Visiting Saudi Arabia became one of many people’s dreams. It is especially after the Riyadh and Jeddah seasons that are a part of the country’s vision 2030. Many people who plan to visit Saudi Arabia are concerned for many reasons. They believe that Saudi Arabia is not a safe country or that its weather is really hot. They think people live in the middle of a desert. These wrong ideas came from the media which picture Saudi Arabia as an undeveloped country.

Because of that, I will share with you 5 important things that will change your opinion about visiting Saudi Arabia. Before I start them, ask anyone around you who visited Saudi Arabia about the validity of these things. I am sure they will provide you with more things based on their own experience.

Before going deep into the topic, I would like to remind you about having all your legal documents such as a Visa. If you need help with visas Types of Saudi Arabia and how to apply for them, we made the ultimate guide to visas in Saudi Arabia.

Table of contents of the 5 important things you must know before visiting Saudi Arabia

1- People Are Friendly

Between 2003 and 2015, over 500,000 people were sent to different countries to finish their higher education. It means they are open-minded after interacting with different cultures. Additionally, Millions of Muslims from different countries and backgrounds (over 100 countries) come to Saudi Arabia in Makkah every year. Last month, over 1,500,000 Muslims arrived in Makkah. It made citizens more welcome and friendly as well as respectful of people from different cultures.

Respecting people also includes clothes. You may not cover your hair or face. You may not weare Abaya (Hijab). However, it is not respectful to wear cleavage clothes. You do not want to show your shoulders and/or legs.

2- It is a safe country

One of the biggest concerns for travelers is safety. You want to explore all the places at different times including the night. Many countries and places are not safe in the night. Even in the afternoon, we see many thefts who attack you in public places. This concern is increasing when you travel with family and kids.

The good thing is that this is not the case at all in Saudi Arabia. Yes, it is true. The criminal rates in Saudi Arabia are very low. You nearly hear about it. People and visitors can go outside with their expensive phones, clothes, money, and jewelry without worrying about being stolen. The safety considerations are high for the government of Saudi Arabia. Another reason for the safety in the night is the lifestyle. People in Saudi Arabia like to go out at night more than in the day. It made the street full of police and people. That does not mean the streets are empty during the day.

I can consider many cities in Saudi Arabia, such as Riyadh and Jeddah, the cities that never sleep.

3- Having some Cash is important in some places

Apple Pay and credit cards are accepted in almost 80% of stores, hotels, and restaurants in Saudi Arabia. All official transportations also accept Apple Pay and credit cards. However, like other local places around the world, there are a few stores and gas stations that accept cash or local bank cards (made cards). Because of that, I encourage you to have a small amount of cash just in case.

4- Alchohol is now allowed

Drinking alcohol is not allowed in Saudi Arabia. Once you arrive at the airport, your luggage will be checked for any alcohol or prohibited staff. You do not expect to drink alcohol in restaurants. To sum up, consuming alcohol is strictly forbidden in Saudi Arabia.

This includes drugs and weed such as marijuana. They are illegal in Saudi Arabia. The government of Saudi Arabia is serious about breaking these rules even for small amounts. Do not bring any with you.

5- Saudi Arabia is not a hot country

One common thing that comes to the mind of people who never visit Saudi Arabia is the hot desert. They imagine different villages in the medial of a sunny desert.

Before I say anything, look at these pictures. They are from Saudi Arabia in the model of Summer (Jun – Aug)

Also, Do you know that there is snow in Saudi Arabia?

As in any other country, there are deserts, mountains, beaches, and jungles in Saudi Arabia. For example, in the United States, you can find different states that have desert and really hot weather such as Nevada and New Mexico states.

In Saudi Arabia, you need to plan your trip before visiting Saudi Arabia. If you prefer a high cold mountain, you can consider cities such as Taif and the southern region. If you like jungles, the south is your suitable location as well. However, if you prefer regular beaches, you may visit Jeddah or Dammam. The luxury beaches are located at Neom.

To sum up, you need to recognize your target places before visiting Saudi Arabia.

6- Different transportation methods are available when visiting Saudi Arabia

Another important concern for travelers is transportation. Saudi Arabia started an important part of their Vision 2030 related to transportation. They established a strong different type of transportation including public buses, trains, and airports.

Even if you do not like this type of transportation, there are alternative kinds that are available. For example, travelers can use taxis, ride-sharing (such as Uber), and car rentals. All these different transportation accept credit cards, Apple Pay, and cash.

7- Language and Communication

In Saudi Arabia, the main language is Arabic. People like their language because it is a part of their culture. However, many people can speak English as well because they receive millions of people every month from around the world. Recently, the government of Saudi Arabia started focusing on different languages such as Chinese. They started teaching the students different languages in universities. Additionally, the government offers free scholarships for its people in different countries such as the UK, USA, Chinese, Japan, Russia, Australia, and more. This will help to distribute different languages in the coming years.

8- Can non-muslims visiting Saudi Arabia

Yes, you are welcome to visit all cities in Saudi Arabia except for Makkah and Madinah cities. People will respect your religion as long as you respect them. You need to be aware that there are no churches or any public places for non-muslims. It means that you can practice your own religion preys in your place or room in the hotel. The good thing is that even if someone sees you, they will give you more privacy and leave you to finish your religious practice.

Important Note: females are not allowed to enter the Masjid (Mosques) without a Hijab.

Frequent Question About things to know before visiting Saudi Arabia

Can I wear jeans in Saudi Arabia?

Legally, yes. You can wear jeans in Saudi Arabia. However, you need to consider the places where you may wear jeans. For example, if you plan to take a trip in the desert, it is not recommended because of the hot weather. The jeans can absorb more heat.

Do female tourists have to cover up in Saudi Arabia?

No, they do not have to. However, as we mentioned earlier, females must avoid

How are female tourists treated in Saudi Arabia?

Believe me, treating females in Saudi Arabia is better than any other country. They treat females as princesses no matter who they are as long as they are respectful people.

Can a woman go out alone in Saudi Arabia?

Totally yes at any time. It is safe in Saudi Arabia, especially in big cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and more.

Can I stay in a hotel room with my girlfriend in Saudi Arabia? Can an unmarried couple live together in Saudi Arabia? Can my boyfriend visit me in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, you can. As I mentioned, the government and people in Saudi Arabia respect visitors’ privacy and culture as long as they respect the law and their culture. As a human, you have a lot of rights protected by the government of Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Saudi Arabia has never been colonized by any European entity. It means this is an independent country. They do not have any reason to make them deal with someone differently. All people are equal under the law. If someone attaches you either physically or verbally, the government of Saudi Arabia is more than welcome to protect you after following the protocol of your situation.

In the end, if you have any questions about Saudi Arabia, please leave them in the comment below. I will answer all questions as soon as possible,