In Saudi Arabia, tourism has tended to consist of pilgrimages (in the form of the annual Muslim hajj or umrah) and business travel (in the form of experts – usually Western - filling the Saudi ‘tech-know' vacuum). But of late, restrictions on tourism have been relaxed a little making holidays in Saudi Arabia a genuine possibility. Travel is still subject to strict conditions, but a trickle of tourists are starting to discover some of the Kingdom's highlights, including unspoilt and often spectacular Red Sea diving , the remarkable rock-hewn tombs of Madain Salah, known as Saudi Arabia's Petra, and the mesmerising dunes of the Empty Quarter, the largest sea of sand on the Planet. An unprecedented economic programme to diversify away from the oil and gas industries, combined with a continuing dependency on foreign labour (an estimated 37% of the workforce is foreign), means that opportunities for business abound.
Riyadh, the Kingdom's capital and its financial and administrative centre, is one of the fast-growing cities in the world. Though considered deeply conservative, it boasts sparkling, startling modern architecture, handsome hotels, fine-dining, good conference facilities, and even some history and culture, including an outstanding National Museum. Jeddah, the Kingdom's commercial capital and a converging point for pilgrims and traders for centuries, is considered the most cosmopolitan town in the Kingdom – and somewhat degenerate and dangerous by some Saudis! With coral-built old merchant houses, lively souqs and a pleasant corniche, it's great place to relax.
Currency
Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Visa Requirements
Tourism visas are now available under a new Discover Saudi Arabia scheme and are available to groups of four or more organised by a recognised tour company
Language
Arabic
Timezone
GMT +3
Weather
From mid-April to October average daily temperatures top 40˚C. From December to January temperatures in the interior can touch zero at night.
Dialling Code
00 966
Electricity
220V and 110V with both three-pin (fitting UK plugs) and American-style two-pin plugs
Health and Safety
Excellent hospitals are found throughout the Kingdom. All residents (including foreign nationals) are entitled to both public and private health care, though as the latter is expensive, comprehensive travel and medical insurance is strongly advised. In recent years, sporadic attacks by Al-Qaeda on Western targets have resulted in a tightening of security around residential compounds and embassies. Register with your embassy and keep an eye on warnings issued by them