Saudi Arabia offers a captivating blend of ancient history and modern luxury, from UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hegra and Diriyah to futuristic cities like Riyadh and NEOM. Experience pristine Red Sea coastlines, dramatic desert landscapes, and authentic Arabian hospitality in the Kingdom's rapidly evolving tourism sector.
Saudi Arabia is one of the safest countries in the Middle East for tourists, with extremely low violent crime rates and a high-security environment in urban areas. The primary risks are related to conservative laws (alcohol prohibition, photography restrictions, dress codes) and regional security tensions near the Yemeni border rather than personal crime.
Current safety advisory
Low
Exercise normal precautions in Riyadh, Jeddah, and tourist areas. Exercise increased caution near the Yemeni border (southern provinces). Be aware of strict local laws regarding behavior, photography, and dress.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and the threat of missile and drone attacks. Avoid the following areas: Abha, Jizan, and Najran near the Yemeni border.
Advisory - Be Alert
Be alert to your surroundings particularly in large crowds and public places. Terrorism threat exists; follow guidance of local authorities.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before arrival
Avoid criticism of Saudi institutions on social media (can result in arrest and lengthy prison sentences)
Respect conservative dress codes and cultural norms, especially for women
Stay informed about regional tensions and potential missile/drone attacks
Keep copies of passport and important documents in secure locations
Avoid border areas with Yemen and demonstrations/large gatherings
Register with your embassy upon arrival; the US Embassy in Riyadh is at +966 11 488 3800 and the Consulate in Jeddah at +966 12 220 0940
Alcohol is strictly prohibited; possession can result in imprisonment and deportation
Photograph mosques and religious sites only from the outside; never photograph government buildings, military installations, or airports
Public displays of affection are illegal and can lead to fines or arrest; unmarried couples should exercise discretion
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Unlicensed taxi overcharging
Unofficial taxis around airports and tourist areas quote inflated prices to unsuspecting tourists, sometimes 3-5x the fair rate.
How to avoid: Use only Uber or Careem apps which show fixed prices; agree on price before entering any unmarked vehicle
Gem and antique scams
Vendors in Al Dirah and Al-Zal souq sometimes sell fake antiques, imitation gemstones, or tourist-grade oud as premium quality at grossly inflated prices.
How to avoid: Only buy from reputable shops; bring a Saudi friend if making significant purchases; be skeptical of 'rare' finds
Money exchange manipulation
Unofficial money changers shortchange tourists or use slight of hand. Airport exchange counters offer significantly worse rates than bank ATMs.
How to avoid: Use Al Rajhi Bank or Riyad Bank ATMs for best exchange rates; count money carefully before leaving any exchange counter
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, flu), Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid (if visiting rural areas). Meningococcal meningitis vaccine required for Hajj/Umrah pilgrims.
- Water
- Tap water is technically treated but bottled water strongly recommended for tourists to avoid stomach upset; SAR 1-2/liter widely available.
- Food
- Food safety generally good in restaurants; street food is mostly safe but choose busy vendors with fresh preparations. Avoid raw vegetables in budget establishments.
- Facilities
- Excellent private hospitals in Riyadh (King Faisal Specialist Hospital), Jeddah (International Medical Center), and Al Khobar; government hospitals cheaper but longer waits; pharmacies (Nahdi, Al Dawaa) in every neighborhood with good stock
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Generally safe for solo travelers in cities. Low violent crime makes solo exploration of Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla very comfortable. Main risks are navigation in very car-centric cities and remote desert areas without proper preparation. Register with your embassy and always inform someone of plans for desert excursions.
Female travellers
Saudi Arabia is now much safer and more accessible for solo female travelers since 2017 reforms. Women can drive, travel unaccompanied, and move freely. Dress modestly (abaya recommended but not legally mandatory for tourists). Most public spaces are safe; Uber/Careem offer women-only driver options for comfort. Avoid isolated areas at night.
Families
Excellent family destination with very low crime, good healthcare, and growing family-oriented infrastructure. Children are welcome everywhere; restaurants have family sections; attractions increasingly cater to young visitors. Heat is the main concern May-September - plan outdoor activities around cooler hours.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex relationships are illegal in Saudi Arabia and can carry severe legal penalties. LGBTQ travelers should exercise extreme discretion and avoid any public displays of affection. The country is not recommended for LGBTQ travelers seeking open expression; however, private discretion allows many visitors to travel without incident.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 999
- Medical
- 997
- Embassy
- US Embassy Riyadh: +966 11 488 3800; UK Embassy: +966 11 488 0077; US Consulate Jeddah: +966 12 220 0940
- Tourist Police
- Available at major heritage sites and tourist areas; general police 999