£1 SAR 5.04
Today
6:57 am
+3h from you
Travel warning
It's not a good time for a holiday there right now as the area is facing serious missile and drone attacks, and you'd be told to stay indoors for safety in many regions.
Weather in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia
29°
Overcast
Wed
19
29
Thu
16
29
Fri
14
21
Sat
14
23
Sun
16
27
SPF level in Saudi Arabia
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Saudi Arabia
Language in Saudi Arabia
Tipping in Saudi Arabia
Tipping is not mandatory in Saudi Arabia but is becoming increasingly common, especially in tourist areas, as recognition of good service. While service charges are sometimes included in bills (particularly at hotels), an additional tip is always appreciated.
Restaurant
5-10% of the bill, if service charge is not included. Rounding up is also common.
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill is common. A small tip (5-10 SAR) for exceptional service is appreciated.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is a common practice.
Hotel Porter
5-10 SAR per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
10-20 SAR per night, left at the end of the stay.
Tour Guide
50-100 SAR per day depending on the quality and length of the tour.
Safety in Saudi Arabia
Tips for British travellers
Saudi Arabia is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
You must always carry your ID, such as a copy of your passport and visa, to avoid a fine or prison.
Do not bring alcohol into the country or be drunk in public, as penalties are severe.
Do not show affection in public or swear, and avoid playing loud music or making critical political statements.
Men and women must wear loose clothing covering the elbows and below the knees.
Avoid filming or photographing government buildings, military sites, palaces, and local people without their consent.
Bonus tips:
During Ramadan, which varies each year, do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public during the daytime.
It is illegal to have two passports in your name in Saudi Arabia; authorities will take the additional one.
Driving in Saudi Arabia
A UK driving license is accepted for short visits. An international driving permit is useful. For longer stays, a Saudi Arabian license is required.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Saudi Arabia drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Police
999
Ambulance
997
Fire
998
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Saudi Arabia
Voltage
220V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B, Type G
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Saudi Arabia uses 220V at 60Hz. Plugs are primarily Type A, B, and G. British travelers will need an adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in Saudi Arabia, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. However, smaller shops and traditional markets may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +13039671096
ATMs in Saudi Arabia
ATMs are widely available in Saudi Arabia, especially in major cities, airports, shopping malls and bank branches.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are readily available and accept international cards. Ensure your card is chip-enabled with a PIN for ease of use. Some ATMs may charge a small transaction fee.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, the EU roaming regulations no longer apply to UK mobile users. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Saudi Arabia, as they can be expensive. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable rates.
Local SIM data package
50 GB for 200 SAR (~£42)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
STC, Mobily, Zain
WiFi & internet
WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls, particularly in urban areas but is becoming more common in rural areas too. Some places may offer free WiFi, while others may require a purchase or have time limits.
Average speed
40 Mbps
Internet access is readily available in Saudi Arabia, with a growing 4G and 5G infrastructure in cities. Public WiFi is common, but security can be a concern. For more reliable and secure access, consider using mobile data from a local SIM.
Health & vaccinations in Saudi Arabia
It is essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation. Make sure your insurance covers all activities you plan to undertake. Check the FCDO travel advice for Saudi Arabia for the latest health-related information.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor well in advance of your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Ensure you have any personal medications you require, with copies of your prescription and a doctor's letter. Saudi Arabia has high-quality medical facilities in major cities, but it is essential to have adequate travel health insurance.
Calling Saudi Arabia
Country code
+966
To call Saudi Arabia from the UK, dial 00 966 followed by the local number.
To call the British Embassy in Riyadh: 00 966 11 488 0077
The country code for Saudi Arabia is 966. When calling from outside Saudi Arabia, you need to dial your country's exit code, followed by 966, and then the local number. Mobile phone coverage is generally good in urban areas.
UK Embassy in Saudi Arabia
British Embassy Riyadh
P.O. Box 94351, Riyadh 11693, Saudi Arabia
Airports in Saudi Arabia
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.