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Saudi Arabia's strategic position has been a cornerstone of its historical, cultural, and economic narratives. This geographical advantage has not only facilitated trade routes across centuries but continues to shape its pivotal role in global economic and political spheres today. The Kingdom embraces this legacy by offering a gateway to billions through its invincible position, standing as a bridge that connects diverse cultures and economies.

The nation is rapidly evolving, propelled by its grand Vision 2030 initiative—a transformative blueprint that seeks to diversify its economy beyond oil dependency and spark a new era of innovation and growth. This ambition is fuelled by strategic investments in technology, renewable energy, and tourism, ensuring a resilient economy harmonized with global sustainability efforts. Saudi Arabia is becoming a hub for technology and tourism, capitalizing on its rich historical sites and developing cutting-edge smart cities such as Neom.

Moreover, the Kingdom's modern infrastructure supports this transformative vision, with expansive transportation links facilitating domestic mobility and international connectivity. These efforts are complemented by an invigorated cultural sector that proudly showcases its rich heritage while also embracing contemporary global influences. Through these dynamic advancements, life in Saudi Arabia is increasingly synonymous with opportunity and innovation.

Balancing tradition and modernity, Saudi Arabia is engaging in profound national dialogues to provide a vibrant future. The Kingdom is poised as a beacon of cultural exchange and economic dynamism, inviting the world to witness its journey. From vibrant metropolitan cities to the tranquil vastness of the desert, Saudi Arabia offers a living tapestry woven with diversity and promise. The prudent stewardship of its past alongside the creative envisioning of its future ensures that life in Saudi Arabia is not just thriving today but inspiring the generations of tomorrow.

 

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Saudi Arabia has a strategic geographical location. Saudi Arabia is the heart of the world as a hub for the three continents of Asia, Europe and Africa, surrounded by the most important water crossings. Saudi Arabia is located in the southwest of Asia, bordering it west of the Red Sea, east of the Persian Gulf, United Arab Emirates and Qatar, north of Kuwait, Iraq and Jordan, south of Yemen and Oman.
Space
Saudi Arabia occupies four fifths of the Arabian Peninsula with an estimated area of 2,000,000 square kilometers.

The General Authority for Statistics monitored that the total population of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (31,015,999) population for the year 1437 AH corresponding to 2016 at a growth rate of 2.55%. The population density is 15.3 individuals per square kilometre and the number of Saudis is 20774,906 for the year 1436 AH.

Climate Year Seasons in Saudi Arabia

When do you plan to visit the Kingdom?

Summer

Summer in Saudi Arabia is the perfect time to enjoy swimming and explore many of Saudi deep sea diving sites and experience surface diving and sailing, among others. For a cool summer ambience, it is advisable to visit the Taif Mountains or recreation near the Gulf waters in Dammam.

Winter

The winter in Saudi Arabia is mild by the day and cold at night, ideal for camping, rock climbing or exploring vibrant Saudi cities. Al Ula City is one of the most important winter destinations for its attractive archaeological sites such as ancient cemeteries. The snow view can also be enjoyed when visiting the northern regions and the Asir region.

Spring

The Kingdom's atmosphere in the spring varies depending on the region. The weather is tilted to cold in the north (temperature drops to 15 degrees at night), warm in the central and southern regions and rainy in the highlands of the Assir Mountains. In Riyadh, it is mild and suitable for outdoor activities such as walking and driving on sand dunes.

Autumn

The autumn weather is cold and nice in northern Saudi Arabia and the southwestern highlands, while daytime temperatures remain warm and can reach the 30s in early autumn. Evenings are milder and suitable for hiking, outdoor dining or recreation in desert soup springs, whether refreshing or warm.

Civilization

Saudi Arabia has a prestigious place among all the countries of the world, and God distinguished it by making it the cradle of Islam and the country of the two holy mosques, enjoying natural and human wealth, in addition to the Kingdom's leading and constructive role in political forums. The Kingdom enjoys an important cultural dimension added to the religious, economic and political dimensions, after which it is to:
• Its cultural depth, which dates back more than a million years, is confirmed by the archaeological and heritage evidence that is prevalent in our country.
• The monarchies and nations on its territory contributed to the march of human civilization.
• Its distinctive geographical location made it a crossroads of international trade routes across all ages.
• Being the cradle of Arabism, Islam and the country of the Two Holy Mosques.
• Being a forum for civilizations and a bridge to cultural communication.

Language

Arabic is the official language in Saudi Arabia and is the main language used in general transactions and transactions. English is an unofficial second language in the Kingdom and is spoken by a large part of the population. All traffic boards also display information in Arabic and English.

Public morals

Foul speech, loud behaviour and encroachment on others' boundaries are behaviors that indicate lack of respect. It is recommended that public fitness be respected at all times.

Alcohol and prohibited substances

The sale, purchase and consumption of alcohol and drugs is illegal in Saudi Arabia.

Religion

Some shops briefly close during prayer times to allow time for worship. During the holy month of Ramadan, the country's rhythm changes into a quiet spiritual rhythm.

Visas

  1. Traffic Visa/Transit What is a traffic/transit visa?
    The Transit visa allows visitors passing through Saudi Arabia to enter for a variety of purposes, including performing Umrah events, visiting the Prophet's Mosque or taking a short vacation amid trips and enjoying events such as Riyadh season and visiting attractions throughout the Kingdom.

Note: Travellers for Umrah or visiting purposes must schedule their appointments on the Nusk online platform Nusuk.sa before going to Mecca or Medina.

  1. **E-visa:**Information
    E-visa cost:
    SAR 395
    Application fees:
    Included in e-visa rate
    Medical Insurance Fees:
    Included in e-visa rate
    Number of entry times:
    Multiple Entry
    You must be at least 18 years old to enter alone. Travellers under the age of 18 may not enter unless they are accompanied by a parent, grandparent or sibling (over the age of 18).
    Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of entry into Saudi Arabia except for United States citizens. US citizens can enter as long as their passport is valid, regardless of the time remaining before expiry.
  2. **Visa on arrival:**Information
    Visa cost upon arrival:
    300 SAR (equivalent to approximately 80 USD)
    Medical Insurance Fees:
    SAR 95 (equivalent to approximately USD 25.33)
    Number of entry times:
    Multiple entry or single entry in accordance with the Saudi Foreign Ministry's decision
    Shelf Life:
    Multiple entry visas are valid for one year from the date of their issuance. Visa permits up to 90 days maximum stay

Once you arrive at your destination airport or another entry point in Saudi Arabia, you can use self-service devices or direct to the passport office to apply for your visa upon arrival.

Requirements You must be at least 18 years old to enter alone. Travellers under the age of 18 may not enter unless they are accompanied by a parent, grandparent or sibling (over the age of 18).
Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of entry into Saudi Arabia except for citizens of the United States of America where U.S. citizens can enter as long as their passport is valid, regardless of the time remaining before expiry.
Travellers wishing to perform Umrah events can book Umrah appointment via the official Nusk platform

Currency:

What to know about currencies, RIYAL and Halala payments and more
Tourists arriving in Saudi Arabia can transfer currencies and make all financial transactions easily. There is no reason to worry if you don't carry Saudi cash with you or don't know the difference between Rial and Hilal. Many shops, businesses, hotels, transport and others in the Kingdom accept credit card payments (Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay) and other smart cards. Under the "Cashless Society" policy, electronic payment in Saudi Arabia is a safe and easy way to carry out payments, sales and purchases with contactless cards and smart cards. It is no longer limited to online shopping, but has moved to paying invoices and other transactions electronically with a click of a button. Use this guide to get comprehensive information on Saudi currency and currency exchange rate, so you can take a full-time dive, visit attractions and shop.

 

Background information on Saudi currency:

The national currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR), which consists of 100 halalas. Paper currencies are available in the categories of 1, 5, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 riyals, while coins are in the category of 1 riyal or riyalin, 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 crescent.

What is the exchange rate in Saudi Arabia?

Equivalent to SAR 3.75 (fixed rate). See this conversion calculator website to Saudi Riyal to help you calculate the exchange rate and plan your trip budget.

All banks in Saudi Arabia offer currency exchange services. You can also find drainage desks at airports, some shopping malls and other locations throughout the Kingdom. Banking hours are usually 9:30 am to 4:30 pm Saturday to Thursday. Exchange offices often open later, but may charge higher commission fees.

Can I use credit cards in Saudi Arabia?

All banks in the Kingdom provide currency conversion services, and you can also find currency conversion offices at airports, some shopping malls and elsewhere across the Kingdom. Banks generally operate Saturday to Thursday between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm. (Currency conversion offices open to late hours, and you may get a higher commission.) ATMs are widely available and credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard and American Express, are accepted across the Kingdom, and many businesses also accept payment through digital payment methods, such as Apple Pay.

How much cash should you carry to Saudi Arabia?

When it comes to planning the cash you should bring with you on your trip to Saudi Arabia, it is best to budget beforehand, usually, two people can spend about SAR 750 (USD 200) per day on accommodation, meals, transportation and tourist activities. Many companies accept credit cards, so you don't need to carry cash for every purchase. Plans to pay hotels, most transportation and many meals with cards.

How can I send and receive money in Saudi Arabia?

You can send or receive money in Saudi Arabia by transferring money online or through a bank that provides fast money transfer services, all of which are subject to the rules and regulations of the Saudi Central Bank. For more information, here are some guidance on international funds in Saudi Arabia.

How much are taxes in Saudi Arabia?

VAT is an indirect tax imposed on all goods and services purchased and sold by enterprises, with some exceptions such as (government education and health care in government health centres), and VAT applies in more than 160 countries around the world, where it is a basic source of income that contributes to strengthening countries' budgets. VAT is levied at every stage of the supply chain, from production to distribution to final sale of the commodity or service.

Information on healthcare in the Kingdom:

What if you need to visit a doctor in Saudi Arabia?

If you need medical assistance, you can visit any hospital, clinic or clinic, many of which have English-speaking staff. You can also contact your embassy for help and make sure your travel insurance covers healthcare expenses.

Where to buy medicines in Saudi Arabia?

Medications such as painkillers, cough syrup and over-the-counter allergies can be purchased in most pharmacies (covering all places and neighbourhoods in Saudi Arabia, but the most effective drugs may require a prescription. Healthcare Applications

Connectivity and Internet

Saudi Arabia has a strong and fast internet network, so it ranks seventh in the world in terms of internet speeds on mobile phones, and fourth in 5G services.

SIM release method

You can get a SIM chip in Saudi Arabia from mobile network providers' stores and authorized agents

Telephone service providers
Among the major providers of telephone services in Saudi Arabia are STC (Saudi Telecom Company), Mobily and Zain.

Where to find free Wi-Fi?

Free Wi-Fi is available in most public areas, such as hotels, restaurants and cafes

Telecommunications Companies:

STC Telecommunication Union Company (Mobily)
Saudi Mobile Telecommunications Company (Zain)
Integrated Limited Telecommunications Company (SALAM)
Etihad Azib Telecommunications (GO)

Emergency Numbers in Saudi Arabia:

Police Number in Riyadh, Mecca and Eastern Region (911)
All other governorates in Saudi Arabia (999)

Useful numbers:
Tourism
Tourist Call Center: 930
International Tourism Call Center: 966920000890 +
Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Customer Service: 966920002814 +

Public Security

Saudi General Security: 989
General Passport Administration: 992
Emergency Medical Consultation: 937
Najm: 920000560

Other useful numbers

Municipal Services: 940
Ministry of Transport Emergency: 938
Department of Commerce Consumer Contact Center: 1900
General inquiries: 905

Regions of Saudi Arabia and governorates

The Kingdom is divided into 13 administrative regions:

These administrative areas are the largest and most important in the country's administrative structure. These administrative areas include: Eastern, Riyadh, Jazan, Najran, Asir, Hail, Mecca, Medina, Tabuk, Al-Jawf, Al-Qusaym, Northern Border and Al Qassim. With the division of administrative zones into governorates, these governorates were classified into two categories: (a) and (b), based on the level of services available in each governorate. This structural organization reflects the Kingdom's commitment to improving the quality and better provision of services to citizens across the country.

Housing in Saudi Arabia:
The user, tourist or visitor can also access furnished apartments and hotels via several apps in Saudi Arabia from Wire BNP property as well as Boxing and other apps that help to search for the right place.
Saudi Arabia is one of the countries that organized this housing and rental system around the world, providing a rental platform to guarantee tenant and lessee rights. A month, six months or a year can be rented and paid in accordance with the agreement between the two parties.
To use a rental platform you must have the following:

  1. Valid residence in Saudi Arabia
  2. Account in Absher Platform
  3. Have mobile activated in the Absher platform (Saudi number)

Transport in Saudi Arabia How to move around Saudi Arabia:
If you know your destination and what kind of experiences you prefer when you visit Saudi Arabia, navigation and access to your destination will be very easy. It is beautiful that you can discover a lot of attractions and move from one city to another within Saudi Arabia, through a distinctive network of public and private transport covering all parts of the Kingdom, ensuring you the highest standards of comfort and safety. Whether you're a hesitant visitor or a first-time visitor, our comprehensive guide will help you determine how to navigate from one landmark or city to another by plane, train, bus, taxi, limousine and other private cars.

Travel on flights to Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia features a network of highly efficient and secure airlines, with options such as "Saudi Airlines", "Riyadh Air", "Flynas", "FlyAdell" and "Riyadh Air". The aircraft provide amenities and luxury for travelers between all regions and cities of Saudi Arabia, in addition to ensuring full safety and safety, and an economic aviation program suited to all categories.

International Airports:

  • King Khalid International Airport (RUH) - Riyadh
  • King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) - Jeddah
  • King Fahd International Airport (DMM) - Dammam
  • Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) - Medina

Regional Airports:

  • Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport (TUU) - Tabuk
  • Prince Abdulmohsin bin Abdulaziz Airport (YNB) - Yanbu
  • King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Airport (GIZ) - Jazan
  • Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz Airport (ELQ) - Qassim
  • (AHB) - Abha
  • (HAS) - Hail
  • (TIF) - Taif
  • (AJF) - Al Jawf
  • (HOF) - Al Ahsa

Domestic Airports:

Ride by car explore Saudi Arabia's landmarks and cities by car! You can book a private car from the rental offices located in Saudi Arabia. You can also order a taxi or private delivery car from the Uber app, or a cream if you want to be comfortable with the burden of driving and spend all your daily spikes within any region of the Kingdom.
Car rental: Available to all international and local car rental companies.

Taxis (Taxi)
If you can't order a car from delivery apps like Uber or Cream, you can simply park a passing taxi from anywhere in major cities in Saudi Arabia, especially in crowded areas or during peak periods. All taxis have a digital meter detailing the outstanding fare, along with information about the driver and the operator. Some hotels also provide concierge services to help you order a taxi or Uber, and provide advice on how to get to your destination.

Delivery/Rig Order Services
Uber, Cream, Bolt

Touring using public transport
You can also use a network of public transport, both trains and buses, to visit areas and cities within the Kingdom with ease and convenience.

Trains
Inland Railway Network

SARR operates and manages a network of trains heading north, east and west of the Kingdom, providing all amenities and luxury on board its trains, while adhering to the highest standards of passenger safety.

Official holidays:
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Adha al-