Most Complete Saudi Arabia Travel Guide 2026-2027 – Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

This Saudi Arabia travel guide provides everything you need to plan your journey to one of the world’s fastest-changing tourism destinations. Since opening to international tourism in 2019 under Vision 2030, the Kingdom has unveiled breathtaking archaeological sites, futuristic cities, pristine Red Sea coast and vast desert landscapes that few travelers have experienced. Covering over 2.15 million square kilometers, Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East and offers visitors everything from Nabataean tombs at AlUla to the ultra-modern skyline of Riyadh and luxury diving resorts along the Red Sea.

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Quick Facts About Saudi Arabia

Capital: Riyadh.
Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR).
Time Zone: Arabia Standard Time (AST, UTC+3).
International Calling Code: +966.
Driving Side: Right.
Major Airports: King Khalid (Riyadh), King Abdulaziz (Jeddah), King Fahd (Dammam).

AlUla Hegra tombs, Edge of the World, Riyadh skyline and Red Sea coast – Saudi Arabia travel guide 2026-2027

Saudi Arabia Overview & Key Facts

Brief History of Saudi Arabia

The modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was founded in 1932 by Abdulaziz Al Saud, but its history stretches back millennia. The Nabataean kingdom created Hegra (Madain Saleh), Islam was born in Mecca and Medina in the 7th century, and the region has been a crossroads of trade and pilgrimage for centuries. The discovery of oil in 1938 transformed the country into a global energy powerhouse while recent Vision 2030 reforms have dramatically opened the country to international tourism and cultural exchange.

Independence & National Identity

Founded: September 23, 1932.
National Day: September 23.
National symbols & identity.

The green flag with the Shahada and sword symbolizes Islam and the House of Saud. Saudi identity is deeply rooted in Islamic heritage, Bedouin traditions, and tribal affiliations while rapidly modernizing under Vision 2030 initiatives that promote entertainment, women’s rights, and cultural tourism.

Government System & Current Leadership

Type of government: Absolute Monarchy
King & Prime Minister: Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
Crown Prince: Mohammed bin Salman (MBS)

The Kingdom operates under Islamic law (Sharia) with the King as custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. Vision 2030, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, drives massive tourism and economic diversification projects.

Population, Ethnic Groups & Languages

Population: 37 million (2025 estimate).
Saudi citizens: ~63%, expatriates ~37%.
Official language: Arabic.
English widely spoken in business and tourism.

Arabic is universal, with English the second language in hotels, tourism, and among younger Saudis. Regional dialects vary (Najdi, Hijazi, Gulf).

Main Religions & Cultural Identity

Islam (official Sunni) is practiced by nearly 100% of citizens. The country is home to Mecca and Medina, the two holiest cities in Islam. Religious police influence has been dramatically reduced since 2019 reforms.

Geography & Natural Landscape

Saudi Arabia features vast deserts (Rub’ al Khali – the Empty Quarter), dramatic sandstone formations (AlUla, Edge of the World), 1,760 km of Red Sea coastline with pristine coral reefs, and mountain ranges in Asir province with moderate climates.

Economy & Tourism Highlights

World’s second-largest oil producer transitioning rapidly into tourism under Vision 2030. Mega-projects include NEOM, The Red Sea Project, AlUla, Qiddiya entertainment city, and Riyadh Season festivals.

What Saudi Arabia Is Known For

Birthplace of Islam – Mecca & Medina
AlUla & Hegra (sister site to Petra, UNESCO)
Luxury Red Sea diving resorts
Futuristic Riyadh & Jeddah Corniche

Visa & Entry Requirements in Saudi Arabia

Since 2019 Saudi Arabia has one of the easiest tourist visa systems in the region. Citizens of 66 countries can obtain an e-Visa online instantly or visa-on-arrival at all international airports.

Do You Need a Visa?

66 nationalities (including USA, EU, UK, Australia, Japan, Korea, China, etc.) get instant e-Visa or visa-on-arrival. GCC citizens exempt. All others apply through embassies.

Visa Application Options in Saudi Arabia

e-Visa online (visitsaudi.com) – instant approval
Visa on arrival at all airports
Free stopover visa (Saudi Airlines & Flynas)

e-Visa costs 535 SAR (~$142) including medical insurance, valid 1 year, multiple entry, 90 days total stay per year.

Passport Validity & Entry Documents

Passport must be valid 6 months. Mandatory medical insurance included with e-Visa. Download Hayya or Tawakkalna app for some services.

Customs Rules & Prohibited Items

Alcohol, pork, narcotics, pornographic material strictly prohibited. Drones require permits. Religious proselytizing materials forbidden.

Safety & Security Information in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has one of the lowest crime rates in the world and excellent tourist safety infrastructure.

Is Saudi Arabia Safe for Tourists?

Extremely safe. Violent crime against tourists is virtually unheard of. Tourist police present in all major sites. Women travelers report feeling safer than in many Western countries.

Recommended Safety Tips when in Saudi Arabia

Follow dress code, respect prayer times, avoid political discussions, use licensed guides in remote areas.

Safe Areas vs. Areas to Avoid in Saudi Arabia

All major tourist areas (Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, Red Sea, Abha) are very safe. Restricted border areas with Yemen and Iraq require permits.

Emergency Numbers & Tourist Police in Saudi Arabia

Police/Emergency: 999
Tourist Police: 930
Medical Emergency: 997

Health Requirements & Vaccinations in Saudi Arabia

No mandatory vaccines except for Hajj/Umrah pilgrims (meningitis). Standard travel vaccines recommended.

Mandatory Vaccinations in Saudi Arabia

None for regular tourists. Meningitis required for Hajj/Umrah.

Recommended Vaccinations in Saudi Arabia

Hepatitis A, Typhoid, routine vaccines. COVID regulations removed.

Malaria & Other Risks

No malaria risk. Heat exhaustion primary concern in summer.

Travel Insurance Recommendations in Saudi Arabia

Mandatory insurance included with e-Visa. Additional coverage recommended for adventure activities.

Best Time to Visit in Saudi Arabia

October to April offers the most comfortable weather nationwide. Saudi Seasons (Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla) run November–March with major events.

Weather by Season

Winter (Dec–Feb): 15–25°C, perfect. Summer (Jun–Aug): 45°C+ inland, 35–40°C coastal.

When to Visit Saudi Arabia for Best Experiences

Riyadh Season: Nov–Mar
AlUla Winter at Tantora festival: Dec–Feb
Red Sea diving: year-round
Jeddah Season: Jun–Sep (coastal)

Weather & Climate Overview in Saudi Arabia

Desert climate with extreme temperature variations. Coastal areas more humid, highlands (Abha) cooler.

Temperature Ranges

Riyadh: 8–25°C winter, 35–45°C summer. Jeddah: 25–38°C year-round. AlUla similar to Riyadh.

Rainy & Dry Seasons in Saudi Arabia

Minimal rainfall (50–100 mm/year). Occasional winter showers.

What to Wear Based on the Weather

Women: abaya mandatory in public. Men: long trousers, collared shirts. Light fabrics in summer, layers in winter.

Main Currency, Costs & Budgeting in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Riyal (SAR). Cards widely accepted, cash needed in souks.

Average Travel Costs in Saudi Arabia

Budget: $100–150/day; mid-range $200–350; luxury (AlUla, Red Sea) $500–1000+.

Using ATMs, Cards & Mobile Money in Saudi Arabia

ATMs everywhere. Apple Pay/Google Pay common. Mada network dominant.

Tipping Guidelines in Saudi Arabia

Not obligatory but 10–15% appreciated in restaurants if no service charge.

Transportation & Getting Around in Saudi Arabia

Excellent new highways, high-speed Haramain train (Mecca–Medina), expanding metro (Riyadh), domestic flights (Saudia, Flyadeal, Flynas).

Airport Transfers

Uber/Careem available at all airports. Official taxis metered.

Local Transport Options in Saudi Arabia

Uber/Careem dominant. Women can drive and use all transport freely.

Saudi Arabia Domestic Flights

Frequent cheap flights between all major cities.

Car Rentals & Road Conditions in Saudi Arabia

Easy rental with international license. Excellent highways.

Accommodation Options available in Saudi Arabia

From budget hotels to world-class luxury resorts (Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Six Senses, Aman).

Types of Accommodations in Saudi Arabia

International chains, boutique heritage hotels (AlUla Old Town), luxury desert camps, Red Sea island resorts.

Budget vs. Mid-Range vs. Luxury

Budget $60–120, mid-range $150–300, luxury $400–2000+ per night.

Essential Packing Guide when Visiting Saudi Arabia

Abaya for women, modest clothing, sun protection, universal adapter (Type G plugs in some hotels).

Language & Communication in Saudi Arabia

Arabic official, English widely spoken in tourism sector.

Culture & Etiquette in Saudi Arabia

Women must wear abaya in public. No public displays of affection. Respect prayer times. Photography allowed except military/police.

Food, Water & Dining in Saudi Arabia

Excellent Arabic, Lebanese, international cuisine. Alcohol prohibited. Bottled water recommended.

Top Attractions & Things to Do in Saudi Arabia

AlUla & Hegra, Edge of the World, Riyadh Boulevard, Jeddah historic district, Red Sea diving, Abha mountains.

Saudi Arabian Electrical System Information

220–240V, 60Hz. Mix of US (A/B) and European (C/F) plugs, increasingly Type G.

Local Laws & Regulations of Saudi Arabia

Abaya mandatory for women. No alcohol. Respect Islamic customs. Drones heavily regulated.

Final Travel Tips for Visitors in Saudi Arabia

Book AlUla well in advance. Download Visit Saudi app. Use Uber/Careem. Respect local customs while enjoying rapidly modernizing society.

Frequently Asked Questions – Saudi Arabia Travel Guide 2026-2027

Do I need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia in 2026?

Citizens of 66 countries can obtain an e-Visa online instantly or visa-on-arrival. GCC citizens are exempt. All others apply through Saudi embassies.

Is Saudi Arabia safe for tourists in 2026?

Yes – Saudi Arabia is one of the safest countries in the Middle East for tourists. Crime rates are very low, tourist police are present, and Vision 2030 has dramatically improved safety infrastructure.

What is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia?

October–April for pleasant temperatures (20–30°C). Avoid summer (June–August) when temperatures exceed 45°C in most regions.

What currency is used in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Riyal (SAR). ATMs and cards are widely accepted; cash needed in souks and smaller towns.

What languages are spoken in Saudi Arabia?

Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels and among younger generations.

What should I wear in Saudi Arabia?

Women must wear an abaya in public (loose black over-garment). Men should wear long trousers and shirts. Modest dress is mandatory for both genders.

How much does a trip to Saudi Arabia cost in 2026?

Budget: $100–150/day; mid-range $200–350/day; luxury (AlUla camps, Red Sea resorts) $500–1000+/day.

Can women travel alone in Saudi Arabia?

Yes – completely legal and increasingly common. Women can drive, stay alone in hotels, and travel independently.

What vaccinations do I need for Saudi Arabia?

Routine vaccines + Hepatitis A & Typhoid recommended. Meningitis vaccine required for Hajj/Umrah pilgrims.

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