Image: PHOTO: Kaaba in Mecca Saudi Arabia. (Photo via Aviator70 / iStock / Getty Images Plus)

Saudi Arabia Today: October 4, 3:39 AM 80°F Clear Sky

Saudi Arabia Travel Guide

Up until 2019, it was impossible to travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for tourism purposes. However, after launching their eVisa policy, you’re free to travel across Saudi Arabia and enjoy popular tourist destinations and a unique culture.

For many first-time visitors, Saudi Arabia comes across as a deeply religious and mysterious nation. To help you prepare and plan for your trip, browse our Saudi Arabia travel guide.

Saudi Arabia is a large country with cities spread out apart, so public transportation isn’t very convenient. To conveniently travel between cities, we recommend domestic flights, buses (although these can get pricey over long distances), or car rentals.

Remember, if you’re renting a car, you need an international driving license. If you can’t rent a car, we suggest you use Uber, Careem, or taxis to get around.

Important Things To Know

Currency

The official currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR).

To access currency exchange services, visit any bank, exchange bureaus in airports, and selected shopping centers across the kingdom.

A rendering of Collective Trojena in Saudi Arabia

National Language

In Saudi Arabia, the official language spoken is Arabic.

However, as a former protectorate of the British Empire, English is widely spoken and is a compulsory second language in schools.

Climate And Weather

Saudi Arabia is largely a desert country. Therefore, the country has a desert climate that’s hot in the summer and warm in the winter.

Temperatures in the summer range between 80°F - 109°F (27°C to 43°C). However, temperatures at night can drop as low as 50°F (10°C).

When To Visit Saudi Arabia

Hegra, AlUla, Saudi Arabia — Travelers exploring Hegra in AlUla. (photo courtesy of Saudi Tourism Authority)

The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is winter or between November and February. During this period, the temperatures are mild and bearable. We recommend you avoid visiting the nation in summer because the temperatures can rise absurdly high.

Solo Female Tourists

There are a lot of misconceptions about solo female tourists in Saudi Arabia. However, in our experience, many of these misconceptions are not true.

Below are some facts you should know about female solo travel:

You don’t need a guardian to tour Saudi Arabia (it’s not a law, it’s more of a cultural thing).
You don’t have to wear traditional Arabic dresses or an abaya. However, we highly recommend you dress modestly when accessing government buildings, malls, hospitals, or airports and during the holy month of Ramadan (to avoid clashing with locals).
You can rent a car, but you’ll need a valid Saudi or international driving license.
Saudi Arabia’s culture respects women. So, you don’t have to worry about harassment from local men.

Best Places To Stay In Saudi Arabia

Six Senses, Six Senses Southern Dunes, resorts in Saudi Arabia, hotels in Saudi Arabia, new resorts 2023 — Rendering of the Six Senses Southern Dunes in Saudi Arabia. (photo via Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas) (Photo Credit: (photo via Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas))

Riyadh: This is the capital city and cultural hub of Saudi Arabia. It offers a blend of the new and old through its modern architecture and ancient sites.
Mecca: The birthplace of Prophet Muhammad, Mecca offers visitors a unique look into the history of Islam.
Madinah: Home to restaurants and impressive shopping malls, you can enjoy amazing food and an unmatched shopping experience in Madinah.
Dammam: With plenty of scenic beaches, historical sites, and entertainment parks, the city offers plenty of fun activities to participate in.
Al Khobar: The best Saudi city to enjoy a seaside experience and adventure.