Riyadh - The Capital City Of Saudi

Travel Tips

• Be aware that the KSA is rooted in Islamic culture and traditions. Hence, we advise modest dressing, particularly when visiting a religious site.
• Check for the Ramadan month dates before travel as this is the month of fasting.
• Book your airline tickets and hotel booking at least six months in advance to avoid disappointment.
• The KSA is a scorching destination, especially during the summer. So, plan your travel in the cooler winter months from December to February.
• Double-check on the medicines that you carry as the drug laws are very strict.
• Respect the call of prayer by the Muslims five times a day.
• Carry cash in souks and smaller shops for easier shopping.
• Don't miss sampling local flavours and authentic Saudi cuisine.
• Carry your passport identification at all times and keep copies of your travel documents.

Safety Tips

• Be aware of travel advisory before travelling.
• Be careful that you cannot consume alcohol anywhere in the country.
• Drinking is punishable.
• Follow precautions if you are travelling during the Covid pandemic. Be aware of UAE travel health advisory.
• Don't take photographs of government buildings or military sites without a special permit.

Health Tips

• Be prepared with the CDC-recommended packing health kit to prevent illness and injuries.
• Eat and drink safely and follow hygiene protocols.
• Stay safe outdoors and be on alert for changing weather conditions.
• Carry along bug spray, sunscreen and a basic first aid kit to prepare for the harsh sunlight.
• Heat strokes are a possibility here. So, be cautious and wear breathable clothes.
• Eat salty snacks if outdoors for long hours and drink plenty of bottled water.
• Swim at designated areas only.
• Carry medical and health evacuation insurance.
• CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations before travel to the KSA - MMR, Chickenpox, Diphtheria, Flu, Polio, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Rabies, Hepatitis B.

Dress Code & Etiquette

• The dress code is conservative as it is a Muslim country.
• Greetings are warm and men rub each other's noses called the Kusmak.
• Using your right hand for handshakes and a warm embrace between men is common.
• Greetings of hugs and handshakes are not between the opposite gender.
• A brief nod to acknowledge a greeting with a hand placed on the heart is often used.
• Do not click pictures of women 
• Public display of affection is prohibited.
• Arab coffee in a Dallah served to visitors is considered a symbol of welcome.
• Gender separation and other Islamic rules need to be respected.

What to Pack?

• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen 
• Toiletries
• Medications
• Travel Documents
• Light Clothing
• Electronics
• Hats
• Poncho
• Rain Jacket
• Stationery
• Footwear
• Swimsuit
• Dressy Outfit
• Sanitiser, Medical Kit
• Reusable Water Bottle

Nearby Places

Jeddah

The second-largest city of Saudi Arabia is the city of Jeddah. It is famous for its many historical landmarks, a variety of museums and many modern attractions. The city of Jeddah holds an astonishing number of Guinness World Records like the world's tallest lighthouse, the world's tallest fountain, the world's tallest flagpole and many more. The city of Jeddah is known as the Bride of the Red Sea due to its location in the middle of the eastern coast of the red sea.

Dammam

The next city in the KSA is the scenic paradise known as Dammam. The city of Dammam is famous for its many mesmerizing and gorgeous beaches and for the many sites of historical significance. However, it's Dammam's beautiful outdoor life that brings the city alive. From the breathtaking panoramic views of the desert to the peaceful seaside walks on its numerous beaches. Jeddah is the place to be if you wish to enjoy a quiet and peaceful time.

Medina

The city of Medina is one of Islam's two holiest cities in the country of Saudi Arabia. That makes the city of Medina a key location for millions of visitors every year. Especially for those travellers who come to the country of Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah. The city of Medina is built around the Al-Masjid an Nabawi mosque which is popularly known as the Prophet's Mosque. The reason for such a unique name is that it was said to have been made by Prophet Mohammad. And is also the mosque where the great messenger of Allah is buried.

Mecca

It is the holiest location for all Muslims around the globe. Prophet Muhammad the founder of Islam was born in the city and it is said to be home to one of the foundation stones of the planet. Where many important events of men connecting with Allah have taken place. The location of the city of Mecca is also the direction in which all Muslims around the world point during their five-time prayers in a day. As per Islamic law, every financially stable and able-bodied Muslim should at least attempt hajj once during their lifetime.

Other Popular Cities in the KSA

• Al Khobar
• Tabuk
• Al Jubail
• Abha
• Hail
• Khamis Mushait
• Najran
• Al Qatif
• Ad Diriyah

Interesting Facts About Riyadh

• The city of Riyadh serves both as the political and financial centre for the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Riyadh is the largest city in Arabian Peninsula. And the third-largest after Baghdad and Cairo in the Arab world.
• 40% of the population in the city of Riyadh are ex-pats belonging to different nationalities.
• The city was once known as Hajr and was formed by the member of Banu Hanifa. These members were farmers and the city of Hajr served as the capital city of the province of ancient Al-Yamamah.
• The city of Riyadh witnessed a major boom in the 1940s. Where the small town of Riyadh overnight transformed into a happening metropolis of Saudi Arabia.
• On the outskirts of Riyadh is a small village known as Heet. Which is home to an underground lake, Ain Al Heet. That has a cave forming the entrance of the location.