Now that tourist visas are available to citizens in 49 countries, travel to Saudi Arabia is more exciting than ever. Tourists can now spend up to 90 days at a time in the Kingdom, but even shorter itineraries allow visitors to discover Saudi Arabi’s rich culture, diverse landscapes and incredible attractions. While any visit to the Middle East is thrilling, it can also look different than sightseeing in European, Asian or American countries. Just remember, embracing Saudi traditions and culture is part of the adventure!

Travel to Saudi Arabia | Tourist visas

Tourists visas (eVisas) to Saudi Arabia are now available to citizens in 49 countries. Tourists can check eligibility and apply for a visa online at the visa.visitsaudi website. The new tourist visas grant one-year, multiple-entry visits and allow tourists to spend up to 90 days at a time in the Kingdom. All tourists must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months.

Travel to Saudi Arabia | Travel insurance

It’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance when traveling to Saudi Arabia because healthcare for foreigners can get a little pricey. Some airlines offer certain types of low-cost medical insurance for healthcare emergencies, and travel companies can recommend credible and affordable companies that provide international travel insurance. Travelers should check online for reputable options.

Travel to Saudi Arabia | Language

Saudi Arabians speak Arabic, which is the official language of the Kingdom, but tourists who don’t know any Arabic should not feel too intimidated. Many Saudi’s speak English, or at least enough English that makes communication easier. Most road signs are written in both Arabic and English, making getting around for foreigners possible. English-speaking visitors probably can get by in Saudi Arabia without knowing any Arabic phrases, but knowing a few key words and phrases can score lots of brownie points with locals.

Arabic words & phrases that are good to know

• Hello and goodbye – assalamu alaykom
• Yes – na am
• No – la or kalla
• I want a taxi – ureed sayaratt ujra
• I want to get to [location] – ureed an azhab ila [location]
• Thank you – shukran
• Thank you very much – shukran jazeelan
• Welcome or you’re welcome – ahlan wa sahlan or hayak
• Can I take a photo? – momken asawwar
• Excuse me – afwan

Travel to Saudi Arabia | Dress codes

Dress codes in Saudi Arabia can seem a bit intimidating for visitors from countries with more relaxed fashions, but tourists should remember that dressing a little differently for a few days is part of the adventure in Saudi Arabia! Besides, laws are loosening, so dress codes are less strict than in years past when women were required by law to wear abayas (full-length dresses or robes) in public.

Recently, however, the laws for female fashions were modified. Women (including foreign women) in the Kingdom are now allowed a little more freedom. Though women are still required to “dress respectfully,” meaning they still must cover their shoulders, arms and legs, they now can do so in a more stylish fashion. Many Saudi women still wear traditional abayas and cover their hair with a niqab, or head covering, but some women are taking advantage of the new laws and are making public appearances in more colorful abayas and more casual dresses.

Foreign women visiting the Kingdom should adhere to these dress codes as well, and even though it might feel different at first, you’ll appreciate not sticking out like an uninformed tourist when sightseeing in Saudi Arabia. Foreign women should wear loose-fitting clothes that cover their shoulders and knees. Tight jeans and t-shirts that reveal a woman’s curves and shorts or short skirts above the knees are no-nos. Women should keep in mind, however, that there are advantages to dressing like a local in Saudi Arabia: long sleeves offer protection from the sun, and flowing, lightweight skirts are perfect for catching cool desert breezes.

For men, fashions are a little more relaxed. Most Saudi men wear a long, white robe, called a thobe (sometimes spelled thawb), and a ghutrah (head scarf), but male foreigners are not required to go out in traditional dress. Instead, men should wear loose-fitting, modest clothing. Wearing shorts, however, should be avoided.

Travel tip – visitors to the Kingdom are expected to follow dress codes in public places. Police can approach visitors and ask them to change clothing or leave an area due to dress code violations. However, many hotels and private beaches allow tourists (and locals) to dress more casually. Most private beaches allow women to wear bikinis, but wearing a one-piece swimsuit is recommended.