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If you prefer to travel off the beaten path and want to explore uncharted territory, make sure to consider Saudi Arabia for your next trip. Although the country has historically been off-limits for tourists, but now individuals from 49 countries can apply for an Electronic Visa and visit for up to 90 days.
Convenient Online Visa Applications
While you could only visit Saudi Arabia for employment, approved family visits or religious reasons in the past, you can now apply for a tourist visa online or upon arrival. Saudi Arabia eVisas will cost tourists 400 Saudi riyals, or around $117 USD, which includes a fee for health insurance.
No Need to Wear Abayas for Foreign Women
Where Saudi women typically wear traditional black robes known as abayas, the Saudi government has made sure female tourists know these traditional garments are not required. Foreign women who visit the Kingdom can wear regular clothing and do not need to cover their heads or wear traditional garments.
Just Dress Modestly
Despite opening its doors to tourists, Saudi Arabia does expect its guests to dress modestly. This means women should have their knees and shoulders covered. Dresses, trousers and longer skirts are perfectly acceptable to pack and wear out and about during your Saudi vacation.
Rules Relaxed for Tourists
In addition to requirements for modest dress, Saudi Arabia does list some common-sense rules for tourists to follow. You can be fined for public displays of affection such as kissing, jumping ahead in lines, littering and playing loud music during prayer times, for example. While it may seem strange to have rules to follow on vacation, all the tourist guidelines seem reasonable and simple to follow.
Stay at the Famous Kingdom Centre
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s Kingdom Centre tower, is world-famous for its beauty and splendor, but you may be surprised to find out that this tower is home to the city’s Four Seasons hotel. This five-star property features spa facilities, luxurious rooms and suites, and some over-the-top dining options.
Women-Friendly Hotels
Riyadh’s famous Al Faisaliah Hotel may just be one of the most female-friendly hotels in Saudi Arabia. This property features an exclusive spa and pool area for women with relaxation areas, treatment areas, pools, a jacuzzi and more. This resort is a favourite among the elite, and it’s easy to see why.
Tourism Infrastructure
The Al Faisaliah Hotel is also home to The Globe – a sphere-shaped dining venue that overlooks the spectacular Riyadh skyline. Come here to see epic views of the Kingdom Centre and all of Riyadh while enjoying a luxurious menu of sumptuous European cuisine.
Gender Segregation Remains
While Saudi Arabia has become more liberal over the years, don’t forget that some remnants of gender segregation still exist. It’s not unusual to see men-only spas and swimming facilities, men-only bowling alleys and more. Airports, department stores and other places of interest often have separate entrances for women and men.
Plan Your Trips With Uber
Worried how you’ll get around in Saudi Arabia? Don’t be. The Kingdom boasts Uber and a similar service known as Careem. You can call an Uber or Careem for a ride almost anywhere, just like at home. You can even select the car type you want to be picked up in, and you’ll know ahead of time how much your ride will cost.
See UNESCO World Heritage Sites
If your goal is seeing all the most historic sites in the world, you’ll need to add Saudi Arabia to your list. Their UNESCO World Heritage sites include the Al-Ahsa Oasis, the Al-Hijr archaeological site, At-Turaif District in ad-Dir’iyah, Historic Jeddah and the Rock Art in the Hail Region.
Al-Ula: Must Visit
With a look and feel similar to Petra in neighbouring Jordan, Al-Ula is the largest conserved site of the civilisation of the Nabataeans. Adventure seekers will absolutely want to see this historic and beautiful landmark for themselves – especially since the area has been untouched and unseen by the world at large.
Visit Jeddah’s Historical Attractions
Historic Jeddah, also known as the Gate to Makkah, is a sight to behold. This ancient collection of buildings, streets and alleyways situated near the red sea offers an authentic look at the city’s past, friendly and welcoming people and shopping galore. You won’t want to miss it.
Friendly and Welcoming People
If you’re worried about how the Saudi people will treat you as a guest, don’t be. For the most part, the people who live in Saudi Arabia are welcoming, friendly and excited to share their country with the world. And, as more tourists visit from around the globe, the more normal it will become for them.
New Tourist Destinations
Saudi Arabia has much more in the works to draw in tourists, including plans for a futuristic city known as Neom. The Red Sea Project, which is currently underway, is another luxury tourism project that will include resorts and facilities along an archipelago of more than 90 pristine islands, deserts and mountain landscapes.
Alcohol Remains Illegal
One final detail: Alcohol is illegal in Saudi Arabia, meaning you can’t drink in hotels, restaurants, or anywhere else. Don’t let this put a damper on your trip though, and keep in mind it’s always possible the alcohol ban could be lifted in the future. In the meantime, you can take some comfort in the fact that a trip to Saudi Arabia is one you won’t forget.
