Saudi Arabia Travel Guide: Everything a First-Timer Needs to Know

As Saudi Arabia has recently caught the attention of tourists, many people are planning their first trips to the country.

When ancient cultures, rich history, and modern attractions blend, you get the most exciting and diverse experiences. And this is what Saudi Arabia promises.

If you want to visit the country soon, you will need a Saudi Arabia travel guide to help you explore the best places and have unforgettable experiences. 

Saudi Arabia has a lot to offer, but it might not be possible to see it all in just one trip. Therefore, getting your priorities straight and travelling the region respectfully is very important. Saudi Arabia is very dear to the Muslims and is representative of Islam in the world. Many UK citizens like yourself visit the country for pilgrimage, Hajj, or Umrah.

If you are visiting the country for an Umrah, you will start by booking the right Umrah packages. All the other things come after that.

And if you want to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism, you may need different kinds of guidance. Here is a comprehensive guide for both religious and non-religious tourists visiting the country soon. 

Understanding Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Tourism

You might already know that Saudi Arabia didn’t allow non-Muslim tourists until a few years ago. With rapid development in the region, Vision 2030 promoted global tourism in the country.

Only then did Saudi Arabia start allowing tourists into the country. Through this vision, the government introduced more tourist attractions, streamlined visa processes, and world-class hospitality.

With all the development, accessibility has improved surprisingly in the country. Now you can easily access the country’s fascinating cultural sites and vibrant modern cities. There are also countless untouched natural wonders here that have been hidden from tourists for the longest time.

You get a chance to explore it all, along with Saudi hospitality, rich culture, and delicious food that surely add to the experience. 

Visa Requirements for Umrah Pilgrims & Tourists 

To make travelling a lot easier, Saudi Arabia offers various visa options. Let’s talk about the requirements for three different types of visas to help you choose the correct one for yourself. 

Umrah Visa

Umrah visa is explicitly offered to the Umrah pilgrims. You can apply for this visa online or through an authorised Umrah travel agency in the UK. 

Tourist eVisa

A tourist visa is offered to travellers worldwide who want to explore the country’s tourist attractions. This multiple-entry visa also allows Muslims from certain specified countries to perform Umrah and engage in other religious activities. This can be applied online within a few minutes and is one of the most time-saving options. 

Transit Visa

Travellers who want to have a long layover in Saudi Arabia can avail of this visa. Make sure to check the latest requirements before applying for any visa. 

Best Time to Visit in Saudi Arabia

As you might already know, Saudi Arabia has a desert climate. This means the country is warm year-round, even scorching in summer.

Therefore, anyone who considers weather conditions at the destination a deal-breaker for them needs to know when the best time to visit the country is. 

October to March are some of the coolest months in the country, and weather-wise, these months are perfect for your trip to the government. June, July, and August might be the months that you need to avoid if you don’t want to face extreme weather conditions in the country. 

But if you want to visit Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage, you must know that the peak season for Umrah is the sacred month of Ramadan. This is the most rewarding time to perform Umrah and promises exceptional rewards. 

Cultural Do’s and Don’ts in Saudi Arabia

We are all aware of Saudi Arabia’s rich culture. Arab culture is deeply rooted in traditions and religion. Being respectful of the country’s culture and traditions is essential for a smoother journey and to avoid offending locals. Here are some cultural do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while travelling to Saudi Arabia. 

Follow the Dress Code Guidelines

No doubt the dress code guidelines have been relaxed over the years, but modest clothing is preferred and promoted. So, make sure that you pack loose-fitted clothes, longer tops, pants, and overall modest clothing. If you are going on the pilgrimage, make sure to pack clothes that comply with the Ihram guidelines. 

Greet People & Respect Hospitality 

Arab people greet each other with “Assalam-u-Alaikum”, which means Peace Be Upon You. Try to greet everyone with a smile. Also, accept dates and coffee whenever offered by locals, as they are signs of welcome. 

Avoid Public Display of Affection

Try to avoid public displays of affection. It is not part of the culture and religion in the area to show affection. And as a traveller, you must respect it. 

Top Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia

The top places to visit in the country include;

• Makkah and Madinah – The spiritual heart of Islam
• Riyadh – The capital city & bustling city charm
• Jeddah – Coastal and historic hub 
• AlUla – The archaeological gem 

Summing Up

Saudi Arabia is a beautiful destination with diverse experiences and a timeless charm. There are endless places to see in the country, whether you want to have a spiritual retreat or holiday adventures. Just plan your trip to the country perfectly and get ready to see the side of Saudi Arabia that you have always been curious about.