Travel advice for women visiting Saudi Arabia

Yes! Travelling solo as a woman in Saudi Arabia is generally safe, with significant improvements in recent years. However, cultural norms and dress code expectations still exist.

Be mindful of local customs, dress modestly and research regulations for specific destinations. With awareness and planning, you can have a rewarding solo experience in Saudi Arabia.

Visa requirements for female travellers to Saudi Arabia are the same as for all genders. Most nationalities can apply for an e-visa online, covering tourism, business and pilgrimage visits.

You'll need a passport valid for at least 6 months, travel insurance and confirmed accommodation. Dress code expectations and cultural norms still apply, so be sure to research and dress modestly. Read our blog post on all travel advice when visiting Saudi Arabia for more information.

While there's no strict dress code, you should always respect local customs by dressing modestly in Saudi Arabia. Aim for loose-fitting clothes covering shoulders and knees, and wear natural fabrics in warm weather. Headscarves are not mandatory but are recommended in some conservative areas.

As a female traveller in Saudi Arabia, here are some key cultural norms to remember:

1. Dress modestly - this means you need to cover your shoulders and knees in loose-fitting clothing, especially outside major cities. Choose clothes made out of natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Scarves are not mandatory but welcomed in some conservative areas.
2. Mindful greetings - avoid physical contact with strangers, and instead go for a nod or smile. Greetings for women differ slightly; use "Marhaba" for hello and "Shukran" for thank you.
3. Public behaviour - be mindful of noise levels and public displays of affection. In some areas, women and men have separate seating sections.
4. Photography - always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially other women. Be respectful of religious sites and avoid photographing them during prayer times.
5. Local sensitivities - be aware of local customs during Ramadan, where eating and drinking in public during the day is prohibited. Respectful clothing and behaviour are especially important during this time.

These are general guidelines and specific situations may vary. By being mindful and respectful, you can have a smooth and safe travel experience in Saudi Arabia.

The official currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). It is denoted by the symbol ﷼ or SR. You can easily access Riyals before your trip by exchanging your home currency at banks or currency exchange offices. ATMs are also widely available in major cities and tourist areas, allowing you to withdraw Riyals using your debit or credit card.

Female travellers in Saudi Arabia have various transport options:

• Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem: Popular, convenient and often preferred by women for added security.
• Taxis: Metered taxis are readily available, but you should always agree on the fare beforehand and aim for female drivers if available.
• Public buses: Separate sections for women exist on some routes, but availability and comfort can vary.
• Private tours: Consider pre-booked tours with female guides for personalised experiences and secure transportation.

Remember, dress modestly while using any public transport in Saudi Arabia.

While travelling alone in Saudi Arabia, be wary of:

• Overpriced goods and services. Haggling is a common practice, especially in souks, but it's a good idea to research fair prices beforehand.
• Fake tours and transportation. Try to stick to licensed operators and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
• ATM scams. Use reputable ATMs and be cautious of strangers offering help.
• Fake currency exchange. Only exchange currency at official kiosks or banks.

Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is! Trust your gut and be cautious.

The main emergency number in Saudi Arabia is 112. This will connect you to a dispatcher who can direct you to the appropriate emergency services, such as police, ambulance or fire department.

You can also reach specific emergency services directly:

• 999 for police
• 997 for ambulance
• 998 for fire department

It's always best to call the main emergency number (112) first and let them assess the situation.

There aren't currently women-only hotels in Saudi Arabia, however, many hotels offer female-only floors or wings with separate entrances and facilities. Hostels are less common, but some cater to both genders or offer private rooms for solo travellers.

In Saudi Arabia, most activities and tours are open to both men and women. However, there are a few exceptions:

• Mosques - women can visit most mosques but may have separate prayer areas or designated prayer times.
• Mada'in Saleh - currently, female travellers can only visit the Nabataean tombs as part of a guided tour with a male guide.
• Thumamah National Park - as of now, female visitors are not allowed to enter the park.

Regulations can change so it's always best to check for the latest updates before your trip.

Saudi Arabia strictly prohibits the possession, consumption, sale and manufacture of all alcoholic beverages and illicit drugs. This applies to both residents and visitors, and violations can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and deportation.

Be aware that even small amounts of alcohol or drug residue can lead to legal trouble.