Saudi Arabia Travel Guide: Diverse Culture and Natural Landscapes

Saudi Arabia Travel Guide: Must-Visit Attractions

Saudi Arabia's time zone is UTC+3. Saudi Arabia is 5 hours behind Hong Kong and does not observe daylight saving time. 5 PM in Hong Kong is equivalent to 12 PM in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia uses 200V voltage and a three-prong flat plug.

Saudi Arabia Currency and Payment Methods

The two currencies in circulation in Saudi Arabia are the Riyal and the Halala. One Riyal (SAR) equals 100 Halalas. The Riyal maintains a fixed exchange rate with the US dollar, with 1 US dollar equaling 3.75 Riyals, while the exchange rate between the Hong Kong dollar and the Riyal is approximately 1 Hong Kong dollar equaling 0.48 Riyals. Banknotes are available in denominations of 500, 100, 50, 10, 5, and 1 Riyal, while coins are available in denominations of 2, 1 Riyal, 50, 25, 10, 5, and 1 Halala.

All local banks offer currency exchange services, and exchange offices are also located at airports and some shopping malls. It's worth noting that bank branches are often located inside airports, and their currency exchange rates may be more favorable than dedicated exchange offices! Furthermore, locals commonly use ATMs, and cash can be easily withdrawn using credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard. Of course, other payment methods besides cash are also supported throughout Saudi Arabia, including credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, and many merchants accept electronic payments such as Apple Pay.

Saudi Arabia Climate and Best Travel Seasons

What's the weather like in Saudi Arabia?

Spring (mid-March to mid-June):Saudi Arabia enjoys pleasant spring weather, with nighttime temperatures in the north dropping below 15°C, while the central and southern regions are warmer, with nighttime temperatures around 20°C. Spring brings the heaviest rainfall, especially in the central region and the southwest of the Asir Mountains.

Summer (mid-June to mid-September):Except for the highlands in the southwest, temperatures rise throughout Saudi Arabia, with average summer temperatures around 45°C. Mornings and evenings are relatively mild, and the seawater is warm, making it ideal for water activities such as sailing and snorkeling. Diving in Saudi Arabia is definitely worth trying!

Autumn (mid-September to mid-December):The northern and southwestern highlands have a mild climate with cool breezes. In early autumn, daytime temperatures exceed 30°C, while evenings are cool, making it perfect for walks along Jeddah's waterfront or outdoor dining. We also recommend a visit to the cool Kazakh desert springs!

Winter (mid-December to mid-March):Average temperatures range from 10°C. Warm and pleasant days and cool, comfortable nights make it ideal for camping, rock climbing, exploring the lush highlands, and visiting bustling cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. If you're lucky, you might even spot snow-capped peaks in the northern mountains and deserts.

Saudi Arabia Transportation Guide: Travel Tips and Tips

Saudi Arabia offers a variety of transportation options, including airplanes, trains, buses, taxis, and driving yourself. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before choosing your mode of transport. First, if you plan to fly, book your tickets well in advance, as flights in Saudi Arabia fill up quickly. Second, if you prefer to take the train, be patient, as Saudi Arabian trains are not very fast and delays are possible. Third, if you choose to take a bus, be cautious, as Saudi Arabian bus drivers can drive recklessly and may stop to pray on the road. Finally, if you want to drive yourself, be brave, as traffic rules in Saudi Arabia are quite lax, and you might encounter sandstorms or camels.

Saudi Arabia Food and Cuisine

Saudi Arabian cuisine is primarily meat-based and rice-based, with common dishes including mutton, chicken, camel meat, and rice seasoned with various spices. If you're vegetarian, you might find Saudi Arabian food a bit too much. However, don't worry, you can also enjoy salads, fruits, bread, and dairy products. If you have a sweet tooth, you must try baklava, a traditional Saudi Arabian dessert. It's a very sweet and delicious treat made with thin, flaky pastry, nuts, honey, and other ingredients. However, don't eat too much, or you might find it too rich or too sweet.

Saudi Arabia Culture and Travel Tips

Saudi Arabia is a predominantly Islamic country, so you must respect local religion and traditions. For example, be quiet and polite near mosques, and refrain from taking photos or videos. Avoid disturbing locals during prayer times, or pray with them. Additionally, be mindful of everyday etiquette and customs. For instance, avoid intimate behavior in public, do not eat or shake hands with your left hand, and do not refuse invitations or offers of food. If you can follow these guidelines, you can build good relationships with Saudi Arabians.

Female Travel Tips for Saudi Arabia

Since opening up tourism in 2019, women can travel to Saudi Arabia alone, no longer need to wear all-black robes and headscarves, and only need to cover their shoulders and knees in public places. Like men, women’s clothing should be dignified and decent, avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes, and do not have offensive words or patterns. Women can drive by themselves, and can also check in to hotels with their ID cards. There is no problem traveling alon