travel to saudi arabia as a woman

Travelling Without a Passport

A Female Traveler’s Guide to Saudi Arabia

In November 2021, I accepted an invitation by the Saudi Tourism Authority to visit the widely unknown Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Although the reactions from my colleagues and friends varied (some were skeptical whereas others were simply excited for me), we all shared one thing: none of us knew exactly what to expect. On top of this, the coronavirus pandemic was far from over. But after my third dose, and additional testing precautions, I was ready to board the plane and start this adventure. 

Although the times are changing, there are still many misunderstandings and questions about Saudi Arabia. I hope my personal travel experience will shed some light on this lesser-known Middle Eastern country and serve as a guide for female travelers wanting to visit Saudi Arabia.

Here’s everything you need to know: 

• Solo travel vs group tours

Arriving in Saudi Arabia

Etiquette and customs, hotel facilities, beyond hummus: food & dining, beautiful landscapes, solo travel vs group tours .

Some people have strong opinions on whether group or solo travel is better, but there is no winner. In fact, this decision strongly depends on preference as well as the travel destination itself. 

Personally, I enjoy exploring destinations by myself and feel that solo travel is a wonderful experience full of surprises. However, I also believe that traveling to an unknown destination like Saudi Arabia can be an adventure in itself. So this time around, I was happy to get to travel as part of a group. 

For me, one of the biggest advantages was the added safety and peace of mind that came from having wonderful tour guides. Not only were they around at all times to answer questions, but they were very familiar with the places we visited and could offer expert knowledge and tips. This made me feel completely safe and relaxed. 

The second (but no less important) reason why I wanted to travel in a group was that you get to connect with new people from different backgrounds. You learn about their lives and get to experience a foreign culture and country with them. Without even talking about it, you all know that you’re on this incredible adventure, together. It’s a wonderful feeling. And in a blink of an eye, strong friendships are born. Though it may feel like you’ve known each other for years, in reality, it’s only been a few days!

See Also: Group Tours Vs Solo Travel: Which Travel Style is For You?

Saudi Arabia was formerly closed as a travel destination for foreigners and only recently launched an international tourist visa in September 2019. Although it had to stop issuing visas due to the pandemic, the KSA finally reopened again in August 2021. Tourists from 49 countries are now eligible to apply online for a tourist visa. In fact, the country is focused on growing the tourism sector and has been making major changes and investments to help reach this goal. 

One of the questions I heard a lot was whether a woman could apply for a visa to Saudi Arabia. The answer is yes. Women can even travel solo to Saudi Arabia. However, it is important to bear in mind that there is still a broad gender separation throughout the Saudi Arabian society that will influence and determine your travel. For example, there are separate lines for women and children at the airport security checkpoints, and only female security guards are allowed to check the women.

See Also: Saudi Arabia Travel Guide

Just as you would do before any international trip, check the validity of your passport and ensure you’ve obtained all the necessary tourist visas. Nowadays, it’s also important to stay informed on the current health advisories and travel warnings. However, what you may not know is that reading about cultural etiquette can be relevant as well. So, before your flight to Saudi Arabia, I recommend doing some research. This is equally important for men and women.

Because the Middle East has many rules and traditions, being aware of the cultural norms will not only protect you from awkward situations but will save you from serious trouble. For example, any violation of public decency in the KSA can result in penalties. This includes taking pictures or videos of people without their permission. Another thing to keep in mind is the traditional dress code.

I did not have to wear an abaya.

Although I read it’s no longer compulsory for women to wear an abaya (the traditional dress), I planned to buy one upon arrival. However, once in Saudi Arabia, I realized this wasn’t necessary. So instead, I wore modest clothing: long, loose skirts and tops that covered my arms and chest.

While locals stared at us (some more discreetly than others), everyone was exceptionally friendly. They were just curious about tourists since they rarely see one. So, don’t get scared by the attention. Instead, prepare yourself for people wanting to take a photo with you. With this said, if you’d prefer to be less noticed, then stick with your group or wear an abaya .

My personal advice: dress conservatively. Make sure you show as little skin as possible and don’t wear anything too tight or form-fitting. If you’d like an example, see what I’m wearing in the picture below.

Depending on the size of the hotel and its particular standards, there may be different regulations when it comes to using the gym, spa, or swimming pool. For example, some hotels have separate gyms (one for women and one for men). At other smaller hotels, there may be certain hours set aside for when women can enjoy the gym. The same goes for the pools and spas. However, some hotels may only allow men to use the swimming pools. So, if you are planning to use any of these facilities, make sure you look into all of these points before booking your accommodation.

Because gender segregation in restaurants and cafes is no longer required by law, everywhere I ate during my trip had one entrance and one dining area for both men and women. Terrific, right? Now let’s focus on the incredible cuisine! 

From your very first meal in Saudi Arabia, you’ll quickly see that food plays an important role in the culture. Traditional dishes are wholesome and hearty – often served on massive platters for the whole table to share. And the best part is that the cuisine varies from one city to another. Along the coast, you’ll get fresh seafood like shellfish and shrimp. In other parts of the country, you’ll eat piles of steaming rice crowned with roasted chicken, lamb, or even camel.

Another central part of the Saudi Arabian culture is Arabic coffee. In fact, it’s used as a sign of hospitality to welcome guests. The coffee is mixed with spices like cloves and cardamom and is often served alongside fresh dates or other sweets. No matter what time it is or where you go in the country, you’ll always find coffee.

See Also: Around The World: The Ultimate Food Bucket List

When you think of Saudi Arabia, you may picture an arid sand desert – and you would be right. However, with a size of over 2.15 million square kilometers, this vast country offers a broad variety of landscapes from deserts and mountain ranges to beautiful beaches and untouched islands. In fact, the KSA has a coastline along both the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf which offers beach adventures year-round. From water activities and white sand beaches to national parks and coastal historic towns, Saudi Arabia has it all. 

Visiting Saudi Arabia in late November turned out to be the perfect time of year to experience this fascinating country. During the day, the temperatures reached up to around 85°F and the evenings were mild. If you also plan to take advantage of the KSA’s particularly pleasant weather from mid-September to mid-December, just remember to bring a sweater for the evenings (and also for all the air-conditioned buildings).

All in all, Saudi Arabia was nothing like I expected. From the most hospitable people to delicious traditional food and breathtaking landscapes, I quickly realized that this country is incredibly diverse and has plenty to offer. Just keep in mind that a trip to the KSA requires a bit more preparation and, once there, you must follow certain rules – but it can be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. Yalla!

Ready to explore the land of a thousand and one adventures? Head over to TourRadar and start planning your Saudi Arabia trip today!

This article was written by Marie Weindlmayr (based on her experiences in Saudi Arabia) and edited by Stephanie Fuchs.

Marie Weindlmayr

Based in Vienna (Austria), Marie is Digital Marketing Manager at TourRadar. When she is not travelling, you can find her cooking, gardening or exploring Vienna and its surrounding areas by bike.

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9 Misconceptions about traveling to Saudi Arabia as a woman

By Joan Torres 28 Comments Last updated on April 8, 2024

In the last few years, I have been traveling extensively across the Middle East and other Muslim countries, so it is not surprising at all that, every week, I receive tons of requests and questions from kick-ass women who wish to travel to the same places.

Since I am a man, all my articles tend to be kind of male-oriented, not on purpose though, but it is just that, sometimes, I forget that the experience for women may be totally different.

When I was posting all the photos and videos from my visit to Saudi Arabia on my Instagram Stories , people were actually amazed at all the places I visited and the people I met, as they were so many miles away from all the stereotypes the media has been showing us during the last decade.

Those images really triggered the interest of many travelers who would have never thought of going there, and that included many women as well.

However, since Saudi is known for being an extremely patriarchal country, I received more questions than I had ever received before, some of them asking about safety, while others if it was even possible to go travel to Saudi Arabia as a woman alone.

As always, I can’t give an accurate response about solo female traveling but, luckily, during my journey, I met Nada from Nadal Al Nahdi , a 20-something-year-old backpacker who has traveled solo to some very cool destinations such as Pakistan , Afghanistan, Oman and  Sudan , and the coolest thing about her is that she is half-Yemeni, half-Indonesian.

Nada actually grew up in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, so she knows the people and culture very well and has traveled around the country extensively, so who could be better than her to explain about solo female travel in Saudi Arabia?

In this article, Nada takes us through the 9 misconceptions about traveling to Saudi Arabia as a woman. 

Here are some common misconceptions about solo female travel in Saudi Arabia. 

1 – As a female, I need a guardian to travel to Saudi and around Saudi.

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No. No. No.

This common misconception needs to be eradicated as soon as possible. 

Women can travel to Saudi Arabia alone. I travel around independently all the time and, definitely, without a guardian.

The ‘guardian thing’ is more of a cultural thing, not the law. What I mean is that, in general, Arabs treat females as queens, something I am not complaining about, but the concept of females being independent is not something they can comprehend.

I am not saying they are close minded but it is a scene they are not used to. However, as things are opening up and changing, this is starting to slowly wear out.

I’m going to share an incident that happened to me on 4 th January 2019.

I needed to travel from Jeddah to Riyadh . The flights were ridiculously expensive, and I missed the bus, so I went outside the bus station to hop in any of the carpooling services which are called “Kadad”. I got in one, slept comfortably throughout the journey until we reached the checkpoint to enter Riyadh .

The police asked us to pull over, took our IDs and asked standard procedure questions.

Keep in mind that I was the ONLY female in a car of 7 men; the driver and 6 male passengers.

Three policemen came to me one by one, asking where my guardian was and how could I travel without one. 

I simply answered: I do not need a guardian and I can travel around without a guardian . 

The police insisted that was an issue, so they wanted to hand me in and report me.

I said: What are you going to report me for? I did not do anything .

He was stunned and said that they would explain the procedure at the station.

I was NOT ONE BIT scared because I knew my rights and that that was not the law. This is just the culture he has in his house.

Long story short, the higher rank guy came out and instructed the policemen who were questioning us to let us go as long as our documents were legal.

There you have it, a proven and real-life situation with the man of the law that females do not need a guardian.

You may also be interested in: Is it ethical to visit Saudi Arabia as a tourist?

2 – I need to get a burqa aka ninja cover and a headscarf

I’m going to let photos speak for me.

Here’s a photo of me in Jeddah:

This is me in Al Ula:

And when traveling to remote areas and going for activities such as hiking, climbing, and camping, abayas are not needed at all.

Here’s a photo of me hiking at Wabah Crater :

And don’t forget to pack your bikinis! Yes, females can wear bikinis in Saudi when you are on a boat trip or at any of the private beaches. Private beaches can be accessed at a certain fee.

While in the city, all you need is decent and long outerwear. It can be of any color and pattern. We love colors, patterns and unique styles!

Don’t be surprised when strangers come up to you and ask “Where did you get the abaya from?!” I get that a lot too.

As for scarves and burqa, they are absolutely not required.

During the questioning I mentioned in point 1, the policemen asked me to cover my hair and, of course, I did not cover my hair because, one, it’s not the law, and two, I didn’t have a scarf anyway.

Sometimes, this happens on the streets when random religious men yell out at you and ask you to cover. The best thing to do is to just ignore them and continue doing your thing.

Again, this is a culture, not the law. Please don’t take it that if we don’t wear a scarf is disrespecting the culture. It’s a personal choice.

Read more stories from kick ass solo female women in offbeat destinations!

3 – I need to be covered to avoid harassment

Harassment is an unfortunate worldwide issue that is specific to the person, not the country or culture.

6 years ago, I faced harassments here and there. In recent years, I have not experienced any harassment.

The worst one I get these days is someone coming up to me and slowly whispering “Mumken Snapchat?” which means “Can I have your Snapchat?”

Simply say no and walk away and that’s the end of it.

Read: Places to visit in Saudi Arabia, a 15-day itinerary

4 – As a female, I cannot hang out or be seen with unrelated men.

This is again not true.

Whether it’s in the city or remote areas, unrelated men and women, basically, a group of mixed gender, can mingle and hang out whenever, and wherever.

Here’s a photo of my friends and me in Jeddah, along with a tourist/travel blogger @ morinasworld

and here in Jizan, mingling with locals while exploring the area.

5 – The Religious Police are everywhere and monitoring women

The religious police do not have any authority, hence they cannot act on anything without being accompanied by the officials. Moreover, I have not seen religious police in the last 2 years.

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6 – Women cannot rent a car

Yes, we can. I’ve rented cars in different cities in Saudi with absolutely no issues, as long as you have a valid driving license for those issued in Saudi/GCC and international driving license for others.

7 – It’s not safe to travel to Saudi Arabia as a solo female

In the first point, I mentioned that females are seen as queens and, therefore, must be protected and looked after.

The only thing you need to worry about is being fed way too much food and being introduced to all the family members, relatives, and neighbors, who will keep you for a never-ending conversation because they want to make sure you get the best hospitality. 

Another potential danger might be being offered some camel milk. 

8 – Saudi is not for everyone.

Actually, it’s quite the opposite. Saudi IS for EVERYONE.

Have you seen Saudi on the map?

It’s HUGE! It’s actually the fifth largest country in Asia.

From those who love to lounge by the sea to those looking for adventures, Saudi is for any kind of female traveler, really. Moreover, the culture in Saudi is so diverse that only 1:10 of my friends are purebred.

The traditions and cultures within the region itself are also very diverse. The northernmost part of the country has similarities to the Levant Arab countries, like Palestine and Jordan , while the southernmost part of the country resembles Yemen so much that it makes me feel like home!

Saudi Arabia has amazing historical sites such as Madinah Saleh, Rijal Almaa and many others.

Saudi Arabia is surrounded by the Red Sea, hence a perfect diving spot for divers, snorkelers or simply lounge by the beach or on a boat!

And, of course, the great desert landscape! Saudi Arabia got you covered with black, brown and red sand dunes! And there are much more than just the desert and the sea. There are many unexplored caves, unclimbed mountains, and stunning valleys!

9 – This is an exaggerated post and it’s not what it’s like in reality

Please have a look into these Instagram accounts based in Saudi that will also show you the reality of Saudi Arabia as a Saudi woman and a non-Saudi woman. 

@ nadaalnahdi – Yemeni/Indonesian living in Saudi @ blueabaya – Finnish married to a Saudi and living in Saudi @ esraarayes – Saudi @ mearch_ – Saudi @ nirvana.abdul – Yemeni married to a Saudi @ saraomar_travels – Saudi @ mykindoffridays – Saudi @ redseacitizen – Saudi

If you have any more questions about traveling to Saudi as a woman, don’t hesitate to contact Nada  through her blog .

You can also follow and contact her on Instagram and Facebook .

I also recommend reading these 2 articles from her:

What you didn’t know about Pakistan

An impulsive visit to Afghanistan

More information for solo female travel in Saudi Arabia

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

More solo female travel guides

• Solo Female Travel Guide to Iraq
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Iraqi Kurdistan
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Jordan
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Lebanon
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Oman
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Pakistan
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Iran
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Sudan

After receiving so many emails from really kick-ass female travelers who want to wander around some of the most off the beaten track countries in the world, I decided to open a  Solo Female Traveling  section on my blog, to help women get to know the reality of traveling solo in these countries. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you think you have a nice experience to tell! 

More guides to Saudi Arabia

• Travel Guide to Saudi Arabia
• Travel Guide to Riyadh
• Where to Stay in Riyadh
• Is it Ethical to Visit Saudi Arabia as a Tourist
• Hitchhiking and Backpacking in Saudi Arabia
• VPN for Saudi Arabia
• Saudi Arabia Itinerary

28 comments

Good to know that it’s normal to travel alone in Saudi Arabia. The place looks so fascinating! I have been to Jordan, and I found it quite normal, too.

Hi, I’m an expat here in riyadh and I have an aunt working in jeddah, she’s inviting me to visit her in jeddah. I’ll be alone for sure, do I need anything to present at the airport? , aside the ticket and iqama. Your answer will be highly appreciated.

Hi, I don’t think you need to present anything

That’s good news indeed! Thanks! I’ll be going there for sure

“Saudi Arabia is EVERYONE”… Well, except if you are a gay person since any minimal display of affection in public to another person of your same sex (even just holding hands) can be punished with the DEATH penalty.

Displays of affection are not allowed, regardless of your gender.

If the police see a man and a woman kissing, they would also get arrested and yes, you are right that homosexuality can be punished with death penalty but controversially, you can’t imagine the massive gay scene you can find in Riyadh. You wouldn’t believe it.

In any case, if you wanna go to Saudi, you will have to subject to their rules. If subjecting to their rules is an issue for you, then don’t go. It’s that simple.

It’s fair enough to say that if you don’t like the rules, then you shouldn’t go. But you can’t say in good faith that Saudi Arabia is for EVERYONE when you can literally get the death penalty for being gay.

actually. holding hands with a person of the same sex would not be considered “gay” in most Asian countries. thats a very western perception of homosexuality. im not saying that saudi does not persecute gays its just that ‘holding hands’ is an indicator of homosexuality amongst Saudi men (or even South Asian men).

Now, if they see two White men holding hands in the city where a few Saudis know and are fully aware of western culture and how western culture views holding hands as ‘gay’, then it could raise some eyebrows. but amongst arabs itself its very common and its not viewed as sexual.

holding hands between a female and a male is also fine in all the negbouring gulf countries at least – it would be assumed that you are related or married and its not like theres any religious police there to appoarch you. kissing on the lips is a no-no – both between gays and straights.

I am considering a visit to see an old friend and his wife who currently lives in Saudi. Would it be appropriate to exchange hugs at the airport, or would this be considered a display of affection in public?

Hey Karen, I guess it depends on which kind of hug 🙂 But I don’t really know what would be the limits here. Maybe your friends know?

Hello,I am from India I ‘m planning to go to the bts concert in Riyadh this October.Anything I need to know?

I am not sure about specific-visa requirements for Indians, but just follow the tips from the visa section

Hii I m Hindu female I need to go to Riyadh Dammam for business purpose and I m unmarried will I get the visa…like I have heard u need to be married to get a visa

Hi No you don’t have to be married to get a visa don’t worry

Without sounding too disrespectful to the author of this article travelling solo to any country is not 100 percent safe for any woman. The author was obviously brave to have got into a vehicle with 7 Male men but for your own protection this is not something to be advised. Women must take caution so please don’t feel that just because this author has said this that’s it’s okay. I say this from having lived in Saudi myself not as someone from outside the country.

I traveled to Medina about 10 years ago with two men (one husband) and a little boy. We were never questioned about anything untoward and were treated beautifully (Egyptian men and my American self). The only stupid thing that I experienced was that after buying a coffee in a local cafe, we were not allowed to sit because they didn’t have a family section there and I was a female. I thought that the whole thing was ridiculous for if it was too risque for me to drink a coffee in an empty restaurant, then how risque was it for me to drink it walking down the street during Ramadan? However, we were treated to so many kindnesses as guests (when goodness knows they were overrun with guests!) Our cab driver wouldn’t less us pay-after he took us on an extended mosque tour in Medina. A stationer in Mecca wouldn’t let me pay for my purchases. I was a middle aged american woman but traveling with Arab speaking men, so I didn’t expect poor treatment or special treatment. Not being allowed in the cafe was the only thing that happened to me that was negative in a week in Saudi. Well, that and the bathrooms on the road between Riyaad and Mecca. They really need a Buccees over there!

This summer, I am planning to take my 17 year old daughter on a trip to Saudi Arabia. I have been to Egypt in 1989 and traveled with my son and daughter to Morocco in the summer of 2018. (I have traveled extensively around the world, but for the purposes of this e-mail, only my trips to Moslem countries is important.) Because we have been to Israel, it was impossible for us to travel to Saudi Arabia until now. I want to take my daughter now in case G forbid things change and we are unable to go. I plan to fly into Jetta, rent a car, and drive to Riydah, sightsee around there and then drive back to Jetta and do the same before flying back to the US. I plan to stay with my daughter at an apartment hotel in Ridyah and Jetta so we can do our own cooking and ask for the hotel to arrange for day guides for us. I have a teacher colleague that has lived in Saudi Arabia so she is going to help to let us know what to do around Jetta and Riydah. I also plan to see what Lonely Planet recommends to see in Saudi Arabia as it has helped us to plan trips to Brazil, Belieze, China, Peru, Equador, Mexico, Guatamala, Morocco, and Europe. With all of the conflicting information, I need to know if I am able to rent a car and drive between the two cities? Do I need a special driver’s license to drive in Saudi Arabia? As it is a Moslem country how easy can credit cards be used? We found in Morocco that credit cards were difficult and we needed cash. Do we need to wear an abya? I have heard in Ridayh yes and no. Jetta is supposed to be more open. Can I travel with my daughter alone in Saudi Arabia? Are we allowed to go to the Riyadh zoo by ourselves? Are banking hours restricted for women?

Hi there, all your questions and more are answered in this guide: https://againstthecompass.com/en/travel-to-saudi-arabia/

The only thing I don’t know is very specific questions such as the zoo and the banking hours.

You will be fine,

Been living in Saudi many years. While things are changing in the big cities in provincial areas it’s another matter. Currently based in Buraydah, and as a woman you would be crazy to walk around showing your hair. To avoid unwanted attention it’s best to go with the flow and do the same as everyone else. My wife was actually physically attacked in a supermarket in Buraydah for not wearing a niqab. What works in Riyadh or Jeddah won’t work everywhere. I do agree that Saudis are great hosts though. But even then my wife had just had enough after 6 years. It’s just too restrictive at the end of the day. I’m sure they’ll get there in the end, but they’ve got a long way to go.

In the end you’re living in Buraydah. It’s a common stereotype between Saudis that Qassim region is the most conservative with the most religious fanatics . You’re speaking of the Alabama of Saudi Arabia.

Everything in article true. Im a California all American women and doctorbeen working in Saudi for 20 years. Years ago things were VERY different but life here over past 2-3 years has changed 500%! Its truly westernized now. I drive by myself and move freely in city, airports and stayed in hotels in Jeddah, Taif and Dammam alone with no issues. I used to need escort, had to cover hair and wear abaya before with threat of arrest. Today i go to resturants and stores without headcover and many times with pants and my clinic jacket. No issues at all. Life is easy here now and Saudis are very friendly and as article no religious police harrassing you as seen in okd days. Women are working everywhere from store sales to managers, they are active in Saudi workforce and im so happy see all the changes. They do however hold on to their culture and foreigners should always respect local county culture. Theres so much for them to share here for tourism so I highly recommend visit here… its safe, comfirtable and fun. Winter usually amazing weather and a vast array of entertainment from Circus de soleil to concerts to resturants from around the world. When visiting I only recommend show them respect and dress “modestly” which means its not South Beach Florida haha but casual attire of pants, skirts, dresses doesnt insult or embarrass anyone . Dont miss Saudi if you visit the region !

Hi, I found your blog interesting & fun, but I have a little comment, hope you take it in more constructive way, The misconception of the idea of being Tourist & a Local is different. Don’t engaged both, otherwise your are putting others in compromise, yet 100% is true that everything is changed, but I don’t think the culture & rules adjust too, particularly in local woman travelling, as you trying to point in you blog. Maybe I’m wrong but take it a consideration to allow yourself to explore more deep in your content. I came out with this reply because your subject, Nada is not a local, she’s a half Yemeni half Indonesian, even though she was born here she’s still consider an expat. In short she was raised by Parents with different view, maybe similar but not totally. I suggest you better interview a pure local but you need a permission to there Guardian if they will allowed you. Hope so.

Thanks for sharing this information. As a women or a solo traveller i also had these misconceptions, usually people think a lot before travelling to Muslim countries but now i am ready to explore Saudi Arabia very soon.

Thanks for your tips would be great for my upcoming trip. do you have any suggestion for accomdation in Jeddah .I am a solo female traveller

With our groups, we used to stay at Shada Hotel Shatea. It’s a bit pricey but next to it there’s Lotaz Hotel, which is a pretty good deal

Hi there, Many thanks for publishing a blog about your travel experience in Saudi Arabia – it looks wonderful!

I’m considering traveling to the area for a few days to perform pilgrimage.

Could you please provide any insights on the current atmosphere and security situation for a solo female traveler and is the conflict in the neighboring countries having any impact on the travelers/visitors?

Any tips on how to get from Jeddah to Mecca and Mecca to Madinah would be great or any other words of wisdom you can offer. Thank you so much!

Hello! I was wondering where your photo in Jeddah was taken? Looking to visit 🙂 thank you!

“Three policemen came to me one by one, asking where my guardian was and how could I travel without one. The police insisted that was an issue, so they wanted to hand me in and report me.”

Well that wouldn’t be terrifying at all, it’s absolutely fine for female visitors!

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I'm a female traveler who spent 3 weeks backpacking around Saudi Arabia — and discovered it's not for the casual vacationer. Here's where I went and what I experienced.

• Alex Reynolds has been traveling the world full time for the past four years.
• In November, she took a three-week trip to Saudi Arabia, prompted by the newly available tourist visa and the relaxed restrictions on solo female travelers.
• Reynolds went everywhere, from the capital of Riyadh to the lesser populated Tabuk region neighboring Jordan, and experienced firsthand the country's evolving culture.
• While Reynolds said she would love to return, she advised that more casual travelers may find certain social norms difficult to adapt to.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .

For me, a solo, female, non-Muslim traveler allergic to guided tours, Saudi Arabia was a non-option for years.

In recent decades, non-Muslims could enter only on business or transit visas. Muslim pilgrims could transit only through major cities to Mecca and Medina. Women had to be accompanied by male guardians.

Then everything changed in 2019.

Years-old rumors of tourist e-visas became reality for 49 nationalities . Traveling women no longer needed male guardians, and women could drive cars as of 2018. Suddenly, the idea of women traveling in Saudi Arabia went from laughable to very, very plausible. My time had come.

I was on the e-visa portal in a hot second and received my e-visa via WhatsApp 15 minutes later. No exaggeration.

In November, I began my three-week journey, both solo and with friends, through Saudi Arabia. Here's what it was actually like.

Why did I want to travel to Saudi Arabia in the first place, and was it ethical?

I'm a 20-something American solo traveler and blogger passionate about traveling to countries most tourists overlook. Too many people form opinions about countries and their citizens based on exaggerated news; I prefer to come to my own conclusions.

You could accuse me of supporting the Saudi government's human-rights violations , religious extremism , and restricted freedoms  by traveling to the country. I disagree.

There are ways to support people over governments. I traveled independently (not on a government-sponsored trip, like many others ), stayed with locals and at local hotels, and spent my money at small businesses. Governments and people are separate entities — especially in a totalitarian monarchy like Saudi Arabia — and I don't believe in holding an entire population accountable for the acts of a corrupt few.

Whether or not you agree, here's a glimpse of what I saw.

My journey began in Riyadh, the capital, which felt lifeless and artificial.

Riyadh felt Floridian: wide boulevards with shiny skyscrapers and palm trees, malls and luxury shopping as primary entertainment, development concerned more with image than substance. Think historical ruins being demolished to be replaced by chic cafes with faux-historic feels.

The major difference is that in Florida you see people outside walking, cycling, and running. Riyadh is not for pedestrians — cars only. As I racked up Uber bills, I noted that streets were often devoid of life.

Riyadh was the perfect introduction to Saudi Arabia now: rapid change, and a lot of confusion.

In recent years, the Saudi government made many liberal changes to the law of the land. Public concerts and cinemas became legal. Unrelated men and women can now mix in public. Rules about abayas, the long (and traditionally black) robe previously required by law, were relaxed. Female tourists don't have to wear abayas, and Saudi women can, in theory, wear colored and/or open abayas so long as they're dressed modestly underneath.

In practice, the changes were less clear. An example: Several festivals — including Riyadh Season and MDL Beast Fest — took place while I was in Saudi Arabia. They clearly were intended to present the country as liberal and tolerant to the international community. There were events and concerts all over Riyadh, including shows with Western women performing in form-fitting clothes and parties with well-known international influencers dancing seductively.

But at Riyadh Season, a young Saudi woman in a headscarf and face veil who was dancing was arrested . At MDL Beast Fest, dozens of local men and women were arrested, accused of wearing indecent clothing .

Outside of Riyadh was a different world.

Though Riyadh felt bland and confused, the area around Riyadh was far more interesting — if less polished.

The first time I drove out of the city with a CouchSurfing host — a traveler I met on the platform connecting travelers with locals who can host them in their home or show them around — and some friends, my eyes were glued to the window. Skyscrapers gave way to sand dunes. Small towns and abandoned mud villages replaced apartment complexes.

Some of the villages, such as Ushaiger and Shaqra, are being restored as "heritage villages" for tourists. Even there, it was common to see buildings consumed by time next to manicured mud facades.

It felt less contrived, more honest. This side of Saudi Arabia was more up my alley.

I rented a car with a friend and headed south from Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia is vast — road tripping is the best way to travel the country.

Driving in Saudi Arabia was relaxed at times, terrifying at others. Main roads were immaculate, perfect for cruising. But several Saudis drove at concerningly high speeds, with a healthy dose of drastic, last-minute maneuvers. (They also didn't seem to enjoy being overtaken by a woman — I was regularly playing leapfrog with fellow drivers.) Signs of car crashes were everywhere, and even the fanciest cars on the road were covered in dents and scratches.

I expected sand dunes for days, but I found quite the opposite.

Many of us associate Saudi Arabia with sand dunes as far as the eye can see. Though those do exist in Saudi Arabia, there's far more diversity to the desert. From sudden bursts of green palm trees among desert sands to rocky Martian mountain ranges, the scenery in Saudi was far less mind-numbing than I expected.

I threw all my expectations out the window when I reached the mountains of Jazan province.

Would you expect to see misty green mountains blanketed in clouds in Saudi Arabia? Yeah, me neither.

The Sarawat Mountains cut through several provinces along Saudi's Red Sea coast. Steep switchbacks took us through villages scattered across mountaintops and around terraced hills of coffee, vegetables, and khat, a plant chewed by men in the region. Despite the stimulant's illegal status, officials choose to overlook khat cultivation and consumption; it's too ingrained in the local social culture.

The one thing I didn't see much of? Women.

In most of Saudi Arabia — but particularly in the southern Jazan province — I rarely saw women outside. When I did, they were fully covered in hijabs and niqabs (face veils).

The lack of women in public made things difficult for me. Men and women are highly segregated in Saudi Arabia. Local men didn't want to speak to me (and often ignored me completely when I spoke to them, especially when I traveled with white friends). I wanted to meet women, but I didn't know where!

My luck didn't improve. During more than three weeks in Saudi Arabia, I spoke with women a total of five times.

Traveling as a woman did require extra effort.

Restaurants were one challenge. Most restaurants in Saudi Arabia are divided by gender or for men only. Family sections in restaurants are usually divided into cubicles with walls or curtains to hide women from view. Cheap restaurants are usually only for "singles" — men.

I often had to look hard to find places where I could sit and eat. If I couldn't find anything, I'd ask to sit in the men's area. Sometimes people said yes; mostly they said no.

Clothes were another concern. Though foreign women are no longer required to wear an abaya (robe) by law, I was uncomfortable not wearing one. Outside of Jeddah and diplomatic areas of Riyadh, I did not see any women without abayas. Most women also wore hijabs and niqabs. In villages and towns, despite wearing a hijab, I still stood out because I didn't fully cover my face.

As I moved north, Instagram guided me to historic Rijal Alma. Though it was pretty, it fell flat.

The soon-to-be Unesco-listed stone fortresses of Rijal Alma were once home to wealthy traders and fearsome fighters — but they felt more like an Instagrammable backdrop than a historic site. Visitors can enter only one or two of the buildings to see very modest museums. Most buildings are empty.

That's not to say the site isn't significant. Local villagers were commendably proactive about preserving the heritage of the area. People pooled family heirlooms for the museums and made efforts to restore the buildings. The government noticed and has since taken over.

Now the site embodies what I saw in many tourist destinations in Saudi Arabia: overdevelopment, a loss of atmosphere to Disney-fied luxury, and not much consideration of anything in the surrounding area.

Jeddah, the biggest city on the west coast, was another story. As Saudis say, "Jeddah ghair" — Jeddah is different.

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia's most liberal city, is a major seaport and gate to the holy city of Mecca, so people from all over the world have passed through Jeddah for centuries.

Unlike in other places in the country, in Jeddah I saw plenty of people enjoying themselves outside. Young men and women mixing together. Families picnicking and playing on the corniche boardwalk. Women in colorful and/or open abayas riding bicycles along pedestrian walkways.

Jeddah was different, and I liked it.

Jeddah's old city, Al Balad, had some of the most beautiful architecture in the country.

Tall mud and coral merchant houses loom over alley mazes in the Unesco-listed old city . Some of the "Roshan towers" are in dangerous states of disrepair — many have collapsed from neglect in recent years — but slowly they're being repaired.

Whereas restoration efforts felt contrived in other parts of the country, in Jeddah the splendor of restored houses added to the atmosphere. It helped that the old city streets are abuzz at all times, with chatting shop owners, roaming street vendors, hole-in-the-wall eateries, and souqs catering to international pilgrims passing through.

There are miles of white coastlines with crystal-clear water and living corals around Jeddah. But no one swims.

Though diving is somewhat popular in Saudi Arabia, most beaches are neglected. Rules about modest dress are one deterrent, and concerns about the immodesty of swimming are another. People come to the beach to picnic, and that's about it.

Drive a bit, and it's possible to have an entire beach to yourself (well, yourself and the coast guards). Local women told me you could even get away with wearing swimwear when no one is around. Not that I'd ever test that myself. Cough cough.

Beaches weren't the only empty places in the country.

Saudi Arabia felt eerily apocalyptic at times. Sprawling parks and playgrounds were devoid of playing children. Streets were empty of people, despite the cars and houses. Abandoned villages were everywhere, as though there used to be a thriving society and then everyone simply ... vanished.

Saudi Arabia's most famous historic site was ... closed?!

Despite being by far the best-known and -promoted tourist attractions in the country, the Nabatean tombs at Madain Saleh and the Al Ula area were closed to tourists so they could be "prepared for tourism." (Ironic, eh?)

The tombs are not open to the public until October. Only those with tickets to a luxury festival were allowed access to the tombs — just one of many instances showing Saudi Arabia's desire to attract luxury tourists, not budget tourists like myself.

But I found an alternative in the northern Tabuk region: the Nabatean tombs at Madyan.

In an oasis town called Al Bad — believed to be where Moses lived after fleeing Egypt — this small collection of Nabatean tombs is known by few and free to enter. Far more ideal than paying for a flashy luxury festival (in this backpacker's opinion).

The entire Tabuk region was a treat, really.

Remote in every sense, the Tabuk region bordering Jordan was my favorite in all of Saudi Arabia. Surreal rock formations blossomed from otherwise empty desert sands, craggy mountains pushed right up against turquoise Red Sea waters, and roads were devoid of cars and speed cameras. Very important.

Wadi Al Disah is the crown jewel of Tabuk. A trickling stream runs between towering pillars of red stone, nourishing tall grasses, and leafy palms. Visitors can camp anywhere and everywhere in the valley. Wadi Al Disah stretches for miles, ending at a historic village with yet more Nabatean ruins, aptly named Al Disah.

On the long drive back to Riyadh, coffee stops were a must. Some were more atmospheric than others.

While my friend and I were stopping in Jubbah to see some ancient petroglyphs, a man sitting in a courtyard saw us driving past. Noticing my friend's fair hair, he shouted hello and insisted we stop by.

Turned out he was the owner of a traditional coffee house where men (and me?) could sit and chat over Arabic coffee, tea, dates, and fresh fruits. His father started the business several decades ago, and he took up the responsibility after his father passed away. It's no mean feat — the place is open 24/7!

I wanted to do something epic on my last day in Saudi Arabia. What's more epic than the Edge of the World?

No, I'm no flat-earther, but I did visit the Edge of the World, a dramatic line of cliffs two hours from Riyadh. And not an easy two hours — half of the journey is wretched off-road track.

I went with a local male couch-surfer to watch the sunset and camp out, Saudi style. Years ago it would've been illegal for us to do so — unless we got married first — but these days it's allowed.

Or is it? Though unmarried men and women can mingle, my friend still had to be secretive. His conservative family would be furious if they knew he'd spent the evening alone with a girl in the middle of nowhere!

Overall, I enjoyed my time in Saudi Arabia. But I'm not so sure about it as a tourist destination right now.

Saudi Arabia is full of confusing contradictions and tricky restrictions. I would love to return, but that doesn't mean I'd recommend it to everyone.

Tourists have to be careful in all kinds of ways. Playing music during the call to prayer is a $250-plus offense . Speaking critically of the royal family or their ideas is dangerous . Atheism is considered an extremist idea .

Though I doubt any foreign tourist would be executed for non-religion during this tourism push — fair-skinned foreigners from developed countries enjoy a privileged position in Saudi Arabia — these rules are representative of the intensely restrictive nature of the country.

Combine the conservatism with the many tourist sights that are either poorly overdeveloped or under-maintained, a serious plastic-waste problem in natural places, and landscapes that, though beautiful, can be found in more tourist-friendly neighboring countries, and you can see why I'd hesitate to recommend Saudi Arabia to the casual holidaygoer.

However, if you're interested in visiting a country few tourists have been to, or want to learn firsthand some of the nuances of the unique and complex Saudi culture, I think you'll find what you're looking for.

Alex Reynolds is a solo backpacker who documents her travels and shares her experiences from around the world. Connect with her on her blog and on Instagram .

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Women Who Wander: A Female Traveller's Guide To Saudi Arabia

At a time when more women are travelling, saudi arabia is embracing this change at its many historical, cultural, gastronomical experiences..

By: Bayar Jain Published: Mar 08, 2024 11:37 AM IST

Women are travelling now more than ever before. In fact, according to a report by RV and Playa , 64 per cent of global travellers identify as female while only 36 % identify as male. Among the ladies on the move, the majority of the vacations are either solo trips or girlfriend getaways, the report states. Embracing this shift in travel trends is Saudi Arabia, a country that strives for female safety and welcomes women to immerse, explore, and experience.

Take its Vision 2030, for instance. According to a report released by the General Authority for Statistics on  Saudi Arabia’s official tourism website,  Saudi women represent almost half (49 per cent) of the total population (aged 15 and over). The average age of Saudi women is 28, according to the study. The country also held its maiden all-women’s off-road rally in 2022; offers raiding hailing apps exclusively for women; and has a “women preferred view” option in the Uber app, which allows female drivers to select female riders. To make travelling within the country easier, there are several women’s travel groups that female visitors to Arabia can join, including  The Women’s Travel Group .

Speaking of travel, the country has a lot in store. Whether you’re taking off on a girls’ trip or seeing the space solo, Saudi Arabia offers multiple historical, cultural, and gastronomical experiences.

Must-visit in Saudi Arabia:

Offering a seamless blend of the historical with the new, capital city Riyadh is dubbed as the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The 150-year-old Al Masmak Fortress gives a peek into the city’s former days.

Standing tall as a symbol of Riyadh’s historical memory, Al Masmak Fortress introduces visitors to the city’s traditional architecture and the country’s inception days. The palace, built in the hijri 14th century during the reign of Imam Abdullah bin Faisal, has two entrances and small openings in walls for gun barrels. In 1995, the space transformed into a museum where it now stands as a symbol of the history of regaining power and rule of the country.

For shopaholics

But among these ancient stories soar towering structures and a bustling centre dotted with a bouquet of shopping, entertainment, and business avenues. Take Souq Al-Zal, for instance. Established in 1901, this lively traditional market experience covers an area of 38,000 square meters. It is one of Riyadh’s oldest traditional markets and carries over 100 years of history within its alleyways! Here, women travellers can wander through lanes adorned with shops offering antiques, rare coins, vintage utensils, musical instruments, old record players, and more.

Souq Al Awaleen, an old Najdi market, packages this rich history with cultural immersion. Picture performances, events, and traditional goods. For a more contemporary shopping experience, visit the modern Riyadh Park Mall. This oasis of luxury and elegance houses global brands, a variety of entertainment zones, and some of the most delicious local and global foods.

For foodies

When in Saudi Arabia, saving space for some grub is a must. When here, indulge in diverse dining options — from traditional markets to trendy cafes. Make a pitstop at Glaze Craze, Saudi Arabia’s women-run doughnut cafe and restaurant. Opened in March 2021, the establishment features artisanal doughnuts and seasonal decor, especially for festivals like Halloween, Christmas, and Thanksgiving.

The Acoustic Restaurant & Art Gallery is another woman-run restaurant in Saudi Arabia. This family-friendly hub is a great pitstop to savour delicious foods in the company of captivating art.

For cultural seekers

Such family-friendly fun can also be found at Wonder Garden, a whimsical amusement park. At Boulevard World, explore world civilizations and cultures, courtesy of exceptional adventures. A similar all-encompassing destination is The Boulevard Riyadh City. This sprawling hub features diverse shopping and global dining experiences at several cafes and restaurants. BLVD city’s Garden Hub zone also boasts fast-food joints and theatres that host cultural performances from Saudi and the world alike.

The Riyadh Season takes all of this up a notch. Dubbed as one of the most widely anticipated events of the year, Riyadh Season has everything — from food and culture to adventure and music. Each of the 12 zones burst with authentic and unique experiences. The underlying theme, however, remains an essence of the Najdi Heritage. Before bidding adieu to Riyadh, take a moment to gaze at the futuristic skyscrapers and the 99-storey-high sky bridge.

AlUla, with its rich details, beckons history buffs. Not only does it see the inception of civilization, it AlUla also houses Hegra, the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Listed site. Its unique terrains make it ideal for a girls’ trip dotted with exceptional experiences like rock climbing, hiking, and camping under star-studded skies. Add to this seasonal events, cultural activities, and musical gatherings for a truly rounded holiday.

For history buffs

When at this mesmerising destination, you’re bound to find yourself lost in the wonders of the yesteryears. Here, pre-Islamic history sweeps the 13,000-square-mile landscape. This UNESCO Heritage Site also preserves the Nabataean civilization’s 111 immaculately carved tombs, the most famous of which is Qasr al-Farid. On the mountains and rocks of Al-Hijr, one can see inscriptions of various kinds, such as Lihyaniya, Dadaniyah, Latin, Nabataean and Greek.

For wellness and rejuvenation

The best women’s trips are those where you get to unwind together, and Saudi Arabia’s AlUla has plenty in store on that front. When here, hike to unique landscapes, zipline across ancient structures, glide over the majestic rock formations in a hot air balloon, camel ride through Palm-shaded trails, take a spin around in a dune buggy, visit the Dancing Rocks in the Raggasat Valley, or marvel at the countless stars above. Don’t forget to key in time for a visit to the Maraya Cultural Hall.

The public building, whose name means mirror in English, is a shimmering structure in AlUla located in the historic Wadi Ashar, about a 10-minute drive from Hegra, Saudi’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest preserved site of the Nabataean civilization. The cubic-shaped reflective 500-seater concert hall has hosted prominent international artists, and temporary art exhibitions, and backdropped countless luxury brands’ commercial shoots.

From amusement parks and food festivals to skating rinks, many fulfilling adventures await in Jeddah! From Historical Jeddah to the antique designs of balconies, stone walkways and ancient sidewalks, this destination unearths secrets that have inspired artists, writers and visitors alike for hundreds of years. Watch magnificent sunsets shimmering off the divine Red Sea shores or venture underwater for magical diving experiences starring colourful coral reefs.

For wanderers

Head to Al Balad, a UNESCO Heritage Site that boasts historic alleys, museums, and traditional coral stone buildings. While the open-air museum dates back many centuries, it bursts with contemporary art. As you venture through the modern and old shops lining the streets, marvel at the ancient Hijazi houses as whiffs of Arabic spices entice.

The joy of travelling with your gal pal elevates when shopping is thrown into the mix. Indulge your inner shopaholics at the Mall of Arabia and the Red Sea Mall. Both these shopping havens promise a gamut of options– from international brands to local designs and unique discoveries. While the Red Sea Mall boasts of being one of the largest shopping malls on the west coast of the Kingdom, and an ideal destination near the waterfront; the former earns top-spot as one of the favourite destinations for families and individuals. And when the calls of the mall silence, follow your nose to the Saidi Bakery for bread straight from a brick oven.

For adventure lovers

A haven for water sports enthusiasts, Jeddah doubles as the gateway to the Red Sea. When here, carve out time to see the underwater world by opting for snorkelling or scuba diving sessions. A dip in the waters will open the windows to brightly coloured coral gardens, unspoiled barrier reefs, and mesmerising marine creatures like snapper, grouper, wrasse, and eel.

Those looking to stay ashore can enjoy above-the-water activities including kayaking, canoeing, and standup paddleboarding. foiling, kite surfing, sailing and more.

For explorers

Take the love for travelling beyond the city limits and take off on day trips from Jeddah. Thuwal, about an hour-and-a-half from Jeddah, beckons nature lovers. This golden soft beach fringed by swaying palm trees offers plenty of options to soak in the serenity and simplicity of nature. While the nearby central fish market guarantees delicious and fresh seafood dishes, the phone charging points scattered everywhere prevent dying batteries from coming in the way of the perfect selfie.

Alternatively, pack your bags and head straight to Hawiyat Namar, an astonishing campsite that is three hours away from Jeddah. The mountaineering ground is ideal for walking peacefully in the company of lush greens and a flowing river. Those with more time on their hands can venture to Dhahban, a small town 20 kilometres from Jeddah. The vintage town is famous for its seaside resorts that attract beach-goers.

For nature enthusiasts

There’s a lot to do in Abha, a fog-draped destination replete with breathtaking natural sights. Enjoy the view of the mountains from the Al-Dabab walkway. Observe the wide terraced farm fields on the edge of the Sarawat Mountains. Breathe in the clean mountain air while strolling through the heavy fog. Or simply sit back and marvel at the green landscapes.

For artists

As solo women travellers, the best memories are made by meeting new people — and Abha has a lot to offer on that front. A warm society, the people of Abha are inherently hospitable. To get a closer look at this jovial nature, meet the Flower Men of Aseer. These men showcase the centuries-old tradition of incorporating floral wreaths into their attire. Similar traditional customs can also be found among the women who make Qatt Al Aseeri art. These craftspersons create artworks using natural colours — most of which can be brought back as unique souvenirs from the region.

Good to Know

While wearing a hijab in Saudi Arabia is not necessary, dressing modestly is highly recommended. It is advised to wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders, cleavage, and legs.

Whether you’re travelling on a girls’ trip or solo woman exploring the nation, keep in mind that weekends in Saudi Arabia are Friday and Saturday. Friday is considered a day of worship, so it is best to plan non-shopping activities on this day.

Related:  Lights, Camera, Riyadh: Actor Jacqueliene Fernandez Gets Candid About Her Love For Saudi Arabia

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Equipped with a degree in Sociology (Honours) from the University of Delhi and a postgraduate diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai, Bayar enjoys sharing stories of people, places, and different cultures. When not typing her travel tales, you can catch the hobbyist photographer capturing .. Read More the next frame, dabbling in arts and crafts, or gushing over puppies and kittens. Read Less

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'Do you have to cover your face (in Saudi Arabia)?': What to know about solo female travel in the kingdom

• Saudi Arabia is extending electronic visas for visitors coming from 49 countries – including the U.S.
• While wearing the abaya or headscarf is not mandatory anymore, modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders is recommended.
• The kingdom is just opening up to tourists and for locals in smaller towns and villages, it is still somewhat of a novelty.

As a female and second-generation expatriate who has lived in Saudi Arabia for nearly three decades, one question that I get asked often is: "Is Saudi Arabia safe for women?"

Or even: "Do you have to cover your face?"

Up until 2019, the kingdom only issued business or visitor visas for a religious pilgrimage to the holy sites of Mecca and Medina. As a plan to diversify its economy through tourism and entertainment (like neighboring Dubai), the country announced an electronic visa for visitors coming from 49 countries – including the United States. 

As tourism to Saudi Arabia for either business or pleasure gains traction, we answer a few of your burning questions for solo female travel.

How can I travel through the country?

Saudi Arabia does not have a public transportation system. The easiest and safest way to get around the metropolitan cities of Riyadh and Jeddah is by using ride-hailing apps like Uber, Careem, Wsslini, and Bolt. Some apps have the option of choosing a female driver.

An affordable and efficient train line links Riyadh to the eastern province of the country, where smaller cities – like the UNESCO world heritage site of Al Qarah caves or the historical Qaisariah Souq of Al-Hofuf – may be of interest. On the west, a train line links Jeddah to religious sites. Separate seating areas for women in trains and transport lounges are the norm.

Sheila Russell, the British travel blogger behind Saudi Travel Notes advises on hiring a driver or opting for the " Vintage Land Rover " experience at AlUla, which will allow enough time to visit all the archeological sites.

Where can I stay?

The major metropolitan cities of Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam have a slew of accommodation options – ranging from fully furnished rentals to high-end hotels. CouchSurfing is not a popular option and is highly discouraged. If traveling on a budget, Airbnb and OYO rooms are affordable and safer options.

In developing tourist locations like AlUla during December and the mountainous Rijal Almaa from July through September, accommodation options (particularly, budget) are limited, and prices hike up during tourist seasons.

What should I wear?

Alina Calianu, a Polish digital nomad who has visited Saudi Arabia several times over the past four years, does not wear an abaya (a full-body cloak that was until recently, mandated by the government).

"The abaya is still traditional attire, particularly, among Saudi women. But even they are starting to adopt modest clothing," she says.

As with any country, it is important to be respectful of the culture. While wearing the abaya or headscarf is not mandatory anymore, wear modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders. It's a good idea to keep a long, lightweight sweater or coverall handy as temperatures – contrary to popular belief that Saudi Arabia is a hot country – tend to drop drastically during the months of December through mid-February.

Story continues below. 

What is etiquette?

In general, solo female travel through Saudi Arabia is safe and you will find locals welcoming. Calianu has always found locals keen to help.

"They go out of their way to help, even if they don't know English. There is willingness from everybody to assist," she says.

Arab hospitality is famed, and it is the norm for locals to offer gifts and address women in endearing terms like "dear" or "lovely." 

The kingdom is just opening up to tourists and for locals in smaller towns and villages, it is still somewhat of a novelty. On the other hand, cultural reforms take time, so best to mirror the etiquette of your guide, host or locals.

Do not offer a handshake with the opposite gender, until they do so first. A common way of greeting men is placing a right hand on your chest and nodding with an "Ahlan" (hello).

Shaistha Khan is a travel and culture writer who has lived in Saudi Arabia for nearly three decades and traveled extensively through the Arabian Gulf. You can follow her on Twitter: @khan_shaistha .

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What it's really like to visit Saudi Arabia as a solo female traveller

"Why would you go to Saudi Arabia, as a woman on your own? Don’t you know it’s dangerous?"

This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. When you click on them, or share this content, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

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“Why would you go to Saudi Arabia, as a woman on your own? Don’t you know it’s dangerous? Are you naïve or crazy?” warn friends.

Surely there’s a difference between crazy and curious. I ventured there simply because I’d never been. I’d wanted to see for myself a country much maligned in the media and only recently open to tourists. And I’d always wondered how much might actually be viewed through those narrow eye slits in a burka.

Any anxiety soon morphed into amazement after landing in a modern airport with free Wi-Fi, no queues and courteous customs officials who only glanced at my visa, easily obtained online.

Speaking of customs, I arrived dressed in black with a headscarf. Although no longer required, I usually wore one, even if somewhat inelegantly. More stylishly dressed women spontaneously greeted: “Welcome to our country. Thank you for respecting our culture.”

Behind the veils, I peered into smiling, dark chocolate eyes that pierced right through any ethnic bias. An obvious curiosity, I saw only one other Westerner, apart from when golfing in an expat compound. Yet, there was little problem communicating. According to statistics, more than 97 per cent of Saudis speak English — but with varying degrees of fluency, I might add.

Riyadh, with its 7.5 million residents, offers free healthcare but little public transport, although a new metro is under construction. Few locals walk outside, which made it easy to whiz around footpaths on electric scooters in the newer neighbourhoods. Watch your step elsewhere — best to avoid eligibility for disability parking signs that display: “Handicapped Access — People of Determination.”

Meanwhile, billboards around the Jeddah Grand Prix circuit read: “Overtake the future.”

Motorists seemed determined to do so because white lines on 14-lane freeways appeared only decorative. It made me wonder if women, who became fighter pilots before they could drive legally, might question what they’d wished for. I opted for readily available and inexpensive Ubers and convinced one driver to let me do a lap around a parking lot — just because I now could.

“To make you welcome, dear lady,” he’d earlier fumbled on his phone for Spotify to play the Australian national anthem while changing lanes at 100 kilometres per hour.

That was the most dangerous incident during my entire visit.

I feasted on falafels and flat bread fresh from a street-side oven, a breakfast buffet at a five-star hotel or tacos at a mid-range Mexican eatery. Some restaurants, banks and other services still have segregated areas for men and women, but shopping centre food courts offer everyone an array of cuisine and global brand names.

These shopping precincts are an oasis to gather in 55-degree Celsius summer heat. December’s mid-twenties winter temperatures were as welcoming as the people. From modern malls to ancient souks; from Red Sea swims to desert hikes, I felt comfortable and was never harassed.

I met men practicing polygamy but most readily offered: “I only have one wife.”

Some quipped: “More is too expensive.”

Looking south from the 99th floor Kingdom Centre skybridge between Riyadh’s own Twin Towers, stands the old town of Diriyah with its Deera Square, also known as Judgement Square, where horrific public executions once took place. I fortunately only witnessed the kindness of strangers during a music festival that evening. In the adjacent Al Zal Souk, crowded shops sold gold, perfume, carpets, clothing, and knives.

It is wise to abstain from condoning or judging another country. Speaking of abstinence, not a drop of alcohol was consumed, but my thirst and curiosity quenched with Arab coffees and mint lime juices — as refreshing as the brief glimpse of Saudi itself.

A litre of drinkable water is no longer more expensive than a litre of oil. But without a single river in the nation and home to one of the largest oil reserves on the planet, the Kingdom indeed appears to be re-inventing itself to be modern — but not Western.

When the Saudis upset Argentina in the first round of the World Cup Football, a public holiday was declared. I predict that with a bit more focus on reliable information and customer service standards to match their impressive infrastructure, this country will kick more goals internationally as tourists discover an ancient land rich in both oil and culture.

So, was it crazy and naive, as friends suggested, to visit as a solo woman?

Let’s just say that I felt safer in Saudi than in Sydney on a Saturday night.

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What it’s like to travel as a woman in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East — and one of the most mysterious. After all, most travelers were not allowed to visit for decades until 2019, the year the Kingdom opened its doors to tourists from 49 countries, including the United States.

This richly diverse country has also endured its share of controversies, as well as a reputation for treating women as second-class citizens who must cover their bodies (including their faces) from head to toe.

I have to say, I had plenty of preconceived notions about visiting Saudi Arabia before I hopped on my initial flight from Paris to Riyadh, the country’s thriving capital. But what it was really like for me to travel to Saudi Arabia is a lot different than what you might surmise based on the news.

I visited Saudi Arabia in late 2019 and would have gone back by now if not for the COVID-19 pandemic. I’m hoping to go again, and there are plenty of reasons why anyone should go if they have the chance.

People are friendly

I didn’t know how it would feel being a very white, very blond woman surrounded by strangers that share a culture unlike my own. I even worried I would be treated harshly when I arrived, or that I would feel threatened or uneasy walking or dining out without a hijab.

However, my arrival served as an excellent reminder of something I already knew. People are people wherever you go, and Saudis are very much like everyone else around the world — happy, friendly and too busy with their own lives to worry about what you’re doing.

As I visited Riyadh’s striking hotels and landmarks, the winding streets of historic Jeddah, shopping malls and elsewhere, people smiled widely at me or didn’t look at me at all. Random women showed me their Instagram accounts on their phones, and people in shops were eager to draw me in for a sale.

A stranger in an antique store insisted I take a ring with me as a gift for visiting his country, all while beaming with pride. Someone in Jeddah handed me a cold bottle of water in the sweltering heat for no reason at all.

At one point during the trip, I noticed my private messages on Twitter were absolutely blowing up. This shocked me at first until I took the time to read them.

While a few Saudis politely invited me to convert to Islam, dozens of others asked me to meet them for dinner or tea. I didn’t feel comfortable doing so considering the circumstances, but it felt very real and genuine.

Abayas are optional for tourists

Speaking of the long flowing robes Saudi women wear, which are referred to as abayas, they are no longer required for foreign women visiting the country. Considering I visited Saudi Arabia on the day this news was shared in 2019, I brought an abaya with me but quickly packed it away in my luggage.

Women who visit today only need to meet the same dress code as men, which requires conservative attire and covered knees and shoulders. During my visit, I dressed as I normally do, wearing long dresses with light sweaters along with pants and tops. I never covered my head, and I never felt out of place.

Gender segregation is real, evolving

Gender segregation is probably the most noticeable cultural difference in Saudi Arabia, and it can be absolutely jarring. While the country has ended the use of separate restaurant entrances for men and women, the separation of sexes is still the norm even when not required.

As an example, men and women go through separate security lines in Saudi airports, and women are moved through last. I had a business-class flight home from Jeddah to New York City, which normally includes early boarding, but I was one of the last people on the plane.

One of the hotels I stayed in also had a men-only pool and a men’s spa, but no facilities like these for female guests.

This should change — and it is changing — in real time in Saudi Arabia. However, change takes time, and visitors should know they will encounter some gender segregation before they go.

Top ‘undiscovered’ landmarks

If you love traveling off the beaten path, Saudi Arabia is definitely the place to be. The old city center of Jeddah is captivating with its uniquely designed antique balconies, ancient sidewalks and curated shops selling everything from spices to intricately detailed clothing. The Islamic call to prayer rings loudly in the streets here five times per day, and it takes your breath away to hear it in such a historic and extraordinary place.

Meanwhile, the Kingdom Centre Tower in Riyadh is a sight to behold, and the views of the city from its skybridge are unbelievable.

Saudi Arabia is also brimming with UNESCO World Heritage sites, from the Al-Ahsa Oasis to the Al-Hijr Archaeological Site and the At-Turaif District in ad-Dir’iyah. These are all places you can see and experience before nearly anyone else you know gets there.

Luxury is everywhere

While Saudi Arabia offers travel options to fit any budget, luxury travel is an absolute must here. The fact is, there are so many exquisite hotels and resorts in the Kingdom already and plenty more currently in the works.

As an example, the capital city is home to name-brand luxury hotels such as the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, the Fairmont Riyadh, the Al Faisaliah Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh.

Other notable and must-visit resorts dotted throughout the Kingdom include the InterContinental Taif, the Dar Al Tawhid InterContinental Makkah and the Rosewood Jeddah.

Malls featuring luxury brands are also all over the place. In fact, you can find all of the top stores here, including Victoria’s Secret, H&M, American Eagle, Zara, Gucci, Fendi and more.

The dining is amazing (even sans booze)

While alcohol is illegal in Saudi Arabia, that has the potential to change. Either way, the alcohol ban didn’t affect my trip at all, and you shouldn’t let it ruin yours, either.

Some restaurants I dined in featured extensive drink menus with mocktails that were both delicious and fun. In one case, a waiter brought a drink cart to our table before crafting the most delicious virgin smoked mojito I have ever tasted. It was much more than a drink; it was an entire show, and every drink he made required at least six or seven steps.

Food was fresh, delicious and varied throughout the country as well, and many of the cuisines offered fit in nicely with my pescatarian diet. I enjoyed Chinese and Lebanese food in Riyadh, plus plenty of freshly prepared seafood along the country’s coast. No matter what you like to eat, you will find it here.

The bottom line

Saudi Arabia is on a path toward rapid change, but it’s also a conservative kingdom with deeply rooted beliefs and cultural traditions. Some of the events I experienced there were slightly off-putting (like boarding my plane dead last), yet I didn’t let it bother me or ruin my trip. I also learned a lot and gained a greater understanding of this part of the world, which is something you can’t do unless you see it for yourself.

The fact is, visiting Saudi Arabia feels a lot like flying back in time to an entirely different universe with modern conveniences but Old World beliefs. I’ve never experienced anything else like it, and I cannot wait to visit again.

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What It’s Like to be a Female Tour Guide in Saudi Arabia

Fatimah Al Zimam has introduced visitors from around the world to her country, which opened to nonreligious tourism in 2019. She discusses her favorite sites, driving a pickup truck and how her country is changing.

By Paige McClanahan

Paige McClanahan , a regular contributor to the Travel section, is writing a book about the tourism industry.

Fatimah Al Zimam likes to walk around in black leggings and casual tops, and she wears her curly hair loose and uncovered. She owns a silver GMC pickup truck, which she loves to take on solo drives across the Saudi desert. And she is passionate about her work: As a tour guide, she has introduced her country to visitors from the United States, France, Britain, Italy, China and beyond.

Ms. Al Zimam, 34, is a Saudi woman and she works for herself. She represents a profound transformation that’s underway in her home country, which has long been known as a deeply conservative place. Saudi Arabia’s opening to nonreligious tourists in 2019 is a major part of the ongoing shift, as are several important gains that women have been granted over the past half decade, though some restrictions remain.

But even with the recent changes, the country has continued to come under fire for its record on human rights , which may raise concerns among potential visitors. One travel index has ranked Saudi Arabia second-to-last in the world in terms of safety for L.G.B.T.Q. travelers.

But Saudi Arabia is betting big that tourists will come: The government is investing $1 trillion in the industry over 10 years, with the aim of attracting 100 million visitors annually by 2030. It’s all part of an effort to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels.

“If there is no oil, we don’t have anything. So now there are a lot of projects to promote agriculture, solar energy production — and tourism, too,” Ms. Al Zimam said.

I first met Ms. Al Zimam on a recent solo trip to Saudi Arabia, when I hired her as my tour guide in Riyadh, the capital, and spent a day riding shotgun in her pickup truck. A few weeks later, I reached her on a video call at her apartment in Jeddah, on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast. She was eager to tell me about her favorite places to take first-time visitors, and how Saudi men react when they see her without a long robe, or abaya.

Our conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

What kind of reactions have you seen among Saudis since the country started issuing standard tourist visas?

The vast majority of people in Saudi Arabia are very generous with tourists. I’ve seen this even in remote villages, where people tend to be very religious — they’re really helping tourists, especially hitchhikers and cyclists who sometimes just appear out of nowhere.

And look at a place like Al Ula , in the northwest, where you see so many tourists now. At first, some local people might have been skeptical about the crowds, the noise, the visitors. But then they started to see the jobs, the money, the extra work that they could find through tourism — they became aware of the opportunities. Now, they are very happy with tourism.

The government has been spending a lot of money to turn the ancient city of Al Ula into a tourist destination . Is that a place that you would recommend to visitors?

Al Ula is the best destination in the world for me. The Royal Commission has done a great job of developing the sites around there, and they’re still doing excavations, finding new things. Visitors love the ancient tombs in Mada’in Saleh, which is nearby. There’s so much else. Al Ula is full of rock inscriptions. Wherever you walk, you can find them.

And I love to bring people to Hail, also in the north. Hail is a historic area — Lawrence of Arabia spent a lot of time there — and the landscape is stunning. The sand dunes, the red mountains, and just the beautiful shapes of the rocks and rock inscriptions. You can be driving and driving, then suddenly you come across a small oasis, a cluster of palms between the mountains.

Are there many other women tour guides in Saudi Arabia?

There are many, many female tour guides, and even more in training. In the class that I took to become a licensed guide, there were twice as many women as men, and I think that’s pretty common.

A lot of potential female visitors might have questions about how to dress in Saudi Arabia. I know you don’t wear a head scarf or an abaya . Did you stop doing that as soon as the rule changed a few years ago?

It was gradual for me. At first, I would still wear an abaya and hijab in the city, but not if I was out in the desert or in the mountains. But then I moved to Riyadh for work and I found myself more comfortable and happier without an abaya, as long as I was still dressed modestly. Now, I don’t wear an abaya or hijab. The only exceptions are if I’m going somewhere official — the courthouse or a police station — or if I’m going to a mosque. If I’m going to pray, I need a scarf.

Some people might stare because it’s still kind of a new thing to see, but they respect my choice. I once had an Uber driver in Al Jouf who told me: “Look at me, with my beard and my mustache. I’m a man, but I married the woman my mother chose for me. But look at you, without an abaya: You’re a woman, and you made your choice. You’re braver than me.”

What do you advise women visitors in terms of how to dress?

Some Saudis will recommend that women visitors wear a scarf. But why? It’s OK not to. In rural areas, they might stare at you, but I find that, even there, most people are welcoming. And the people who aren’t welcoming won’t say anything because there is no longer a rule about it. I always feel safe, even though I travel alone and without an abaya. Come and I’ll take you to the Red Sea, and you’ll see — there, you can wear a bikini. The only exception is if you visit a mosque. There, it’s mandatory to cover your legs, and for women to wear long sleeves and a scarf.

What do you like to do when you’re not guiding tours?

I love traveling around Saudi Arabia, and I did it even before I started working as a tour guide. I’ve also been a rock climber since 2019, and I love going to Tanomah , which is where I first learned to climb.

I know it wasn’t that long ago that Saudi women were granted the right to drive . What do people think when they see you behind the wheel of your truck?

I must admit that I do love the reactions of people seeing me driving. Sometimes in rural places, people follow me, just because they’re curious. “Is this really a woman? Is it not just a man with curly hair?” But then they see I’m a woman and they call me, “My daughter! My daughter!” And they ask if I’m a tourist.

Have you ever traveled outside your home country?

I’ve traveled around the Gulf and to Jordan, but my first time outside the Middle East was last year, when I went to the U.K. and then to Switzerland with the Ministry of Tourism. On that trip, we spent one week at a tourism school in Montreux. The ministry sent thousands of people to the best tourism schools in Europe. I was in the last group.

What’s your next gig?

Summer is the low season for tourists here. So I’m working on my book, which is both a memoir and a travel guide to Saudi Arabia. I’m planning to publish travel secrets about places around the country. I have it all in my head, and now I will write it down.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Intrepid’s new Women’s Expedition is exploring Saudi Arabia through a different lens 

Peek behind the scenes of Intrepid’s latest trip with the women who made it all happen. They share how their experiences in Saudi Arabia inspired them to bring other travellers to this emerging destination.

While some may be apprehensive about Saudi Arabia as a travel destination, after experiencing the country alongside local women guides and spending one-on-one time with the people themselves, Jenny Gray and Zina Bencheikh were inspired. 

Zina, Intrepid’s managing director of Europe, the Middle East and Africa and a collaborator in the development of Intrepid’s Women’s Expedition says, ‘Saudi Arabia is considered an emerging destination. It’s important for Intrepid to take travellers to new places, especially if they have so much to offer when it comes to culture, experiences and, of course, the people.’ 

Zina believes travellers should get the chance to form their own idea of a country. A Women’s Expedition especially helps to break down barriers and foster discussion through experiences that are ordinarily off limits on mixed-gender trips.

As the product manager of Intrepid’s Women’s Expeditions , Jenny spoke about her experience in Saudi Arabia with a mixture of curiosity and contemplation

‘I had some preconceptions about what I might see and experience,’ she says. ‘I went out of my way to talk to locals, of all ages and backgrounds, especially women, to understand the realities of life for them. I left with an overwhelming sense that tourism is providing people, particularly women, with a vehicle to shape their own narratives, as well opening up new opportunities and a chance to break any surviving stereotypes.’  

Starting with her local leader, Fatimah, a 30-year-old divorcee born and raised on a farm whose hobbies include rock climbing and adventure sports.  

‘Fatimah was not what I was expecting at all,’ explains Jenny. ‘One day she would be dressed in a gorgeous flowing abaya with big, sparkly hoop earrings. The next day she was dressed head to toe in Columbia hiking gear talking about some of her favourite off-road adventures.’ 

Jenny adds that many of the women she met wanted to help shape Saudi Arabia’s future with their own stories and aspirations. ‘What I saw were unapologetic and proud women leading from the front.’ 

Zina underscores the significance of this shift.

‘Progress is undeniable and benefiting women,’ she explains. ‘The women I met told me they feel free, empowered and safe. They can wear the veil or not. It’s their choice. I myself went with and without veils at times, and never felt uncomfortable no matter what I chose to wear – unlike other countries in North Africa and the Middle East.’ 

She adds that it’s also women who are benefiting firsthand from tourism. ‘Women are carving out space as guides, hotel owners and entrepreneurs. They are empowered to lead and driven to change the perception of their country.’ 

The cradle of Islam, Saudi Arabia is home to the spiritual cities of Mecca and Madinah and holds a profound place in the hearts of Muslims, history buffs and theologists alike. Beyond the towering minarets of two of the grandest mosques in the world, there are stunning landscapes and a wealth of pre-Islamic-era landmarks just waiting to be explored.  

I left with an overwhelming sense that tourism is providing people, particularly women, with a vehicle to shape their own narratives, as well opening up new opportunities and a chance to break any surviving stereotypes.

One of Zina’s most memorable experiences from the trip was her time in Madinah, an ancient city now open to non-Muslim visitors too. She feels Madinah is special and has the potential to create more understanding of what Islam is about.

Listening to the city’s history through the perspective of a local female guide transported Zina back hundreds of years. ‘The atmosphere is incredible, and as part of the tour we went with female guide to a rooftop where we could see the mosque from very high up. The view is absolutely breathtaking.’ 

Intrepid’s approach to exploring Saudi Arabia reflects its commitment to operate trips locally and leave the economic benefits of travel in-destination. This Women’s Expedition was created in partnership with Sara Omar – the founder of two travel companies specialising in inbound and outbound tours. 

Jenny met Sara almost a year ago in the early days of concepting a Women’s Expedition to Saudi Arabia. Sara’s mission with her own travel companies – to create immersive, community-led experiences – sat seamlessly with Intrepid’s values.  

‘Sara is a real Intrepid person – dynamic, well-travelled, and committed to showcasing the real Saudi,’ says Zina. 

Sara is thrilled her home country will be part of Intrepid’s trips. ‘Not many companies are offering Saudi yet. It’s still a new destination that’s unknown to a lot of people. I think people will want to travel in a group for now, and then they’ll feel more confident in visiting. So, I’m excited and hopeful we will make this a memorable trip for a lot of people,’ she says.  

‘It was really important that whoever operated this trip on the ground understood our style of travel, and shared our ethos that travel could be a force for good when done properly,’ says Jenny.  

‘Sara’s in-depth local knowledge, personal experiences and contacts have been crucial in curating local experiences that allow travellers to see Saudi Arabia through the lens of local women with different perspectives, experiences and stories to share.’ 

I’m focused on giving experiences and interactions with the local community. So, you spend more time with people instead of landmarks.

Like all Women’s Expeditions, this will be led entirely by women, directly benefiting nine female-owned businesses. Some of the most compelling aspects of Intrepid’s Saudi Arabia trip are the community-based activities championed by Sara. ‘I’m focused on giving experiences and interactions with the local community. So, you spend more time with people instead of landmarks,’ she explains. 

From cooking classes and guided tours to visiting a citrus farm run by two sisters, travellers can engage with Saudi women on their own terms and celebrate their pride and creativity. 

Jenny says the home-cooked meal at the start of the trip in Riyadh is one of her favourite moments in the trip. ‘There are several different hosts for this experience and each one offers a glimpse inside a beautiful family home, each with their own unique stories and Saudi traditions to share. You could sit down to a meal with a yoga instructor or a CEO. You might learn how to play carrom board, prepare old family recipes passed down from grandmothers or simply sip tea in the garden.’ 

‘With or without us, Saudi will become a major tourism destination,’ Zina says. She goes on to share that with travel, we can shape and change narratives, amplify voices that often go unheard and build bridges. In Saudi Arabia, that journey is just beginning. 

Learn more about Sara Omar , the tour operator Intrepid partnered with to develop this trip, and see the 12-day itinerary for yourself.

Feeling inspired?

Sahar lives in Toronto and is Intrepid's global brand content specialist. Writing and travel bring together Sahar's two favourite worlds.

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Here’s What You Need to Know Before Visiting Saudi Arabia

For the first time in its history, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced that will be opening its doors for tourism by issuing an electronic visa for visitors coming from 49 countries — including the United States.

Anyone over the age of 18 can apply for an eVisa . It costs approximately $120 and is valid for a period of one year with an option for multiple entry, and permits a maximum stay of 90 days in the country. Previously, the Kingdom issued only visitor visas for religious pilgrimage and business visas. This monumental announcement is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s reform program, Vision 2030 , which aims to reduce the country’s reliance on oil and diversify its economy by way of tourism and entertainment.

Over the past two years, the government has also announced the launch of several ambitious projects, including an entertainment mega-city in Riyadh (reportedly, twice the size of Orlando’s Disney World ), a futuristic beach destination along the coast of the Red Sea, and restoration of UNESCO World Heritage sites. By 2030, the government expects 100 million annual visits, increased foreign and domestic investment in hotels and associated amenities, the creation of million jobs, and an increase in tourism revenue from the current 3% to 10% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product, according to Reuters.

To attract Western tourists and market itself as a tourist destination — on par with neighboring Gulf states— Saudi Arabia has eased some of its conservative restrictions, like granting women rights to drive and travel without a guardian, curbing the powers of the moral police, permitting unmarried tourist couples to rent hotel rooms, and relaxing dress codes.

Within the first 10 days of the introduction of the eVisa 24,000 visitors entered the Kingdom, according to Arab News . Although there is a lack of adequate tourism infrastructure, those curious to learn about and experience the country will find Saudi’s natural landscape and its welcoming locals incentive enough to visit.

If you find yourself heading to Saudi Arabia to explore the land uncharted to tourists, here are a few basic and cultural tips for first-time travelers to the Kingdom.

With this news, people are asking: Is Saudi Arabia Safe for tourists? Yes, Saudi Arabia is safe for tourists. As with travel to any other country in the world, be respectful of local rules and customs, be mindful of your surroundings, and carry out due diligence before traveling. Be sure to consult travel advisories before your trip.

Public spaces

Public spaces may be segregated, and you will find separate entrances or seating areas for men and women. Refrain from public displays of affection.

Seek permission before photographing locals. Under the public code of conduct , it is a punishable offense. Other offenses include vandalism of public property, playing music during prayer times, and dress code violations.

Female tourists are not required to wear the abaya (a cloak, previously mandated by the government). However, both men and women should dress modestly, avoiding tight fitting and revealing clothes in public. The official Visit Saudi tourism website provides further details on what this entails.

Stores and restaurants close during prayer times, five times a day. To make the most of your trip, plan your itinerary according to these times.

Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country. While non-Muslims are welcome and permitted to practice their religion in private spaces, preaching in public forums or on social media platforms is prohibited. Malicious propaganda against the country, government, and religion is a severe offense.

The sale, purchase or consumption of alcohol and drugs is illegal in the country.

Social customs

You will find locals to be hospitable, generous, and as equally curious about you as you may be about them. It is not uncommon to be invited to share a meal or a cup of gahwa (Arabic coffee) and dates. Your hosts — and even strangers — will want to extend their welcome and offer a token of their hospitality, like food or even a small gift. It is considered rude to refuse such an offering. Just remember, always accept and consume food and beverages with your right hand.

If you are invited into a Saudi house, remove your shoes, unless your host insists you keep them on. In a traditional Majlis, (a sitting hall with floor cushions) you are expected to sit on the floor. If hosted elsewhere, you can expect a modern setup with armchairs and other furniture.

Saudis encourage and welcome Westerners asking questions about their culture. To avoid offending local sensibilities, it's best to steer clear of political or religious topics of conversation.

Familiarizing yourself with Saudi rituals like greetings and handshakes will always make a favorable impression with your hosts. “Marhaban!” (Welcome) is a common way of greeting and you may respond with “Marhabtain” (I give you two welcomes).

Men shouldn’t extend a handshake to a Saudi woman, unless she does so first. To err on the side of caution, place your hand over your heart and greet with a hello.

Young Pioneer Tours

Travelling to Saudi Arabia as a woman

With Saudi Arabia opening up to tourism after decades closed, it is no wonder that it has become a hot topic among communities of travellers. Saudi Arabia offers something completely new a different to people from all around the world as it is the birthplace of Islam but also a vast country filled with varied sceneries and sights which can be visited without much preparation, apart from getting an e-visa . Its reputation as a closed-off country, however, leads to many myths or misunderstood facts, especially when it comes to the specificities of travelling to Saudi Arabia as a woman.

Let’s lay it out there right here and now, female travellers in the Kingdom will find it much easier to travel in the country than they would have expected.

Getting to Saudi Arabia as a woman

First and foremost, women will find that they can apply for their visa to Saudi Arabia without any problem. Contrary to popular belief based on the old way things were working, foreign women can travel to Saudi Arabia independently without the need for a male chaperone, such as their husband or their brother. They can travel on their own, with female friends, male friends or as part of a group (such as our group tour to Saudi Arabia ) to their own will.

Laws of Saudi Arabia regarding foreign women

As for the laws as a female tourist in Saudi Arabia, they are quite different from what is expected of the local women there. Indeed, a foreign woman can book her own hotel and hire a car on their own. This is quite impressive considering that women have only recently gained the right to drive a car in the country . As far as tourists are concerned, there are no differences between women and men when it comes to abiding the law and provided you follow common-sense rules and are respectful of local customs, we are sure that you’ll have a great time in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The country is currently, under the impetus of its crown prince, reviewing many of its laws and has been asked by the crown prince to adopt a moderate and open version of Islam, which has led to many recent changes in its laws and, most probably many more changes to come.

Dressing up in Saudi Arabia as a woman

When it comes to clothes that women must wear in Saudi Arabia, lots of people have an apprehension that is quickly surprised. It is true that any local woman that you’ll meet in Saudi Arabia will be wearing the full niqab and that they wouldn’t be caught doing otherwise by their family or friends. However, the tourist gets a total pass on this and wearing any kind of specific attire is not a requirement for tourists in Saudi Arabia. The rule for tourists basically says that they must refrain from wearing clothes that would be judged distasteful or morally harmful to the locals. As such, Saudi Arabia allows tourists more freedom in the choice of what they wear than say, Iran. From our experience, as long as women refrain from wearing clothes that show cleavage or short skirts, they will not encounter any trouble. A headscarf, contrary to Iran, is not compulsory. Female travellers might, however, want to wear a headscarf when visiting mosques which is a common courtesy all around the Muslim world. It is not like Iraq where for example, it is necessary to rent a chador before entering the shrines of Najaf or Karbala. In that aspect, you’ll find that there are fewer restraints on female foreign tourists visiting religious sites in Saudi Arabia than in Malaysia. There are, however, some mosques, such as the mosques of Mecca and Medina which are off-limit to non-muslims. This ban applies uniformly for non-muslim men and women.

As a rule of thumb, any foreign woman wearing long trousers, long sleeves and showing no cleavage should be welcome in Saudi Arabia. At the moment, however, women should refrain from swimming in either one-piece or two-piece swimsuits, with the locals swimming either in their clothes or in a burkini. Clothes displaying what could be judged as provocative messages should also be avoided by men and women alike. This doesn’t mean that locals won’t be curious! The following clothing, for example, would be totally fine.

On a side note, you’ll find that local women take very good care of their appearances. While the abaya conceals a lot, many women we’ve encountered wear elaborate makeup, have their nails done and carry sophisticated accessories.

Mingling between men and women in Saudi Arabia

While local women in Saudi Arabia are unlikely to interact with men who they are unrelated to, you’ll find that foreign tourists of both genders are welcome to interact with everyone they might encounter, without regard to their gender. That means that a female tourist in Saudi Arabia can freely interact with hotel staff, guides, salespersons and clerks anywhere. Of course, people of opposite genders should avoid subjects which could be seen as improper as well as physical contact. This is more to avoid offending people than actually running into trouble with the law (although, in some extreme cases, the law would be able to intervene.

Travelling in the country, foreigners will find that there are actually quite a lot of women employed and working around the country. As such, it is likely that you’ll encounter saleswomen and female representatives. Men and women alike are welcome to interact with these women, without any issue.

While there are still men sections and family sections (open to females and married couples) in restaurants female travellers are generally welcome to sit wherever they see fit. During our first tour of Saudi Arabia after the opening of the country, we spectated a crazy parade in Riyadh. There, men and women were watching the show without enforced distinctions of gender.

Saudi Arabia however, is not Ibiza and while it is very permissive for foreigners in contrast to the local traditions, certain behaviors are still not welcome here. Men and women should not, for example, hold hands, hug or kiss in public.

So that’s the skinny on the current state of the affair from females travelling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Of course, that is all written by me, a man. If you’d like to hear more about the situation from the perspective of one of our female guests on our Saudi tour, please have a look at Madison’s blog about the subject !

Come join us on one of our tours to Saudi Arabia

About post author.

Paris Hailwood

Paris is a full-time guide for YPT, mostly working in the Middle East, Central Asia and West Africa. She aims to encourage more people, especially women, to travel and defy boundaries.

See author's posts

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The Complexities of Traveling to Saudi Arabia

By Felicia Campbell

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As the largest country in the Middle East , the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has a rich and diverse landscape: It’s home to the ruins of the Nabatean Kingdom in Al-'Ula, the Rub' al Khali desert, luxurious beach resorts in Jeddah , and the mountains of Taif, where roses bloom alongside groves of the most sought-after dates in the world. The capital, Riyadh, offers a fascinating juxtaposition of ancient souks and modern skyscrapers, along with natural wonders like the cliffs of Edge of the World park just outside the city.

Historically, however, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hasn’t been a tourist destination for Americans.

Until 2019, visas were only issued for official business purposes or for religious pilgrimages to Mecca . Conservative laws and dress codes were enforced by the mutawa (religious police) who made arrests for playing music, wearing too much makeup, or being seen in public with a member of the opposite sex. These laws began to change in 2017 when Mohamed bin Salman became the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and launched Saudi Vision 2030 , a campaign to modernize the country and reduce the reliance on oil revenue. He stripped the power of the mutawa, and women were issued drivers' licenses for the first time. Additionally, movie theaters were built, international music festivals held, and tourist visas became available to visitors from 49 countries, including Americans.

These changes make it an exciting time in the Kingdom, with young Saudis enjoying newfound freedoms to connect with one another and with foreign visitors in public spaces that were for so long segregated. Around the world, social media feeds are being filled with images of this “new Saudi Arabia” as part of a massive marketing campaign by the Ministry of Tourism—it's just part of their plan to invest at least $800 billion by 2030 on everything from transportation infrastructure to entirely new cities.

Despite the intrigue of the newly opened country, there are also many things that haven’t changed and should be considered before booking a flight: significant gender disparity remains, alcohol is still illegal, and queer travelers will find a litany of laws that prevent them from existing as they would at home or, in some cases, at all—so-called “decency mandates” prevent men from wearing women's clothes for example, and trans travelers whose passports don't match their gender identity will likely be denied entry to the country. Even in situations where it might feel like no one is enforcing these rules, know that the government routinely monitors visitors' social media accounts, and compliance is expected for the entirety of your trip.

For some Americans, the cultural clashes feel too great to overcome. “Saudi Arabia is a controversial country to visit, and poses a real dilemma for many travelers,” says Justin Francis, co-founder and CEO of Responsible Travel. For Francis, however, that isn't necessarily a reason not to visit. “I strongly believe it is possible to travel responsibly in destinations with poor ethical records. Frankly, it would be hard to name a single destination with a clean record on the environment, animal welfare, and human rights.”

Anu Taranath, professor, racial equity consultant, and author of Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World , also encourages people to look at their travel decisions from a wider perspective. “Well-meaning Americans become quite vexed when considering going to places where they know a bit about what’s happening to a certain population, but that same conversation, I haven’t seen about home,” says Taranath. “The U.S. has a terrible record of preserving the dignity of Black folks, so would we tell people not to visit? It’s a conversation that never seems to come up.”

She suggests that tourists can use their trips, instead, as opportunities to widen their own perspectives about the world. “It’s an incredible privilege,” she says. “My responsibility is to move through these places with care and grace and learn about lives that are not like mine."

Darrell Wade, co-founder and chair of travel group Intrepid, visited the Kingdom last year, and while he doesn’t feel the country is ready in terms of infrastructure for the brand's organized trips, he would personally return and thinks that the opening of tourism is a good thing for locals and visitors. “I think travel is always a positive force for change," says Wade. “As travelers, we learn about new cultures and ways, whilst the hosts of our destination countries also get to meet new people and learn from them.”

Booking a trip to a country whose laws and values may not align with your own is a personal decision. For those considering a visit to Saudi Arabia, these are some of the key issues American travelers may wonder about, with logistical pointers to keep in mind on the trip itself.

Nada al Nahdi  of Qairawan travel group in Jazan

Women's rights and modesty 

As part of the effort to introduce a more moderate version of Islamic law, in 2018 women were granted the right to drive, have a passport , travel abroad, live independently without the permission of a male guardian, and, most visibly, they are no longer required to cover their hair with hijab, nor wear the abaya robe or the niqab full face covering. Yet there are still some modesty requirements. It's important to note that most restrictions impact local women more than they do visitors, but travelers are still expected to abide by most laws.

Arati Menon

Hannah Towey

Maya Silver

Modesty is legally defined and required for locals and visitors, and what’s considered appropriate often depends on the venue. Some Saudi women in larger cities still wear an abaya, but many forgo any kind of head cover. Similar to religious sites throughout the world, there are expectations when entering a mosque: both men and women must be covered to the ankles and wrists and shoe-less, and women should cover their hair.

In general, women should wear loose-fitting clothes that don't show skin above the knee or elbow, and men shouldn’t go shirtless or wear tank tops. Shorts are uncommon across the board. 

Wearing clothing considered too revealing or anything that features offensive logos or slogans can result in a fine of 100 SAR/$26 (doubled for subsequent violations). What’s considered offensive isn’t limited to showing too much skin, pornographic images, or drug-related or profane slogans, it is also illegal to try to promote a religion other than Islam. That means wearing a crucifix or any other religious iconography should be avoided.

Olga Aymerich, a research officer for the United Nations in Iraq, was among the first to travel to the Kingdom when tourist visas became available in 2019. She says she observed that the way women dressed varied widely, even between neighborhoods of large cities like Jeddah and Riyadh, so she wore an abaya over her clothes, either open or closed, to avoid standing out. “I just felt more comfortable that way,” she says, adding that she didn’t cover her hair except when visiting religious sites.

Ellie Quinn detailed her time in the Kingdom on her blog, The Traveling Quinn , where she suggests female travelers purchase a robe-like abaya online ahead of time or at any mall upon arrival—good quality, black abayas made with a breathable material are generally available for around $25 (100 SAR), though you'll also find colorful and patterned options.

At gender-segregated public beaches, women swim in burkinis (which look like wetsuits) or in their abayas, and men keep their shirts on. However, at a growing number of private beaches, guests can wear bikinis and swim trunks. It’s a good idea to call ahead to find out what the specific dress codes are as some beaches in Jeddah, at the other end of the spectrum, do not allow abayas. 

Gender segregation

Today, unrelated men and women can legally interact with one another in some some public spaces, like malls and coffee shops—yet there are still gendered spaces, from female-only gyms to restaurants in smaller villages that have separate entrances and dining rooms for families and men.

Even at the Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, where Wade recently stayed with his wife, the duo learned that the swimming pool and spa were for men only. “When I asked if there were special hours for women, or another complex somewhere, I just got a ‘Sorry, there are no facilities for women’,” Wade says. He hopes—and expects—that this will change with the greater arrival of international tourism.

As public interactions between men and women are slowly becoming normalized, physical affection between couples still needs to be kept strictly behind closed doors. That means avoiding touching of any kind between opposite genders when in public. Holding hands, kissing, or hugging in public are considered “acts of a sexual nature,” and could incur a 3,000 SAR fine (about $800) for the first offense and a 6,000 SAR for a repeat offense. It is one of 19 public decency offenses punishable by fine , along with things like failure to pick up after your pet (100 SAR/$26) and littering or spitting (500 SAR/ $133). 

When meeting someone of the opposite gender, it is customary to place a hand to heart, rather than extending it for a handshake. Conversely, those of the same gender will often greet one another with a hug or a kiss on each cheek. In Bedouin tradition, some men touch noses. Visitors should follow the lead of the local.

Travelers in the Saudi Arabian desert

LGBTQ+ issues

In Saudi Arabia, same-sex marriage is not recognized and homosexual acts are punishable by law, as are any activities seen as disrupting public order and religious values. Social media posts depicting a homosexual relationship can be prosecuted as a cybercrime—making it especially important that queer travelers who decide to visit set profiles to private before arriving. 

Some may question why LGBTQ+ visitors would want to visit any of the 69 U.N. member countries that criminalize homosexuality at all. Stefan Arestis and Sebastien Chaneac, who run the travel blog The Nomadic Boys to help inspire and inform gay travelers , have traveled to many of them, including Singapore , Malaysia, and Dubai. The couple have yet to visit the Kingdom, and whether or not to go is a topic of debate between them.

“It’s easy to have an attitude of ‘OMG, I would never dare go to a place that wants to throw me in jail, better to boycott them and spend my hard-earned dollars in a place that welcomes me’," says Arestis. “This way of thinking risks doing more harm than good. It’s more productive to get out there and support the local LGBTQ community ."

Meanwhile, Chaneac isn't convinced it's safe for them to do so. “The opening of tourism is a great thing, because with more tourism, there will be more LGBTQ+ visibility, and that could start to change things," says Chaneac. "But when you’re a gay person, you have to think of other things, like whether the law is on your side.”

Arestis notes that in most places that criminalize homosexuality like Dubai, travelers benefit from a double standard and are rarely penalized for violating local law—but Saudi Arabia is different and the penalties are known for being much more severe and should be taken at face value. “We suggest going back in the closet,” says Arestis. 

Parvez Sharma, a gay Indian-American filmmaker who traveled to Saudi Arabia to complete the hajj, an experience he chronicled in the 2015 documentary A Sinner in Mecca, feels this pilgrimage is a beautiful and essential activity for Muslims like himself, but sees that as separate from general tourism.

“People save their entire lives to make the pilgrimage—for Muslims, we have to disregard our feelings [about the Saudi government] and focus on the religious aspects of the journey," Sharma says. He says he wouldn't visit if he didn't have the religious obligation. 

According to the private, conservative societal norms, no one will ask about sexual orientation. “There is a thriving gay scene, very underground, and it would be fascinating to see," says Arestis. "If you are not a public figure online, then there is nothing stopping you from going. You just have to be careful and set your social media as private, and perhaps have a rehearsed girlfriend in case it comes up. But people need to understand that if something happens, if they have an interaction, if they are caught meeting or kissing [someone of the same gender], there is no one to protect them.”

Journalism, photography, and freedom of speech

Put simply, Saudi Arabia is a monarchy, where democratic principles of freedom of press and speech do not apply. According to Reporters Without Borders, a group that advocates for press freedom around the world, over 30 editors, writers, and photographers are currently imprisoned for statements in articles, photographs, and even social media posts that were seen as critical of the government. American intelligence agencies have concluded that the government of Saudi Arabi orchestrated the murder of U.S.-based Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a notable dissident of the regime.

While tourists will not likely be writing critical op-eds while in the Kingdom, it is important to note that it is illegal to criticize the government, the royal family, or the Muslim faith in any way, either verbally or on social media. Politics, religion, and sex should not be discussed in a public setting or online, and cursing at someone or using foul language is a fine-able offense, as is using rude gestures.

“It's important to remember you’re a guest,” says Francis. “You’ve chosen to visit, so [you have to] play by the rules of your host country. It’s natural to want to ask questions, but you won’t be helping local people by interrogating them—free speech doesn’t exist here, and you could put them in a very difficult position.”

The most common offense that visitors are cited for in the Kingdom is unauthorized photography : Photographing a person (especially a woman) without permission or taking photos of an accident or crime is illegal and can result in a hefty fine (1,000 SAR/ $266). It is important to be particularly cautious in crowded areas like traditional markets, where it is easy to inadvertently take a photo of someone.

An ancient city in Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia

Other things to keep in mind when planning a trip to Saudi Arabia

Restrictions for non-Muslim visitors

Mecca is the one city that remains off-limits to non-Muslim tourists. Mecca and Medina are the two holiest cities for Muslims who visit for the Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages. The latter is obligatory for every Muslim who is financially and physically able to make the trip, so roughly 2 million pilgrims travel to Mecca for the Hajj each year, and these visits require a religious visa.

For other travelers interested in visiting a religious site, Jeddah is a better option, as it is home to the only four mosques in the country that allow non-Muslim visitors to enter: Al Taqwa Mosque, the Al Rahma Mosque on the Red Sea, Moroccan-style King Fahd Mosque, and the King Saud Mosque, a nearly 10,000 square meter structure designed by Egyptian architect Abdel Wahed Al Wakil, who is considered the most prominent living authority on modern Islamic architecture.

Prayer timing and Ramadan

Throughout Saudi Arabia, some shops and restaurants will close for 15 to 30 minutes during the five prayer times each day though the latest laws do allow many to stay open at this time. Prayer times change throughout the year according to sunrise and sunset, so check the daily prayer times online or in the local newspaper and plan around them. Playing music during prayers, even in the car or home, is illegal.

It is best to avoid visiting during Ramadan when it is forbidden to eat, drink, or smoke in public from sunrise to sunset. Many shops and restaurants close during the day or operate on shortened schedules, and some tourist attractions shutter for the month. The dates of Ramadan are based on the lunar calendar and change each year.

Nightlife has a different meaning in Saudi Arabia, as alcohol is illegal. The cities come alive after dark, and many coffee shops, shisha patios, and dessert cafes are open until 2 a.m. or later. Families walk the corniche or have evening picnics in the parks, and malls bustle with activity. Restaurants are generally open late to accommodate the lifestyle.

Tour guides

The best way to enjoy the history, culture and natural beauty of Saudi Arabia is to come prepared with a good understanding of the local laws and customs and a willingness to abide by them—a local guide can help you do that, particularly if you don't speak Arabic, and most hotels can provide recommendations of people for hire. Aymerich suggests hiring a new guide in each destination to make sure you’re getting the benefit of hyper-local insights and so you don’t get stuck with someone you’re not happy with for the entirety of your trip. Guides can also arrange for transportation if you want to get out of the city to explore more far flung locations.

To help single female travelers navigate Saudi Arabia, Nada al Nahdi , a Yemeni-Indonesian female traveler and blogger, who was born and raised in the Kingdom, and local Esraa Rayes organize female group travel throughout the country via their company, Qairawan . 

Due to the pandemic, there are no more visas issued on arrival, but e-visas are quickly approved for American travelers. The online application includes the option to purchase mandatory insurance for 140 SAR/$37 and pay the visa fee of 300 SAR/ $80. The e-visa typically is emailed within minutes and is valid for one-year with multiple entries and stays of up to 90-days at a time. ( Proof of vaccination and a negative PCR test, taken no more than 72-hours prior to traveling to the Kingdom, are also required as of January 2021.)

“The visa process was so easy, but that was the only thing that was well organized,” Aymerich said, adding that visitors should be prepared to be amenable to changes in their itineraries once they're in the country. “You need to be flexible, willing to ask people for advice, and a little bit lucky. If you are looking for an easy trip, this isn’t it—but if you’re ready for an adventure, to experience new things, there is so much to see in Saudi Arabia, and the people are wonderful and excited to share their culture.”

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Saudi Arabia

Travel Advisory January 24, 2024

Saudi arabia - level 3: reconsider travel.

Updated after periodic review to provide information on the risk of arrest due to social media use and the importation of prohibited items.

Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to  the threat of missile and drone attacks.   Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to  terrorism, the risk of arrest based on social media activity, and importation of prohibited items.  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to the following locations due to the threat of  missile and drone attacks  and  terrorism :

• Within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border, as well as the cities of Abha, Jizan, Najran, and Khamis Mushayt;
• Abha airport;
• Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah.

Country Summary : U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission responsibility must adhere to the above travel restrictions.  As such, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these locations.

Missile and drone attacks perpetrated by Iran and Iran-supported militant groups have occurred as recently as September 2023.  The Islamic Republic of Iran has in the past supplied Yemen-based Houthis and regional proxy groups with weapons to conduct destructive and sometimes lethal attacks using drones, missiles, and rockets against a variety of Saudi sites, including critical infrastructure, civilian airports, military bases, and energy facilities throughout the country, as well as vessels in Red Sea shipping lanes.  Past attacks were aimed at targets throughout Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran, Jizan, Khamis Mushayt, the civilian airport in Abha, Al Kharj, military installations in the south, as well as oil and gas facilities.

Debris from intercepted drones and missiles has also represented a significant risk to civilian areas and populations in the recent past.  Militant groups have threatened to conduct attacks against locations in Saudi Arabia.  U.S. citizens living and working near military bases and critical civilian infrastructure, particularly near the border with Yemen, are at heightened risk if missile, drone, or rocket attacks reoccur.

Terrorism continues to be a concern in Saudi Arabia.  Attacks can occur with little or no warning.  Past attacks have targeted tourist locations, large gatherings, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.  Terrorists are also known to time attacks around major holidays and/or in response to military operations.  Terrorists have targeted both Saudi and international interests, mosques and other religious sites (both Sunni and Shia), and places frequented by U.S. citizens.

Be advised that social media commentary – including past comments – which Saudi authorities may deem critical, offensive, or disruptive to public order, could lead to arrest .  This may include posting, re-posting, or liking comments about Saudi institutions, policies, and public life.  U.S. citizens have been convicted for social media activity under Saudi laws concerning cybercrime, terrorism, and disrupting public order.  Punishment for social media activity has included prison sentences of up to 45 years in some cases.  Saudi courts do not necessarily consider the timeframe of the posts or the location from which they were made to be material to these cases.

The importation of drugs (including marijuana), drug paraphernalia, alcohol, weapons, pork, or any materials that could be considered pornographic or suggestive, is prohibited.   Penalties for drug possession, consumption, and trafficking are severe by U.S. standards.  An extensive list of banned items is available on our Saudi Arabia country information page .

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Saudi Arabia, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM).  For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Saudi Arabia.

If you decide to travel to Saudi Arabia:

• Visit our website for information on  travel to high-risk areas .
• Stay alert in large crowds and/or locations frequented by foreign nationals.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Review local laws and conditions before traveling, including our Saudi Arabia country information on arrest notification and the Department of State’s general information on arrests of U.S. citizens abroad .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report   for Saudi Arabia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Yemen Border, Abha airport, and Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Militants in Yemen have attacked Saudi border towns and other sites in Saudi Arabia with armed drones, missiles, and rockets .  Civilians that are near the border with Yemen are especially at risk.   Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Saudi Arabia, including in Qatif.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border as U.S. government personnel and their families are restricted from travel to this area.

Visit our website for information on  travel to high-risk areas

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

A valid passport is required for U.S. citizens to enter or exit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A minimum of six months’ validity beyond the date of travel is recommended.

One page required for entry stamp.

Required for certain visa classes

More than 16,000 USD must be declared. Customs details are here .

Embassies and Consulates

The normal work week in Saudi Arabia is Sunday through Thursday.

U.S. Embassy Riyadh Abdullah Ibn Hudhafah As Sahmi Street Roundbaout no. 9, Diplomatic Quarter Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Telephone: (966) (11) 488-3800 Emergency Telephone: (966) (11) 488-3800 Fax: (966) (11) 488-7670 [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Jeddah Al Safa Street, Al Muhammadiyah District, near the new American School building. Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Telephone: (966) (12) 220-5000 Fax: (966) (12) 220-5093 [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Dhahran Off King Saud bin Abdulaziz Road, at the corner of Salaheddin al Ayoubi Street and Prince Fahd bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Street, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia Telephone:   (966) (13) 839-5700 Emergency Telephone:   (966) (13) 839-5700 Fax:   (966) (13) 330-6816 [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

See the  Embassy of Saudi Arabia’s website  for visa information.

COVID-19 Requirements: There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

For residency permit-holders (iqama), an exit/reentry permit is required to leave Saudi Arabia as well as six month’s validity on your passport to request an exit/reentry permit.

• Saudi law requires that residency permit-holders carry their residency card (iqama) at all times while in the Kingdom. Failure to do so could result in a fine of 3,000 Saudi riyals and a jail sentence of six weeks.
• Females and minors may require a male guardian’s permission to leave the country, including U.S. citizens or dual-nationals.
• You must exit Saudi Arabia using the passport for the nationality corresponding to the one on which you entered Saudi Arabia.

Saudi law requires all Saudi citizens to enter and depart the country with a Saudi travel document. If you enter the country on a Saudi laissez-passer (temporary travel document), you may encounter difficulty leaving the Kingdom.

Saudi embassies do not have the authority to adjudicate citizenship claims or issue passports, but they may issue a laissez-passer for presumed Saudi citizens for whom citizenship has not been adjudicated, such as children of a Saudi parent or parents who were married outside of Saudi Arabia. Once admitted to Saudi Arabia on a laissez-passer, the traveler must obtain a Saudi passport before leaving the country. Saudi nationality is not conferred quickly or easily, and the processing time for a Saudi passport in these cases has often been six months or years in some cases. Obtaining a U.S. passport will not help, as you will not be able to leave Saudi Arabia without an exit visa which will not be granted if you entered as a Saudi citizen.

The Department strongly recommends that U.S. citizens enter Saudi Arabia on a U.S. passport and Saudi visa, and not a laissez-passer.

Length of Stay:  Bearers of tourist visas are generally admitted for a 90-day stay and may not remain in the Kingdom more than 180 days in a twelve month period. Carefully check your visa validity and length of stay granted, and clarify any questions on permitted length of stay with Saudi immigration officials on arrival. Dates are calculated in accordance with the Hijri calendar, which differs from the Gregorian calendar.

If you overstay your visa, you could face significant fines, detention, and/or deportation, and a ban from returning to Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. Embassy is unable to intercede, reduce fines, or prevent incarceration if you violate Saudi law.

Travel Bans:  When placed under a travel ban, you cannot exit the country, even if you are a U.S. citizen or a dual U.S.-Saudi citizen. Travel bans are rigidly enforced and can take months or even years to resolve. Only Saudi Arabian authorities and sponsors can remove travel bans.

The government may issue travel bans on people who are/have:

• charged with criminal offenses;
• under investigation;
• involved in financial or labor disputes;
• failed to report to work according to the terms of the contract (absconded);
• unpaid debts or who have passed bad checks.

The list above is not exhaustive. Private Saudi citizens may also initiate travel bans against foreign citizens for various reasons.

Residency Permits:  If you are seeking residency in Saudi Arabia, make sure you have all required legal documents authenticated before arriving. Neither the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh nor the U.S. Consulates General in Jeddah or Dhahran can provide this service.

You should have all U.S. issued documents authenticated by the  Department of State Office of Authentications  (202-485-8000) and attested by the  Embassy of Saudi Arabia  in Washington D.C.

Work Visas: If you plan on working in Saudi Arabia, you must obtain a work visa before you arrive. Foreigners working in Saudi Arabia are subject to the country’s sponsorship system, which concedes substantial legal authority over the worker to the employer. This can include the ability to prevent the employee from leaving the country. American citizens considering working in Saudi Arabia should carefully review the information about employment in the “Local Laws and Special Circumstances” section below.

If the visitor or business visa has been annotated “not permitted to work,” you are not allowed to legally work in Saudi Arabia. You risk substantial financial penalties, detention, deportation, and a ban from returning to Saudi Arabia if you work without legal permission. Additionally, without a work visa, there would be no legal grounds to pursue a case against an employer should a dispute arise.

HIV/AIDS:  To obtain work and residence permits, you are required to obtain a medical report or physical examination confirming that you are free from contagious diseases, including HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. If you test positive for HIV/AIDS or hepatitis, you will not be allowed to work in the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia has not imposed HIV/AIDS or hepatitis travel restrictions on other categories of travelers. Please inquire directly with the  Embassy of Saudi Arabia  before you travel.

Vaccinations:  Visitors to Saudi Arabia should check vaccination requirements on the  Saudi Ministry of Health website.

Yemen Travel:  The Department strongly advises U.S. citizens against travel to Yemen due to the ongoing conflict in that country. See our  Yemen Travel Advisory  for further information. A visa is required to enter Saudi Arabia, and Saudi authorities generally do not permit foreign citizens to enter Saudi Arabia using land border crossings from Yemen. The Embassy and Consulates General cannot provide assistance to U.S. citizens seeking to cross the Yemeni-Saudi border.

Safety and Security

The Department of State advises you to exercise increased caution when traveling to Saudi Arabia due to terrorism and the threat of missile and drone attacks on civilian targets. See the Travel Advisory for Saudi Arabia here .

Do not travel:

• Within 50 miles of the border with Yemen due to terrorism and armed conflict.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Saudi Arabia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Terrorists have targeted both Saudi and Western government interests, mosques and other religious sites (both Sunni and Shia), and places frequented by U.S. citizens and other Westerners.

Houthis operating in Yemen have fired long-range missiles into Saudi Arabia, specifically targeting populated areas and civilian infrastructure; they have publicly stated their intent to continue doing so. Missile attacks have targeted major cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah, Riyadh’s international airport, Saudi Aramco facilities, and vessels in Red Sea shipping lanes. Rebel groups are also in possession of unmanned aerial systems (UASs or drones) which they have used to target civilian infrastructure and military facilities in Saudi Arabia. U.S. citizens living and working on or near such installations, particularly in areas near the border with Yemen, are at heightened risk of missile and drone attack.

On October 11, 2018 the Saudi General Authority for Civil Aviation issued a Notice to Airmen about threats to civil aviation and airports in Saudi Arabia posed by missiles and UASs launched from Yemen. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the U.S. Government’s Defense Internet NOTAM Service (Type “OEJD” in the search field, then click “View NOTAMs,” then scroll down to W0438/18 and click to view).

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the following locations as U.S. government personnel and their families are restricted from travel to:

• Within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border, including the cities of Jizan and Najran;
• Qatif in the Eastern province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah.

You can find additional details relating to safety and security in our Travel Advisory and Alerts and the website of the U.S. Mission in Saudi Arabia .

Crime: Crime in Saudi Arabia has increased over recent years but remains at levels far below most major metropolitan areas in the United States.

• You should be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables out of sight and secure, and travel with a companion, if possible.
• Some Saudi citizens who perceive that a foreigner is not observing conservative standards of conduct or dress have been known to harass, pursue, or assault that person.
• Even when released from detention, witnesses to criminal incidents may be prohibited from leaving the country until investigation of the incident is complete.

See the websites of the Department of State  and the  FBI for information on scams.

Victims of Crime: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime, you should contact the local police at “999” and contact the Embassy in Riyadh or one of the Consulates in Jeddah or Dhahran.Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See the Department of State’s webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

The Department can:

• help you identify appropriate medical care;
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms;
• provide a list of local attorneys;
• provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home;
• replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: If you are the victim of any form of physical violence, including domestic violence, you should contact the Saudi police by calling “999”.  In addition, victims of domestic violence can contact the Saudi National Domestic Violence Hotline by dialing “1919.” The Saudi Ministry of Labor and Social Development runs a network of shelters for women and children. Contacting the domestic violence hotline (“1919”) is the only way to access these shelters. The Saudi National Family Safety Program also runs a Child Help Line “116111” and can assist children in accessing Saudi social services.

When reporting domestic violence, it is imperative to get a case reference number as all Saudi social and legal assistance is tied to this case number. It is also a good idea to document any injuries and obtain a copy of any medical reports. U.S. citizens should be advised that filing a police report or utilizing any Saudi victims’ assistance services may result in the Saudi authorities informing your sponsor or guardian.

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or Consulates for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Dual Citizenship: Saudi Arabia generally does not recognize dual nationality. Saudi law requires Saudi citizens to obtain official permission from the government before obtaining a second nationality. At times, Saudi authorities have confiscated the passports of U.S. citizens applying for Saudi citizenship. This does not constitute loss of U.S. citizenship. If this happens to you or someone you know, report the incident to the U.S. Embassy.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or consulate immediately. Be aware that Saudi Arabia generally restricts consular notification of the arrest of foreigners to the Embassy of the country that issued the travel document used to enter the Kingdom. If you enter Saudi Arabia with a Saudi travel document, or with the passport of a country other than the United States, it will be extremely difficult for the U.S. Embassy to provide consular services if you are subsequently detained. Persons detained in Saudi Arabia may be held without charges for lengthy periods and denied access to counsel; dual citizens may not have consular assistance. See the Embassy’s webpage for further information.

Drones: The importation of drones for commercial or personal use is prohibited without prior approval from the General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA). A customs clearance certificate authorizing importation can be obtained as part of the GACA approval process. Visit GACA’s website for further information.

Criminal Penalties: While in Saudi Arabia, you are subject to local laws. If you violate Saudi laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled; arrested; imprisoned; held without trial for lengthy periods of time; interrogated without counsel; subject to corporal punishments, including lashings; or executed.

Penalties for the import, manufacture, possession, and consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs in Saudi Arabia are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences, heavy fines, public floggings, and deportation. The penalty for drug trafficking is death. Furthermore, some laws are prosecutable in the United States regardless of local law. For examples, see our webpage on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website .

There are substantial limitations on freedom of speech and political expression in Saudi Arabia. For additional information see the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Saudi Arabia .

Faith-Related Travel Issues: Islam is the official religion of the country and is present in all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia. See our Hajj and Umrah Fact Sheet .

• Saudi authorities do not permit criticism of Islam or Muslim religious figures, including on social media.
• The government prohibits the public practice of religions other than Islam. Non-Muslims suspected of violating these restrictions have been jailed and/or deported. Church services in private homes have been raided, and participants have been jailed and/or deported.
• Muslims who do not adhere to the strict interpretation of Islam prevalent in much of Saudi Arabia may encounter societal discrimination and constraints on public worship.
• Public display of non-Islamic religious articles, such as crosses and Bibles, is not permitted.
• Non-Muslims are forbidden to travel to Mecca and parts of Medina, the cities where two of Islam’s holiest mosques are located.
• See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report .

LGBTI Travelers: Same-sex sexual relations, even when consensual, are criminalized in Saudi Arabia. Violations of Saudi laws governing perceived expressions of, or support for, same-sex sexual relations, including on social media, may be subject to severe punishment. Potential penalties include fines, jail time, or death. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of the Department of State's Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what is generally found in the United States. Saudi law does not prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities, and there is no legislation requiring public accessibility. Newer commercial and government buildings, however, often include such access. According to the Ministry of Labor and Social Development, there are numerous government-sponsored centers for people with disabilities. Note that Saudi Arabia has limited infrastructure to care for those with mental disabilities.

Students: See the Department’s Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Residents and Travelers: Married women, including non-Saudis, require their husband's permission to depart the country, while unmarried women and children require the permission of their father or male guardian.

Minor children must have their father’s permission in order to leave the Kingdom. Children visiting their fathers in Saudi Arabia, even when there is a custody agreement, can be prevented from leaving unless the father consents. This is true even if the child is an American citizen. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates cannot obtain exit visas for the departure of minor children without their father/guardian's permission.

If a foreigner and a Saudi living in Saudi Arabia divorce, Saudi courts rarely grant permission for the foreign parent to leave the country with the children born during the marriage, even if he or she has been granted physical custody.

Foreign mothers of Saudi children, who are divorced or widowed, may apply for a permanent residency permit(iqama) without the need for a sponsor. To do so, they must prove maternity and that they were legally married to the Saudi father.

Also see the Department’s travel tips for Women Travelers .

Employment: The Arabic text of a contract governs employment and business arrangements under Saudi law. Verbal assurances or side letters are not binding under Saudi law. In the event of any contract dispute, Saudi authorities refer to the written contract.

• Sponsors have wide latitude and responsibilities for employees and family members under their sponsorship, including obtaining residence permits for the employee and for any family members.
• All residents should be issued a Saudi residence permit (iqama) and are legally required to carry it at all times.
• The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in Saudi Arabia cannot sponsor private U.S. citizens for Saudi visas.
• Sponsors have been known to demand that residents working in Saudi Arabia surrender their passports while in the Kingdom. Such practices are illegal and should be reported to the Ministry of Labor and Social Development .
• Since the Saudi sponsor controls the issuance of exit permits, U.S. citizens may be prevented by the sponsor from leaving Saudi Arabia in the event of a labor or business dispute, which could take months or years to resolve.
• To change employers within the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia requires the written permission of the original sponsoring employer.
• The U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulates General cannot assist in labor or business disputes, nor can they provide translation or legal services.
• U.S. consular officers can provide lists of local attorneys to help U.S. citizens settle business disputes, but ultimate responsibility for the resolution of disputes through the Saudi legal system, and payment for those services, lies with the parties involved. For additional information on Saudi labor law, please refer to the Ministry of Labor and Social Development’s webpage .
• Saudi customs authorities enforce strict regulations concerning the importation of such banned items as alcohol, weapons, and any item that is held to be contrary to the tenets of Islam (such as pork, anything considered pornographic under strict Islamic principles, and religious materials).
• Imported and domestic audiovisual media and reading matter are censored.
• Christmas and other holiday decorations, fashion magazines, and "suggestive" videos may be confiscated and the owner subject to penalties and fines.
• Electronic devices may be subject to inspection upon entry or exit. Please see the Department’s Customs Information page as well as the Saudi Customs webpage.

Importing Animals: The Saudi Ministry of Agriculture must approve all pets imported into Saudi Arabia.

• Cats and dogs entering Saudi Arabia require a Veterinary Health Certificate and a dated letter from the veterinary practitioner addressed to his/her sponsor to obtain the necessary approval from the Ministry of Agriculture.
• Both documents must be authenticated by the Department of Agriculture Veterinary Service Office and the State Department's Authentications Office and attested by the Embassy of Saudi Arabia .
• The certificate must indicate that the animal was examined and is free from disease and confirm that rabies and other vaccines are current. Information on the name, breed, sex, color, and age of the animal must also be stated.
• Please see additional information on taking a pet overseas .

Teaching English in Saudi Arabia: In recent years, increasing numbers of American language teachers have experienced contractual and other problems. Some teachers have complained about arbitrary dismissals, difficult living conditions, salary arrears, unwanted reassignments, restrictions on their movement, and inability to leave the country. Prospective teachers in Saudi Arabia should vet their potential employer and carefully review their employment offer as well as the detailed information found in the Embassy’s Guide to Teaching English in Saudi Arabia . Additionally, prospective teachers should also take care to make sure that they obtain the appropriate work visa prior to coming to Saudi Arabia. The Embassy cannot help you if you violate Saudi labor law.

Standards of Conduct and Religious Police: Norms for public behavior in Saudi Arabia are extremely conservative. Both the uniformed police and the religious police, referred to colloquially as the mutawwa or al-hay’a, are charged with enforcing these standards.

• Mutawwa are required to carry special identification and usually are accompanied by uniformed police.
• While a 2016 government decree withdrew the authority of the mutawwa to make arrests independently of regular police forces, visitors should be prudent in their interactions with mutawwa.
• An individual must, if requested, present his/her residence permit (iqama) or other identification to the mutawwa or the police.
• U.S. citizens who are involved in an incident with the mutawwa should report the incident to the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh or the U.S. Consulates General in Jeddah or Dhahran.

In most areas of Saudi Arabia, and particularly in Riyadh and the central part of the Kingdom, women wear a full-length covering known as an abaya. Most women in conservative areas also cover their hair with a hijab for modesty, and many also cover their faces with a niqab.

Tourists are expected to dress modestly in public, avoiding tight fitting clothing or clothes with profane language or images; women are not required to wear abayas or cover their hair but are expected to cover their shoulders and knees, and men should not go without a shirt. Women who choose not to conform to Saudi Arabia’s dress code face a risk of confrontation by mutawwa, negative or hostile comments by Saudi citizens, and possible detention Guidelines on public decorum for tourists are available at the Saudi government’s official tourism website, www.visitsaudi.com. Many areas of life in Saudi Arabia are segregated by sex to ensure that unrelated men and women have no possibility of mingling (a punishable crime) by unmarried men and women. Less frequently, members of the mutawwa try to enforce this by asking for proof that a couple is married or related. Men and women detained for socializing with individuals who are not relatives may be charged with moral crimes such as khulwa (mixing with unrelated members of the opposite sex). Less frequently, some restaurants may refuse to serve women who are not accompanied by a close male relative In addition, a few restaurants or cafes do not have a "family section" in which women are permitted to eat. Men not accompanied by a close female family member are not allowed to enter family sections and cannot use services (such as registers at supermarkets) designated as “family.” These restrictions are not always clearly posted.

While there are now movie theaters, musical concerts, and artistic performances in Saudi Arabia, the country remains socially conservative. Social media postings which contravene cultural standards can have legal and/or criminal consequences.

Photography: The Saudi government does not permit photography of governmental facilities, such as military bases and government buildings, nor military, security, or police personnel. The Saudi government is also sensitive to photographs that may be perceived as portraying the country in an unfavorable light. This policy can include photos of mosques, impoverished areas, the local population, and traditional souks (markets). You should not take anyone’s picture without clear consent, and never take a picture of a woman or a place where women congregate. Be aware of local sensitivities whenever you are taking pictures in public. U.S. citizens have been routinely detained for violating these policies. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General are unable to intervene if you violate Saudi law.

The Hajj and Umrah: Please review the Department of State’s Hajj and Umrah Fact Sheet for useful information on traveling to perform the Hajj or Umrah.

COVID-19 Testing:  COVID-19 testing is available to U.S. citizens throughout Saudi Arabia at public and private facilities. Private hospitals and clinics charge a fee for COVID-19 testing.  Cost, delivery method, and timing of results varies. Some facilities can electronically deliver results within 24 hours or less.  

COVID-19 Vaccines:  The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Saudi Arabia. For more information, please see the Ministry of Health’s website.

Visit the FDA's website to learn more about FDA-approved vaccines in the United States.

Medical care varies greatly in quality, and high-profile cases of medical malpractice and errors have occurred. Consult your regular physician if you are considering serious medical treatment in Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulates General do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers in Saudi Arabia accept cash or credit card payments.  See the Department’s webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . Supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation is strongly recommended. If you are covered by Saudi insurance, be sure to read the fine print: local insurance can have exclusions that are unusual in the United States. For example, some local policies may not supply coverage for accidents that occur while engaging in adventure sports, such as riding quad vehicles in the desert, that are a common past-time for expatriates.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  government of Saudi Arabia  to ensure the medication is legal in Saudi Arabia. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

Please note:

• Saudi Arabia has a dry climate with extreme heat several months of the year – travelers should stay hydrated.
• Air pollution is a significant concern in many parts of Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Al Jubail, Jeddah, and Dammam.
• Many infectious diseases, such as measles, typhoid, dengue, and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), are present in Saudi Arabia.

Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further health information, go to:

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention   (CDC)
• Saudi Ministry of Health

Medical care varies greatly in quality, and high profile cases of medical malpractice and errors have occurred. Consult your regular physician if you are considering serious medical treatment in Saudi Arabia.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.  See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. If you are covered by Saudi insurance, be sure to read the fine print: local insurance can have exclusions that are unusual in the United States. For example, some local policies may not supply coverage for accidents that occur while engaging in adventure sports, such as riding quad vehicles in the desert, that are a common past-time for expats.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  government of Saudi Arabia  to ensure the medication is legal in Saudi Arabia. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

For health-related information on the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), formerly called “novel coronavirus,” visit the  CDC’s MERS-CoV webpage .

Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations   recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving in Saudi Arabia can be hazardous due to speeding and aggressive driving, lax enforcement of traffic regulations, and a high volume of traffic.

Beginning on June 24, 2018, women have been able to obtain a driver’s license and can legally drive in Saudi Arabia. With a valid visitor visa and U.S. or international driver’s license, visitors may drive a rental car. However, outside the major cities of Riyadh, Dhahran and Jeddah, visitors—especially women—may experience difficulty renting a car. Female residents with independent sponsorships and U.S. or international driver’s licenses also may obtain a Saudi driver’s license, necessary to drive vehicles other than rental cars. Foreign women residing in Saudi Arabia who are listed as dependents on their Saudi residency permit (“iqama”) may experience difficulties in obtaining Saudi driver’s licenses. To drive vehicles other than rental cars, a Saudi driver’s license, appropriate car registration, and auto insurance are required. Police may detain you if you cannot produce these documents.

See the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Interior website for further information.

Traffic Laws :

• Temporary visitors may drive using their valid U.S. or international driver's license for up to 90 days.
• Foreigners resident in Saudi Arabia who wish to drive must obtain a local driver's license from the Department of Traffic Police.
• In the event of a traffic accident, U.S. citizens should dial “993” to report the accident. You must remain on the scene until the traffic police arrive. Failure to do so can result in a criminal offense.
• Additionally, U.S. citizens should contact Najm, a private company contracted by the traffic police to complete the accident report (+966 9200 00560).
• In the event of a traffic accident resulting in personal injury, everyone involved (if not seriously injured) is likely be taken to the local police station.
• All drivers, regardless of fault, can be held in custody for several days until responsibility is determined and any reparations paid.
• Use of front seat belts (driver and passenger) is required by law.
• U.S. citizens involved in a serious accident resulting in injury or death should immediately contact their sponsors and the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate.
• Residents should update their personal details through one of the methods available here to receive SMS notifications once a traffic ticket is issued.
• Delay in payment of any ticket might result in doubling of the ticket amount.
• Travelers will need to pay any fines issued through this system before leaving the country.

Public Transportation:

• U.S. Government employees are prohibited from using taxis in Saudi Arabia with the exception of Uber Black in Riyadh, Kareem First in Jeddah, and Majestic taxi service in Dhahran. If you must use a taxi, only use established companies, such as those offering cabs with meters. Taxis and lift services are available throughout major cities, and you should arrange a pickup by telephone or via smartphone app when possible.
• Avoid sitting in the front seat of a taxi, do not travel to unfamiliar areas, and do not enter taxis with unknown passengers.

Please refer to the Department’s Road Safety page for more information. Also, it is recommended that you visit the website of the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Interior .

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Saudi Arabia's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization aviation safety standards for oversight of Saudi Arabia's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA safety assessment page .

Information for Mariners:

Mariners should also review U.S. maritime alerts and advisories on the Maritime Security Communications with Industry Web Portal .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Saudi Arabia . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Saudi Arabia

Entry requirements.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Saudi Arabia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Saudi Embassy in the UK . 

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Saudi Arabia.

Passport validity requirements 

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. 

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Previous travel to Israel 

You may not be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia if your passport shows that you have travelled to, or were born, in Israel. 

Visa requirements 

You must get an e-visa or an electronic visa waiver (EVW) either before you travel or on arrival at any of Saudi Arabia’s international airports. The type of e-visa or EVW you choose depends on your reason for travelling and how long you want to stay.

If you overstay your visa, you could face large fines, detention and deportation. You could be banned from returning to Saudi Arabia.  

Applying for an e-visa 

You can apply for an e-visa if you are a tourist. You must get an e-visa to perform Umrah. 

E-visas are: 

• valid for 365 days from the date of issue 
• for visits of up to 90 days 
• for multiple entries  

Apply online or on arrival at any of Saudi Arabia’s international airports.  

You will need a separate visa for Hajj. See Pilgrimage . 

Applying for an electronic visa waiver (EVW) 

You can apply for an electronic visa waiver (EVW) if you’re travelling for: 

• medical treatment 
• Umrah (outside of Hajj Season)

An EVW allows you to enter Saudi Arabia once and stay for up to 6 months.  

Apply online for an EVW at least 48 hours before your flights, or up to 90 days in advance. You will need to give your flight details.

Travelling overland  

Your visa may only allow you to enter Saudi Arabia by air. If you plan to travel to Saudi Arabia by the Bahrain causeway, check your visa before travelling. Ask your travel agent or the Saudi Embassy if you need help. 

Travelling through Saudi Arabia 

If you’re transferring through Saudi Arabia, you may need a transit visa if: 

• you will pass through immigration control 
• you will leave Saudi Arabia on a separate ticket to the one you arrive on 
• the connecting time between your flights is more than 12 hours 

Check with your airline or travel agency if you require a transit visa.

Exit, re-entry and final exit permits 

If you live in Saudi Arabia, you must get an exit or re-entry permit from your sponsor to leave and re-enter the country. If you leave Saudi Arabia on a final exit permit, you must apply for a new visa to return to the country.  

Wives and children of Saudi nationals 

If you’re a woman married to a Saudi national, you must get a re-entry or final exit permit from your husband to leave Saudi Arabia. This also applies to children of Saudi nationals.

Flight restrictions around Hajj 

If you plan to travel around the time of the Hajj pilgrimage, check with your airline for any flight restrictions. 

The Saudi authorities have stopped visitors who are not performing Hajj from flying to Jeddah, Madinah and Taif. You may need a Hajj visa to board flights to these places during Hajj.  

You will still be able to enter Saudi Arabia through other airports.

Vaccination requirements  

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Saudi Arabia guide . 

Depending on your circumstances, these may include: 

• a yellow fever vaccination certificate  
• meningococcal quadrivalent vaccine

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Saudi Arabia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

It is illegal to import: 

• pork and pork products 
• pornographic material 
• distillery equipment 
• re-treaded or used tyres  
• used clothing except for personal use  

certain sculptures such as religious symbols     Other items may be examined, including: 

• personal videos 
• electronic devices  

You may need to special approval to bring: 

• agricultural seeds 
• live animals 
• religious books (except for personal use) 
• chemicals and harmful materials 
• some pharmaceutical products 
• wireless equipment  
• radio-controlled model airplanes 
• archaeological artefacts 

Using technical equipment 

You may need a licence for: 

• satellite phones 
• listening or recording devices 
• radio transmitters 
• powerful cameras or binoculars 

If you need information on customs rules, contact the Saudi Embassy . 

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Intrepid Launches Women-Led Tours In Saudi Arabia

Jesse Chase-Lubitz , Skift

April 4th, 2024 at 12:50 PM EDT

Intrepid’s new women-led tours in Saudi Arabia are about “focusing on the hosts, not just the travelers.”

Jesse Chase-Lubitz

Intrepid Travel has announced a women’s-only tour in Saudi Arabia — led by women, for women. 

The tour represents an effort to sidestep the luxury-focused travel industry in the country while giving travelers a more authentic experience and supporting the booming female labor force.

The launch follows several years of progress for Saudi women, who gained the right to drive in 2018 and to be tour guides in 2019. As the country seeks to become a leading travel destination, the percentage of women who make up the tourism workforce has skyrocketed to 45%.

“This shift had one positive effect, which is that it gave more rights to women,” said Zina Bencheikh, the managing director of EMEA for Intrepid Travel. “[This tour] effectively means that we can speak to women and we can meet women who own businesses, women guides, women who run restaurants.”

The 12-day adventure will bring travelers to female-owned establishments. “I think the beauty of traveling this way is to focus on the hosts, not just the travelers,” said Bencheikh.

Going Local, Not Luxury

The tour involves a family-owned citrus farm, rock formations, and giant tombs. Travelers will visit the holy site Medina, take a tour of Al-Balad in Jeddah with Saudi’s first female guide, and go on a cruise in the Red Sea.

Intrepid partnered with a local agent, Sara Omar, to design the trip. Omar has previously focused on planning trips for Saudi women to experience other parts of the world. Now, she’s helping Intrepid bring the world to Saudi women. 

“A lot of people think Saudi women are unable to do anything, that we’re not educated, that we don’t work. Meeting the locals is the best way to understand what the lifestyle is really like,” Omar said, according to Intrepid’s press release. 

The tour also taps into something that has been difficult for tour operators to breach in Saudi Arabia – local engagement. While the country has marketed themselves as a luxury destination, many travelers want a more authentic experience.

“I think the country has positioned their tourism in one part of the travel industry, which is that kind of more mainstream luxurious experience,” said Bencheikh. “But in my opinion, they are kind of missing the point. In all the reports we see that what people want is interaction with the local people.”

The Saudi tour is the latest in a series of women-led tours. Others include tours to India, Nepal, Morocco, Jordan and Pakistan, all of which have grown in popularity since their inception. 

These tours align with the travel experiences trends Intrepid is seeing, which show that female travelers above 50 are increasingly looking for solo meaningful experiences in lesser visited countries. 

Intrepid’s women-led trekking tour in Morocco launched in 2018 and now has 20 departures per year. “If you think about the economic impact for those women,” said Bencheikh. “Some of them never worked before and now they have a job that is paid for by doing something they enjoy.”

Bencheikh said that Intrepid is scoping for locations for new tours, and may have its eyes on Asia next. 

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Tags: intrepid travel , saudi arabia , Travel Experiences , women travelers

Photo credit: Sara Omar has helped Intrepid Travel design the women-led trip through Saudi Arabia Intrepid Travel

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Saudi Arabia travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 9, 2024 06:59 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, saudi arabia - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Saudi Arabia due to the threat of terrorist attacks and security incidents.

Border with Yemen - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to areas within 80 km of the border with Yemen, due to rocket, missile and mortar attacks on Saudi population centres near the border.

Abha International Airport - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the Abha International Airport, in Asir Province, due to the risk of missile and drone attacks.

Al Qatif and its suburbs - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to Qatif and surrounding suburbs, such as Al Awamiya, in Eastern Province. Ongoing tensions between Saudi security forces and local militants create potential for unrest.

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Border with Yemen

Armed groups in Yemen regularly target Saudi interests near the border in retaliation for Saudi involvement in the war in Yemen. Houthi militias regularly launch rockets, missiles and mortars at Saudi population centres near the border.

• Exercise extreme caution if you are travelling to or within other parts of southwestern Saudi Arabia
• Airports in the area may be closed with little or no notice. Verify your travel plans before leaving for the airport

Northern Saudi border

The Saudi authorities have declared an “out of bounds” zone of 20 km from:

• the entire northern border of the country
• the border in the Hafr al Batin and Khafji areas in Eastern Province

Violations are punishable by up to 30 months in prison and a SAR 25,000 fine.

Direct access to land border crossings remains available and signs are being placed in areas where vehicles are allowed to cross. Consult local authorities before attempting to cross a land border through this area.

From May to September, 2017, clashes between Saudi security forces and activists and militants have caused casualties in Al Awamiya in the Qatif region of Eastern Province. Although the situation has calmed, tensions remain high and there is a heavy security presence in the area.

Al Awamiya and Al Musawara

Civil unrest and armed clashes may occur. Saudi forces may impose curfews with little or no notice.

If you must travel to Al Awamiya and Al Musawara suburbs of Qatif, exercise extreme caution and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Missile strikes and drones

Missiles and drones have been launched from Yemen into Saudi Arabia, most of which have been intercepted and destroyed by Saudi air defence systems. The majority of these events occur close to the Yemen border, however some have occurred in cities such as Riyadh, Abha, Yanbu as well as in parts of the Eastern Province. Urban areas, military, oil and public facilities, such as airports, may be targeted by these missiles and drones. These events are expected to continue to occur and the situation remains unpredictable. Given the significant range of recent strikes Saudi Arabia, the Red Sea and the Gulf are at risk.

Missile and drone interceptions may cause scattered debris or fragments. Seek shelter during these events, stay away from doors and windows and follow the instructions of local authorities.

If you encounter debris or fragments:

• don’t get close to or touch them
• move away from them immediately
• contact local authorities

There is a threat of terrorism. Attacks have occurred throughout the country. Latest large-scale attacks have targeted the Shia minority in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia’s security forces and places of worship where large groups gather. Further attacks cannot be ruled out.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Heightened security measures are currently in place and may be reinforced on short notice.

• Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places
• Be particularly vigilant during religious holidays and public celebrations. Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks

There is a threat of kidnapping in Saudi Arabia. Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are illegal in Saudi Arabia. They occur predominantly in Shia communities in the Qatif area of Eastern Province. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Security forces quickly prevent demonstrations from forming or gathering momentum.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

The next Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca is expected to take place from June 14 to 19, 2024. Traffic in Mecca peaks during Eid al-Adha.

Religious sites during Hajj

There are safety risks at religious sites due to overcrowding. Pilgrims have been killed or injured in stampedes. The sites are far from the Canadian embassy. Contact your travel agent for information on available services and support.

Useful links

• Information on entry requirements during the pilgrimage

The crime rate is low. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, especially in crowded areas and at holy sites.

• Don’t show signs of affluence
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Road safety

Roads in larger cities are generally well maintained. Roads in rural areas are less developed, poorly lit and range from pavement to sand or gravel.

• Exercise extreme caution when driving
• Don’t drive off-road unless you are in a convoy of four-wheel-drive vehicles and with an experienced guide
• Ensure you are well prepared with a sufficient supply of gas, water and food, and a cell or satellite phone
• Leave your travel itinerary with a relative or friend

Driving risks

Poor driving habits, disregard for traffic laws and road markings, and excessive speed are common and cause fatal accidents.

Only use pre-arranged, licensed taxis. Avoid shared or unregistered taxis.

Marine transportation

Exercise caution if travelling by sea, including for recreational purposes, in the Gulf, particularly around the disputed islands of Abu Musa and Tunbs. Iran and the United Arab Emirates each claim sovereignty over the islands.

Pirate attacks occur in coastal waters and, in some cases, farther out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Saudi Arabian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Saudi Arabia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required  Business visa: required  Student visa: required  Working visa: required

All visa applications, with the exception of applications for tourist visas, must be sponsored by a Saudi citizen, a travel agency, or an organization.

Overstaying your visa will result in heavy fines, and you will be unable to exit the country until the fine has been paid.

Tourist visa

You can obtain a tourist visa online before your trip or upon arrival at the airport. The tourist visa allows for multiple entries and is valid for one year. You can stay up to a maximum of 90 days in total per visa. You cannot extend a visa. Muslim tourists can apply for the tourist visa to perform Umrah. A specific visa is required to perform Hajj.

Apply for a tourist visa online - Visit Saudi Arabia

Obtaining a visa

You can obtain a visa at an agency authorized by the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia to Canada in Ottawa. If you reside in a foreign country, you may obtain a visa from the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate.

Women entering Saudi Arabia

Women must be met by their sponsors at the port of arrival or risk being denied entry. This does not apply to women entering the country on a tourist visa.

You must present a valid Hajj or Umrah visa, depending on the pilgrimage you will be making. These visas are only valid for travel to Jeddah, Mecca and Medina, and for travel between these cities. Non-Muslims are forbidden from travelling to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Pilgrims performing Umrah and Hajj must travel with a travel agency that is accredited with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Female pilgrims under the age of 45 must be accompanied by a mahram (a close male relative). Female pilgrims over the age of 45 may travel unaccompanied by a mahram but with a travel agency, provided they submit a letter stating that their mahram, or someone who could be considered their mahram, authorizes their travel.

In the period preceding and during the Hajj pilgrimage, Muslim visitors with a valid Hajj visa will be allowed to board flights to Jeddah, Medina and Taif. Muslim travellers with business or visit visas must enter through any other entry point.

• Foreign representatives in Canada
• Nusuk Hajj Platform – Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah

Entry and exit permits

Holders of residency permits.

If you have a resident permit (iqama), you can't leave the country without obtaining an exit (or exit/re-entry visa if you intend to return to Saudi Arabia) from the Saudi Ministry of Interior. You must have your sponsor's approval to obtain these visas.

Single-entry visa

Single-entry visa holders don't need an exit permit.

Outstanding fees for dependents

Prior to exit, expatriates who have outstanding fees for dependents may be required to pay at the point of exit prior to departure if they have an exit re-entry visa, or on renewal of their exit re-entry visa.

Regional travel

Canadians have been denied entry into Saudi Arabia because their passports bore an Israeli visa, an Israeli border stamp or an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel. Such a stamp would indicate the traveller visited Israel prior to coming to Saudi Arabia.

Health entry requirements

You must produce a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test certificate and proof of a criminal background check if you intend to work in Saudi Arabia.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in Saudi Arabia - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Hajj 2024 - 26 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

There are vaccination entry requirements in place for travellers entering Saudi Arabia for Umrah, Hajj or for seasonal work in Hajj zones.

These include vaccinations for COVID-19, polio, meningococcal meningitis, and yellow fever. Before travelling, make sure you meet all requirements for participating in Hajj or Umrah.

For more information, visit the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Health’s page for Hajj and Umrah health regulations.

Hajj and Umrah Health Regulations - Ministry of Health in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (external)

Large numbers of people in small areas can enable the spread of infectious diseases and increase the risk of injury. Take the time to prepare for your trip and know how to reduce the risks.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Cases of locally-acquired   Middle East respiratory syndrome  (MERS) have been reported in this country.

MERS is a viral respiratory disease caused by the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).

Some people infected with MERS-CoV experience no symptoms, while others may experience mild flu-like or more severe pneumonia-like symptoms. About one-third of reported cases have result ed in death.

Eat and drink safely ,   and   avoid close contact with animals, especially camels. If you must visit a farm or market, make sure you practise good hygiene and  wash your hands  before and after contact with animals.

There is currently no licensed vaccine to protect against MERS.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Modern medical care is available in large cities. Adequate medical services are available in smaller cities. Immediate cash payment may be required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Legal process

The Saudi judicial system is based on Sharia (Islamic law). The legal process may be slow and cumbersome. Those suspected of, and witnesses to offences may be held for lengthy periods without access to legal counsel or consular officials. If access is granted, it may be severely limited by Saudi authorities. Seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Authorities may place a legal travel ban on individuals involved in ongoing legal cases or investigations, or who have outstanding debts. Saudi citizens are also permitted to place travel bans on individuals.

Drugs and alcohol

Penalties for the import, manufacture, possession and consumption of alcohol,  illegal drugs or products containing their ingredients are severe.

Saudi authorities practice zero tolerance and make no distinction between alcohol and soft or hard drugs. Drug offenders may be sentenced to corporeal punishment or death.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Religious proselytism

It's illegal to:

• engage in religious proselytizing
• criticize Islam
• practise any religion other than Islam in public spaces

Be cautious when discussing religious issues.

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

Dress and behaviour

The country’s customs, laws and regulations adhere to Islamic practices and beliefs. Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions in order to avoid offending local sensitivities, especially in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, and in mosques.

Women should observe the strict Saudi dress code and wear conservative and loose-fitting clothes, including a full-length cloak (abaya) and a head scarf. Men should not wear shorts in public or go without a shirt. Seek guidance concerning acceptable clothing before your arrival.

Public spaces

Avoid physical contact, such as holding hands, in public.

Women aren’t allowed to associate with men in public unless the women are accompanied by other family members. A woman can be charged with prostitution if she’s found associating with a man who is not a relative.

Restaurants can have two sections: one for men only, and the family section where families, accompanied females and unaccompanied females are served.

Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice

The Mutawa, also known as the religious police, have harassed, pursued and assaulted foreigners they believe disregard strict Saudi standards of conduct and dress. Often, they will simply instruct women to cover their hair. The Mutawa carry special identification and are typically accompanied by a uniformed police officer.

• If you’re stopped by the Mutawa, cooperate and ask them for their credentials. Offer to accompany them to the nearest police station
• Don’t hand over identification documents
• Inform your sponsors if the police retain your documents

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

The laws of Saudi Arabia prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Further, it is illegal to be transgender. Those convicted may face the death penalty.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Saudi Arabia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to show identification at any time.

• Carry identification documents, including your residency permit (iqama) or entry visa, at all times
• Leave your passport in a safe place and carry a photocopy for identification purposes

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Saudi Arabia.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Saudi Arabia, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

Marriage between a foreign woman and a Saudi man

A Saudi man who wishes to marry a foreign woman must obtain permission from Saudi authorities. He must also sign a document that gives irrevocable permission to his wife and the children born of their union to enter and exit the country without restrictions. This law has been in effect since 2008, and is not retroactive. Regardless, the foreign spouse and their children may still have difficulty leaving Saudi Arabia.

Common-law unions

Common-law relationships are illegal and are subject to severe punishment, including the death penalty.

Extramarital relations

Extramartial relations are illegal and subject to severe punishment, including the death penalty.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Saudi Arabia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Saudi Arabia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Saudi Arabia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Royal family

Criticizing the royal family is illegal.

Be cautious when discussing political issues.

Pork Products

It’s prohibited to import and consume pork-based products.

Photography

It’s forbidden to photograph official buildings (e.g. government, military institutions) and holy sites. Seek permission prior to photographing individuals.

Prohibited activities and censorship

Dancing and music are prohibited.

Imported and domestic audio-visual media and reading materials are censored in Saudi Arabia.

Imports and exports

Airport authorities will thoroughly examine all electronic devices entering or leaving Saudi Arabia. Pirated or explicit materials will be confiscated. You may be detained or deported if you don’t comply. If deported, you’ll be barred from re-entering Saudi Arabia.

The importation of any item that is held to be contrary to the tenets of Islam, such as pornographic materials, drugs, alcohol and weapons, is prohibited.

The work week is from Sunday to Thursday.

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Women are now legally allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia.

If you’re involved in an accident:

• don’t disturb the scene until the traffic patrol arrives
• don’t make any financial arrangement with the other drivers
• immediately contact your visa sponsor and the Canadian embassy in Riyadh or the Consulate of Canada in Jeddah

In a traffic accident resulting in personal injury, regardless of fault, drivers may be held for several days until responsibility is determined and restitution is made. If severe injuries or death occur, compensation may need to be paid to the victim’s family for the injuries or loss of life.

Automated ticketing system

Some Saudi cities have implemented an automated traffic ticketing system. All fines issued through this system must be paid before leaving the country. Payment can be made at the airport during regular Saudi office hours.

The currency is the Saudi riyal (SAR).

Heavy rains

Although Saudi Arabia is one of the driest countries in the world, heavy rains occur occasionally between the months of November and February and can cause major flooding. This can severely affect overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services.

• Exercise caution
• Monitor local news and weather reports
• Follow the advice of local authorities

Sand storms

The weather is very dry and hot from May to October. Sand storms and dust storms may occur during the summer months.

Shamals, sand-laden winds from the northern deserts, occur most frequently in early summer and can blow at significant speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. These storms can also cause respiratory problems, which can be fatal for some people.

If a dust storm is occurring:

• stay indoors
• keep windows closed
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 999
• medical assistance: 997
• firefighters: 998
• general security: 989

Consular assistance

Bahrain, Oman, Yemen

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Saudi Arabia, in Riyadh, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Travelling solo? Three Australian women share their experiences and tips for going it alone

There can be many barriers getting in the way of travelling — the cost, getting time off and rearranging care commitments.

But for many women there can be an added barrier — having no one to go with.

There seems to be more of a stigma about women travelling alone than men. 

Because it's not just loneliness or the potential awkwardness of being alone that can put some women off travelling solo — it's also about safety.

'Geography of fear' creates a barrier for women

Catheryn Khoo, professor and researcher of hospitality and tourism at Torrens University, says safety is an issue for everyone, not just women.

"It is more the social discourse around safety that is a huge barrier for women wanting to travel solo," Dr Khoo told the ABC.

"The media perpetuates danger by reinforcing.

"It creates the geography of fear for women and incites self-doubt."

But Dr Khoo says there are many good reasons for women to travel on their own.

"Women find themselves tied to the responsibilities attached to their roles as women, mothers, daughters, wives, and partners.

"But when they go on a solo journey, they no longer have to fulfil these roles.

"They live only for themselves and only have themselves to take care of."

And when they share these experiences, it can also empower other women to break the stigma. 

"Women who have actually travelled solo are creating a social acceptance of doing so, which gives others courage to do the same," Dr Khoo says.

"For these women, the motivations are personal growth, self-discovery, empowerment, and independence."

We spoke to three women about their experiences travelling alone. 

'Yearning for adventure'

Eleea Navarro has climbed Mount Fuji, ridden bareback with Andalusian horses in Spain and braved the heat of the Sahara Desert. 

And she did it all on her own.

"I feel confident travelling by myself," Eleea tells the ABC.

"And the thing that still pushes me to travel is the thrill of the unknown, my yearning for adventure, wanting to connect with new people, and wanting to get to know myself better.

"The beauty of going solo is that the only person you have to convince is yourself."

'Liberating' and 'overwhelming'

Travelling abroad was never a possibility for Chelsea Golding's family when she was growing up.

But now she's in her 20s, things are different. 

So when the timing felt right in 2023 she decided it was "now or never" and went on a solo trip through South-East Asia for three months.

"Going off on my own for the first time was definitely a shock to the system," Chelsea tells the ABC.

"It went in waves where it was the most liberating feeling, to something that felt quite overwhelming.

"But I would absolutely do it again, it was an amazing experience."

Writing the next chapter

For Donna Manders, the catalyst for her solo adventure was a little different.

After her divorce a few years ago, she found herself experiencing a lack of identity, not knowing who she was or where she fitted in. Even though she had love and support from her children, family, friends and work colleagues.

"I felt like I still had so much to offer and that I was only halfway through my life story," Donna tells the ABC.

"The usual commentary around situations like this, a middle-aged, divorced woman with grown children, is 'just keep going as the best is behind you now'.

"But that didn't feel right to me."

So, with an unexplainable desire to push herself, Donna decided to take a leap of faith and write the next chapter of her life story.

She travelled for two and a half months through Italy, England, and Scotland solo.

"Although it was a journey of emotions along the way, I learnt how capable and resilient I actually am," she says.

"I learnt to trust my intuition, lean into the solitude and silence, so I could finally hear myself."

But it wasn't all sunshine

Eleea says being able to travel is an incredible privilege, but warns that it is romanticised online.

"Just like in real life, you're likely to get exhausted, ripped off, sick, injured, financially stressed, overwhelmed, lost, confused, or lonely.

"I've experienced everything from intense food poisoning while on a 10-hour bus commute, being scammed by a dilapidated half-built resort in Hoi An, and getting bitten by bed bugs from a cheap hostel in Budapest.

"I was also depressingly lonely for days on end on one of my first solo trips to Vietnam.

"I resorted to crossing my fingers as people walked past, hoping they'd talk to me."

Donna says that although she felt excitement and joy, there were times where she felt isolated, lonely and sad, but was able to navigate her way out of those feelings with a few tools.

"I repeated my favourite affirmations, listened to music — this is where your favourite playlist comes into the picture — wrote in a journal, and just learnt to trust myself."

Chelsea recalls times where she was shouted at and experienced catcalling in Malaysia.

"There's probably nothing I could have done in that situation to make it less confronting, as I was already dressing modestly to respect the customs."

What are their safety tips?

Eleea recommends walking with confidence and trying not to look like a tourist.

"If you're following directions on maps, try putting one headphone in your ear to listen to the audio cues, instead of constantly looking down at the map on your phone," she said.

"This helps you stay more aware of your surroundings and look more confident, like a local."

Eleea says she also wore a plain ring on her wedding finger as a deterrent from unwanted attention.

Here's some more tips from our three solo travellers:

• Learn the language and customs of your destination 
• Give friends and family members your full itinerary
• Never go overseas without travel insurance
• Dress simply and don't wear expensive jewellery to avoid unwanted attention
• Keep in touch with a good support network, even if they're back home
• Switch on a 'find my phone' setting on your smartphone
• Travel light with your luggage so you confidently carry everything without help
• Book accommodation near public transport
• Project a sense of being in control, especially in crowded places and public transport areas
• Be wary about giving out the address of your accommodation
• Get an e-SIM or local SIM card that allows you to make calls and access the internet
• Call family of friends while walking out at night on a quiet road
• Carry your valuables in bum bag strapped around your waist or a crossbody bag
• Wear a backpack on the front of your body when in crowded places or on public transport

How to overcome solo travel fears

Do your homework before you start booking.

" Join a supportive online community that supports women's travel," Dr Khoo says.

"This will mitigate perceived risks, and eliminate fear, doubt, and anxiety.

"You can also read the empowering literature on solo travel and be inspired by the stories."

This was something Donna couldn't recommend enough.

Chelsea and Eleea recommend staying in hostels as a way to meet fellow travellers and build a sense of community away from home.

"I would often meet friends in my hostel dorm or on free walking tours on my first day in a new destination," Eleea says.

"I usually opt for the largest mixed gender hostel dorm available, as it's typically the cheapest and the most likely place to meet new friends.

"And most importantly, don't be afraid to say hello to somebody and start a conversation."

Prepare yourself for a certain level of discomfort, Chelsea says. 

"You can plan as much as possible but there will always be an element that you can't predict or feels out of your control.

"So being willing to be uncomfortable is necessary."

But Eleea believes overcoming these minor discomforts can make you more confident and resilient person.

"Plus if nothing goes wrong, then you have no funny stories to tell when you get home."

'Best thing I've ever done'

Donna says travelling on your own takes confidence and courage.

It helps you gain perspective and can reveal strengths you never knew you had. 

This is why Donna says it's the "best thing I've ever done". 

"I highly recommend it to anyone, especially middle aged women who may think their story is over.

"Don't be put off by your age.

"If you want to do it, give it a go."

For Eleea, solo travel has altered the course of her life in the most positive light.

"I have never regretted a trip, even if things weren't perfect.

"I feel so lucky to have the passport and freedom to see the world, and I try to appreciate and immerse myself in every moment."

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Buying into women’s tennis was Saudi Arabia’s obvious next step but brings new questions

F irst, there was boxing and Formula One, the heaviest punches and the fastest glamour . Then came the move for football, subtle enough to start, until the bottomless pits of cash hoovered up Cristiano Ronaldo and signed Lionel Messi to a $25m sponsorship contract, as the road was cleared to the 2034 World Cup . Golf was taken over by force , next in the dizzying spree as Saudi Arabia moved to establish itself at the centre of sport. Somehow, and yet unsurprisingly, when snooker unveiled plans for a new “fourth major”, Riyadh was announced as its host .

It was inevitable, therefore, that tennis would be among the next in line. Now, the worst-kept secret in the sport is out: Saudi Arabia will host the WTA Finals for the next three years at least, adding the season-ending tournament known as the “crown jewel” on the women’s tour to its ever-expanding portfolio of major events and sporting exhibitions. It was, after all, the logical next step , and a significant one: after ploughing billions into football, F1, boxing and golf, Saudi Arabia has made its first move into elite women’s sport.

It is a deal that will sit uncomfortably with many, particularly as women’s tennis retains such strong ties to a proud history of advocating equality, women’s rights and inclusivity. Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, represents an authoritarian state where women can still face discrimination within even domestic family environments and where LGBTQ+ relationships are criminalised. The WTA was well aware of criticism from two of its greatest champions, Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert , who said in an editorial for The Washington Post that staging the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia was a “step backward” for women and women’s sport.

The WTA signed up anyway, tellingly without the widespread condemnation from current players that followed even the slightest hint of Saudi Arabia’s tourism board sponsoring the Women’s World Cup last year.

Money talks, after all, and the WTA found itself in a position where it was badly needed. Its chairman and CEO, Steve Simon, told the Associated Press that although he “shared the concerns around women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights” within Saudi Arabia, the WTA’s focus was on “how we develop women’s tennis for the benefit of everybody involved in the game”. One of those who will certainly be seeking assurances, should she qualify for the eight-player season-ending finals, is the Russian world No 11 Daria Kasatkina, who came out as gay in 2022 and said last year that she held concerns about playing in Saudi Arabia.

Despite the questions and criticisms the announcement has attracted, the staging of the WTA Finals ultimately benefits Saudi Arabia. Of course, it is obvious why it would want to host such a prestigious event. Groups such as Amnesty International will say it is the latest step in the state’s efforts to “sportswash” its reputation, to cleanse itself of allegations of human rights abuses and proclaim – as Arij Almutabagani, the first elected female president of the Saudi Tennis Federation, did so in a press release – that “sport is driving much of the progress across our entire society”.

The question, really, is where? What tangible impact has sport’s influx into Saudi Arabia made on societal change? How has the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr or the appearances of Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua in the ring or the iron play of Brooks Koepka led to real progress for LGBTQ+ people and their lives? Activists, such as Human Rights Watch, maintain there are “serious human rights risks” for women, LGBTQ+ fans and players who attend the WTA Finals. That has not changed, despite Messi’s Visit Saudi adverts. Navratilova and Evert, when writing in The Washington Post, were justified in asking that, for once, the proof of societal change could precede the justification sports make after accepting the cash to play there.

Perhaps, though, women’s tennis believes it can be different and act as a force for good – not just wearing those empty words as a slogan. After all, Billie Jean King , one of the trailblazing founders of the WTA and a figure synonymous with the push for equal rights, both for women and the LGBTQ+ community, has supported taking the finals to Saudi Arabia. King, who is gay and married to a woman in Ilana Kloss, said change in the region cannot happen without “engagement”. Indeed, King’s comments last year appeared to soften the WTA, after initial criticism when rumours of staging the finals in Saudi Arabia first surfaced.

Meanwhile, Navratilova and Evert have been accused of holding onto “outdated stereotypes and Western-centric views” by Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States, Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud. And an element of that is possible, too: Ons Jabeur has demonstrated, through her joyful runs to the past two Wimbledon finals and by becoming the first Arab woman to reach a grand slam final, how barriers are starting to be broken down in the region . Should Jabeur qualify for Riyadh, her impact as an Arab player could be transformative. The world No 6 had already played in an exhibition match there, against Aryna Sabalenka.

“It’s great that the WTA has decided to go and play the finals there. As an Arab woman, I am proud to be part of this,” Jabeur said to The National . “It’s time to make the change and I hope as women athletes we could do that and inspire more women in the region and around the world.”

King, too, may reflect on the society that existed in the United States when she led the movement to create the WTA more than 50 years ago, and on the attitudes towards women’s sport that prevailed before she won her match against Bobby Riggs in 1973’s “Battle of the Sexes”.

But it is the legacy of King, Navratilova and Evert that led to women’s tennis becoming such an attractive proposition for Saudi Arabia to target. According to Forbes , tennis players made up nine of the 10 highest-paid female athletes in 2023, which in turn makes them some of the most influential and prominent sports stars in the world.

That the WTA Finals were available to buy was down to the event’s own failures, following the fiasco of Cancun last season , where players criticised the organisation. While the WTA said there were “multiple bids” to host the finals, Saudi Arabia had the means and the will to offer record prize money of £12m, an increase of 70 per cent from last year. It undoubtedly suited the WTA, after it was left in a lurch as a 10-year deal to host the tournament in Shenzhen collapsed, bringing to an end the revolving circus that saw the finals bounce unattractively from Texas to Cancun over the previous two seasons.

This was guaranteed money and Saudi Arabia offers the tournament a long-standing home; even if a three-year deal has only been signed for now, the sense is tennis is there to stay and the men’s tour will soon sign up. The ATP’s own end-of-year finale may be next once it moves on from Turin in 2025.

The question, now, is whether the WTA can live up to the legacy of King and follow through with its sentiment to enact “progress” and stimulate “engagement” within the region. Or whether, as seen elsewhere, such words are conveniently washed away following the inevitable cash grab.

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Saudi Arabia, Where Women Are Stoned To Death, To Lead UN Women's Rights Group

Women can be financially punished for refusing to have sex with their husband.

Saudi Arabia has been chosen to lead a top United Nations (UN) women's rights group. Campaigners have since lashed out at the unopposed bid, pointing the finger at the UN for ignoring the nation's "abysmal" treatment of women.

Abdulaziz Alwasil, Saudi Arabia's envoy to the UN, was named the chair of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). Alwasil's claim to the women's rights chair was utterly unchallenged, with no objection from any members present at the annual meeting.

Sources have also reported that Awasil was celebrated by a group of Asia-Pacific states on the commission.

The annual meeting was held in New York, and 45 members of the UN were in attendance.

At the meeting, it was announced that Saudi Arabia would hold the leadership role for at least two years.

Human rights groups were quick to note that Saudi Arabia's notorious record on gender equality has seen women stoned to death for adultery and a considerable gap between men's and women's rights.

Despite Saudi Arabia granting women a "personal status" in 2022, under the current laws, women are ordered to obey their husbands in a "reasonable manner".

A woman's financial freedom also depends on her "obedience" to her husband. Laws permit men to withhold funds for reasons including refusing to have sex with him, live in a marital home or travel with him without a "legitimate excuse."

Human Rights Watch also pointed out that a woman who chooses to leave the marital home risks losing custody of her child if it is in the child's undefined "best interest" to stay with their father.

United Nations Director at the Human Rights Watch (HRW), Louis Charbonneau, argued: "Saudi Arabia's election as chair of the UN Commission on the Status of Women shows shocking disregard for women's rights everywhere."

Saudi Arabia is "a country that jails women simply because they advocate for their rights and has no business being the face of the UN's top forum for women's rights and gender equality," Charbonneau added.

"Saudi authorities should demonstrate that this honour was not completely undeserved and immediately release all detained women's rights defenders, end male guardianship and ensure women's full rights to equality with men."

While the new law also explicitly states that a woman must obtain permission from a male guardian to marry, Saudi Arabia has pointed to the "personal status" as evidence of progress in women's rights.

The Saudi mission to the UN has not commented on the controversy.

Amnesty International's Sherine Tadros, the head of the New York office, warned: "Whoever is in the chair, which is now Saudi Arabia, is in a key position to influence the planning, the decisions, the taking stock, and looking ahead, in a critical year for the commission."

This news comes as Saudi Arabia was named chair of the CSW on the 30th anniversary of the passing of a landmark piece of international law that hugely advanced the rights of women across the world.

"Saudi Arabia is now at the helm, but Saudi Arabia's record on women's rights is abysmal and a far cry from the mandate of the commission," Tadros said.

The UK's Foreign Office, which is not a member of the Commission on the Status of Women, said it was not involved in selecting the chair.

A spokesperson for the Foreign Office said: "We continue to engage closely with the Saudi authorities on women's rights issues."

© Copyright IBTimes 2024. All rights reserved.

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Middle East latest: Israeli war cabinet 'favours response' to Iran attack but is 'split on scale and timing'

The five-member cabinet, in which Benjamin Netanyahu, defence minister Yoav Gallant and cabinet minister Benny Gantz have decision-making powers, met yesterday to discuss the attack - which saw over 330 missiles and drones fired at Israel.

Monday 15 April 2024 06:40, UK

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• Iran claims it issued 72-hour warning before attacking Israel - US refutes this
• 'The Middle East is on the brink', declares UN secretary general
• The big picture: What you need to know about Middle East crisis as we enter new week
• Analysis: What does Herzog's 'declaration of war' comment mean?
• Michael Clarke analysis : Israel's defence held against ambitious attack
• Podcast:  Iran attacks Israel, but what happens next?
• Live reporting by Bhvishya Patel

Turkish, Jordanian and Iraqi officials have said that Iran gave wide notice days before its drone and missile attack on Israel, but US officials have said Tehran did not warn Washington and that it was aiming to cause significant damage.

Most of the drones from Iran's attack were downed before reaching Israeli territory, though a young girl was critically injured and there were widespread concerns of further escalation.

Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian has said that Iran gave neighbouring countries and Israel's ally the US 72 hours' notice it would launch the strikes.

Turkey's foreign ministry said it had spoken to both Washington and Tehran before the attack.

"Iran said the reaction would be a response to Israel's attack on its embassy in Damascus and that it would not go beyond this. We were aware of the possibilities. The developments were not a surprise," said a Turkish diplomatic source.

But a senior official in Joe Biden's administration denied Mr Amirabdollahian's statement, saying Washington did have contact with Iran through Swiss intermediaries but did not get notice 72 hours in advance.

"That is absolutely not true," the official said. 

"They did not give a notification, nor did they give any sense of these will be the targets, so evacuate them."

Tehran sent the US a message only after the strikes began and the intent was to be "highly destructive" said the official, adding that Iran's claim of a widespread warning may be an attempt to compensate for the lack of any major damage from the attack.

Iran attacks Israel

On Saturday night, Iran launched a massive aerial attack on Israel, saying it was in retaliation to an airstrike on its embassy in Syria at the start of the month. 

More than 330 drones and missiles were fired at Israel, with the Israel Defence Forces claiming to have downed some 99% of them.

One young girl was injured, while damage was limited to a single Israeli air base - which is not thought to be severe. 

RAF jets and US aircraft were involved in defending Israel, intercepting drones before they arrived in the country. 

The attack marked a significant escalation in the Middle East and the Israeli war cabinet is said to be in agreement that a response is required - although members remain divided over its scale and timeframe. 

It came after Iranian Revolutionary Guard commandos hijacked a cargo ship linked to Israel in the Strait of Hormuz earlier on Saturday morning. 

Repelling from a helicopter, they boarded the MSC Aries and steered the vessel - and its 25 crew members - towards Iran.

Israel said Iran would "bear the consequences" for its actions, and demanded its allies sanction the country and proscribe the Guards as terrorists.

Iran is targeting Israel in response to the 1 April airstrike that killed Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi - a senior commander in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' overseas Quds Force, and six other officers as they attended a meeting in the Damascus embassy compound.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog told Sky News that the current situation "felt like a war" which Iran had effectively declared. 

Gaza ceasefire talks

Zooming in to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, and last week began with hope of a potential ceasefire in Gaza, with talks resuming in Cairo and sources in the Israeli government telling Sky News that Benjamin Netanyahu was "desperate" for a deal.

Hamas confirmed over the weekend it had rejected an Israeli proposal - the fifth time it has done so since the last ceasefire agreement collapsed at the end of last year. 

"We... reaffirm our adherence to our demands and the national demands of our people; with a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of the occupation army from the entire Gaza Strip, the return of the displaced to their areas and places of residence, intensification of the entry of relief and aid, and the start of reconstruction," Hamas said.

Another backdrop to all this was Israel withdrawing all but one brigade from southern Gaza - prompting further hope until it explained it was to prepare for future operations.

However, yesterday saw the IDF announce it is calling up two further reserve divisions for "operational missions in the Gaza Strip",

We also learned that a date had been set for a future operation in Rafah - which is currently sheltering 1.4 million Gazans. The international community has warned Israel that a ground operation there could have devastating consequences - but Israel believes an assault is necessary to eradicate the threat from Hamas.

Interestingly, senior Biden administration officials told CNN that Mr Netanyahu's pronouncement that a date has been set for an offensive in Rafah was bravado.

So far, more than 33,000 people have been killed in Gaza, according to Hamas-led authorities there.

Israel's military strategy 'not coherent'

Israel's military strategy in Gaza is "barely coherent" at present,  military analyst Professor Michael Clarke  said on Tuesday.

"The Israelis are leaving an awful lot to chance now because they've got one brigade, north of Khan Younis, and nobody near Rafah, where they say they will conduct an offensive at some point. And that will take, by their estimation, four to six weeks. 

"So, to be honest, the strategy is looking barely coherent at the moment from a military point of view."

Have a watch of Clarke's analysis...

Rishi Sunak last week defended the UK's decision not to suspend arms sales to Israel, saying "none of our closest allies" have done so. 

The British prime minister said the UK has a "long-established process" relating to the arms export regime and "we review these things regularly".

"That's led to no change. Actually none of our closest allies have currently suspended existing arms licences either, so we continue to discuss these things with our allies," he said. 

Meanwhile, the UK participated in the largest airdrop of aid into Gaza on a single day last week. Led by the Jordanian armed forces, a total of nine nations and 14 aircraft participated in the operation, delivering essential food, water and other supplies to civilians.

How Gaza conflict could be worsening Yemen's humanitarian crisis

On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by Alex and Yemen-born producer Ahmed Baider to explore how Houthi attacks on shipping lanes in the Red Sea, ostensibly in support of Gaza, are preventing aid from getting into Yemen.

Iran's ambassador to the UN has told Sky News that Israel's promise of a significant response to Saturday's attack is "a threat, not an action".

Amir Saeid Iravani was speaking exclusively to Sky's James Matthews after an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council in New York on Sunday.

You can read more of what he said in the story below:

US secretary of state Antony Blinken talked with counterparts in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey on Sunday about Iran's attack on Israel.

The US State Department said each country's representative was called separately.

Mr Blinken told them the US doesn't want the Middle East conflict to get any worse and will continue to support Israel's defence.

He and Egypt's foreign minister Sameh Shoukry also talked about the need to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza, protect Palestinian civilians and to strike an immediate ceasefire deal securing the release of all hostages.

Iranian ambassador to the UN Amir Saeid Iravani spoke to Sky's James Matthews after the UN Security Council meeting.

He was asked about Israel's threat of a significant response to his country's attack and he replied: "I think it is a threat, talk, not an action."

"An empty threat?" Matthews asked.

"They know that - they know that what would be our second retaliation, so they understand the next one will be most decisive."

Apologies for the poor sound quality in the clip.

Joe Biden spoke to two US Air Force squadrons on Saturday night to thank them for their involvement in defending Israel against an Iranian attack over the weekend.

Mr Biden commended the members of the 494th and 335th Fighter Squadrons "for their exceptional airmanship and skill".

494th is based at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) says its forces, supported by US European Command destroyers, destroyed more than 80 one-way attack drones and at least six ballistic missiles on 13 and 14 April.

The weapons were among more than 300 missiles and drones launched from Iran and Yemen towards Israel in retaliation for Israel's attack on the consular section of the Iranian embassy in Damascus on 1 April.

Iran's revenge attack on Israel caused little damage as most of the weapons were shot down by Israel's Iron Dome defence system and with help from the US, UK, France and Jordan.

Does Washington hold the key to de-escalation in the Middle East?

Or is the situation too far gone for the Biden administration to make any difference?

Here, our US correspondent Mark Stone examines whether one of the world's great powers can convince Israel not to retaliate... 

A short while ago, we spoke to a former Israeli minister of the interior, Ayelet Shaked.

She declared that Israel is "fighting a terror regime" in Iran, saying it is "funding terrorists all over the Middle East".

On Saturday night's attack, she declared: "Israel will retaliate in due time, in the shape and form that fits for us."

Israel will "do whatever we need in order to protect ourselves", she added. 

"The Middle East has its own rules, and Israel will respond," she added.

Asked if it would be wise, considering the war in Gaza and skirmishes with Hezbollah in Lebanon, to open up a new front with Iran, Ms Shaked said: "Last night was a wakeup call for the international community to wake up and understand that Iran should not have a nuclear weapon."

She said Iran has been getting close to getting a nuclear bomb over the last two years, and said: "Just imagine what [would have happened] if Iran had a nuclear bomb last night.

"So I think it's not the job of Israel, it's the job of the international community to take care of this specific threat."

Earlier, we reported on comments made by Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz, who said that the "incident is not over", with regards to Iran. 

Mr Gantz, himself a retired army general, said that Israel would exact a price from Iran in a manner and time "that's right for us". 

He described Iran as a "global problem" as well as a regional challenge. 

You can watch his full comments here... 

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