How Much Does a Trip to Saudi Arabia Cost
A trip to Saudi Arabia can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $4,000 per person for a week, depending on your travel style, season, and itinerary. Costs include flights, visas, hotels, transport, meals, and attractions. Budget travelers can get by with less, while luxury or multi-city trips cost more. Prices vary by region and time of year—plan carefully for the best value.
Key Takeaways
- Saudi Arabia’s eVisa is required for most tourists and comes with a processing fee; check the official site for current rules.
- Accommodation in Riyadh and Jeddah ranges from budget hotels under $60 per night to luxury options above $200.
- Domestic flights are often necessary to cover long distances between cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla.
- Alcohol is not available anywhere in Saudi Arabia, and meals range from $5 street food to $50+ in upscale restaurants.
- Visiting during Eid or peak season raises costs and requires advance bookings for hotels and tours.
Understanding the Main Costs: What to Budget For
Saudi Arabia is a vast country and your total trip cost depends on several core components: international flights, visa fees, accommodation, domestic transport, meals, entry to attractions, and guided tours. International flights are often the largest single expense, with direct routes available from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Visa fees are mandatory for most travelers and vary by nationality and visa type. Accommodation costs vary widely between regions and cities—Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla are typically more expensive than smaller cities or towns. Domestic flights or long-distance drives are almost always necessary due to the country’s size. Meals and attractions add up, especially in major cities or during peak travel periods.
For a detailed breakdown of the types of experiences and sites you might want to include, see this overview of Saudi Arabia’s main destinations and regions.
Visa Fees and Entry Requirements: What to Expect
Most tourists need an eVisa to visit Saudi Arabia. The process is online, straightforward, and usually quick, but the fee varies by nationality and can change. The eVisa allows for tourism, attending events, and visiting friends or family, but not work or study. Always check the official government portal for the latest requirements, as rules have changed several times since tourism opened in 2019. The visa fee is a non-refundable payment, typically paid in Saudi Riyals or US dollars. Some travelers may be eligible for a stopover visa if transiting through Saudi airports, which can reduce costs but limits your activities and duration of stay.
For a step-by-step guide to eligibility and the application process, read who needs a Saudi Arabia tourist visa and how to apply. If you’re considering a short layover, see the stopover visa and what it allows.
Accommodation: What You Get for Your Money
Hotel prices in Saudi Arabia vary significantly by city, quality, and time of year. In Riyadh and Jeddah, budget hotels and guesthouses often start around $50–$70 per night, while mid-range international brands are $100–$150. Luxury properties in prime locations can exceed $250 per night, especially during major events or holidays. In smaller cities or less-visited regions, you can find basic accommodation for $30–$60. Booking in advance is strongly recommended during Eid, the Riyadh Season, or the AlUla festival period, as rooms fill quickly and prices rise. Most hotels are modern, clean, and cater to international visitors, but always check reviews for up-to-date feedback on service and amenities.
If you want to see how a typical week of hotels, meals, and activities adds up, look at A first week in Saudi Arabia for sample itineraries and costs.
Getting Around: Transport Costs Within Saudi Arabia
Distances between Saudi cities are vast—Riyadh to Jeddah is over 950 km by road—so domestic flights are common and often necessary. Saudi Arabian Airlines, Flynas, and Flyadeal operate regular flights between major cities, with fares ranging from $60 to $200 depending on route and timing. Intercity trains connect Riyadh, Dammam, and Hofuf, but do not reach Jeddah or AlUla. Car hire is popular for exploring rural areas or the Empty Quarter, but fuel costs are low by global standards. In cities, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are widely used, with typical fares from $5 to $20 for cross-town rides. For remote sites like the Edge of the World near Riyadh, booking a guided tour or private transfer is often safer and more convenient than self-driving.
To compare the price and convenience of joining a group excursion, see this Edge of the World Day Trip from Riyadh.
Food and Drink: Daily Spending and What’s Included
Food in Saudi Arabia ranges from affordable local meals to high-end international restaurants. A simple meal at a local eatery or food court costs $4–$8, while dinner in a mid-range restaurant is $15–$30 per person. Upscale hotel restaurants and fine dining, especially in Riyadh and Jeddah, can exceed $50 per person. Alcohol is strictly prohibited—there are no legal bars or liquor stores—so your beverage costs will be limited to juices, soft drinks, tea, and coffee. Many hotels include breakfast in the room rate, which helps manage daily expenses. Street food and casual dining are widely available in large cities, while rural areas may have fewer options and higher prices for imported goods.
For travelers seeking cultural immersion through cuisine, consider exploring the cultural journeys that feature local food experiences and markets.
When to Go: Seasonal Price Swings and Weather Impacts
Saudi Arabia’s climate and major events have a direct impact on travel costs. Peak season is October to March, when temperatures are moderate and festivals or sporting events draw crowds, driving up hotel and flight prices. Summer (June–September) is extremely hot, especially in Riyadh, the Empty Quarter, and the interior, leading to lower prices but also limiting sightseeing. The Red Sea coast (Jeddah, Yanbu) and the Asir mountains offer cooler escapes in summer, but rain and sandstorms can affect travel plans. Visiting during Ramadan or Eid means altered opening hours and higher demand for accommodation, but also unique cultural experiences. Always check the weather forecast for your specific region before booking, as conditions vary sharply between the coast, desert, and highlands.
For a detailed look at weather by region and how it affects travel costs, see Saudi Arabia weather by region, and to understand the impact of Eid, read what to expect as a traveler during Eid.
Attractions and Activities: Entry Fees and Guided Tours
Entry fees for major attractions are moderate by global standards. Museums and heritage sites in Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla usually charge between $5 and $25, while some smaller sites are free. Guided tours, especially to remote or protected areas like AlUla’s UNESCO sites, the Empty Quarter, or the Asir mountains, can cost $40–$150 per person depending on duration and inclusions. Group tours may offer better value, but private guides are available for a premium. Buying tickets in advance is recommended for popular sites and during peak travel periods. Note that the central areas of Makkah and Madinah are off-limits to non-Muslims, though non-Muslims can visit Madinah’s outskirts and museums.
If you’re interested in the heritage side of the country, browse the historical journeys for inspiration. The National Museum of Saudi Arabia in Riyadh is a top-value stop for understanding the country’s story.
Sample Trip Costs: Budget, Mid-Range, and Luxury
| Expense | Budget Traveler (USD, per week) |
Mid-Range Traveler (USD, per week) |
Luxury Traveler (USD, per week) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 350–500 | 700–1,200 | 1,800+ |
| Meals | 100–180 | 200–350 | 500+ |
| Domestic Transport | 80–160 | 200–350 | 500+ |
| Attractions/Tours | 60–120 | 200–350 | 500+ |
| Total (excl. flights/visa) | 590–960 | 1,300–2,250 | 3,300+ |
International flights and visa fees are not included above, as they vary by origin and nationality. Budget travelers save by using public transport, eating local, and staying in guesthouses. Mid-range travelers favor chain hotels and domestic flights, while luxury travelers opt for private guides and upscale accommodation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How much should I budget for a week in Saudi Arabia?
For most travelers, a week in Saudi Arabia costs between $1,200 and $2,000 per person, excluding international flights. This covers mid-range hotels, domestic flights, meals, entry fees, and basic tours. Luxury trips or special events can cost much more. -
Are there ways to save money on transport in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, using trains between Riyadh and Dammam, booking domestic flights early, and sharing taxis or rideshares can reduce costs. Renting a car can be cost-effective for groups, but long distances and fuel costs should be considered. -
Is it more expensive to visit during Ramadan or Eid?
Yes, hotel prices and flights are higher during Ramadan and Eid due to increased demand. Some attractions may have limited hours, but the cultural experience is unique and worth the extra planning for some travelers. -
Are guided tours necessary for visiting major sites?
Guided tours are not required for most city attractions, but they are recommended for remote sites like AlUla, the Empty Quarter, or desert excursions, where logistics and permits can be complex. -
What is not included in typical trip cost estimates?
Most estimates exclude international flights, visa fees, travel insurance, and personal expenses like shopping or souvenirs. Always factor these into your budget.
Saudi Arabia offers a range of travel experiences and budgets—plan ahead, compare options, and use the resources above to make the most of your journey.