ABOUT SAUDI ARABIA

USEFUL INFO

Climate

• Mid-December to Mid-March 

Take advantage of Saudi Arabia’s beautiful winter weather to explore the kingdom. The balmy days and cool nights are ideal for camping, rock climbing or exploring Saudi Arabia’s verdant highlands and bustling cities, from Riyadh to Jeddah. Average winter temperatures are in the teens, but visitors might be lucky enough to see snowfall in the mountains of the northern regions blanketing the slopes and desert sands.

Don’t forget to pack a heavy jacket or coat as well as lotion, as Saudi winters can be dry.

• Mid-March to Mid-June

Spring in Saudi Arabia can be brisk, particularly in the north, where the temperature at night can drop. The central and southern regions are warmer,  after nightfall. Rainfall is at its highest during spring, particularly in the central region and in the southwest.

Don’t forget to pack layers — like light sweaters, scarves or pashminas — plus a rain jacket and sunglasses.

• Mid-June to Mid-September

With the exception of the comparatively mild highlands in the southwest, summer signals the start of rising temperatures across most of the country. The early mornings and long evenings are more temperate, so take advantage of the warm seas to explore Saudi’s world-class scuba diving sites, or try sailing and snorkeling.

Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, water shoes and a hat to protect your face.

• Mid-September to Mid-December

Autumn brings gentler weather and cool breezes in both Saudi Arabia’s northern regions and the southwestern highlands. While daytime temperatures remain warm in early fall, evenings are milder and fit for outdoor strolling, especially along Jeddah’s waterfront, indulging in al-fresco dining or visiting Al Ahsa’s cool desert springs.

Don’t forget to pack your walking shoes and a sweater for air-conditioned buildings and cooler evenings.

Documentation
A valid passport and a current visa are required for many  travelers to enter KSA,  check with us about visa assistance (terms may vary based on your citizenship)

Shots
In general, no immunizations are necessary for visiting the major tourist areas of KSA. However, if you have concerns, please consult your personal physician. If entering KSA from an infected area, evidence of Yellow Fever and Cholera immunizations is required.

Language

Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia and the primary language used in all dealings and public transactions. English serves as an informal second language in the Kingdom and is spoken by a large section of its society.
Clothing

Dress code is dependent on individual establishments, some casual, others keen on sophistication. Places of worship specifically do require you to dress modestly while visiting.

KSA is quite conservative with regards to dress. It is best for both men and women to keep shoulders and legs fairly well covered. Loose, flowing garments in natural fibers (cotton, linen) are ideal for the Saudi heat. In winter, layering is the best way to transition from warm days to cool nights.

Walking shoes - Most visitors will do a great deal of walking on dusty, rocky ground. Good thick soles and material that breathes are a must.

Sun hat - Keeping the head and neck covered prevents sunstroke. A large brim will provide shade, and something in cloth can be soaked to cool the head in very hot weather. For women, a scarf will also come in handy as a head and shoulder covering when touring mosques and churches.

Currency

Currency exchange and transactions are easy in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia’s national currency is the Saudi riyal (ر.س SAR), which is subdivided into 100 halala.
You’ll receive notes in denominations of five riyals, ten riyals, 50 riyals, 100 riyals and 500 riyals; and coins in one riyal, two riyals, 50 halala, 25 halala, 10 halala, 5 halala and 1 halala.

All banks in the kingdom offer currency exchange services. Exchange bureaus are located at airports, some shopping centers, and various other locations throughout the country. Credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted throughout the kingdom. ATMs are also widely available.

Electricity
The electrical current is 220 volts. Wall sockets have two round holes.