Visiting Saudi Arabia: Unveiling Cultural Norms and Etiquette
Planning a trip to Saudi Arabia? Get ready for an enriching experience! Discover the essentials of travel, from transport options and packing tips to navigating local customs like public displays of affection and alcohol norms Let's ensure you have an unforgettable visit to this fascinating Middle Eastern gem!
Saudi Arabia has set an ambitious target of attracting 150 million tourist visits by 2030. The introduction of travel e-visas, an increasing number of international air links, and a new 96-hour layover program have all contributed to making it easier logistically to visit the country.
Many first-time visitors, especially those unfamiliar with the Middle East or Muslim-majority countries, should do some research before traveling. It is essential to know that Saudi Arabia is not closed off from the world, despite only recently offering tourist visas since 2019.
Similar to major cities in Europe and North America, Jeddah and Riyadh boast hipster cafes, trendy arts and culture scenes, and professional sports teams with international players. Visitors will find that road signs, menus, maps, and other essential information are often available in both Arabic and English, and Western credit cards are widely accepted.
How do I get there?
Saudi Arabia's main air hubs are located in its two largest cities - the capital Riyadh and the port city Jeddah. There are frequent flights connecting to Doha, Dubai, London, and other major international airports.
When traveling within the country, there are multiple transportation options available. Internal flights are ideal for popular tourist destinations such as AlUla, known for its oasis and the archeological site of Hegra.
Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in infrastructure, including high-speed rail. Currently, the system primarily serves Jeddah and the surrounding areas, specifically the Muslim holy cities of Mecca and Medina, with plans for future expansion.
Foreign tourists in Saudi Arabia can rent cars and drive if they have their international driver's licenses and necessary paperwork in order. Additionally, Uber and Middle East rideshare apps like Careem and Kaiian are available in major cities, and English language options are offered. For those who prefer traditional taxi services, taxi stands are available in busy areas such as shopping malls and sports stadiums, and hotels can also assist in organizing taxi transportation.
A woman in long dress and headscarf takes a photo of a Rub al Khali sand dune in Saudi Arabia
Eric Lafforgue/Art in All of Us/Corbis/Getty Images
What should I pack?
Elena Nikolova, born in Bulgaria and a convert to Islam, currently living in Jeddah, serves as a valuable connection between the local and foreign communities. Through her website, Muslim Travel Girl, she provides helpful insights for visitors on what to anticipate during their travels.
Nikolova also clarifies that while many women in Jeddah and Riyadh wear abayas and niqabs, foreign visitors are not obligated to do so. She emphasizes that in major cities like Jeddah and Riyadh, wearing a headscarf or abaya is not necessary, as long as one's clothing adequately covers the body.
However, she emphasizes the importance of location, noting that smaller villages in rural areas may not have the same atmosphere as major cities. "For example, it is better to wear a maxi dress or an open abaya and scarf [there]," she suggests. Nikolova clarifies that these are guidelines, not laws - simply about "fitting in."
Uncovering animal sacrifices and astral tombs in the unexplored Saudi deserts.
Before a tour to Saudi Arabia, CEO of Culture Traveler, Kareem George, addressed clothing inquiries from clients. "I was intrigued by the diverse clothing I saw," he remarked, noting the mix of traditional and modern attire worn by Saudi men and women. Despite the overall modesty, there was a wide range of colors, styles, and textures.
It is not uncommon to see men wearing knee-length shorts and polo shirts, as the dress code for men is more relaxed. "There was no expectation for a foreigner to wear a thobe," George adds, referring to the traditional garment worn by many men in the Middle East. "My Western attire was accepted and not deemed rude in any way."
This place has been inhabited for centuries, but it has only recently become a tourist destination. When it comes to clothing, it is important to consider the weather and terrain. For example, if you are planning to hike or visit the desert attractions in AlUla, you should take tips from the locals: wear loose-fitting clothing, lightweight fabrics like linen and natural cotton, and hiking boots. It is not uncommon to see a Saudi woman wearing sneakers with her abaya.
Non-Muslims are welcome to visit mosques, which are often tourist attractions, but it is important to dress appropriately. Women should cover their hair as a sign of respect. Additionally, be sure to pack socks as you will be required to remove your shoes before entering the mosque.
A view of Riyadh at night
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Public displays of affection
The tourism industry in Saudi Arabia is on the rise, bringing with it increased cultural freedoms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of avoiding public displays of affection, as they may attract unwelcome attention, regardless of the individuals' gender or relationship status.
"Modesty in behavior and respecting personal space in public is generally expected," George explains.
Adding to this, Nikolova says, "While holding hands is acceptable, public displays of kissing, particularly for an extended period of time, are typically looked down upon because it can make the locals uncomfortable. In many Muslim countries, public displays of affection are reserved for private settings for couples."
Some regulations around unmarried couples have loosened in recent years.
In 2019, Saudi authorities announced that unmarried foreign couples would be permitted to share hotel rooms.
Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast is poised to become the next sought-after luxury tourism destination. According to the country's national travel authority website, LGBTQ tourists are welcome in Saudi Arabia, stating, "Everyone is welcome to visit Saudi, and we ask that they follow and respect our culture, traditions, and laws, as you would when visiting any other country in the world."
Gay sex is illegal and can result in fines, imprisonment, or even death. The UK Foreign Office and other organizations caution their citizens that homosexual or extra-marital sexual relations, as well as adultery, are against the law and can lead to harsh punishments.
There are also other social norms to consider. Typically, unrelated men and women do not spend time alone together in private spaces. However, it is important to observe the behavior of the local population and act accordingly.
It is acceptable for a foreign woman and a local man to conduct a business meeting in a public place, such as a coffee shop, or in an office with the door open. A simple polite hello is sufficient for greetings, as not everyone may be comfortable with shaking hands or kissing on the cheek, particularly between individuals of the opposite gender.
In urban areas like Jeddah, single women often utilize taxis driven by men, but it is customary for them to sit in the back seat at all times.
Raising a glass
"Women can actually travel safely in Saudi Arabia," according to Nikolova. "You'll see that many women venture out alone or with friends without any problems, especially in major cities like Jeddah and Riyadh."
Raising a glass
Alcohol is a widely debated topic for foreign tourists in Saudi Arabia. Unlike other nearby majority-Muslim countries like Qatar and the United Arab Emirates where alcohol is sold under specific, limited conditions and available in hotels, Saudi Arabia has a strict ban on alcohol. It is illegal for both locals and tourists, making it not just unfashionable, but against the law.
The alcohol ban isn't just limited to being on the ground in Saudi Arabia - it also applies to Saudia, the country's national airline. If you're used to enjoying a glass of wine to relax during a long flight, you may want to choose a different airline that does serve alcohol on board.
The Kaaba, in Mecca, is Islam's holiest site
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All in the timing
Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, is located in Saudi Arabia. Muslims must make the hajj, a religious pilgrimage to the city's holiest sites, at least once in their lifetime.
Nikolova suggests that despite the perception of Saudi Arabia as an unfavorable tourist destination, non-Muslims may find the hajj to be the optimal time to explore other parts of the country.
Tourist restrictions are in place in Jeddah, but the rest of Saudi Arabia is open to tourists, according to Nikolova. "Usually that time is also less crowded, as many locals and expats have two weeks off and leave the country for holidays."
For visiting mosques, it's best to avoid going on a Friday, the holiest day of the week, or during prayer times. Many mosques post visitor hours outside, and larger, more famous ones often have a website with more details.
Some mosques, such as those in Mecca and Medina, are off-limits to non-Muslims. It is also advisable for non-Muslims to avoid visiting during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. In 2024, Ramadan is expected to take place from March 10 to April 8, but the exact dates may vary.
Nikolova advises against traveling to Muslim countries during Ramadan due to limited activities during the day. She mentions that shops and restaurants usually open later or may not open at all because of the fasting schedule. Additionally, locals discourage summer visits due to extreme temperatures, which can reach up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (about 50 Celsius).
Because of the intense heat, certain businesses will temporarily close in the afternoon and then resume later in the day. For instance, in Jeddah's historic al-Balad neighborhood, many cafes and shops close for a few hours at midday.
If you're looking for a place to eat lunch, consider going to a mall - and don't forget to bring a sweater, as the air-conditioning can be very strong at times.
The Red Seas' opulent waterfront resorts are most enjoyable during the shoulder season when prices are more affordable. January usually has the coolest temperatures of the year, ranging from 64-68 Fahrenheit (18-20 degrees Celsius). Winter is the perfect time to partake in Saudi Arabia's numerous outdoor activities, such as hiking through historical archeological sites or stargazing in the desert.
CNNs Julia Buckley contributed reporting.
