Travel to Saudi Arabia: a practical first-timer guide
Saudi Arabia is one of the most interesting “new-to-me” destinations right now: modern cities with serious energy, historic districts that feel untouched by mass tourism, and desert landscapes that look like a film set. It’s also a country where a little planning goes a long way—especially around climate, transport between regions, and local etiquette. This guide covers where to go, how long to stay, what to budget for, and how to stay connected with a Zetsim eSIM.
On this page
Why visit · Best time · Visa basics · Where to go · Itineraries · Culture & etiquette · Getting around · Budget · Zetsim eSIM · FAQ
Why travel to Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia travel isn’t “one vibe.” That’s the whole point. You can spend one day in a polished capital with modern architecture and the next in a historic quarter that feels like a living museum. Add desert landscapes and a rapidly expanding visitor experience, and you get a destination that feels genuinely distinct.
- Big landscapes: desert geology and open spaces that don’t feel manufactured.
- City energy: Riyadh’s modern feel and Jeddah’s coastal rhythm.
- Cultural depth: historic districts and traditions that shape everyday life.
Best time to visit Saudi Arabia
Climate is the main factor. Many highlights are outdoors—walking historic districts, desert excursions, viewpoints—so cooler periods are generally the most comfortable for travelers. If you travel in hotter months, plan your days like locals do: early morning, late afternoon, and evenings.
- Outdoor sightseeing: choose cooler weather for longer walking days.
- Desert trips: cooler temperatures make tours far more enjoyable.
- Coastal Jeddah: humidity can be significant; build in indoor breaks.
A realistic planning trick: assume midday is “museum, café, rest” time. You’ll enjoy everything more, and you’ll spend less money on unnecessary taxi rides just to escape the heat.
Tourist visa basics (keep it simple)
Entry requirements depend on your passport and current regulations. Before you book, confirm the latest tourist visa rules and any documentation requirements (passport validity, onward travel, etc.). If you’re searching “tourist visa Saudi Arabia” or “travel requirements to Saudi Arabia,” use official sources and verify close to departure.
- Check official guidance: requirements can change.
- Keep digital backups: passport, booking confirmations, insurance details.
- Plan for connectivity on arrival: immigration and transport go smoother when your phone works.
Where to go in Saudi Arabia (first-timer route)
Riyadh: modern capital, museums, and big-city pace
Riyadh is often the best first stop because it’s a major gateway and gives context to modern Saudi Arabia. Expect a fast-moving city where evenings are lively, and indoor experiences matter (especially in warmer periods).
- Ideal stay: 2–4 days
- Best for: city culture, dining, museums, contemporary Saudi life
Jeddah: Red Sea coast + historic Al-Balad
Jeddah feels more coastal and relaxed. It’s a smart choice if you want a mix of heritage and modern cafés, plus a city that’s easy to explore in the evening. If you like photography, the textures and architecture in historic areas can be a highlight.
- Ideal stay: 2–4 days
- Best for: historic districts, seaside atmosphere, culture
AlUla: desert landscapes and heritage sites
AlUla is where Saudi Arabia turns cinematic—rock formations, desert light, wide-open scenery. It’s also where logistics matter most. Plan transport and timing carefully so you’re not losing half a day to coordination.
- Ideal stay: 2–3 days
- Best for: desert landscapes, guided excursions, “wow” scenery
If you only have time for two regions, choose one city (Riyadh or Jeddah) plus AlUla. That combination gives you both modern culture and unforgettable landscapes.
Saudi Arabia itinerary ideas (5, 7, 10, 14 days)
5 days: one city + one “signature” experience
- Option A: Riyadh (3 days) + AlUla (2 days)
- Option B: Jeddah (3 days) + AlUla (2 days)
This is the most realistic short trip: you get a city base and one major landscape/heritage segment without exhausting transfers.
7 days: Riyadh + Jeddah (city and culture focus)
- Days 1–3: Riyadh
- Days 4–7: Jeddah
A good route if you prefer urban travel, museums, food, and evening exploration.
10 days: Riyadh + Jeddah + AlUla (classic first-timer loop)
- Days 1–4: Riyadh
- Days 5–7: Jeddah
- Days 8–10: AlUla
14 days: slow it down and reduce travel stress
- Days 1–5: Riyadh (with flexible evenings)
- Days 6–10: Jeddah (heritage + coast)
- Days 11–14: AlUla (buffer for tours and weather)
It’s tempting to cram in extra stops. Don’t. Saudi Arabia is big, and travel days can eat your trip if you’re moving too often.
Culture, etiquette, and “do this, not that” tips
Saudi Arabia is welcoming, but it’s a conservative country with cultural expectations. The easiest approach is respectful clothing, calm public behavior, and following venue guidance. You don’t need to overthink it—just don’t show up trying to be the exception.
- Dress: modest, comfortable clothing in public spaces; bring a light layer for indoor A/C.
- Photography: be mindful—avoid photographing people without consent and respect restricted areas.
- Timing: evenings are often the best time to explore, especially in warm weather.
- Respect: follow local laws and instructions in public spaces.
Many travelers ask: “Is it safe to travel to Saudi Arabia?” In general, visitors report feeling safe—especially in main cities and tourist areas— but your best move is always to check your government’s latest travel advice before departure.
Getting around: what actually works for tourists
Saudi Arabia is a country where you’ll likely combine different modes of transport. The practical pattern for most first-time itineraries is: flights between major regions, and taxis/ride-hailing within cities.
- Between regions: domestic flights are often the most time-efficient choice.
- Within cities: taxis and ride-hailing are convenient for point-to-point travel.
- AlUla and remote excursions: plan transport in advance; confirm pickup points and timing.
This is where connectivity matters. Being able to share your location, pull up maps, and message drivers or tour operators is the difference between a smooth day and a frustrating one.
Budget planning: what costs tend to surprise visitors
Saudi Arabia can be planned at different budgets depending on your choices, but a few costs commonly catch travelers off guard: last-minute transport, paid experiences, and convenience spending during travel days.
- Transport add-ons: extra rides for heat avoidance can stack up quickly.
- Guided experiences: AlUla-style activities often work best with tours or drivers.
- Food: you can mix casual meals with high-end dining easily—set your “splurge” nights intentionally.
One small budgeting win: stay connected with data so you can plan routes, avoid unnecessary detours, and coordinate pickups precisely. It sounds minor, but it prevents “just take another taxi” moments.
Stay connected in Saudi Arabia with a Zetsim eSIM
Whether you’re landing in Riyadh, exploring Jeddah at night, or coordinating tours in AlUla, reliable mobile data makes everything easier. A travel eSIM is a simple way to get connected without swapping a physical SIM.
Why a Saudi Arabia eSIM helps
- No physical SIM swap.
- Install before departure on Wi‑Fi.
- Use data soon after landing for maps, messages, and ride booking.
Quick setup checklist
- Confirm your phone is eSIM-capable and carrier-unlocked.
- Install your Zetsim eSIM before you fly.
- Set the eSIM as your Mobile Data line on arrival.
eSIM reference: GSMA eSIM overview.
