SAUDI ARABIA

Discover Riyadh

Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers visitors a unique blend of modernity and tradition. From towering skyscrapers to ancient ruins, Riyadh has something to offer every type of traveler. The city is known for its rich history, with landmarks such as the Masmak Fortress and the National Museum showcasing the country's cultural heritage. Additionally, Riyadh is a shopping paradise, with countless malls and souks offering everything from luxury goods to traditional handicrafts. Whether you're interested in exploring historical sites, indulging in world-class dining, or simply soaking in the local culture, Riyadh is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Trips to Riyadh

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Tips to travel

Traveling to Saudi Arabia offers a unique blend of ancient history, modern development, and religious significance. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Visa Requirements: Check the visa requirements for your nationality before traveling to Saudi Arabia. Most visitors need a visa to enter the country, which can be obtained through the eVisa system or at Saudi embassies and consulates abroad. Ensure that your passport has sufficient validity for the duration of your stay and comply with visa regulations.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Saudi Arabia depends on your interests. The cooler months from October to April are more comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing, while the summer months from May to September can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Avoid visiting during the Hajj pilgrimage season and the fasting month of Ramadan, as accommodation and travel services may be limited.

Health Precautions: Consult with your healthcare provider regarding any necessary vaccinations or health precautions for traveling to Saudi Arabia. Pack any necessary medications and a first-aid kit. Drink bottled or purified water to avoid stomach issues, and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and appropriate clothing, especially during the summer months.

Currency and Payments: The official currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and establishments, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and transactions, especially in markets and smaller shops. ATMs are available in urban areas for withdrawing cash in local currency.

Transportation: Getting around in Saudi Arabia can be done through taxis, rental cars, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem. Taxis are readily available in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, but be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Rental cars are a convenient option for exploring beyond the city limits, but be aware of local driving laws and customs.

Accommodation: Saudi Arabia offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, serviced apartments, and budget accommodations. In major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Khobar, you'll find a variety of lodging options catering to different budgets and preferences. Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and major events.

Language: Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia, but English is widely spoken, especially in business and tourism. Signs, menus, and information are often available in both Arabic and English, making it easy for English-speaking travelers to navigate.

Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage by visiting museums, archaeological sites, and historic landmarks. Explore iconic attractions such as Mada'in Saleh (Al-Hijr), the ancient city of Diriyah, and the Edge of the World near Riyadh. Participate in cultural activities such as traditional music and dance performances, camel races, and Arabian horse shows.

Respect Local Customs: Respect Saudi customs and traditions, especially regarding dress code, behavior in public, and religious practices. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and during Ramadan. Avoid public displays of affection and consuming food or drinks in public during daylight hours in Ramadan.

Safety and Security: Saudi Arabia is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of local laws and customs. Respect local sensitivities regarding religion, politics, and culture. Follow the guidance of local authorities and exercise caution in crowded areas and public gatherings.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can have a memorable and enriching experience exploring the diverse attractions and culture of Saudi Arabia.

Travel Advisories

The U.S. Department of State has four Travel Advisory Levels: Level 1 - Exercise normal precautions; Level 2 - Exercise increased caution; Level 3 - Reconsider travel; Level 4 - Do not travel.

Level 3 - Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia

Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to the threat of missile and drone attacks. Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to terrorism, the risk of arrest based on social media activity, and importation of prohibited items. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to the following locations due to the threat of missile and drone attacks and terrorism:

Within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border, as well as the cities of Abha, Jizan, Najran, and Khamis Mushayt;
Abha airport;
Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah.

Country Summary: Missile and drone attacks perpetrated by Iran and Iran-supported militant groups have occurred as recently as September 2023. The Islamic Republic of Iran has in the past supplied Yemen-based Houthis and regional proxy groups with weapons to conduct destructive and sometimes lethal attacks using drones, missiles, and rockets against a variety of Saudi sites, including critical infrastructure, civilian airports, military bases, and energy facilities throughout the country, as well as vessels in Red Sea shipping lanes. Past attacks were aimed at targets throughout Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran, Jizan, Khamis Mushayt, the civilian airport in Abha, Al Kharj, military installations in the south, as well as oil and gas facilities.

Debris from intercepted drones and missiles has also represented a significant risk to civilian areas and populations in the recent past. Militant groups have threatened to conduct attacks against locations in Saudi Arabia. Terrorism continues to be a concern in Saudi Arabia. Attacks can occur with little or no warning. Past attacks have targeted tourist locations, large gatherings, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Terrorists are also known to time attacks around major holidays and/or in response to military operations. Terrorists have targeted both Saudi and international interests, mosques and other religious sites (both Sunni and Shia), and places frequented by tourists.

Be advised that social media commentary – including past comments – which Saudi authorities may deem critical, offensive, or disruptive to public order, could lead to arrest. This may include posting, re-posting, or liking comments about Saudi institutions, policies, and public life. Punishment for social media activity has included prison sentences of up to 45 years in some cases. Saudi courts do not necessarily consider the timeframe of the posts or the location from which they were made to be material to these cases.

It's advisable to consult your country's official travel advisory website, for the most up-to-date information and specific travel advisories related to this country. Additionally, register your travel plans with your embassy or consulate for assistance in case of emergencies.

Other Services

At Itaca Tours, we offer additional services to elevate your travel experience to the next level. We have partnered with various companies to ensure you have everything yo need for a seamless and enjoyable trip. With these services, we aim to make your travel experience as convenient and worry-free as possible.

Free Travel Planning and Advisory Service.

Book your Activities and Free Tours.

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