Saudi Arabia

Travel tips for Saudi Arabia: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. While locals are largely cashless via the Mada network, travelers report some smaller shops and rural gas stations reject international Visa/Mastercards. Visitors should carry some cash as a backup for these situations.

Try the food

Kabsa (كبسة): A fragrant mixed rice dish cooked with meat or chicken, heavily spiced with cardamom, saffron, cinnamon, and black lime.
Mutabbaq (مطبق): A folded pan-fried crepe stuffed with a savory mixture of minced meat, beaten eggs, leeks, and scallions.
Saleeg (سليق): A creamy, porridge-like white rice dish cooked in broth and milk, typically served with roasted chicken.
Jareesh (جريش): A savory dish of crushed wheat slow-cooked with yogurt, meat, and spices until it reaches a thick, comforting consistency.

Say it in Arabic

Hello: السلام عليكم (As-salamu alaykum)
Thank you: شكراً (Shukran)
Please: من فضلك (Min fadlak)
Excuse me: لو سمحت (Law samaht)
How much is this?: بكم هذا؟ (Bikam hadha?)
The bill please: الفاتورة لو سمحت (Al-faturah law samaht)
Yes / No: نعم / لا (Na'am / La)
Goodbye: مع السلامة (Ma'a as-salamah)

Essentials

Plugs: Type G
Voltage: 230V, 60Hz
Driving: Right side
Tap water: Usually safe
Emergency: 911 (Unified), 999 (Police), 997 (Ambulance), 998 (Fire)
SIM tip: Pick up a prepaid tourist SIM from STC, Mobily, or Zain at the airport arrivals hall, or install an eSIM prior to arrival for immediate connectivity.

Etiquette

Always dress modestly in public by ensuring shoulders and knees are covered; while female tourists are no longer required to wear an abaya, loose-fitting clothing is highly recommended.