Saudi Arabia is a beautiful destination, although it is one that is difficult to get to. If you’re fortunate to be able to go to Saudi Arabia on business, or are planning a pilgrimage, then you should make the most of what the country has to offer. As with any new travel destination, you should do your research and discover as much as you can about Saudi Arabia before you visit.
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To help you plan your visit, here are five things you should know before you visit Saudi Arabia.
It’s important to dress respectfully
Many countries in the Middle East observe a more conservative dress code than you might find in Western countries. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers your arms, legs and chest, and your hair should be covered too. While you might be tempted to wear traditional Saudi dress, this isn’t advised for non-residents. Speak to other travelers about their experiences to help give you a clearer idea of how to dress for your visit.
You’ll need to get your visa in order
Traveling to Saudi Arabia requires a strict visa, so you need to have all of your paperwork in order in advance. There is some useful travel advice available to help you prepare your entry to Saudi Arabia, such as presenting your marriage certificate if you’re travelling as a couple and demonstrating proof of your business appointments if you’re travelling for business. Provided you’ve got all of your paperwork in order you will be fine to travel, but don’t leave planning until the last minute to avoid any issues.
It’s popular year-round for Umrah
One of the many reasons why people visit Saudi Arabia is to take part in Umrah, a pilgrimage made by Muslims to Mecca. Unlike mandatory pilgrimages, it’s possible to take part in Umrah at any time of year, and there are Umrah deals year-round for people wishing to visit from the UK. It’s important to note that non-Muslims are not permitted to enter Umrah, so this may not be the trip for you if you follow another religion.
Photography isn’t advised
While typical traveling experiences usually involve plenty of photographs, it is not advisable in Saudi Arabia. Residents are wary of photographers, and it is against the law to take photos of mosques, palaces and government buildings. To avoid temptation or any issues, it’s best to leave your camera at home.
There are plenty of things to see and do
Saudi Arabia has a lot of different sights that you should visit when you’re there. Some of the most popular things to see include Tabuk Castle, Fakieh Aquarium and Jebel Khuraibah. Do your research to help you plan your visit so that you can make the most of your visit to this fascinating country.
There are some incredible countries to explore in the Middle East, and you may wish to combine a visit to Saudi Arabia with other countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and Egypt. You could also visit Turkey, which is a short flight away from Saudi Arabia. With many great things to discover, you can have some amazing adventures in the Middle East.
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