Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and traditions have been shaped by its position as a historic trade hub and the birthplace of Islam. In recent years, the Kingdom has undergone a significant cultural transformation, evolving centuy-old customs to fit the contemporary world we live in today. things to do in saudi arabia
The dress code is dependent on individual establishments, some casual, others keen on sophistication. Places of worship specifically do require you to dress modestly while visiting.
A vast country spanning most of the Arabian peninsula, Saudi Arabia is a land of ancient deserts, undulating dunes, historic ruins and the holiest of cultures. The northern region boasts the intricately rock-hewn Madain Saleh, an ancient ruin of tombs that dates back to the 1st century, while the southeastern ‘Empty Quarter’ is the one of largest deserts in the world. But Saudi Arabia’s main calling cards are Mecca and Medina, Islam’s most sacred sites. While non-Muslims are forbidden from entering these holy cities, it is a religious requirement for all physically and financially able Muslims to make the pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime. The rewards for those that do get there are substantial. The Great Mosque of Mecca is the largest in the world and surrounds Islam’s holiest palace, the Kaaba, where up to four million people can pray at once. In addition to this, Medina’s Al-Masjid an-Nabawi mosque is said to have been built by the Prophet Muhammad himself, who was later buried here. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s throbbing capital, is more relaxed in its ways. Anyone can come here to enjoy a lively café culture, mud-brick palaces, and shopping options from traditional souks to extravagant malls. Meanwhile, the port city of Jeddah features a beautiful old town, a waterfront, and a string of beach resorts.
Exchange and transactions
Currency exchange and transactions are easy in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia’s national currency is the Saudi riyal (ر.س SAR), which is subdivided into 100 halala.
You’ll receive notes in denominations of five riyals, ten riyals, 50 riyals, 100 riyals and 500 riyals; and coins in one riyal, two riyals, 50 halala, 25 halala, 10 halala, 5 halala and 1 halala.
Must-have apps for visitors to Saudi Arabia:
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Essential:
- Visit Saudi (روح السعودية): This official app by the Saudi Tourism Authority is a great all-in-one resource for visitors. It provides information on tourist destinations, activities, accommodations, restaurants, and more. It also has an interactive map and a calendar of events.
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Getting Around:
- Uber or Bolt: Ride-hailing apps are a convenient way to get around in Saudi Arabia. Uber is more popular globally, while Bolt is a ride-sharing app that is more widely used in Europe and Asia. Both are available in Saudi Arabia.
- Careem: This ride-hailing app is popular in the Middle East and a good alternative to Uber or Bolt.
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Others:
- Hunger Station: This popular food delivery app is a great way to find and order food from a wide variety of restaurants.
- XE Currency: This app helps convert between currencies.
- WhatsApp: This encrypted messaging app is a popular way to stay in touch with friends and family back home.
- Google Translate: This app can help translate signs, menus, and conversations.
These are just a few of the many apps that can be helpful for visitors to Saudi Arabia. With a little planning and the right apps, you can have a great time exploring this beautiful country.
Important Note things to do in saudi arabia
Please respect the local culture and dress modestly. Have a valid tourism visa obtained before arrival. Visa on arrival remains suspended for health and safety reasons.