Welcome to Saudi Arabia 😊
Saudi Arabia is a country in the Middle East known for its vast desert landscapes, rich cultural history, and Islamic heritage. It is the birthplace of Islam and home to the two holiest cities in the Islamic world, Mecca and Medina. With its oil reserves and modern infrastructure, Saudi Arabia is one of the wealthiest nations in the region, boasting impressive skyscrapers and luxurious shopping centers. However, conservative social and religious norms still prevail, including the strict dress codes for women and the ban on alcohol. The country is also known for its Bedouin culture, which still thrives in some remote areas.
Quick Facts About Saudi Arabia
- Currency: Saudi Riyal
- Population: 33.7 million
- Languages: Arabic
Money and Finances
The currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR), which is divided into 100 halalas. Coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 halalas, and notes come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Riyals.
ATM Network
ATMs are widely available in Saudi Arabia, particularly in major cities and tourist areas. Most accept international cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Saudi Arabia, although some smaller shops and local markets may only accept cash. Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX are generally accepted.
Internet and Phones
In Saudi Arabia, the average download speed is 33.3 Mbps and the average upload speed is 9.1 Mbps. The government heavily regulates and censors internet content in the country.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
The two major telco companies in Saudi Arabia are STC and Mobily. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around SAR 100 per month. Sim compatibility depends on the type of phone and frequency bands used by the telcos.
Dialling to Saudi Arabia
To call Saudi Arabia from another country, dial +966 followed by the area code and local number. The area codes used within the country are 01 for Riyadh, 02 for Jeddah, 03 for Dammam, and so on.
Transport Around Saudi Arabia
Air Travel
Saudi Arabia has several major airports, including King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam.
Train Travel
The inter-city train network in Saudi Arabia is operated by Saudi Railways Organization. The journey time between Riyadh and Jeddah is approximately 5 hours, and ticket prices start at around 100 SAR.
Metro / Local Trains
The major cities in Saudi Arabia have metro systems, including the Riyadh Metro and Jeddah Metro.
Buses
Saudi Arabia has a national bus network, operated by the Saudi Arabian Public Transportation Company. Fares are generally inexpensive, with journeys starting at around 10 SAR.
Rideshare
The main rideshare company in Saudi Arabia is Careem, which offers competitive prices for travel across the country.
Driving by Car
Driving in Saudi Arabia is generally easy, with well-maintained roads and highways. The speed limit on highways is usually 120 km/h, and the country has right hand drive. However, women were only recently given the right to drive in 2018, and there are still some restrictions in place for female drivers.
Local Customs
In Saudi Arabia, tipping is not expected or common. Locals typically greet each other with a handshake and sometimes a slight bow. It is important to note that public displays of affection, including hand holding and kissing, between opposite sexes are considered inappropriate. Men and women typically do not address each other directly in public unless they are related or have a professional relationship. It is also important to dress modestly in public places, with women covering their hair and wearing loose clothing.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
In Saudi Arabia, the health system is centralized and government-funded, with a mix of public and private facilities. Public healthcare services are free or low-cost for citizens and residents, while private healthcare can be more expensive. Visitors are required to have health insurance to cover any medical expenses. A visit to a doctor can cost around SAR 200-500 (USD 53-133).
COVID Situation
Saudi Arabia has implemented strict measures to control the spread of COVID-19, including suspending international travel and imposing lockdowns in certain areas. As of June 2021, the country has reported over 465,000 confirmed cases and over 7,500 deaths.
Common Health Risks
The main health risks in Saudi Arabia include food and water-borne illnesses such as diarrhea and hepatitis A, especially for travelers who are not accustomed to the local cuisine. Malaria is also a risk in some rural areas, particularly during the rainy season. Visitors to Saudi Arabia should also take precautions to avoid heatstroke and dehydration, especially during the summer months when temperatures can reach over 50°C (122°F).
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
In Saudi Arabia, the consumption, sale, and production of alcohol is strictly banned. People who violate this law can be subject to severe punishments including imprisonment, fines, and deportation.
Recreational Drugs
Saudi Arabia has a zero-tolerance policy towards drug use, and severe punishments including the death penalty can be imposed for drug trafficking and possession.
Pre-Marital Relationships
In Saudi Arabia, pre-marital relationships are not allowed and can be considered a crime. This includes any kind of physical contact or dating before marriage.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
In Saudi Arabia, homosexuality is strictly prohibited and can be punished by the death penalty. Same-sex relationships are illegal in the country and can face severe punishments.
Firearms / Guns
Saudi Arabia has strict gun laws and does not allow the private ownership of firearms. Only law enforcement officials and those with special permits are allowed to possess firearms.