Saudi Arabia has a reputation for being the holiest country for Islamists across the world, being home to the two most important cities of Islam, Mecca and Medina. For decades, Saudi Arabia was never promoted as a tourist destination. However, this has started to change since 2019. A handful of people know that KSA is a beautiful tourist destination. It promises an unforgettable journey for travellers, basking in its glory of picturesque heritage sites and undiscovered gems. If you are planning a trip to this fantastic destination, this Saudi Arabia travel guide will help you cover all the basic requirements on local laws, getting around and things to do.
The Saudi Arabia Travel Guide
- Official Name: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Currency: The official currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR).
- Capital: Riyadh
- Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
- Government: Monarchy
- Best Time to Visit: Winter months, from November to March, have pleasant weather and favourable temperatures for outdoor excursions. Avoid travelling to Saudi Arabia during the summer as the country is unbearably hot during that time.
Saudi Arabia Visa Application Process
Before you visit Saudi Arabia, you must understand its entry requirements. Except for GCC nationals, all other citizens require a Saudi Arabia visa for entry.
For example, if you are a UAE citizen, you do not need a visa; however, if you are an Indian staying in the UAE, you must apply for a tourist visa from an office or Embassy.
You need a valid passport, proof of accommodation, bank statements, and a travel itinerary to apply for a Saudi visa from Dubai.
Show an invitation letter in case someone sponsors your trip. If you’re a UK, US, or EU resident, you can easily apply online with an e-Visa application.
In 2022, KSA launched a free 96-hour transit visa for international visitors stopping by the airport. The visa application will vary depending on your type of request: single-entry and multiple-entry visas or 30-day and 90-day visas.
You can consult a local authorised visa agency to help you breeze through the application process and submit the application on your behalf. Visitors should leave the country before the visa expires.
Immigration and passport control at the airport. A woman border control officer puts a stamp in the US passport of an American citizen.
Visa process for Saudi Arabia from India
As of 2025, Indian passport holders planning a leisure trip, pilgrimage, or business trip can apply eVisa for Saudi Arabia through their official site.
You must have a valid passport, recent passport-size photos, and a travel itinerary before you apply for the visa. If you already have a valid US, UK or Schengen visa used once, you can apply for a visa on arrival, too.
Getting Around Saudi Arabia
Since the introduction of tourist visas in 2019, Saudi Arabia has improved and extended its public transportation system. There is a vast network connecting the cities and regions seamlessly.
Riyadh and Jeddah, the two major cities of KSA, have metro systems that make commuting convenient. Taxis are widely available in urban areas.
Make sure to use registered taxis for safety and reliability. There are also ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem, which are available in prominent cities and provide a convenient and private option for transportation.
Another cheap transportation option in Saudi Arabia is the public bus, which operates in major cities and connects different neighbourhoods.
Domestic flights are available if you need to travel between cities that are far apart. Saudi Arabia has a well-connected network of airports to help travel and explore every corner of the country in less time.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, always consider the local regulations, cultural norms, and safety precautions while getting around in Saudi Arabia.
Top places to visit in Saudi Arabia
Medina
Considered as one of the two holiest cities of Islam, Medina should be on your bucket list if you are visiting Saudi Arabia. It was established by the Prophet Mohammad, and today, it is one of the most culturally and religiously significant cities in the world. Visit the Al-Masjid-An-Nawabi mosque here, believed to have been established by the Prophet. It can accommodate up to a million devotees. The architecture is unique here. The Seven Mosques are a major tourist attraction in Saudi Arabia, especially during the Hajj season. These mosques played a significant role in the Battle of the Trench during the lifetime of the Prophet.
As part of your Saudi Arabia travel guide, Medina stands out as a spiritual and historical gem. Whether you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Saudi Arabia or exploring the best cities to visit in Saudi Arabia for tourists, Medina deserves a top spot on your itinerary.
Other Must-Visit Tourist Places in Medina:
1. Quba Mosque
The first mosque built in Islam, the Quba Mosque, is located just outside the city centre. A visit here is highly recommended when planning a Saudi Arabia trip, especially for those seeking a spiritual connection.
2. Qiblatain Mosque (Mosque of Two Qiblas)
This mosque holds immense historical value as the site where the prayer direction was changed from Jerusalem to Mecca. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Saudi Arabian tourism and Islamic heritage.
3. Mount Uhud
A visit to Mount Uhud offers not just scenic views but also a deep dive into early Islamic history. If you’re visiting Saudi Arabia for the first time, this site provides cultural and religious insight that is truly unforgettable.
4. The Medina Museum (Dar Al Madinah Museum)
For those who want to know what to expect before travelling to Saudi Arabia, this museum is a great place to start. It offers fascinating insights into Medina’s past and the Prophet’s life, helping tourists better understand cultural norms in Saudi Arabia for foreigners.
5. Al-Baqi Cemetery (Jannat al-Baqi)
This historic cemetery lies beside the Prophet’s Mosque and is considered sacred by Muslims around the world. If you’re compiling a list of the top places to visit in Saudi Arabia, this site holds both spiritual and historical importance.
6. Old Bazaar (Souq Al-Alawi)
Shopping at Medina’s traditional markets is an immersive cultural experience. Knowing what to wear in Saudi Arabia as a tourist can help you dress appropriately while respecting local customs during your visit.
7. Hejaz Railway Station
An architectural relic of the Ottoman period, this railway station is a must-see for history lovers and those crafting their own Saudi Arabia travel itinerary.
8. Traditional Arab Restaurants and Cafés
No Saudi Arabia travel guide is complete without mentioning the local cuisine. Trying authentic Hijazi dishes like Mandi or Kabsa can be one of the highlights of your trip.
Abha
A one-of-a-kind village in Saudi Arabia, Rijal Almaa is tucked 50 km from Abha, amid the mountains. This is a preserved village, where the tall buildings of 60 homes are made using Basalt rock, echoing stories from more than 700 years ago. Home to thousands of jacaranda trees, this town gets decorated in purple during spring in April-May.
If you think Saudi Arabia is all about the desert, you couldn’t be more wrong. Abha is one of the most famous hill stations in Saudi Arabia, with the Green Mountains being a major attraction for hikers. Other than that, you can also visit the Asir National Park to experience the unique wildlife of the region.
Other Top Places to Visit in and Around Abha:
- Cable Car Rides to Al Soudah
If you’re looking to include adventure in your Saudi Arabia travel itinerary, try the thrilling cable car ride to Al Soudah Park, located in the highest part of the country. It’s especially popular during summer as temperatures stay cool here.
- Tuesday Market (Souq Al Thulatha)
A traditional market where you can buy local crafts, spices, and clothing. Knowing what to wear in Saudi Arabia as a tourist can help you blend in while respectfully shopping and exploring.
- Asiri Cuisine Restaurants
Don’t miss out on local flavours like Areekah, Haneeth, and traditional lamb rice dishes. Dining here is not just about food—it’s an essential cultural experience in Saudi Arabian tourism.
Umm Al-Qamari Island
Don’t be surprised when you find a beautiful island amidst this Arabian desert. This is a city and a natural reserve located on the Red Sea coastline and spread over 4.03 square kilometres. It is teeming with birdlife, such as Turtle Doves and Herons.
If you are planning to explore beyond the typical desert landscapes, Umm Al-Qamari Island is a hidden gem that belongs in any thoughtful Saudi Arabia travel guide. As part of your Saudi Arabia trip planning, this island offers a rare combination of pristine natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and quiet seclusion, making it one of the top places to visit in Saudi Arabia for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Tips to know before visiting the Umm Al-Qamari Island
- Check local regulations, as entry to the island may be restricted during breeding seasons to protect the wildlife.
- Wear breathable and modest clothing; if you’re unsure, refer to a guide on what to wear in Saudi Arabia as a tourist.
- As with many eco-sensitive regions, it’s important to follow dos and don’ts in Saudi Arabia, especially related to protected areas.
Jeddah
On the eastern side of the Red Sea is Old Jeddah, reputed as a World Heritage Site. Tourists wander through winding alleys of this historical quarter that weaves a unique story. The streets are dotted with souks, mosques, and buildings.
The main highlight of Jeddha, according to me, is the Al Wabah Crater, a circular depression, believed to have been formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago.
The Al Tayabat City museum is a must-see attraction in Jeddah. It is constructed in the traditional Hijazi structure, something you will still find prevalent in Jeddah, with bay windows overlaid with intricate latticework.
Al Ula
Al Ula offers a breathtaking landscape, from the world’s largest mirrored building to sandstone outcrops. You can drive around and take Instagrammable pictures. Its Old Town is full of boutiques and shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts. It is home to the UNESCO Heritage Site of Hegra, often called the sister city of Petra in Jordan. The majestic and lonely tomb of Qasr al-Farid is an icon of Al Ula. Other than these, you can visit the Lion Tombs of Dadan, Jabal Ikmah’s prehistoric rock art and ride a hot air balloon over Al Ula’s landscape.
Top Experiences in Al Ula:
- Hegra (Madain Saleh) – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Often compared to Petra, this archaeological treasure features more than 100 well-preserved Nabatean tombs carved into massive sandstone formations.
- Qasr al-Farid (The Lonely Castle)
Carved from a single boulder, this unfinished tomb is striking in its isolation and architectural grandeur. It’s a top photo spot and a symbol of the ancient Nabataean civilisation.
- Lion Tombs of Dadan
Dating back to the Dadanite Kingdom, these tombs are guarded by stone-carved lions. Visiting this site adds depth to your understanding of pre-Islamic Arabian history and makes for a unique detour in your travel to Saudi Arabia.
- Jabal Ikmah
Known as an “open-air library,” this mountain features thousands of ancient inscriptions and rock carvings in early languages like Dadanitic.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Al Ula
One of the most exhilarating ways to experience Al Ula’s vast and surreal terrain is from the sky. If you’re creating a Saudi Arabia travel itinerary, this should be on your bucket list.
- Al Ula Old Town
Stroll through cobblestone alleys filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés. It’s a great place to shop for handicrafts, perfumes, and souvenirs.
- Maraya – The World’s Largest Mirrored Building
Set against the desert backdrop, this architectural wonder reflects the surrounding cliffs and sky, making it one of the most Instagrammable spots in Saudi Arabia.
Riyadh
Keep the capital city of Saudi Arabia for the last part of your itinerary. The famous National Museum of Riyadh is worth visiting as it is a historical centre in the country. Boasting numerous exhibitions on geology, historic kingdoms, and past lifestyles, this museum has served humanity with wisdom since 1999. Head to Dirah to learn the history and architecture of Old Riyadh and visit the Al Masmak Fortress. You can also go hiking around the rugged terrains in Riyadh. When in Riyadh, do not miss out on the Edge of the World, a massive canyon which makes you feel like standing at the edge of the world. However, it is quite difficult to navigate as the place is in the middle of nowhere. If you are planning for it, I would recommend you to go with one of the organized tours.
Top Attractions & Things to Do in Riyadh:
- National Museum of Saudi Arabia
Located in the King Abdulaziz Historical Centre, the museum explores the Kingdom’s evolution from prehistoric times to the modern era. It is a must-see for those interested in Saudi Arabia’s tourism and cultural depth.
- Al Masmak Fortress
A striking clay and mudbrick fort from the 19th century, Al Masmak is central to the story of Riyadh’s founding. It’s perfect for anyone exploring cultural norms in Saudi Arabia for foreigners or looking for historical gems beyond Mecca and Medina.
- Dirah Souq and Old Riyadh
Step back in time as you stroll through traditional markets and restored historical lanes. You’ll find authentic souvenirs, carpets, perfumes, and more, but just make sure you know what to wear in Saudi Arabia as a tourist before you go.
- Hiking in Riyadh’s Rugged Terrain
Riyadh offers a variety of scenic desert hikes. Some routes offer panoramic views of the surrounding rock formations, ideal for adventure seekers.
- Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn)
This dramatic escarpment north of Riyadh is one of the most iconic natural wonders in Saudi Arabia. The steep cliffs drop off into the horizon, offering the illusion of standing at the literal “edge of the world.” Due to its remoteness, it’s best visited via organised tour groups or with a 4×4 vehicle and local guide. If you’re listing the top places to visit in Saudi Arabia, this absolutely belongs there.
Local Laws & Travel Advice
Once you have applied for a visa, learning about local rules and regulations is next. Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country that follows conservative customs and practices. Here is the common advice for happy travelling in Saudi Arabia:
- One must dress modestly when in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Locals are often found wearing an abaya (females) and thoub (males).
- These are not, however, compulsory for non-Muslim women and men. Women can wear a headscarf in places where they are compulsory. Avoid wearing transparent or revealing clothes.
- Put on dresses that cover your shoulders, arms, and legs. Women are expected to wear loose-fitting and decent clothes.
- Public eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited during the daylight hours of Ramadan.
- If you are visiting Saudi Arabia with your spouse or partner, remember that public displays of affection, such as holding hands, hugging, and kissing, are unacceptable in public.
- Avoid throwing public slurs or criticism at Islam or the Royal Family. It is better to avoid such general discussion as it is considered illegal and punishable.
- This country has a loud demarcation of functioning between men and women. You need to respect these boundaries and adhere to any gender segregation guidelines.
- Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially of people. Photography of government buildings and certain areas may be restricted, so be aware of your surroundings.
- Greetings are important. Learn a few basic Arabic phrases and use them, as they are considered respectful.
- Fridays are considered public holidays, so it is better not to plan or schedule meetings on this day.
- You must greet people with respect and regard. Do not ignore the non-verbal clues, and maintain eye contact.
- Alcohol is not allowed in the country, and hence, consuming any alcoholic beverages is illegal.
Other Travel Tips
To understand the budget of the Saudi Arabia trip, keep track of the latest exchange rate of the Saudi Riyal. This will give you an idea of how much money will be involved in the expense.
Although most credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants, carrying some cash is a good idea.
To get an overview of your Saudi Arabia travel budget, consider all factors, from accommodation and transport to attractions and food.
Pack sunscreen, a hat, prescribed medicines, a small backpack, and hiking shoes.
Don’t forget to use a map to be aware of your routes.
Book the flight tickets a few months before the date to ensure the lowest price. You may sign up for flight price-drop alerts beforehand.
Visiting Saudi Arabia is an enriching experience for travellers. It has recently emerged as a tourist destination, so it is vital to be aware of and respect its local customs. From the simplest way of getting a KSA visa to the dress code, this guide has it all. This way, you can have a more enjoyable and culturally enriching trip to Saudi Arabia.