Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has a reputation for being the holiest country for Islamists across the world, being home to the two most important cities of Islam, Mecca and Medina. For decades, Saudi Arabia was never promoted as a tourist destination. However, this has started to change since 2019. A handful of people know that KSA is a beautiful tourist destination. It promises an unforgettable journey for travellers, basking in its glory of picturesque heritage sites and undiscovered gems. If you are planning a trip to this fantastic destination, this Saudi Arabia travel guide will help you cover all the basic requirements on local laws, getting around and things to do. Before you visit Saudi Arabia, you must understand its entry requirements. Except for GCC nationals, all other citizens require a Saudi Arabia visa for entry. For example, if you are a UAE citizen, you do not need a visa; however, if you are an Indian staying in the UAE, you must apply for a tourist visa from an office or Embassy. You need a valid passport, proof of accommodation, bank statements, and a travel itinerary to apply for a Saudi visa from Dubai. Show an invitation letter in case someone sponsors your trip. If you’re a UK, US, or EU resident, you can easily apply online with an e-Visa application. In 2022, KSA launched a free 96-hour transit visa for international visitors stopping by the airport. The visa application will vary depending on your type of request: single-entry and multiple-entry visas or 30-day and 90-day visas. You can consult a local authorised visa agency to help you breeze through the application process and submit the application on your behalf. Visitors should leave the country before the visa expires. Immigration and passport control at the airport. A woman border control officer puts a stamp in the US passport of an American citizen. As of 2025, Indian passport holders planning a leisure trip, pilgrimage, or business trip can apply eVisa for Saudi Arabia through their official site. You must have a valid passport, recent passport-size photos, and a travel itinerary before you apply for the visa. If you already have a valid US, UK or Schengen visa used once, you can apply for a visa on arrival, too.  Since the introduction of tourist visas in 2019, Saudi Arabia has improved and extended its public transportation system. There is a vast network connecting the cities and regions seamlessly. Riyadh and Jeddah, the two major cities of KSA, have metro systems that make commuting convenient. Taxis are widely available in urban areas. Make sure to use registered taxis for safety and reliability. There are also ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem, which are available in prominent cities and provide a convenient and private option for transportation. Another cheap transportation option in Saudi Arabia is the public bus, which operates in major cities and connects different neighbourhoods. Domestic flights are available if you need to travel between cities that are far apart. Saudi Arabia has a well-connected network of airports to help travel and explore every corner of the country in less time. Whichever mode of transportation you choose, always consider the local regulations, cultural norms, and safety precautions while getting around in Saudi Arabia. Considered as one of the two holiest cities of Islam, Medina should be on your bucket list if you are visiting Saudi Arabia. It was established by the Prophet Mohammad, and today, it is one of the most culturally and religiously significant cities in the world. Visit the Al-Masjid-An-Nawabi mosque here, believed to have been established by the Prophet. It can accommodate up to a million devotees. The architecture is unique here. The Seven Mosques are a major tourist attraction in Saudi Arabia, especially during the Hajj season. These mosques played a significant role in the Battle of the Trench during the lifetime of the Prophet. As part of your Saudi Arabia travel guide, Medina stands out as a spiritual and historical gem. Whether you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Saudi Arabia or exploring the best cities to visit in Saudi Arabia for tourists, Medina deserves a top spot on your itinerary. 1. Quba Mosque The first mosque built in Islam, the Quba Mosque, is located just outside the city centre. A visit here is highly recommended when planning a Saudi Arabia trip, especially for those seeking a spiritual connection. 2. Qiblatain Mosque (Mosque of Two Qiblas) This mosque holds immense historical value as the site where the prayer direction was changed from Jerusalem to Mecca. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Saudi Arabian tourism and Islamic heritage. 3. Mount Uhud A visit to Mount Uhud offers not just scenic views but also a deep dive into early Islamic history. If you’re visiting Saudi Arabia for the first time, this site provides cultural and religious insight that is truly unforgettable. 4. The Medina Museum (Dar Al Madinah Museum) For those who want to know what to expect before travelling to Saudi Arabia, this museum is a great place to start. It offers fascinating insights into Medina’s past and the Prophet’s life, helping tourists better understand cultural norms in Saudi Arabia for foreigners. 5. Al-Baqi Cemetery (Jannat al-Baqi) This historic cemetery lies beside the Prophet’s Mosque and is considered sacred by Muslims around the world. If you’re compiling a list of the top places to visit in Saudi Arabia, this site holds both spiritual and historical importance. 6. Old Bazaar (Souq Al-Alawi) Shopping at Medina’s traditional markets is an immersive cultural experience. Knowing what to wear in Saudi Arabia as a tourist can help you dress appropriately while respecting local customs during your visit. 7. Hejaz Railway Station An architectural relic of the Ottoman period, this railway station is a must-see for history lovers and those crafting their own Saudi Arabia travel itinerary. 8. Traditional Arab Restaurants and Cafés No Saudi Arabia travel guide is complete without mentioning the local cuisine. Trying authentic Hijazi dishes like Mandi or