Geography
Saudi Arabia is situated in the southwestern part of Asia, covering a significant portion of the Arabian Peninsula. It is bordered by Jordan and Iraq to the north, Kuwait to the northeast, Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates to the east, Oman to the southeast, Yemen to the south, and the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba to the west.
Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East and the 13th largest in the world, with an area of approximately 2,150,000 square kilometers (830,000 square miles). It boasts a population of over 34 million people, making it one of the largest countries in the Middle East. The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken, particularly in major tourist areas.
Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia. Other major cities include Jeddah, Mecca (Makkah), Medina (Al Madinah), Dammam, Khobar, and many more. Saudi Arabia is home to numerous cultural and historical sites, including the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, which are central to Islam. The Nabatean archaeological site of Al-Hijr (Madain Salih) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as is the historic Diriyah area in Riyadh.
 
Best Time to Visit
Saudi Arabia’s best time to visit is summer and winter season. Both seasons have their own perks and can decide to visit according to preference. The official tourist season runs from October to March, however the best months to visit are between November and February when the weather is coldest. When it comes to summer, better discounts, no long queues but dry weather. There are multiple places that can explore and many activities to enjoy including boating, camping and hiking.
Regardless of the month or season to visit Saudi Arabia, the country offers lovely beaches, engaging cities, shopping complexes and multiple mouth-watering cuisines to savior. From sandboarding to camel safaris, there is no dearth of variety in activities to do in Saudi Arabia around the year.
 
Dress Code
Saudi Arabia is an extremely conservative country with a strict dress code.
For tourists, it is no longer compulsory to wear an abaya (except when visiting religious site) or a headscarf but it is recommended to always bring a pashmina everywhere. In any circumstances, tourist can’t be shirtless in Saudi Arabia.
For women, it is advisable to ensure legs, arms and shoulders are covered. Women are recommended to wear modest clothing and avoid wearing tight clothes that shows the shape of the body and legs. Another critical consideration while dressing for Saudi Arabia is to wear only opaque fabrics. People should not be able to see the underpants through clothes.
Men is not required to wear the customary Arabic thobe. However, one must always wear clothing that covers their shoulders and legs. Male tourists should avoid wearing narrow jeans, sleeveless shirts, or shorts in public. Men’s pants and t-shirts are casual apparels and are appropriate to wear daily in any non-formal setting. The t-shirt must not be provocative or affect public sentiment in the country and appropriate for the general public.
 
Health and safety
Saudi Arabia is generally a safe country, it requires careful consideration of health and safety.
Saudi Arabia has a public healthcare system, but it is advisable to have private health insurance for access to better medical facilities. Ensure to have a comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and repatriation. Check travel advisories and the latest security information from your government's travel website before your trip.
 
Currency
The currency of Saudi Arabia is Saudi Riyal or SAR. The Saudi Riyal is divided into 100 halala. The banknotes come in denominations of 1,5,10,20,50,100,200 and 500 riyals. The coins in denominations of 1 or 2 riyals and 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 halala.
ATMs are widely available and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard and American Express) are accepted at many retailers, restaurants, hotels, transportation providers and other businesses throughout the country.
Note that smaller shops may include a surcharge for card payments. It is best to have a cash on hand to avoid additional fees. Some businesses accept digital payment methods such as Apple Pay.
 
Tipping
Tipping in Saudi Arabia is common. Based on the quality of service, tipping is still subject to own discretion.
For Tour Guides:  In a small group, expect to tip $10 per person per day, or $5-$7 in a larger group. You should also tip the driver about $5 per day, and $2-$3 for any other person who helps out (washing the bus, errands, and others)
For Restaurants: It is expected to be between 10 – 15% for good service if there will be no service charge added to the bill. No need to tip if there is a service charge unless the service is exceptional.
For Hotels: Despite the service charge included in the bill, it is common to tip individual services. For the porter, around $1 - $2 while for the housekeeper, around $2 and can leave the tip beside the table or bed.
For Taxis: A customary tip of 10% on top of the fare.
For Spa: Tipping is much expected in high end establishments. About 10% or 2-3 Saudi Riyal is fine.
 
Photography
It is best to be cautious when taking photograph is Saudi Arabia.  Filming or photographing government buildings, military installations, and palaces is not allowed. It is always a good idea to ask permission before taking photographs of people or sensitive locations, and to be respectful of local customs and laws.
 
Communications and Internet Access 
The international dialing code for Saudi Arabia is +966. WiFi is widely available in cities and mobile broadband is increasing. Travelers can easily access prepaid SIM cards or buy eSIMS online to stay connected throughout their journey. Generally, tourists purchase Saudi Arabia internet packages and the common package is the Umrah Package that offers various mobile providers.
 
Alcohol and Smoking 
Consuming alcoholic beverages and smoking is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia. Using or possessing alcoholic beverages is a criminal offense for non-Muslims and is penalized by law. This also applies to people who are just visiting the country. It is also not permitted to bring cigarette into the country.
 
Climate 
Saudi Arabia has a subtropical climate characterized by dry and warm conditions. The country experience four distinct seasons.
Spring (Mid-March to Mid-June): Sprin in Saudi Arabia can be brisk, particularly in the north, where the temperature at night can drop below 15°C. The central and southern regions are warmer, averaging around 20°C after nightfall. Rainfall is at its highest during spring, particularly in the central region and in the southwest over the Aseer Mountains.
Summer (Mid-June to Mid-September): Summer signals the start of rising temperatures across most of the country. The early mornings and long evenings are more temperate, so take advantage of the warm seats to explore Saudi’s world-class scuba diving sites, or try sailing and snorkeling.
Autumn (Mid-September to Mid-December): Autumn brings gentler weather and cool breezes in both Saudi Arabia’s northern regions and the southwestern highlands. Daytime temperatures remain warm in early fall, evenings are milder and fit for outdoor strolling, especially along Jeddah’s waterfront, indulging in al-fresco dining or visiting Al Ahsa’s cool desert springs.
Winter (Mid-December to Mid-March): Take advantage of the beautiful winter weather to explore Saudi Arabia. The balmy days and cool nights are ideal for camping, rock climbing or exploring Saudi Arabia’s verdant highland and bustling cities from Riyadh to Jeddah. Visitors might be lucky enough to see snowfall in the mountains of the northern regions.
 
Electricity
In Saudi Arabia, the standard voltage is 230V and the frequency is 60 Hz. The associated plug is type G, which is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern.
 
Hotels’ Check in / Check out time and Room Types
The general check-in time in Iran is 14:00-15:00 and check out time is 12:00. Request for early check-in and/or late check-out, depends on the availability of the hotel and it is not guaranteed. Additional charges will be made according to hotel’s rules and policies. Double room, twin bedded and single room are available to most hotels. For triple sharing, it is either double or twin room with 1 extra roll away bed or a sofa bed.
 
Domestic Flights
King Khalid International Airport (IATA: RUH, ICAO: OERK), also known as Riyadh Airport. It serves the city of Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. It is the second largest airport in the country after Jeddah Airport.
Riyadh Airport is located 35 kilometers (22 mi) north of Riyadh. KKIA Airport was built to handle the increasing local and international air transport requirements for Riyadh. It is a hub for Saudia and Flynas. It takes 30-45 minutes from airport to the city centre.
 
Holidays in Saudi Arabia
Eid Al-Fitr
Eid Al-Fitr is one of the Saudi Arabia’s biggest celebrations that takes place at the end of Ramadan. The occasion starts with a modest morning meal and prayer at the mosque and continues with larger feasts and livelier celebrations among family and friends. The significance of Eid Al-Fitr resides in the unity and appreciation that is created when people gather under one roof to celebrate this day.
 
Janadriyah National Festival
Janadriyah National Festival is considered to be one of the largest festivals that celebrates the country’s heritage and culture. The folk festival’s activities range from folklore art shows, poetry reciting to camel races and other cultural events and takes place for about two weeks.
 
The Buraidah Date Festival
The Buraidah Date Festival is an annual festival that focuses on date manufacturing, processing and byproducts such as molasses, dough, sugar, jam, and chocolate. It offers more than 30 varieties of dates. The festival takes place over a course of three months that starts in August.
 
Riyadh Spring Festival
The Riyadh Spring Festival is a huge event that celebrates nature and the Spring season. Thousands of people attend this festival to experience mesmerizing flower breeds. The festival focuses on showcasing colorful and fragrant ornamental plants and flowers. The celebration takes place during March for 10 days.
 
Sharqiah Season Festival
Sharqiah Season Festival is massive cultural festival that hosts a variety of international artists, traditional events, film screenings and sporting events. The 10-day event every March is a great way to explore and celebrate Saudi Arabia’s heritage and culture.
 
Responsible Travel
-Sight-seeing tours are operated and led by a local guide and/or local drivers.
-Be sensitive in discussing politics and religion. It is better to do research or some readings prior you travel in Iran.
-Always follow security warning from the authorities. Always best to carry with you your passport as ID.
-Respect local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly, particularly for women.
-Show respect for the local culture and customs, as cultural awareness can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable trip.
-Familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs, as Saudi Arabia has strict rules, particularly concerning dress code, public behavior, and the consumption of alcohol and drugs.
-Always keep in mind that the situation in any country can change, so it's crucial to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and follow the guidance of local authorities and your embassy or consulate while in Saudi Arabia.
General Information
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country located in the southeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula in Southwest Asia. It is bordered by Oman to the east and Saudi Arabia to the south, as well as sharing maritime borders with Qatar to the west and Iran to the north. Abu Dhabi is the capital city. Arabic is the official language of the UAE, but English is widely spoken, especially in business and tourism. Islam is the official religion of the UAE, and the majority of the population is Muslim. The UAE has a highly developed economy, largely due to its oil reserves. It is known for its modern infrastructure, luxury shopping, and thriving tourism industry. The UAE has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its Bedouin roots and Islamic traditions. Traditional activities such as falconry, camel racing, and dhow sailing are still practiced, alongside modern developments.
 
Geography
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is located on the eastern side of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering Saudi Arabia to the south and west, and Oman to the southeast. It has a coastline along the Persian Gulf to the north and the Gulf of Oman to the east. The majority of the UAE's landscape is desert, primarily part of the Arabian Desert. The Rub' al Khali, or Empty Quarter, is a large continuous desert that extends into Saudi Arabia and is known for its vast sand dunes. The UAE has a coastline that stretches approximately 1,318 kilometers (819 miles) along the Persian Gulf to the north and the Gulf of Oman to the east. The coastline features sandy beaches, mangrove forests, and rocky shores. The eastern part of the UAE is dominated by the Al Hajar Mountains, which extend from the Musandam Peninsula in Oman to the eastern UAE. These mountains reach elevations of over 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) and are characterized by rugged terrain and steep cliffs. Despite its arid climate, the UAE has several oases, which are areas where water is present, allowing for vegetation to grow. These oases are important for agriculture and provide habitats for wildlife. The UAE has a desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F) in the summer, while winter temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is scarce and irregular, with most of it occurring in the winter months. The UAE is rich in natural resources, most notably oil and natural gas. These resources have played a significant role in the country's economic development and prosperity.
 
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the UAE is during the winter months if you prefer milder weather and want to enjoy outdoor activities. However, if you're looking to avoid crowds and save money, the shoulder seasons can also be a good option.
 
Winter (November to March): This is generally considered the best time to visit the UAE, as the weather is mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F). It's ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the desert. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
Summer (June to August): The summer months in the UAE are extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), especially in the interior regions. Humidity levels can also be high, making it feel even hotter. This is not the best time for outdoor activities, but it's a good time to visit indoor attractions like shopping malls and indoor theme parks. If you do visit during this time, be sure to stay hydrated and take precautions against the heat.
Shoulder Seasons ( April to May, September to October): These months offer a good balance between the extreme heat of summer and the peak tourist season of winter. Temperatures are still warm but more manageable, making it a good time for outdoor activities. Prices and crowds are also lower compared to the winter months.
 
Dress Code
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the dress code is generally conservative, especially in public places. While the UAE is known for its modern and cosmopolitan cities, it is important to respect local customs and traditions. What is considered acceptable dress may vary depending on the specific location and circumstances.
 
In public places such as malls, restaurants, and tourist attractions, both men and women are expected to dress modestly. For men, this typically means wearing long pants and shirts that cover the shoulders. For women, clothing should cover the shoulders and knees, and skirts or dresses should be at least knee-length. Avoid clothing that is tight, sheer, or revealing. When visiting mosques or other religious sites, both men and women should dress modestly. Women are usually required to cover their hair with a scarf, and all visitors may be asked to remove their shoes before entering.
 
By dressing modestly and respecting local customs, you can ensure a more comfortable and respectful experience during your visit to the UAE.
 
Health & Safety
When it comes to health and safety in the UAE, the country generally maintains high standards. The UAE has a good healthcare system, with modern hospitals and clinics, especially in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Both public and private healthcare facilities are available, but expatriates and tourists often opt for private healthcare due to shorter wait times and higher service levels. It's advisable to have comprehensive health insurance when visiting or living in the UAE. Tap water in the UAE is generally considered safe to drink, but many people prefer to drink bottled water, which is widely available. The UAE is generally considered safe in terms of crime, with low levels of violent crime. However, it's still advisable to take basic precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The UAE has a reliable emergency services system, including police, ambulance, and fire services. The emergency number for all services is 999. Overall, the UAE is a relatively safe and healthy destination, but it's always wise to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay.
 
Currency and Money
The currency used in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the UAE dirham, denoted by the symbol "AED" or sometimes "DH".  The UAE dirham is available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 dirhams. Each dirham is further divided into 100 fils, although fils are rarely used in practice. Coins in circulation include 1 dirham, 50 fils, 25 fils, and 10 fils. There are also smaller denomination coins, such as 5 fils and 1 fil, but these are not commonly used.
 
Currency exchange services are widely available in the UAE, including at airports, banks, hotels, and exchange offices. It's advisable to compare rates before exchanging money to get the best deal. ATMs are common throughout the UAE, and most accept international debit and credit cards. However, it's a good idea to check with your bank about any fees or charges for using ATMs abroad. Credit cards are widely accepted in the UAE, especially in major cities and tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted, followed by American Express and Diners Club.
 
There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into the UAE. However, amounts over AED 100,000 (or equivalent in other currencies) must be declared.
 
Tipping
Tipping practices in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are similar to those in many other countries, but there are some specific customs to be aware of.
 
Restaurants: In restaurants, a service charge is often included in the bill, typically around 10-15%. If a service charge is not included, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill. This is optional, but it is appreciated for good service.
Hotels: In hotels, it is customary to tip hotel staff who provide services such as carrying luggage, cleaning rooms, or providing concierge services. For luggage assistance, a tip of AED 5-10 per bag is common. For other services, a tip of AED 10-20 is appropriate, depending on the level of service.
Taxi Drivers: Tipping taxi drivers is not expected in the UAE, but rounding up the fare to the nearest whole number is common practice. For example, if the fare is AED 17.50, you can round up to AED 18.
Spas and Salons: In spas and salons, a tip of around 10-15% is appreciated for good service. Some establishments may include a service charge, so it's a good idea to check the bill before tipping.
Tour Guides and Drivers: For tour guides and drivers, a tip of around AED 50-100 per day is customary, depending on the length and nature of the tour. This is a gesture of appreciation for their services.
Other Services: For other services, such as valet parking, bellhops, or delivery services, a tip of AED 5-10 is usually sufficient.
 
It's important to note that while tipping is appreciated in the UAE, it is not obligatory. It is always up to your discretion and should be based on the level of service you receive.
 
Photography
Photography in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is generally allowed, but there are some guidelines and restrictions to be aware of, especially when taking photos of people, government buildings, and certain cultural sites. Always ask for permission when photographing people, respect photography restrictions in certain areas, and enjoy capturing the beauty of Oman responsibly.
 
Internet Access
Internet and communication in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are well-developed, with a range of options available for residents and visitors. Purchasing a local SIM card is a convenient way to access mobile data while in the UAE. Both Etisalat and Du offer tourist SIM cards that include data, local minutes, and international calling options. These SIM cards can be purchased at the airport, convenience stores, or mobile phone shops. Many hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls in the UAE offer free Wi-Fi for customers. This can be a convenient option for staying connected while out and about.
 
Staying connected in the UAE as a tourist is relatively easy, with several options available for internet and communication services. It's a good idea to research your options before your trip to ensure you have the necessary connectivity during your stay.
 
Alcohol
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the regulations regarding alcohol are quite different from many other countries. Alcohol consumption is legal in the UAE, but it is heavily regulated. Only licensed establishments, such as hotels, bars, and clubs, are permitted to sell alcohol to customers. While alcohol is available for tourists, it's important to be aware of cultural sensitivities. Drinking alcohol in moderation and respecting local customs is advised. It is illegal to bring alcohol into the UAE without a permit. This includes both arriving and departing passengers. Any alcohol brought into the country without a permit may be confiscated at customs.
 
Overall, tourists visiting the UAE can enjoy alcohol in licensed venues, but it's important to do so responsibly and within the boundaries of local laws and customs.
 
Climate 
The climate in the UAE is characterized by extreme heat in the summer, mild winters, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. Visitors should be prepared for the heat, especially during the summer months, and take precautions to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
 
Electricity
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) uses a 230-volt, 50-hertz electrical system, which is compatible with the standard European plugs (Type C, Type E, and Type F).
 
The most common plug types in the UAE are the two-pin Europlug (Type C) and the two-pin round plug (Type F). Some buildings may also have sockets that accept the two-pin plug with a grounding pin (Type E). If your devices use a different type of plug, such as the UK three-pin plug (Type G) or the US two-pin plug (Type A), you will need a plug adapter to use them in the UAE. These adapters are widely available in electronics stores and travel shops.
 
It's a good idea to bring a universal travel adapter with you to ensure you can charge your devices and use electrical appliances without any issues.
 
Hotels’ Check in / Check out time and Room Types
The general check-in time in Oman is 14:00-15:00 and check out time is 12:00. Request for early check-in and/or late check-out, depends on the availability of the hotel and it is not guaranteed. Additional charges will be made according to hotel’s rules and policies. Double room, twin bedded and single room are available to most hotels. For triple sharing, it is either double or twin room with 1 extra roll away bed or a sofa bed.
 
Domestic Flights
Flights in the UAE are convenient and efficient, with a wide range of options available for domestic and international travel. Whether you're flying for business or leisure, you'll find that the UAE's airports and airlines offer a high level of service and connectivity.
 
The UAE is home to several major airports, with Dubai International Airport (DXB) being the busiest and most well-known. Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) is another major airport, serving the capital city of Abu Dhabi. Other airports in the UAE include Sharjah International Airport (SHJ), Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) in Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT). Domestic flights within the UAE are relatively short due to the country's small size. Flights between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, for example, take around 1 hour. Domestic flights are operated by airlines such as Emirates and Etihad Airways. The UAE is a major hub for international flights, with Dubai International Airport serving as a key transit point for flights between Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Abu Dhabi International Airport also offers a wide range of international flights.
 
The airports in the UAE offer modern facilities and amenities for travelers, including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and business centers. Many airports also provide services such as Wi-Fi, baggage handling, and transportation options.
 
Holidays in United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing its rich culture, heritage, and diversity.
 
Abu Dhabi Festival: This annual cultural festival in Abu Dhabi celebrates art, music, and heritage, featuring performances by renowned artists and musicians from around the world.
 
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF): Held annually in Dubai, DSF is one of the biggest shopping festivals in the world. It features discounts, promotions, fireworks, entertainment shows, and concerts, attracting visitors from around the globe.
 
Sharjah Light Festival: Held in Sharjah, this festival illuminates the city's landmarks and historical buildings with light and sound installations, creating a magical atmosphere.
 
UAE National Day Celebration: Held on December 2nd each year, UAE National Day commemorates the country's unification and independence with parades, fireworks, cultural performances, and other events. 
 
Ramadan and Eid Festivities: During the holy month of Ramadan, the UAE comes alive with special events, including iftar gatherings, cultural activities, and traditional performances. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are also celebrated with festive events and activities across the country.
 
Responsible Travel
Responsible travel in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for tourism involves being mindful of the environment, culture, and communities you encounter.
 
-Respect the Culture: The UAE has a conservative culture, so it's important to dress modestly, especially in public places and religious sites. Respect local customs and traditions, such as avoiding public displays of affection and refraining from drinking alcohol in public during Ramadan.
-Support Local Communities: Choose locally owned accommodations, restaurants, and tour operators to support the local economy. Engage with local communities in a respectful and culturally sensitive manner.
-Respect Wildlife: Avoid activities that exploit or harm wildlife. Choose responsible wildlife tourism experiences that prioritize animal welfare and conservation.
-Responsible Adventure Activities: If you're engaging in adventure activities such as desert safaris or dune bashing, choose operators that adhere to responsible practices and prioritize safety and environmental conservation.
-Follow Local Laws and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations, especially regarding alcohol consumption, photography, and public behavior.
 
By practicing responsible travel in United Arab Emirates, you can help ensure that your travel experience in the UAE is not only enjoyable but also respectful and beneficial to the local environment and communities.