appreciate punctuality for business meetings, though social events may start later than scheduled. It's a good practice to confirm the time in advance and be patient if things start later than expected.

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  Bargaining: Bargaining is common and expected in markets and souks, but not in department stores or fixed-price outlets. It's seen as a social interaction and should be conducted with politeness and a smile.

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  Dress Code: Dress conservatively in public to respect local customs. For men, this means long trousers and shirts. Women are expected to wear an abaya and a headscarf, and in more conservative areas, a niqab or burqa might be worn.

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  Personal Space: Personal space is more generous in Saudi Arabia than in many Western countries. Stand a respectful distance when talking, especially when interacting with the opposite sex.

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  Formality in Language: Use formal titles and full names until more familiarity is established. Saudis often use 'Sayyid' (Mr.) or 'Sayyida' (Mrs./Miss), followed by their first names, when addressing each other in formal settings.

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  Art Appreciation: Saudi Arabia is rapidly expanding its cultural infrastructure, including museums, galleries, and festivals. Showing interest and respect for the burgeoning art scene is appreciated.

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  Historical Significance: The country values its rich history, with numerous cultural heritage sites. Respect for these sites and adherence to local guidelines during visits is crucial.

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  Environmental Consciousness: Saudi Arabia is increasing its focus on sustainability and environmental conservation, with initiatives to reduce dependency on oil and to promote renewable energy sources.

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  Values and Misconceptions: While Saudi society is often perceived as highly conservative, there is a diversity of thought and increasing openness under recent social reforms. However, traditional values still hold significant influence.

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  Debate and Discussion: While Saudis may engage in spirited discussions within trusted circles, it is advisable to avoid sensitive topics such as politics and religion in public or with acquaintances.

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  Respecting Etiquette: Social etiquette is important in Saudi Arabia. Always show respect to elders and figures of authority, and be aware of Islamic practices and prayer times, which can affect daily activities.

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  Religion: Islam is the state religion, and the law requires that all citizens be Muslims. Non-Muslims are allowed to practice their religion in private, and public displays of non-Muslim faiths are prohibited.

Dining and Culinary Etiquette in Saudi Arabia

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  Café Culture: Coffee plays a significant role in Saudi culture, particularly Arabic coffee, which is usually served without sugar and accompanied by dates. It's customary to accept at least one cup as a gesture of goodwill when offered.

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  Dining Etiquette: Meals are typically a communal affair, often served on a large platter from which everyone shares. Use your right hand only for eating, as the left is considered unclean. It's customary to sit on the floor and eat from a low table.

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  Drink Etiquette: Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia. Instead, beverages such as tea, Arabic coffee, and freshly squeezed juices are common during meals.

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  Cheese Course Etiquette: Cheese is not a traditional part of Saudi meals, but as Western influences permeate, it may be served in international hotels or restaurants.

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  Bread Etiquette: Bread is a staple in many meals and is often used as a utensil for scooping food. Flatbreads such as khubz are common and shared among diners.

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  Tipping: Tipping is becoming more common in Saudi Arabia, especially in the hospitality sector. It is customary to leave around 10-15% of the bill in restaurants if service charge is not included.

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  Table Manners: Good manners dictate that you should try a little of everything that is offered and always compliment the host on the food. It's considered polite to leave a bit of food on your plate to indicate that you have had enough.

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  Speaking with Servers: Always be respectful and polite when speaking with service staff. Loud or aggressive tones are considered rude and inappropriate.

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  Order of Courses: Meals typically start with soup or a salad, followed by main dishes that include a variety of meats and rice, and conclude with dessert and coffee or tea.

Public Behavior and Expectations in Saudi Arabia

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  Gift Giving: When giving gifts, ensure that they do not contain any alcohol or pork products, or any imagery that could be considered offensive under Islamic law. Gifts should be wrapped decoratively and given with both hands, or the right hand only, never the left alone.

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  Smoking Etiquette: Smoking is allowed in designated areas, but always check for no-smoking signs and be aware of your surroundings, particularly near families and public facilities. Many public places such as malls and restaurants are smoke-free environments.

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  Conversation Style: The Saudi communication style tends to be polite and reserved. Direct criticism is avoided in public to maintain dignity and respect. Topics about politics, religion, and personal matters should be approached with caution and respect.

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  Public Transport Etiquette: Public transport is segregated in Saudi Arabia, with designated sections for men and for families and single women. Always adhere to these rules and respect the local customs to avoid misunderstandings.

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  Respect for Quiet Spaces: Saudis value quiet and decorum in public spaces, especially places of worship like mosques. Silence your cell phone and keep voices low to avoid disturbing others.

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  Metro: When using the metro, adhere to the clearly marked gender-specific areas. Be punctual and patient; lines and waiting are common in public service areas.

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  Conservative Dressing: Dressing conservatively is expected for both men and women. Men should wear long trousers and shirts that cover the shoulders. Women should wear an abaya and a scarf to cover their hair when in public.

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  Swimming Pool: Public swimming pools are rare, and where they exist, strict dress codes apply. Private beaches or pools often require modest swimwear aligned with Islamic principles.

Health and Safety in Saudi Arabia

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  Tap Water: While tap water is generally safe to drink in Saudi Arabia, many locals and visitors prefer bottled water due to the taste and higher mineral content of tap water. It's advisable to drink bottled water, especially in rural areas or if you are unsure about local water treatment practices.

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  Pharmacies: Pharmacies are widely available throughout Saudi Arabia and are well-stocked with both local and international medications. Pharmacists are generally well-trained and can provide advice for minor ailments, but prescriptions are required for most medications.

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  Medical Treatment: Saudi Arabia has a well-developed healthcare system with modern facilities, especially in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. Healthcare is free at the point of delivery for Saudi citizens, and expatriates and visitors can access services through private health insurance.

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  Emergencies: The emergency number in Saudi Arabia is 999 for police, 997 for ambulance, and 998 for fire services. These numbers can be dialed from any phone, free of charge.

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  Smoking Laws: Smoking is prohibited in many public areas, including government facilities, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and sports clubs. Fines for smoking in non-designated areas can be substantial.

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  Condom Availability: Condoms are available at pharmacies and some supermarkets. While discussions about sexual health are not as open as in some other countries, the availability of contraceptives is not generally restricted.

Things Not to Do in Saudi Arabia

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  Don't Eat with Your Left Hand: In Saudi culture, the left hand is traditionally used for personal hygiene and is considered unclean for eating. Always use your right hand when eating or passing food to others.

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  Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, are not acceptable in Saudi Arabia, especially between non-married couples. Such behavior can lead to legal repercussions.

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  Do Not Refuse Hospitality: Refusing food or drink offered by a host can be seen as offensive. It's polite to accept at least a small amount, even if you're not hungry or it's just a symbolic gesture.

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  Avoid Using the Left Hand for Greetings: Do not use your left hand for handshakes or giving or receiving items. This is considered impolite and disrespectful.

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  Do Not Discuss Politics or Religion Publicly: Such discussions can be sensitive and are best avoided in public or with people you do not know well. Criticism of the royal family, government policies, or Islamic beliefs can lead to severe penalties.

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  Do Not Initiate Handshakes with Opposite Sex: Unless the other person extends their hand first. It's crucial to respect this boundary to avoid causing discomfort or offense.

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  Avoid Inappropriate Dress: Always dress conservatively in public. Men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops, while women should wear clothing that covers the body completely, including arms and legs.

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  Do Not Display or Consume Alcohol: Alcohol is illegal in Saudi Arabia, and possessing, consuming, or trafficking alcohol can result in severe punishments, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation.

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  Avoid Criticism of Cultural Practices: As a visitor or expatriate, it's important to show respect for Saudi customs, laws, and practices, even if they are different from those in your home country.

Useful Arabic Words and Phrases

Learning a few keywords or phrases before traveling to Saudi Arabia will help you connect with local people and serve as a starting point for acquiring the language much easier.

• 🗣️ General Arabic Travel Words:

  • Hello: مرحبا (Marhaban)

  • Please: من فضلك (Min fadlik)

  • Thank You: شكرا (Shukran)

  • Welcome: أهلا وسهلا (Ahlan wa sahlan)

  • Excuse Me: عفوا (Afwan)

  • Goodbye: مع السلامة (Ma'a as-salama)

  • Sorry: آسف (Asif)

  • Yes: نعم (Na'am)

  • No: لا (La)

  • Home: منزل (Manzil)

  • Do you speak [English]?: هل تتحدث [الإنجليزية]؟ (Hal tatahaddath [al-Ingleeziya]?)

  • I don’t understand: لا أفهم (La afham)

  • I need help: أحتاج إلى مساعدة (Ahtaju ila musaa'ada)

  • Time: وقت (Waqt)

  • Day: يوم (Yawm)

  • Night: ليل (Layl)

• 🚶‍♂️ Arabic Phrases for Getting Around:

  • Train Station: محطة القطار (Mahattat al-qitar)

  • Airport: مطار (Matar)

  • Bus: حافلة (Hafila)

  • Taxi: سيارة أجرة (Sayarat ujra)

  • Bathroom: حمام (Hammam)

  • Where is…?: أين هو…؟ (Ayn huwa…?)

  • Does this go to…?: هل هذا يذهب إلى…؟ (Hal hadha yadhhab ila…?)

  • Which way to…?: كيف أذهب إلى…؟ (Kayfa adhhab ila…?)

• 🥘 Food and Dining Arabic Travel Phrases:

  • Water: ماء (Maa')

  • Food: طعام (Ta'am)

  • I would like… : أود… (Awad…)

  • What do you recommend?: ماذا توصي؟ (Mada toosi?)

  • The bill, please: الفاتورة، من فضلك (Al-fatoora, min fadlik)

Interesting Facts About Saudi Arabia

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  Birthplace of Islam: Saudi Arabia is home to the two holiest cities in Islam, Mecca and Medina. Millions of Muslims from around the world travel to Mecca annually for the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

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  Kingdom's Formation: The modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was founded in 1932 by Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, uniting the regions of Nejd and Hejaz under one rule.

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  Vision 2030: Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 is an ambitious plan to diversify the economy and reduce its dependence on oil, with significant investments in tourism, entertainment, and technology sectors.

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  Automotive History: The country has a rapidly growing automotive market, with the ban on women driving lifted in 2018, marking a significant cultural shift and boosting female participation in the workforce.

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  Largest Sand Desert: The Rub' al Khali, or Empty Quarter, is the largest continuous sand desert in the world, covering parts of Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE, and Yemen.

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  Historic Trade Routes: Saudi Arabia has been a crossroads for ancient trade routes, including the incense and spice trade, which brought prosperity and cultural exchange to the region.

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  Date Production: The country is one of the world's leading producers of dates, with over 400 varieties grown, including the prized Ajwa dates from Medina.

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  Red Sea Coral Reefs: The Red Sea coast is home to some of the world's most pristine coral reefs, offering exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities.

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  Futuristic Cities: NEOM, a planned cross-border city in the Tabuk Province, represents one of the most ambitious urban projects, aiming to be a hub for innovation and sustainability.

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  Oil Reserves: Saudi Arabia possesses some of the largest proven oil reserves in the world, with its economy historically centered around oil production and export.

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  Mountainous Landscapes: The Asir region in southwestern Saudi Arabia features lush mountains and cooler climates, a stark contrast to the country's typical desert environment.

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  Cultural Heritage Sites: Al-Ula is an archaeological gem, featuring ancient rock carvings and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra, the first such site in Saudi Arabia.

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  Cultural Revival: The Kingdom is experiencing a cultural revival with the opening of cinemas, music concerts, and international sporting events, marking a new era of entertainment.

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  Space Ambitions: Saudi Arabia has invested in space exploration, with plans to develop its own satellite programs and collaborate with international space agencies.

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  Culinary Traditions: Saudi cuisine is rich and diverse, featuring dishes like Kabsa, a spiced rice dish with meat, and Mutabbaq, a stuffed savory pastry.

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  Mosque Architecture: The architecture of Saudi mosques, particularly the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, is renowned for its grandeur and significance.

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  Scientific Research: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a leading research institution, contributing to advancements in science and technology.

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  Falconry Heritage: Falconry is a traditional and revered sport in Saudi Arabia, with the country hosting the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival, one of the largest of its kind in the world.

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  Port Development: The Port of Jeddah is one of the busiest in the Middle East, serving as a critical hub for maritime trade and connecting the Kingdom to global markets.

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  Tourism Expansion: The government is actively promoting tourism through projects like the Red Sea Project and Al-Ula's cultural initiatives, aiming to attract millions of visitors annually.

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  Diverse Landscapes: From the Red Sea beaches to the rolling dunes of the Empty Quarter, Saudi Arabia offers a diverse array of natural landscapes for exploration and adventure.