Could Saudi Arabia Be Your Next Unexpected Holiday Destination?

Saudi Arabia was once one of the world’s least-visited destinations. Now it’s opening up to international tourism and visitor numbers are set to soar ahead of the 2034 World Cup.

If you’re considering a trip but are unsure what to expect while holidaying in this unique and vibrant Gulf country, it’s worth digging a little deeper as there are some things that might surprise you.

Why Saudi Arabia is worth a visit

Saudi Arabia offers a unique mix of modern cities, ancient heritage, and natural beauty. Head to the capital city Riyadh, where you can marvel at cutting-edge architecture with historic sites, while lively Jeddah and the Red Sea coast offer vibrant marine life, rich history, and cosmopolitan energy. Al Ula is a hidden gem and living museum, complete with ancient tombs and impressive sandstone rocks.  

Then there’s the food! Iconic dishes include Kabsa, a spiced rice and meat dish and Mandi, slow-cooked meat with fragrant rice. For a sweet treat, try Baklava (nut-based pastry) or Ma’amoul (buttery cookies) as well as traditional coffee (Gahwa) and dates which are a quintessential part of Saudi hospitality.

7 Etiquette rules

Here are the seven basic etiquette rules you need to follow if you decide to visit Saudi for your next holiday:

1. Dress modestly. While rules have relaxed, modest clothing is still important. Women are encouraged to wear loose-fitting, ankle-length clothing, while men should opt for long pants and shirts with sleeves. Traditional attire isn’t required, but avoiding shorts or sleeveless tops, especially in conservative areas, helps you show respect.
2. Follow greeting customs. A handshake is customary with men, but with women, wait for them to extend their hand; if they don’t, a polite nod or verbal greeting works. Using Arabic phrases like “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) shows respect.
3. Be polite and considerate in public
   Avoid loud or disruptive behaviour and steer clear of public displays of affection, which are considered inappropriate.
4. Avoid taking photographs of people
   Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly women, and respect their decision if they decline. Avoid taking pictures of sensitive areas such as government buildings or military sites.
5. Follow food etiquette
   Use your right hand when eating, as the left is traditionally considered unclean. When dining with locals, wait for them to start the meal and accept food and drinks graciously.
6. Adhere to the law on alcohol and drugs
   Consumption of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited in most areas. New rules in 2024 allow alcohol in certain designated areas for non-Muslims, but it’s best to stay informed and follow local laws.
7. Respect prayer times
   Be mindful of daily prayer times, especially during Ramadan or on Fridays, when many businesses close for midday prayers. Planning your activities around these times ensures a smoother visit.

Visitors often expect a rigid or unwelcoming atmosphere due to the many negative media reports about Saudi, but most find the country and its people to be incredibly hospitable.

Breaking misconceptions

Saudi Arabia is evolving quickly, but there are some frequent misconceptions generated by the media that give people real pause when considering a visit. Here are some of the top concerns:

• It’s extremely hot. Summers are hot (rising to a whopping 43 degrees) but during the winter months from November to February the weather more like Spring in the UK, so it’s best to plan your trip around this time of year.
• Women are limited in what they can do. In Saudi, women are educated, active in leadership, and increasingly visible in public life. Modesty in dress is encouraged, but hijabs and abayas are no longer mandatory.
• Alcohol is banned, so I won’t have a good time. Alcohol is restricted to designated areas for non-Muslims, but you can still have a great time without it and avoid the dreaded hangover.
• Getting around Saudi is tricky. While traffic can be heavy in larger cities, there are public transportation systems in Riyadh and Jeddah, as well as Uber in larger places like Dammam. Domestic flights are affordable if you want to travel between regions.

Final thoughts

Visiting Saudi Arabia is all about being curious, respectful, and having an open mind. It’s a place where ancient history meets modern ambition, deserts give way to bustling cities, and your expectations are likely to be pleasantly challenged if you give it a chance.