10 Things To Know Before Traveling To Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is showing up on more and more travelers' radars following its opening to tourism in recent years and for good reason. This is a one-of-a-kind destination boasting rich history and culture as well as no shortage of jaw-dropping natural wonders. There's a specific vacation to suit every interest and passion in the Kingdom, whether you're a foodie, diving expert, history buff or just a curious globetrotter. There is undoubtedly a myriad of unique experiences that await visitors but getting here and enjoying them first requires having a plan. From securing your visa to building your dream itinerary, these are some important things to know before you go.

Travelers to Saudi Arabia must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and can enter their vaccine details through the government's Vaccination Registration Web Portal to expedite entry procedures into the Kingdom. For the latest COVID-19 information regarding travel from the U.S., visit the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Saudi Arabia website.

Tourists with valid passports from 49 eligible countries, including the U.S. and Canada, can apply for a tourist visa online through the easy-to-use eVisa platform-eVisas are issued in as little as 5 to 30 minutes most of the time-ahead of travel to Saudi Arabia or upon arrival through the visa offices of the Immigration Department. The cost for the eVisa option is about $142 and includes a fee for full health insurance during your stay in Saudi while the visa-on-arrival costs about $127.

The U.S. State Department lowered its travel advisory for Saudi Arabia in April 2022. As of October 5, officials advise travelers to avoid visiting some parts of the country due to the risk of missile and drone attacks and terrorism. These areas include within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border; the cities of Abha, Jizan, Najran, and Khamis Mushayt; Abha airport and Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah.

There are dozens of major airports and airlines available to travelers visiting Saudi Arabia. Passengers can even book nonstop options through the country's flag carrier Saudia from a handful of major U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, New York City and Washington, D.C.

There are a variety of exciting accommodations available to visitors to Saudi Arabia, including the Nofa Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Resort perched above the Nofa Wildlife Park, the luxe Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah and the five-star Sunset Beach Resort offering elite amenities and spectacular views. Whether you're looking to stay seaside, out in the desert or in the city, there's an ideal hotel or resort option out there.

Saudi Arabia features a desert climate for the most part so travelers can anticipate experiencing warm temperatures, sunshine and minimal rain-the wet season runs from November to April-throughout the year. Because of this, there is no one time of year that stands out as the best to visit. For summer, travelers will want to pack plenty of lightweight clothing made of breathable cotton or linen. Keep in mind that other seasons can be quite brisk, particularly in the north, so visitors will want to come prepared with layers.

Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia but English serves as an informal second language throughout the Kingdom and is spoken by many locals and visitors alike. What's more, all road signs are conveniently bilingual, guiding travelers in both Arabic and English.

Saudi Arabia offers a plethora of unique experiences but there is a handful that stands out, including hiking to the Edge of the World, or Jebel Fihrayn, exploring the rose gardens of Taif, snorkeling in the Red Sea and visiting the country's very first UNESCO World Heritage Site at AlUla, among others.

Saudi Arabia boasts mouthwatering cuisine in bunches that travelers are sure to fall in love with while learning more about the destination's history and culture. Saudi staples such as kabsa and jareesh are must-try meals for first-time visitors to this part of the world, who will be pleasantly surprised by the wide range of flavors and textures.

Traveling to a new destination is often exciting but can be intimidating. Take the stress out of your trip by working with a trusted travel advisor with experience and connections in Saudi Arabia. TravelSense.org is a great starting point if you've never worked with a travel advisor as you can quickly and easily browse verified travel professionals based on your destination and trip type.