Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates—can enter Saudi Arabia using their national ID cards. All other travelers must present a valid passport upon entry.
All travelers entering Saudi Arabia must present a valid passport. Below is a guide to entry requirements:
Certain nationalities can enter Saudi Arabia without a visa for short stays (up to 90 days) with a valid passport. This includes citizens of:
Citizens of countries not on the visa-exempt list must obtain a visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia. Visas can be applied for through a Saudi embassy or consulate.
Note: Visa policies may change, so it's essential to check the latest entry requirements before travel.
Saudi Arabia has several toll roads, primarily around major cities. The most notable toll road is the Haramain Expressway, which connects Mecca and Medina. Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled.
Saudi Arabia has a desert climate with extremely hot summers and mild winters. The country experiences minimal rainfall, primarily in the winter months.
Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures frequently exceeding 45°C (113°F), especially in the interior regions. Humidity is higher in coastal areas like Jeddah.
Winters are mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is considered the best time to visit Saudi Arabia.
The official currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR), symbolized as ر.س.
Banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 500 SAR. Coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 25, and 50 halalas, and 1 Riyal.
Currency exchange services are widely available in Saudi Arabia, especially in cities and airports. ATMs are also accessible for cash withdrawals using international cards.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in urban areas, hotels, and major retailers. However, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and rural areas.