Saudi Arabia
 Travel Essentials

Visa Types: Most travelers require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. Options include tourist visas, business visas, and pilgrimage visas (Umrah or Hajj) 🕌. Apply online through the Saudi eVisa portal or at your local embassy.

Eligibility: Citizens of select countries can obtain a visa on arrival 🌏. Check if you qualify.

Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date 📅.

Health Requirements: Stay updated on any vaccination or COVID-19 testing requirements 💉

Dress Code: Women should wear an abaya (a loose-fitting robe) in public, and men should dress modestly 👗👕. While a headscarf is not mandatory for tourists, it may be appreciated in certain settings.

Behavior: Public displays of affection are discouraged 🚫❤️. Be mindful of gender-specific spaces and interactions.

Religious Practices: Saudi Arabia observes Islamic laws, including daily prayers and the holy month of Ramadan 🕌🌙. Avoid eating or drinking in public during fasting hours.

Photography: Seek permission before photographing locals, especially women or government buildings 📸.

Transportation: Domestic flights ✈️ connect major cities, while trains 🚄 are a scenic way to travel between Riyadh, Dammam, and Al-Qassim. Rideshare apps like Uber and Careem are widely available 🚖.

Accommodation: From luxury hotels 🏨 to traditional stays in mud-brick homes 🏠, there are lodging options for every budget.

Tips: Plan your routes in advance and consider renting a car 🚗 for remote destinations.

Currency and Payments: The Saudi Riyal (SAR) is the local currency 💵. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable.

Language: Arabic is the official language 🇸🇦, but English is commonly spoken in urban areas 🗣️.

Weather: The best time to visit is between October and March 🌤️, when temperatures are cooler.

Packing Essentials: Include sunscreen ☀️, comfortable shoes 👟, and modest clothing suitable for the climate 👗.