Saudi Arabia Tours & Holidays

As a general rule, travellers will need to obtain a visa before arrival in Saudi Arabia. However, there are a range of nationals that can apply for an eVisa online to make the process as easy as possible, so you don’t need to spend time at embassy and consulate appointments. The visa application process will require you to provide information about your trip, return travel plans and accommodation details and might prompt you for bank account information and employment contracts.

Internet access is widely available in Saudi Arabia, and the country has a well-developed infrastructure for telecommunications. The country's internet penetration rate is quite high and most people have access to high-speed 4G and 5G internet.

The government of Saudi Arabia regulates the internet, and there are some restrictions on access to certain websites and online content, such as those related to political dissent, pornography, gambling, and other sensitive topics. Social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, are widely used in the country, but they are also subject to government censorship. WhatsApp is commonly used for chat but cannot be used for calls and video calls.

Mobile phone networks are widely available in Saudi Arabia and getting a local SIM card for your phone is relatively easy. Upon arrival, you can purchase a SIM card at the airport or at any of the mobile phone stores located in most major cities and towns. The process is straightforward and you will need to provide a passport or a valid ID to register your SIM card.

The country has a well-developed banking system, and ATMs are widely available in most cities and towns. You can find ATMs in banks, airports, shopping centres, and other public places.

Most ATMs accept international cards such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, etc. However, it's always good to check with your bank if your card will work in Saudi Arabia, and also to inform them of your travel plans. You should also note that ATM withdrawal limits may vary depending on the bank and the type of card you are using.

It's also common to find that some ATMs have a limit per transaction, while others have a daily limit, so you may have to withdraw money in multiple transactions.

You can use credit or debit cards, or even international credit cards in most of the shops, restaurants and hotels in Saudi Arabia, however, it's always good to check with the specific establishment if they accept foreign cards.

It's also worth noting that Saudi Arabia was, until recently, a cash-based society, and it's always good to have some cash on hand, especially when travelling to rural or remote areas of the country where access to ATMs and other banking services may be limited.

Western style bathrooms are found all across the country with the same amenities and facilities you’d expect elsewhere.

Saudi Arabia welcomes tourists – as with all destinations, travellers to the country should check their own country’s travel advisory for details, before travelling.

Saudi Arabia’s judicial system is based on Islamic law (Shari'ah) and this may be different from what travellers’ are accustomed to in their own countries. 

In general, when it comes to Saudi Arabia's laws and social rules:

• It is illegal to preach or publicly practice a religion other than Islam. 

• Refrain from questioning religious values or public morals. 

• Don't criticise the country, its royal family or practicing religion in public (including on social media). 

• Dress modestly in public. 

• Alcohol is prohibited in Saudi Arabia. 

It's against the law to have sexual relations or live together outside of marriage.  

Same-sex relationships are illegal. Saudi Arabia does not recognise or allow same-sex marriages and rights.  

Travellers should be aware of the socially conservative rules when it comes to the dress code in Saudi Arabia. It is no longer a legal requirement for women to cover their hair and wear an abaya (long sleeved robe) in Saudi, but women should still dress modestly when out and about (especially when visiting places of worship), covering their shoulders, chest and knees, as well as wearing any loose-fitting dresses or pants.

Due to the hot climate in Saudi Arabia, pack lightweight clothing like cotton and linen, so you're not uncomfortable when you're exploring during the day.

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.