From Riyadh to Jeddah: A Traveler’s Guide to Saudi Arabia

Previously, the kingdom of Saudi Arabia only offered work visas or Umrah visas. However, in late 2019, the kingdom focused on boosting its economy through tourism, infrastructure development, education and business opportunities.

Now, pilgrims to Makkah can get Umrah visas with their Umrah Packages or also enter KSA on other visa types. In other words, Muslim citizens of 68 eligible countries can get a visit, work or family visa to the Kingdom and also perform holy rituals on it. Just get an Umrah permit issued through the Nusuk app and enter Haram. No need to apply for a separate Umrah visa.

Family, tour, and work visas are available for all the travelers to KSA as per their eligibility. You can get it through e-visa services or proceed with the visa-on-arrival facility.

Here’s a brief Saudi Arabia travel Guide book for you.

Saudi Arabia Travel Requirements: Entry in Saudi Arabia

Just like any other foreign travel, a traveler needs to obtain a valid visa for entry into Saudi Arabia. KSA brings a number of different visa types for the travelers. According to Saudi Arabia travel Advisory, you can get a:

• Tourist visa.
• Work/business visa.
• Transit visa.
• Student visa.
• Family visa.
• Residence visa.
• Umrah and Hajj visa.

The documents you will need include:

1. Passport with a 6-month valid date.
2. Purpose of travel to KSA.
3. Bank statements.
4. Vaccination/medical certificate.
5. Proof of pre-booked accommodation and return flights.
6. Payment receipt for your visa fee.
7. Any other region-specific document requirements.

Regardless of the visa type you are getting, make sure that your entry into KSA is through legal means. You should also possess all of the relevant documents and permission throughout your travel and stay in Riyadh or Jeddah. Authorities there may ask you to show proof of identity at any time. So, if you want to avoid any legal penalties or prosecutions, have a documented and lawful travel and stay.

Weather Considerations

If you are planning outdoor activities, you must travel during the winter months. The winter season brings pleasant weather in all best places in Saudi Arabia. Plus, you won’t have to worry about harsh sunlight. However, know that it is also a peak season. Many visitors and tourists arrive in KSA during winter which will result in higher travel and accommodation costs.

Summer months are not ideal for travelling from Riyadh to Jeddah with Umrah Packages 2025 UK. Though it is an off-peak season in KSA the high daytime temperatures of 50 Degrees Celsius will cause a lot of trouble for you. Especially if you are coming from a cold climatic region.

Riyadh Vs Jeddah: Key differences To Know

1. Riyadh has a more business-focused atmosphere with emphases on economic, political and infrastructure developments. Jeddah, on the other hand, brings a relaxed atmosphere for a vacation because of its cultural, artistic and waterfront activities.
2. Riyadh is more conservative with prominent segregation of genders outdoors and indoors. While Jeddah has a relaxed environment in this regard; most of its outdoor spaces allow mixed-gender spaces.
3. Riyadh has a hot, dry climate while Jeddah experiences mild and humid weather throughout the year.

Top Attractions in Saudi Arabia

If you are planning to visit Riyadh after the holy rituals with Umrah Packages then you must explore;

• Masmak Fortress.
• Kingdom Centre Tower.
• National Museum of Saudi Arabia.
• Al Murabba Palace.
• Diriyah.
• Edge of the World.
• Al Faisaliah Tower.
• Riyadh Zoo.
• Salam Park.
• Wadi Namar.
• King Abdullah Park.
• Riyadh Front.
• The Globe Experience.
• Janadriyah Cultural Festival.
• Granada Centre.

On the other hand, Jeddah brings you attractions like:

• Al-Balad (Old Town).
• King Fahd’s Fountain.
• Jeddah Corniche.
• Red Sea Mall.
• Floating Mosque.
• Jeddah Sculpture Museum.
• Nassif House Museum.
• Fakieh Aquarium.
• Silver Sands Beach.
• Bay La Sun Marina.
• Jeddah Waterfront.
• Atallah Happy Land Park.
• Souq Al Alawi.
• Mall of Arabia.
• Al Shallal Theme Park.

What to Wear?

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia practices Sharia law as it’s a conservative Muslim country. Therefore, modest clothing is preferred in the region by locals. Local women here wear Abayas while men like to wear Thobes (ankle-long shirts).

When in KSA, all the travelers (whether Muslim or non-Muslim) must dress modestly. Make sure that the clothes you are wearing are not revealing. Choose a weather-appropriate fabric considering the weather conditions. For example, cotton-blended fabric or linen fabric for more comfort.

As a tourist travelling from Riyadh to Jeddah, comfort should be your first priority along with modesty. So wear appropriate clothing and footwear that fulfils the traditional norms as well as your comfort requirements.

A popular Route for Pilgrims

Most of the pilgrims arriving in KSA for the holy rituals of Umrah and/or Hajj arrive in Jeddah or Riyadh first. If a pilgrim is getting an Umrah visa or hajj visa, he/she can either get an arrival at Madinah airport or Jeddah airport. As Makkah doesn’t have an international airport of its own. On the other hand, pilgrims on other visa types can also book flights to Riyadh.

Both the cities of Jeddah and Riyadh hold distinctive significance for the Muslim pilgrims. They come here to shop, explore as well as use these cities as a transitory station for Makkah and Madinah. That’s why, regardless of the time of year you come here, you will see a huge influx of pilgrims. In fact, the availability of Haramain train stations in Jeddah and Riyadh is also due to the very reason.

Delicacies to enjoy

While in Riyadh, you must try the local delicacies. Namely; Kabsa, Jareesh, Margoog, Mutabbaq, Areeka, Harees, Qursan, Samboosa, Ma’amoul and Kunafa.

Jeddah’s local food is also a must-try. Such as; Mandi, Sayadiyah, Mathlotha, Mutabbaq, Labanah, Saleeg, Kebab Mishi, Balaleet, Hareesa and Baklava.

Best Hotels to Stay in Saudi Arabia

Riyadh and Jeddah, both have a number of Best hotels in Saudi Arabia for foreign guests. From 3-star budget hotels to 5-star luxury suites, you can stay in a hotel of your choice. Therefore, adding to the overall comfort of your trip to KSA.

The best Hotels in Saudi Arabia Jeddah include:

1. The Jeddah EDITION.
2. Park Hyatt Jeddah – Marina, Club and Spa.
3. Rosewood.
4. Assila.
5. The Ritz-Carlton.
6. Swissotel.
7. Shangri-La Jeddah.

For your stay in Riyadh, you can explore best hotels in Saudi Arabia Riyadh options like:

1. The Four Seasons Hotel at Kingdom Centre.
2. Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya.
3. Fairmont.
4. Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel.
5. JW Marriott Hotel.
6. Le Meridien.
7. Mansard.
8. Jareed Hotel.

Visiting Saudi Arabia As a Tourist: Travel Tips and Guidelines

Travel Tips and Guidelines

For your travel from Riyadh to Jeddah, pack light. Only carry your travel essentials to take along. Whether you are traveling by flight, train, bus or a private car; less baggage will keep you more organized. Plus, the baggage handling issues will be minimal for you. Don’t forget to bring your travel documents.

Saudi Arabia Travel Tips Reddit:

• As a foreign traveler to KSA, you must respect the local norms, culture and traditions. Public displays of affection should be avoided necessarily. For example, hugging, kissing, or getting intimate with your spouse in public.
• It’s a religious tradition in Saudi Arabia that local markets and shops get closed during Salah i.e. five times a day. So you should wait patiently for them to open or you can plan your visit accordingly.
• The holy month of Ramadan brings a crowded season in Riyadh and Jeddah. This is because pilgrims from all across the globe arrive with Ramadan Umrah Packages 2025 for holy rituals in Makkah. As a result, there will be a rush in Riyadh and Jeddah. So be mindful of that.
• Learn some basic Arabic phrases and words to communicate with the locals. Maintain a respectful and friendly behaviour with everyone. Don’t argue or quarrel the anyone. Even if someone is bothering you either report it to the police or forgive and forget if you can.
• You must know of the laws imposed on foreign travelers from Riyadh to Jeddah. Especially the rules regarding photography, getting around and other obligations. Don’t break the law and follow the guidelines set by official authorities for a hassle-free trip.

How to have a Cost-effective Trip from Riyadh to Jeddah?

If you are looking for ways to make your trip from Riyadh to Jeddah cost-effective, pre-book. Let it be your hotels, flights or transportation. Planning ahead of time and booking early offers you discounted rates, a larger availability and flexible modification policies and download a Traveler’s guide to Saudi Arabia pdf online from authentic sources.

Travel in buses for your daily commute or intercity travel. Opt for the less busy times of the day for a comfortable travel experience on public transportation.

Instead of dining out, prepare your meals yourself. It will not only be hygienic but can also reduce your eating costs to almost half.

Pack light and carry less baggage. It will help you avoid extra baggage costs as well as keep you more organised during the trip.

For an even more comfortable and convenient travel from Riyadh to Jeddah, accompany a tour guide. As a foreign tourist, you will save time and money doing so. These local tour guides have all the knowledge that will not only help you avoid inconveniences along the way but also make your travel memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions