Saudi Arabia
Middle East
Saudi: Arabia. The Authentic Home of Arabia.
Saudi Arabia is a large, influential country in the Middle East, known for its significant role in global energy markets, Islamic history, and geopolitics.
Situated on the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Oman, and Yemen. It has coastlines along the Red Sea to the west and the Persian Gulf to the east.
Absolute monarchy, ruled by the House of Saud. The king is the head of state and government.
Saudi Arabia is one of the world's largest oil producers and exporters, with its economy heavily dependent on oil revenues.
Vision 2030: A national plan to diversify the economy, reduce dependence on oil, and promote sectors like tourism, technology, and renewable energy.
Aramco: Saudi Aramco, the state-owned oil company, is one of the most valuable companies in the world.
Highlights
Saudi Arabia’s diverse regions reflect its blend of economic power, religious significance, historical heritage, and efforts toward modernization and diversification through Vision 2030.
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Highlights of Saudi Arabia
The political and administrative heart of Saudi Arabia. It is a hub for finance, trade, and industry.
Diriyah is Historic town and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the birthplace of the Saudi state.
Hosts millions of Muslim pilgrims each year for Hajj and Umrah.
Tourism and pilgrimage services are vital economic contributors.
While non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca and parts of Medina, these cities hold immense religious significance for Muslims around the world.
The stunning Hegra (Mada’in Salih), Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring Nabatean tombs similar to Petra in Jordan.
AlUla is a must-see for history lovers, with ancient ruins set against dramatic desert landscapes.
The UNESCO-listed Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad), the King Fahd Fountain, and the Corniche along the Red Sea.
Jeddah is a vibrant city with a rich history, art scene, and access to the stunning Red Sea coastline, perfect for diving and snorkeling.
The political and administrative heart of Saudi Arabia. It is a hub for finance, trade, and industry.
Diriyah is Historic town and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the birthplace of the Saudi state.
Hosts millions of Muslim pilgrims each year for Hajj and Umrah.
Tourism and pilgrimage services are vital economic contributors.
While non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca and parts of Medina, these cities hold immense religious significance for Muslims around the world.
The stunning Hegra (Mada’in Salih), Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring Nabatean tombs similar to Petra in Jordan.
AlUla is a must-see for history lovers, with ancient ruins set against dramatic desert landscapes.
The UNESCO-listed Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad), the King Fahd Fountain, and the Corniche along the Red Sea.
Jeddah is a vibrant city with a rich history, art scene, and access to the stunning Red Sea coastline, perfect for diving and snorkeling.
General
- Official Name
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Official Languages
- Arabic
- Capital
- Riyadh
- Religion
- Islam
- Time Zone
- GMT+3
- Currency
- SAR (Saudi Riyal)
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Saudi Arabia follows strict cultural norms, particularly regarding modesty and religious respect. Both men and women should wear conservative clothing (covering arms and legs). Women are not required to wear an abaya (cloak) but should dress modestly.
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Prayer times occur five times a day, and during these periods, shops and restaurants may close briefly.
During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is not allowed, even for non-Muslims. -
Alcohol is strictly prohibited throughout the country. Make sure not to bring any alcohol into the country, as it can lead to severe penalties.
The use and possession of illegal drugs are met with harsh punishments.
Weather
Saudi Arabia is hot, especially in summer, with temperatures reaching over 40°C (104°F). If visiting during summer, stay hydrated, avoid being outside during midday, and dress appropriately for the heat.
Seasons to travel
Warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F). Outdoor activities like exploring Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla. The desert and mountains are also more comfortable for hiking and sightseeing. This is an excellent time for visiting Saudi Arabia, as temperatures are moderate, and there are fewer tourists compared to winter.
Extremely hot, especially in central and eastern regions, with temperatures soaring to 40°C to 50°C (104°F to 122°F). Coastal areas like Jeddah and the Red Sea coast are slightly cooler, but still humid. Stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during midday, and plan for air-conditioned attractions like malls and museums. If you can, plan your trip for the early mornings or late evenings when it’s cooler.
Best for: Beach resorts and diving along the Red Sea (Jeddah, Yanbu, Farasan Islands) or escaping to the cooler Asir Mountains in the south.
Cooler temperatures, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), making it a pleasant season to travel. Exploring major cities, historical sites like Diriyah or Mada’in Salih (AlUla), and desert adventures like visiting the Empty Quarter.
The weather starts to cool, and autumn is perfect for cultural tours, desert excursions, and city sightseeing without the intense summer heat.
Mild to cool, with temperatures from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Northern areas and the desert can get quite cold at night, and even experience occasional frost.
Visiting Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Red Sea coast, as well as exploring the desert regions like the Edge of the World. Winter is also the best time for camel treks and desert camping.
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