🐾 Traveling to Saudi Arabia with Pets
Pet-Friendly Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is increasingly welcoming to pets, particularly in urban areas like Riyadh and Jeddah. With growing pet culture, many hotels, parks, and public spaces now accommodate well-behaved animals, making it a viable destination for pet owners exploring the Kingdom's modern and historical sites.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a health certificate issued by an official veterinarian within 10 days of travel.
Certificate must confirm the pet is free from infectious diseases and fit to travel.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination required, administered at least 30 days before entry.
Vaccination must be valid; boosters needed every 1-3 years depending on vaccine type.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have an ISO-compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Chip number must be linked to all documentation; scanners available at entry points.
Import Permit
Obtain an import permit from Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture before travel.
Apply online via the ministry website; processing takes 5-10 days with supporting documents.
Restricted Breeds
Certain aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers are banned or require special approval.
All dogs must be leashed and muzzled in public; check local municipal rules in cities.
Other Pets
Birds and exotic animals require additional CITES permits if applicable.
Quarantine may apply for non-standard pets; contact Saudi authorities for specifics.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Saudi Arabia on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like walking areas.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Riyadh & Jeddah): Urban hotels like Hilton and Sheraton welcome pets for 50-150 SAR/night, with nearby parks. International chains often have consistent policies.
- Desert Resorts & Compounds (Al Ula & Diriyah): Luxury resorts in historical areas allow pets with access to private grounds. Ideal for exploring ancient sites with dogs.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and similar platforms offer pet-friendly villas, especially in gated communities. More space for pets to move freely.
- Family Compounds: Expat-style compounds in Riyadh and Dhahran welcome pets and families, with pools, parks, and on-site amenities for a secure stay.
- Campsites & Glamping: Desert camps in the Empty Quarter and Red Sea coast are pet-friendly, with guided tours and open spaces for pets.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end properties like Rosewood Jeddah provide pet amenities including beds, bowls, and concierge walking services.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Desert Trails & Safaris
Guided desert walks in Al Ula and Edge of the World allow leashed pets on select tours.
Keep pets hydrated in the heat; operators provide water stations and shaded areas.
Red Sea Beaches
Pet-friendly sections on Jeddah Corniche and private beaches in resorts.
Designated areas for dogs; avoid crowded public beaches during peak times.
Cities & Parks
Riyadh's King Abdullah Park and Jeddah's waterfront welcome leashed pets.
Outdoor malls and souks often allow pets; check signage for restrictions.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Modern cafés in Riyadh's Kingdom Centre and Jeddah provide outdoor pet areas with water bowls.
Pet cafes are emerging; always ask staff for permission before seating.
City Walking Tours
Historical tours in Diriyah and Al Balad welcome leashed pets on outdoor paths.
Avoid indoor sites like museums; focus on open-air cultural experiences.
Historical Sites
Pets allowed on leashes at open archaeological sites like Madain Saleh.
Respect cultural norms; no pets in mosques or sacred areas.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (Saudi Railways): Pets in carriers travel free on high-speed lines; larger dogs require tickets (50-100 SAR) and must be leashed/muzzled.
- Buses & Metro (Urban): Riyadh and Jeddah metros allow small pets in carriers free; larger pets 10-20 SAR with restrictions during rush hours.
- Taxis: Use Careem or Uber with pet-friendly options; inform driver in advance. Fees may apply for cleaning (20-50 SAR).
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Hertz allow pets with deposit (200-500 SAR); opt for SUVs for desert trips and pet comfort.
- Flights to Saudi Arabia: Saudia and Flynas permit cabin pets under 8kg for 100-200 SAR. Book early and check carrier rules. Compare on Aviasales.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Saudia, Emirates, and Qatar Airways accept in-cabin pets (under 8kg) for 150-300 SAR. Larger pets in cargo with health docs.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics in Riyadh (Al Jazirah Vet) and Jeddah offer urgent care.
Travel insurance recommended; consultations cost 100-300 SAR.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Chains like Petzone in major cities stock food, meds, and accessories.
Pharmacies carry basic pet items; bring scripts for specialized needs.
Grooming & Day Care
Pet spas in Riyadh and Jeddah for 50-150 SAR per session.
Book in advance; hotels can recommend local providers.
Pet-Sitting Services
Apps like PetBacker offer sitting in Saudi cities for day/overnight.
Compound communities often have trusted local sitters.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in all public areas, parks, and urban zones. Off-leash only in designated private spaces.
- Muzzle Requirements: Large dogs may need muzzles in cities; carry one for compliance on transport.
- Waste Disposal: Clean up immediately; bins available in parks. Fines up to 500 SAR for violations.
- Beach & Water Rules: Leashed pets on corniches; no swimming in public areas. Respect designated zones.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating often allows pets; keep quiet and away from food areas.
- Historical Sites: Leashed pets on open grounds; prohibited in enclosed or sacred spaces.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia for Families
Saudi Arabia offers family adventures with modern malls, historical wonders, desert experiences, and beaches. Cities are safe with family-oriented facilities, playgrounds, and cultural sites adapted for kids, blending tradition and innovation.
Top Family Attractions
Kingdom Centre (Riyadh)
Iconic skyscraper with sky bridge views, aquarium, and shopping for all ages.
Entry 50-75 SAR adults, 25-40 SAR kids; open daily with family zones.
Red Sea Aquarium (Jeddah)
Marine life exhibits with sharks, rays, and interactive touch pools.
Tickets 80-100 SAR adults, 50 SAR kids; educational shows for families.
Diriyah (Riyadh)
UNESCO site with palaces, museums, and outdoor spaces for kids to explore.
Family tickets 50 SAR; light shows and cultural performances engage children.
King Abdulaziz Science Museum (Riyadh)
Hands-on exhibits on space, dinosaurs, and technology.
Tickets 20-30 SAR; multilingual and suitable for rainy days indoors.
Al Ula Rock Formations
Ancient wonders with elephant rock and hot air balloon rides.
Entry 100 SAR adults, 50 SAR kids; guided tours for family adventure.
Desert Safari Parks (Riyadh)
Dune bashing, camel rides, and falcon shows in family-friendly setups.
Packages 150-250 SAR per person; safety gear for kids 5+.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Saudi Arabia on Viator. From desert safaris to historical tours, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Riyadh & Jeddah): Chains like Marriott offer family suites (2 adults + 2 kids) for 400-800 SAR/night. Includes kids' clubs and pools.
- Resort Compounds (Eastern Province): Gated resorts with family programs, beaches, and childcare. Properties like Al Khozama cater to families.
- Desert Lodges: Eco-lodges in Al Ula with family tents and activities for 300-600 SAR/night including meals.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering in malls like Riyadh Park; space for families with kitchens.
- Budget Hostels: Family rooms in Jeddah for 200-400 SAR/night with shared facilities and central locations.
- Palace Hotels: Heritage stays like Al Qasr in Diriyah for immersive family experiences with gardens.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Riyadh with Kids
Kingdom Centre, Riyadh Zoo, Boulevard World theme park, and souk explorations.
Indoor play areas and ice rinks keep families cool in the heat.
Jeddah with Kids
Corniche beaches, Al Tayebat Museum, floating mosque, and water parks.
Boat rides and seafood markets offer fun coastal family days.
Al Ula with Kids
Rock tombs, balloon rides, and adventure parks with zip lines.
Archaeological digs and stargazing suit curious young explorers.
Red Sea Coast (Yanbu)
Snorkeling, beaches, and coral reefs with family resorts.
Easy boat trips and marine parks for kid-friendly water adventures.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Kids under 5 free; 6-12 half-price on Haramain high-speed. Family seating with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Riyadh Metro family passes 20-30 SAR/day. Buses and metros are air-conditioned and accessible.
- Car Rentals: Child seats mandatory (50-100 SAR/day); book ahead for families. 4x4s ideal for desert.
- Stroller-Friendly: Malls and modern sites have ramps; historical areas may have steps, but elevators common.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Malls and hotels offer child portions (20-50 SAR) with familiar foods like pizza and burgers.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: International chains in Riyadh Gallery welcome kids with play areas.
- Self-Catering: Hypermarkets like Lulu stock baby food and diapers; fresh dates and juices for snacks.
- Snacks & Treats: Kunafa and ice cream stalls; halal options everywhere for family meals.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In malls, hotels, and airports with nursing areas.
- Pharmacies: Stock formula, diapers; English-speaking staff available.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange for 100-200 SAR/hour; apps like Helpi connect families.
- Medical Care: Pediatric hospitals in cities; international clinics for expats. Insurance advised.
♿ Accessibility in Saudi Arabia
Accessible Travel
Saudi Arabia is improving accessibility with ramps in new infrastructure, wheelchair services in transport, and inclusive attractions. Tourism developments prioritize universal design for barrier-free experiences.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: Haramain line has wheelchair spaces, ramps, and assistance. Book 24 hours ahead.
- City Transport: Riyadh Metro elevators and low-floor buses; audio for visually impaired.
- Taxis: Accessible Careem options; airports provide wheelchair services.
- Airports: King Khalid (Riyadh) and King Abdulaziz (Jeddah) offer full assistance and priority.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: National Museum (Riyadh) with ramps, elevators, and tactile guides.
- Historical Sites: Diriyah has accessible paths; Al Ula improving with shuttles.
- Nature & Parks: Corniche parks wheelchair-friendly; desert tours with adapted vehicles.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers and wide doors.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Winter (Oct-April) for mild weather and outdoor activities; avoid summer heat (May-Sept).
Shoulder seasons offer festivals like Riyadh Season with family events.
Budget Tips
Family tickets at attractions; Saudi Pass app for discounts on transport and sites.
Self-catering in compounds saves on meals for picky eaters.
Language
Arabic official; English common in tourist areas and with youth.
Translation apps help; locals welcoming to families.
Packing Essentials
Light clothing, sun protection, modest attire; hydration gear for heat.
Pet owners: heat-resistant carriers, water bowls, vet docs, and cooling mats.
Useful Apps
Visit Saudi for attractions, Careem for rides, Petzone for supplies.
Google Maps and Absher for e-visas and navigation.
Health & Safety
Very safe; bottled water advised. Pharmacies for meds.
Emergency: 999 for ambulance/police. Travel insurance essential.