Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is an Islamic country located in West Asia. It’s land area is about 2,150,000 km². KSA is the second-largest country in the Arab world, the fifth-largest in Asia, and the largest in West Asia and the Middle East.
Can I Visit Saudi Arabia as a Tourist?
Back in 2013, Saudi Arabia announced that it will begin issuing Saudi tourist visas. In September 2019, they officially issued tourist visas to visitors from 49 countries. As a result, 24,000 foreign visitors entered Saudi Arabia in just ten days.
Saudi Arabia Travel Tips
Here are some travel tips for you if you are planning to visit KSA in the near future:
Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia
You must plan a trip to Saudi Arabia during the cooler months, from November to March. You can also extend your trip to April. After that, the daytime temperature can hit 55 degrees Celsius in the desert and the country can be too hot to enjoy.
The North side of KSA can be extremely cold in winter. The temperature may drop to 0ºC in transited regions such as Tabouk and Al-Ula.
Dress Appropriately
You need to dress appropriately while traveling to Saudi Arabia. It’s not compulsory to follow dress code of Saudi Arabia named: Thawb, But if you do so you’ll get priority in Saudi Arabia at every thing. They’ll think that you’re their own citizen and will treat you likely.
In the early days, women are obliged to wear abayas and headscarves. But now they can wear whatever they choose, as long as it’s modest. For example, you can wear loose clothes with long sleeves and trousers that fully cover your legs. Foreign ladies can dress either way.
Travel with an International Driving Permit
International Driving Permit is a must-have if you plan to travel inside Saudi Arabia by a rental car. You must get your driving permit from the same country that issues your driving license. Other than the IDP, you will need:
- Driving License
- Your Passport
- Your Visa
- A Local Phone Number
Remember that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not a replacement for your driving license. You need to have both to drive in Saudi Arabia
Travel with Insurance
Always travel with quality travel insurance from a reputable company if you are a full-time traveler. It will protect you from sudden financial strain in case of any unexpected event such as accidental injury or loss of belongings.
Remember Friday Closures
The work week begins on Sunday and ends on Thursday in Saudi Arabia. Friday and Saturday are holidays. But Friday is the prayer day for Muslims. Therefore, it often resembles a Sunday in Western nations. Most places will be closed until at least 4 or 5 pm. So, schedule your pick-up and drop-off accordingly to avoid any problems.
Don’t Drink Alcohol
As mentioned before, Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country that always followed Islamic laws very strictly. It is home to Mecca, which is the holiest city in Islam. That’s why alcohol consumption, importation, and brewing are completely prohibited including consumption in 5-star hotels or international compounds.
Use VPN for Internet Services
Certain websites are blocked like Whatsapp by Saudi Arabia like many other countries in the Middle East. So, you need to use Virtual Private Network for Internet Services.
Choose Taxi Service Wisely
If you plan to use an online taxi service for traveling inside Saudi Arabia, choose it wisely. Like if you’re visiting Makkah to Jeddah, Madinah to Makkah, Jeddah to Madinah or moving any where with in the country choose best option. Always choose an online taxi service provider that provides well-maintained vehicles with experienced drivers in reasonable prices. For the best online taxi experience in Saudi Arabia, visit Al-Fakhamah Transport.
FAQs
Can you book an online Taxi in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, you can an book online taxi service in Saudi Arabia. For more information and a detailed plan, visit Al-Fakhamah Transport.
Can you Drink Alcohol in Saudi Arabia?
Alcohol consumption, importation, and brewing are completely prohibited in KSA, including consumption in 5-star hotels or international compounds.
Is Saudi Arabia Safe?
Yes, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is safe for tourists either male or female.
What to Do in Case of Emergency When You’re in Saudi Arabia?
Dial 999 for the police in case of emergency and dial 997 for an ambulance.
