Sandstorms in Saudi Arabia occur most frequently from March to June, particularly in central and eastern areas like Riyadh and the Empty Quarter. These storms can disrupt road and air travel, and outdoor sites may close or limit access. Read More…
Eid in Saudi Arabia is marked by festive celebrations, family gatherings, and changes to daily routines. Major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam offer public events, fireworks, and cultural performances.
Ramadan in Saudi Arabia means most restaurants and cafés are closed during daylight, but hotels and some international chains offer private dining for non-fasting guests.
Spring in Saudi Arabia offers comfortable temperatures, vibrant wildflower displays in the Asir Mountains, Al-Qassim, and desert wadis, and a more relaxed atmosphere at popular sites.
Visiting Saudi Arabia in summer is possible by choosing destinations like the Asir mountains, where Abha and Al-Soudah provide cooler weather and mountain scenery.
The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is during the mild months from November to March, which is also when major festivals occur. Summer is extremely hot in most regions, but the Asir mountains around Abha and Taif provide cooler weather.
Saudi Arabia enforces strict customs regulations, prohibiting alcohol, pork products, narcotics, and some prescription medicines. Religious materials for personal use are permitted in small quantities, while certain electronics and drones may be restricted or inspected.
Saudi Arabia in winter, from November to March, offers mild temperatures, bustling festivals, and access to heritage sites. Cities such as Riyadh, AlUla, and Jeddah experience higher demand for hotels and tours.
Travel insurance for Saudi Arabia is not always mandatory but is highly advised because of expensive medical care, strict regulations, and specific risks.
Entry requirements for Saudi Arabia go beyond obtaining a visa, with rules on health, conduct, and documentation.
The Saudi Stopover Visa allows travelers transiting through Saudi Arabia to explore cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam for up to four days. It is available to those flying with Saudia or flynas and can be obtained online during flight booking.
Visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia allows travelers from selected countries, including the US, much of Europe, and Asia-Pacific nations, to enter for tourism, family visits, and events.
Saudi Arabia tourist visas are required for most visitors except citizens of GCC countries. Eligible travelers can apply for an eVisa online, while others may need to visit a consulate. Required documents include a valid passport, printed visa, proof of accommodation, and health insurance.
The four ancient sites, Elephant Rock, Maraya and the nature reserve - what each one is and how to get in.
What AlUla is, the four sites that matter, when to go and how many days to give it on a first visit.
Hegra holds more than 110 Nabataean rock-cut tombs in AlUla and is entered only on a capped guided tour. Here is how a visit works.
The cooler months decide what you can do outdoors in Riyadh; the museums in the old centre hold up all year.
October to March is the workable window in AlUla; summer in the valley is severe. Here is how to time the months and the hours.
Out of the Asir mountains to the Yemeni border: what Najran holds, why so few travellers reach it, and how to shape the run.
A climb from the Red Sea into the Sarawat Mountains: the routing point to settle first, and what the road and the town are worth.
Tabuk is Saudi Arabia's north-west: a 1559 castle and a Hejaz Railway station in the city, sandstone canyon country and Red Sea coast beyond it.
Taif divides into the roses and the mountains: rose farms, the Al Hada road and cable car, Al Shafa, and the Al Wahbah crater.
