Are you planning to travel from Dubai to Riyadh? Are you concerned about your safety while traveling to Saudi Arabia? Let’s read further to know about how you can tour around Saudi Arabia.
The country is gradually becoming more
accessible to tourists with the recent introduction of tourist visas. We've put
together a list of ten things to keep in mind when traveling to Saudi Arabia
for leisure, business, or as a pilgrim if you want to leave a positive
impression.
1.
Know why you are going
Although it may seem rather clear, you
actually must get a valid visa, which outlines your purpose for visiting Saudi
Arabia, in order to travel there. If you're traveling to Saudi Arabia as a pilgrim,
you'll need a particular visa from an organization recognized by the Royal
Embassy of Saudi Arabia, and if you're there on business, you'll need to
provide proof that you have scheduled business meetings there. Consider your
job title carefully because journalists, photographers, and writers are
frequently denied entrance because they are seen as suspects by the Saudi
authorities.
2.
Allow enough time for your visa application
Visas to Saudi Arabia must be obtained
through a cumbersome bureaucratic process that includes thorough background
checks and an examination of your visit's objectives. This makes impromptu or
last-minute trips nearly impossible.
3.
Travel in groups
Due to strict government regulations,
if you seek a tourist visa, you will need to provide proof that your party is
four or more and that you are traveling with an organized tour group. It is
forbidden for tourists to travel independently.
4.
Couples should (preferably) be married
You are allowed to travel together if
you are a married couple and have a valid marriage license. However, this is
frowned upon and may result in the denial of your visa application if you are
an unmarried couple seeking to visit Saudi Arabia.
5.
Female travelers must have a sponsor
Due to cultural and political
restrictions, female travelers to Saudi Arabia must be greeted by a sponsor. If
you arrive and nobody acceptable is waiting to greet you, traveling farther
into the country may be delayed at best or prohibited entirely at worst. Your
sponsor will thereafter typically hold onto your passport while issuing you
with an Iqama (residency permit) for use in day-to-day travel.
6.
Be respectful of local culture
In the cities, there is frequently a
dress code, and women are frequently prohibited from going out in public
without a male guardian. Alcohol consumption and open expressions of affection
are taboo. Despite Saudis being relatively avid smokers, smoking regulations in
public areas are now more strictly enforced.
7.
Nightlife in Asia differs from that in the Western culture
Saudi Arabia has a very small
nightlife because all alcoholic beverages, nightclubs, movies, theaters, and
similar establishments are prohibited by Saudi legislation. Dinner parties and
other catered gatherings provide nighttime entertainment. We advise you to be
aware of this before making any travel arrangements because this is not a
location to party late into the night.
8.
Photography isn’t encouraged
You can run into issues in Saudi
Arabia if you prefer to take pictures of everything. The government is still
very watchful of visitors, especially Westerners, and photography can be
misinterpreted for espionage or terrorist plots. This is especially true when
near public buildings or any other busy areas like markets and mosques. Another
no-no is photographing locals without their consent, especially women!
9.
Music playing in public is not permitted
If you enjoy western rap or trance,
this might be construed as producing a public disturbance and getting you in trouble.
When you're safe and sound back at your hotel, it's okay to indulge, as long as
you don't disturb any nearby neighbors with the volume.
10.
Items representing non-Islamic religions are prohibited
The law forbids the practice of any
religion other than Islam in public, therefore if you have a crucifix, a Bible,
or any other religious relics, leave them at home. It is recommended to worship
in secret if you follow a non-Islamic faith.
11.
Safety
People are asking: Is Saudi Arabia
Safe for Tourists in Light of This News? Yes, visiting Saudi Arabia is safe. Be
mindful of your surroundings, observe local laws and customs, and prepare
beforehand by doing your study. Review any travel advisories before you depart.
12.
Public spaces
You might see separate entrances or
dining areas for men and women in public spaces that are separated. Avoid
showing your affection in public.
Ask for permission before taking pictures of locals. It is an offense that is
sanctioned by the public code of conduct. Vandalism of public property,
listening to music when others are praying, and noncompliance with clothing
codes are further penalties.
The abaya is not needed for female visitors (a cloak, previously mandated by
the government). However, it is advised that both sexes dress modestly and
refrain from wearing exposing or tight-fitting clothing in public.
Five times per day, stores and
restaurants close for prayer. Make sure to organize your itinerary around these
hours to get the most out of your trip.
It’s a Muslim nation. While non-Muslims are welcome and allowed to practice
their religion in private settings, it is against the law to give religious
sermons in open settings or on social media. Malicious propaganda that
disparages a nation, its leaders, or a particular religion is a serious crime.
Alcohol and narcotics cannot be bought, sold, or used in this nation.
13.
Social customs
Locals are friendly, generous, and
just as interested in learning about you as you are in learning about them. It
is normal to receive an invitation to a dinner or to have some dates and gahwa
(Arabic coffee). Your hosts, as well as complete strangers, may want to convey
a warm welcome and provide you with a tiny symbol of their goodwill, such as
food or a gift. Refusing such an offer is seen as impolite. Just keep in mind
to use your right hand whenever accepting or drinking food or liquids.
Unless your host specifically asks you
to keep your shoes on, take them off if you are invited inside a Saudi home. It
is customary to sit on the floor in a Majlis (a sitting area with floor
cushions). If held somewhere else, you can anticipate a contemporary arrangement
with couches and other furniture.
Saudis embrace and encourage inquiries from Westerners about their culture.
It's important to avoid talking about politics or religion to avoid hurting
local sensibilities.
Making yourself comfortable with Saudi
customs, such as handshakes and pleasantries, will always win you points with
your hosts. It's customary to say "Marhaban!" (Welcome), and you can
reply with "Marhabtain" (I give you two welcomes).
Men shouldn't shake hands with Saudi women unless they initiate it themselves.
Put your palm over your heart and say hello, erring on the side of caution.
Wrap Up
Follow these tips before you move from
Dubai to Riyadh and enjoy a
safe and remarkable trip to Saudi Arabia. Happy Traveling!
