Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Saudi Arabia Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Saudi Arabia – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type G
Type G:
 Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Saudi Riyal (SAR) £1 ≈ SAR 4.99 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in Saudi Arabia, especially in urban areas and large businesses.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not expected in Saudi Arabia, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip in restaurants, taxis, and hotels is appreciated. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia. Alcohol consumption is illegal, and there are heavy penalties for violations. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces, but designated smoking areas are available outdoors. |
| National Day (23 September) |
Celebrates the founding of Saudi Arabia |
|---|---|
| Eid al-Fitr (variable) |
Marks the end of Ramadan with celebrations |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 911 (General), 999 (Police), 997 (Ambulance), 998 (Fire) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber, Careem |
| Other: | Saudi Arabia is known for its vast deserts, historic cities, and religious significance, particularly in Islam. It offers a mix of modernity and tradition. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Saudi Arabia, Saudi Arabia
Climate varies by region: cities and desert sites best November to March, Red Sea coast hot and humid year-round, Asir mountains (Abha) cool in summer
Only Muslims may enter Mecca and the central holy area of Medina
Ramadan: daytime eating restricted, many restaurants closed until sunset, shorter opening hours
Don't miss
- 🏺 Explore the ancient Nabatean city of [translate:Hegra]
- 🗻 Hike the dramatic cliffs at the Edge of the World
- 🏘️ Visit the historic At-Turaif district in Diriyah
- 🎶 Admire the modern architecture of Maraya Concert Hall
- 🕌 Experience peace at Al Masjid an Nabawi in Medina
- 🏝️ Discover serene beaches at the Farasan Islands
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia's appeal lies in its remarkable cultural heritage and religious significance. The country is home to Islam's two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina, alongside archaeological sites that showcase the Arabian Peninsula's rich history. Beyond the religious and historical attractions, you'll find diverse landscapes from the Red Sea coastline to dramatic desert scenery and mountain ranges. The cultural experience is enhanced by traditional markets, distinctive architecture and the legendary hospitality of Saudi people. However, travelers should be prepared for certain challenges. The climate can be extremely hot, particularly during summer months (June-August) when temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, making outdoor activities uncomfortable or even dangerous. While major tourist areas have good infrastructure, cultural norms and regulations differ significantly from Western countries, especially regarding dress codes and behavior. The country is also relatively expensive compared to other Middle Eastern destinations, with transportation, accommodation and food costs higher than you might expect.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Mecca
Pilgrims from around the world converge here for the Hajj and Umrah, centered on the Masjid al‑Haram that houses the Kaaba. The city offers modern infrastructure, cultural heritage sites and a bustling market daily atmosphere. -
2
Medina
The holy city of Medina, nestled in Saudi Arabia's arid landscape, features grand mosques and historic tombs. Its serene atmosphere contrasts with bustling markets, offering spiritual significance and architectural beauty within a desert setting that feels both timeless and sacred. -
3
Riyadh
The capital of Saudi Arabia sits on the edge of the Najd plateau, offering a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic sites. Visitors can explore Masmak Fortress, stroll along King Abdullah Road and experience vibrant souks. -
4
Dammam
A major commercial hub in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, Dammam sits on the Persian Gulf coast and serves as a key logistics center for oil exports. The city offers modern infrastructure, waterfront promenades and nearby desert landscapes.
🏯Places worth seeing
-
1
Kaaba
The Kaaba stands as the world’s most sacred Islamic shrine in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, flanked by the Grand Mosque and the bustling Mina plain. Pilgrims flock yearly, yet early morning visits offer quieter reflection amid profound spiritual energy. -
2
Abraj Al Bait Clock Towers
One of the world's tallest clock towers stands in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, marking a modern gateway to the holy city. While visitors flock for its height, the true draw remains the nearby Masjid al-Haram, where the tower offers a quiet vantage point above the crowds. -
3
Jabal al-Nour
A sacred mountain in Mecca, Jabal al-Nour is home to the Cave of Hira where Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation. Visitors climb its rocky slopes for spiritual reflection and panoramic views of the holy city below. -
4
Jabal Thawr
This sacred mountain in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, rises sharply beside the Kaaba. Pilgrims climb its steep slopes to touch the Prophet's cave, avoiding crowds by starting early for a profound, intimate spiritual connection. -
5
Jannat al-Mu'alla
This sacred site in Mecca features ancient graves of Prophet Muhammad's wives and stands as a major pilgrimage destination. Visitors come to honor history, though crowds can be intense during holy seasons, so plan accordingly for this spiritual landmark. -
6
King Abdulaziz Historical Center
-
7
National Museum of Saudi Arabia
-
8
الدرعية
-
9
Madain Saleh Hotel
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
-
1
Mount Arafat
A sacred site for Muslims worldwide, Mount Arafat lies on a plain outside Mecca where pilgrims gather during Hajj to pray and reflect. The hill’s open landscape offers panoramic views of the surrounding desert. -
2
Rub‘ al Khali
-
3
Farasan Islands
-
4
Edge of the World
-
5
Jabal Sawda
-
6
View to the mountains
-
7
Wadi Disah Viewpoint
-
8
Wadi Hanifah
-
9
Oasis Avenue
-
10
Al-Wahbah crater
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Janadriyah National Festival
-
Saudi National Day
-
Eid Al-Fitr
-
Eid Al-Adha
-
Riyadh Season
-
Jeddah Season
-
Taif Rose Festival
-
Red Sea International Film Festival
-
Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition
-
Riyadh International Book Fair
Knowledge before you go
- Dress modestly; pack light layers for strong air-conditioning.
- Plan outdoor sights early morning or after sunset; midday heat can be intense most of the year.
- Use ride-hailing apps in big cities; keep addresses saved in Arabic for smoother pickups and returns.
- Fridays can affect opening hours and rhythm; confirm timings and be respectful with photography around people and prayer times.
How to travel to Saudi Arabia
Most international visitors arrive in Saudi Arabia through major airports in Riyadh (King Khalid International Airport), Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport) or Dammam. Direct flights connect these cities to many global hubs. As of March 2025, most nationalities require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, which can be obtained through the e-visa system for tourism purposes. When planning your trip, consider that the most pleasant weather for sightseeing is from November to March, avoiding the extreme summer heat. October offers the most economical airfares, with favorable rates often extending into December and January.
Access summary
- Riyadh: Fly to King Khalid International Airport (RUH) from major global hubs.
- Jeddah/Mecca/Medina: Fly to JED or MED; key gateways for Hajj and Umrah.
- Dammam/Eastern Province: Fly to King Fahd International Airport (DMM) from Gulf, Asia, Europe.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers accommodations ranging from luxury international hotel chains to mid-range options, particularly in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Prices tend to be higher than in many other countries, with December emerging as the most affordable month for accommodations. Budget options are limited, especially in religious cities where hotels cater primarily to pilgrims. Booking well in advance is essential during religious periods like Hajj and Ramadan when availability becomes extremely limited and prices surge dramatically.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Saudi Arabia
Getting around Saudi Arabia primarily relies on cars due to limited public transportation options. In major cities like Riyadh, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available. For intercity travel, domestic flights connect major destinations, saving time over long road journeys. Buses operate between cities but comfort levels vary. Car rental is a popular option for flexibility, though driving can be challenging due to aggressive driving styles. The average monthly transportation cost is around SAR 638 (£127.19) per person, with car owners paying significantly more for maintenance due to the hot, abrasive climate.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Saudi Arabia are around 47% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to SAR) is 4% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Saudi Arabia is generally safe for tourists with low violent crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in urban areas. The main safety concerns are related to extreme heat during summer months and road safety, as traffic accidents are relatively common.
Health & Medical
Major cities have excellent healthcare facilities with modern hospitals and clinics. However, services may be limited in rural areas. Heat-related illnesses are a significant risk during summer months. Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended as medical costs can be high.
Accessibility
Accessibility varies widely across Saudi Arabia. Newer buildings and major attractions in cities offer some accessibility features, but historical sites and rural areas often present challenges for mobility-impaired travelers. Major hotels in cities provide accessible facilities.
Tap water
Tap water is generally not recommended for drinking throughout Saudi Arabia. Rely on bottled water, which is widely available and reasonably priced. Most hotels provide complimentary bottled water daily.
Packing recommendations for Saudi Arabia
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
🚰
Reusable water bottle
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🧥
Light jacket
for winter evenings
🕶️
Sunglasses
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
🧣
Scarf
for women
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
covering shoulders and knees
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
👒
Sun hat
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
📱
Translation app or phrasebook
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
Type G plugs
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
Related articles & guides for Saudi Arabia
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