Saudi Arabia Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Saudi Arabia is one of the most surprising travel stories of the last decade. For years, it was a country few outsiders could visit beyond business or pilgrimage. Today, it is opening its doors, polishing ancient sites, building futuristic cities, and inviting travelers to explore deserts, coastlines, mountains, and a culture that has long been misunderstood.
This is not a destination that tries to feel familiar. Saudi Arabia feels distinct, rooted, and intentional. If you are considering a trip, this guide covers everything a traveler wants to know before visiting Saudi Arabia, from where to go and what to eat to safety, scams, etiquette, and what makes the Kingdom truly unique.
Recommended Travel Items for Your Trip
Why Visit Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia offers something rare in modern travel: places that still feel undiscovered.
It is ideal for travelers who enjoy:
- Ancient history and archaeology
- Desert landscapes and dramatic scenery
- Cultural immersion
- Less crowded destinations
- Authentic local hospitality
This is a country where tourism is still new, and that freshness shapes the experience.
Top Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia
Riyadh
Riyadh is the political and cultural heart of Saudi Arabia, a city where glass towers rise beside historic mud-brick forts.
Key highlights:
- Diriyah (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Masmak Fortress
- National Museum of Saudi Arabia
- Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge
Riyadh offers insight into Saudi history, modern ambition, and daily life.
AlUla
AlUla is Saudi Arabia’s crown jewel for travelers.
Why AlUla is special:
- Hegra (Madain صالح), a Nabataean site older than Petra
- Dramatic sandstone rock formations
- Ancient tombs and inscriptions
- Carefully curated cultural experiences
AlUla feels cinematic, silent, and deeply powerful.
Jeddah
Jeddah is Saudi Arabia’s most relaxed and outward-looking city, sitting on the Red Sea.
Things to see:
- Al-Balad historic district
- Coral stone houses
- Jeddah Corniche
- Art scene and cafés
Jeddah feels warmer, more social, and more coastal than Riyadh.
The Red Sea Coast
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline is one of its most underrated assets.
What travelers love:
- Pristine coral reefs
- Excellent snorkeling and diving
- Less crowded beaches
- Luxury eco-resorts under development
This region rivals Egypt and Jordan but remains quieter.
Abha and the Asir Mountains
Southern Saudi Arabia surprises many travelers.
Highlights include:
- Cooler weather
- Green landscapes
- Traditional architecture
- Scenic viewpoints
Abha feels completely different from the desert image many expect.
Saudi Food: What to Eat
Saudi cuisine is hearty, aromatic, and deeply tied to hospitality.
Must-Try Saudi Dishes
- Kabsa: The national dish. Spiced rice with chicken, lamb, or camel.
- Mandi: Slow-cooked meat with smoky rice, often served communally.
- Jareesh: Cracked wheat dish with meat and yogurt.
- Mutabbaq: Savory stuffed pancake, popular street food.
- Saleeg: Creamy rice dish from the western region.
Meals are often shared, and generosity is a point of pride.
Sweets and Drinks
- Dates: Saudi Arabia produces some of the world’s finest varieties
- Arabic coffee (Gahwa): Light, spiced with cardamom
- Kunafa and Ma’amoul: Popular desserts
- Fresh juices: Widely available and excellent
Alcohol is not available in Saudi Arabia.
Culture and Local Etiquette
Understanding Saudi culture enhances the experience enormously.
Dress Code
- Modest dress is expected in public
- Women are not legally required to wear abayas but often choose to
- Men should avoid shorts in formal public places
Social Norms
- Hospitality is sincere and generous
- Photography of people should be asked first
- Public displays of affection are discouraged
Respect is returned with warmth.
Is Saudi Arabia Safe for Tourists?
Saudi Arabia is one of the safest countries in the region for visitors.
Safety Overview
- Violent crime is extremely rare
- Streets are clean and well-policed
- Tourist areas are secure
Most travelers report feeling very safe, including solo travelers.
Common Scams in Saudi Arabia (If Any)
Saudi Arabia has very few tourist scams, especially compared to popular destinations elsewhere.
What to Watch For
- Taxi drivers not using meters
- Inflated prices in tourist-heavy areas
- Unofficial tour guides
How to avoid issues:
- Use ride-hailing apps
- Confirm prices in advance
- Book tours through licensed providers
Scams are not a defining concern here.
Transportation in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is vast, and transport planning matters.
- Domestic flights: Affordable and efficient
- Ride-hailing apps: Widely used in cities
- Car rentals: Ideal for flexibility
- Public transport: Improving but limited
Distances are long, but infrastructure is modern.
Costs and Budget Expectations
Saudi Arabia can be affordable or luxurious, depending on travel style.
- Food: Reasonably priced, large portions
- Accommodation: Budget hotels to high-end resorts
- Transport: Fuel and domestic flights are affordable
- Attractions: Many sites are free or low-cost
Luxury experiences cost less than in many Western countries.
Religion and Respect
Islam shapes daily life in Saudi Arabia.
- Prayer times influence schedules
- Some shops close briefly during prayer
- Non-Muslims cannot enter Makkah or certain religious areas
Respecting these norms is expected and appreciated.
Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia
- October to March: Best weather for travel
- December to February: Coolest temperatures
- Summer months: Extremely hot, travel can be difficult
Desert travel is best during cooler seasons.
What Makes Saudi Arabia Special
Saudi Arabia stands out because it feels intentional rather than performative.
It offers:
- Ancient history largely untouched by mass tourism
- Landscapes that feel cinematic and vast
- Genuine hospitality without pressure
- A rare glimpse into a rapidly transforming society
It is a destination where curiosity is rewarded.
Practical Tips Before You Go
- Download local ride apps
- Carry some cash, though cards are widely accepted
- Respect photography rules
- Be open to conversation and questions
Saudi locals are often curious about visitors.
Final Thoughts: Should You Visit Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is not a checkbox destination. It is a place for travelers who value authenticity, culture, and discovery.
If you want crowds, nightlife, and familiar comforts, it may not be your first choice. But if you want to experience a country opening its doors while holding onto its identity, Saudi Arabia offers something rare and meaningful.
It is a destination that challenges assumptions and leaves a lasting impression.
