What to Pack for a Trip to Saudi Arabia | Plus, Tips on What NOT to Bring!
Knowing what to pack for a trip to Saudi Arabia is key to a successful holiday in the Kingdom. Knowing what NOT to pack, however, is just as important. Traveling to a mostly-arid and endearingly conservative country requires pre-planning and an excellent packing list. Remember, too, that while popular tourist cities like Riyadh and Jeddah stay warm year-round, regions like Asir Province sometimes see snow!
What to Pack for a Trip to Saudi Arabia | Men & Women
Packing lists always vary between men and women, but in the case of packing for a trip to Saudi Arabia, women should make sure and have some essentials like loose pants, long skirts, long-sleeve shirts and a scarf. Until recently, all women were required by law to wear abayas while in the Kingdom. Now the law requires women to wear modest clothing, which means arms and legs should be covered, and women should not wear tight clothing that reveals any curves.
Men, on the other hand, should avoid wearing shorts in Saudi Arabia and stick to long pants and conservative t-shirts, meaning shirts with no offensive language, slogans or imagery.
Packing list essentials for a trip to Saudi Arabia
- Loose-fitting jeans
- Plenty of t-shirts (at least two per day because sightseeing is sweaty business!)
- Trainers/Tennis shoes
- Sandals
- A light jacket (evenings and shopping malls can get chilly! Travelers going to Asir Province during winter should pack a heavy coat. It snows in Abha!)
- A cardigan, or a couple of light long-sleeved shirts
- Sunglasses
- Moisturizing nasal drops (Saudi Arabia is dry! Nasal drops are available at any pharmacy if you forget them.)
- Hand cream
- Lip balm with sunscreen
- A good hat
- Sunscreen
- Swim suit (if you’re planning on visiting beaches)
- A dust mask (just in case you’re lucky enough to experience a sand storm in Saudi Arabia.)
- A comfortable backpack or cross-body bag
Madareem Crown Hotel – Riyadh
Howard Johnson by Wyndham – Dammam
Habitat Hotel All Suites – Al Khobar
What NOT to pack for a trip to Saudi Arabia
Alcohol and pornography are strictly forbidden in the Kingdom, and there are a few other items that are forbidden or restricted. Trying to enter the country with restricted or forbidden items may result in arrest, or at the very least, some embarrassing encounters with Saudi officials. Travelers, particularly backpackers roaming from country to country, should be aware of materials that are considered risqué in Saudi Arabia. For a complete list of prohibited and restricted items in Saudi Arabia, tourists should check online before traveling.
A few things not to take to Saudi Arabia
- Alcohol or anything containing alcohol (this includes vanilla extract)
- Narcotics and some medicines that require a doctor’s prescription. (Travelers can check online for specific medications that are not allowed without a prescription.)
- Natural pearls in large quantities. (Cultured pearls are allowed in small quantities.)
- Radio transmitters (walkie-talkies, short-wave, etc.)
- Binoculars, telescopes & drones. (Travelers can buy binoculars and telescopes inside Saudi Arabia but should be careful about using them in residential areas.)
- Products containing pork or frog meat
- Religious statues, carvings or altars
- Any game related to gambling
- All pornographic materials (don’t forget to clear your phones!) & adult toys
- Any items associated with religions other than the Muslim faith (Christmas trees, crosses, stars of David. The Holy Bible may be brought for personal use. Only one Bible per person is allowed.)
- Military uniforms
- Large quantities of expensive jewelry, particularly items containing silver, gold, platinum or precious gemstones
- E-cigarettes
What to know upon entering Saudi Arabia
Travelers should know that handbags and check-in luggage are thoroughly inspected either by X-Ray, narcotics dogs or manually upon entering Saudi Arabia. Authorities can intercept items for further inspection. To avoid this awkwardness, visitors should carefully check bags for prohibited items prior to flying into the country.
Taking photos of public buildings, particularly employees inside or outside public buildings, and Saudi women is illegal in the Kingdom, so guests bringing in cameras or smart phones should be cautious and respect the privacy of locals while sightseeing. Photographing government buildings can actually result in arrest – as can trying to bribe police. If you are approached by police, be respectful, and if threatened with arrest, never try to pay your way out of it! Professional photographers wanting to take photos for business purposes need to apply for a permit from the Ministry of Culture and Information.
Sahary Al Ola Camp – Al Ula
You may also like
Embark on a culinary adventure in Orlando! From exquisite fine dining and vibrant food trucks to sustainable eats and lively festivals, discover the flavors that make Orlando a foodie's paradise.
Dive into the ultimate Nha Trang shopping adventure! Explore bustling markets, chic boutiques, eco-friendly finds, and seasonal events in our detailed guide.
Embark on a culinary journey through Macau with our ultimate guide to its fusion flavors. Discover traditional dishes, insider dining tips, and vibrant food festivals that celebrate the best of Macanese cuisine.
Dive into our captivating 3-Day Dalat Itinerary to uncover Vietnam's highlands gem. From serene lakes to historic sites, embrace adventure & relaxation in Dalat.
Embark on a captivating 7-day journey through Sydney, Australia. From iconic landmarks like the Opera House to the serene Blue Mountains and vibrant Darling Harbour, discover the best attractions the Harbour City has to offer.
Embark on a captivating 5-day journey through Istanbul, exploring historic wonders and cultural gems. Discover itineraries filled with majestic palaces, vibrant bazaars, and scenic cruises.
Embark on a delectable journey through Goa's culinary landscape with our comprehensive guide. Discover traditional Goan cuisine's fusion of flavors, from spicy vindaloos to sweet bebinca, and dive into local culture through markets, cooking classes, and sustainable dining.
Discover the charm of Paris' arrondissements with our ultimate travel guide. From the historic heart of the city to hidden gems, find the perfect stay for every traveler.
Uncover the best of Incheon in 5 days, from awe-inspiring historic sites to state-of-the-art modern marvels. Indulge in cultural tours, culinary delights, and breathtaking scenery.
Dive into our 3 Days in Bangalore Itinerary to uncover the best of the Garden City. From royal palaces to tech hubs, enjoy a blend of culture, history, and nature.
Dive into our exclusive 7-Day Krabi Itinerary on Agoda’s Travel Guide. Discover pristine beaches, lush jungles, and cultural treasures in Thailand's paradise.
Embark on an extraordinary weekend getaway in Yilan with our curated itinerary. Discover lush landscapes, soak in natural hot springs, and indulge in local culinary delights.
Dive into Mumbai's vibrant culture, history, and flavors with our detailed 3-day itinerary. Discover iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and culinary delights.
Embark on a 7-day journey through Hua Hin/Cha-am with our expertly crafted itinerary. Discover pristine beaches, royal palaces, and hidden gems.
Embark on a captivating 3-day journey through Kobe, Japan. From historical landmarks to scenic beauty, discover the best of Kobe.
Uncover the best of Dallas with our exclusive 3-day itinerary. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, discover why Dallas, TX, is a must-visit destination.
Discover the best of Hat Yai with our 5-day itinerary. From bustling markets to serene temples, experience the hidden gems of Southern Thailand.
Dive into our 5-day Nha Trang itinerary designed for adventure seekers! From island-hopping to scuba diving and cultural wonders, discover the best of Nha Trang with our expert guide.
Dive into our engaging 3-Day Macau Itinerary to uncover the vibrant mix of history, culture, and exhilaration in Asia's Vegas.
Dive into Ipoh's culinary paradise with our 3-day food lover's guide! Discover the best eats, hidden cafes, and cultural delights in Malaysia's gastronomic haven.
Unveil the magic of Orlando with our exclusive weekend getaway itinerary! From thrilling theme parks to serene gardens and vibrant nightlife, discover top attractions and local hidden gems.
Knowing what to pack for a trip to Saudi Arabia is key to a successful holiday in the Kingdom. Knowing what NOT to pack, however, is just as important. Traveling to a mostly-arid and endearingly conservative country requires pre-planning and an excellent packing list. Remember, too, that while popular tourist cities like Riyadh and Jeddah stay warm year-round, regions like Asir Province sometimes see snow!
What to Pack for a Trip to Saudi Arabia | Men & Women
Packing lists always vary between men and women, but in the case of packing for a trip to Saudi Arabia, women should make sure and have some essentials like loose pants, long skirts, long-sleeve shirts and a scarf. Until recently, all women were required by law to wear abayas while in the Kingdom. Now the law requires women to wear modest clothing, which means arms and legs should be covered, and women should not wear tight clothing that reveals any curves.
Men, on the other hand, should avoid wearing shorts in Saudi Arabia and stick to long pants and conservative t-shirts, meaning shirts with no offensive language, slogans or imagery.
Packing list essentials for a trip to Saudi Arabia
- Loose-fitting jeans
- Plenty of t-shirts (at least two per day because sightseeing is sweaty business!)
- Trainers/Tennis shoes
- Sandals
- A light jacket (evenings and shopping malls can get chilly! Travelers going to Asir Province during winter should pack a heavy coat. It snows in Abha!)
- A cardigan, or a couple of light long-sleeved shirts
- Sunglasses
- Moisturizing nasal drops (Saudi Arabia is dry! Nasal drops are available at any pharmacy if you forget them.)
- Hand cream
- Lip balm with sunscreen
- A good hat
- Sunscreen
- Swim suit (if you’re planning on visiting beaches)
- A dust mask (just in case you’re lucky enough to experience a sand storm in Saudi Arabia.)
- A comfortable backpack or cross-body bag
Madareem Crown Hotel – Riyadh
Howard Johnson by Wyndham – Dammam
Habitat Hotel All Suites – Al Khobar
What NOT to pack for a trip to Saudi Arabia
Alcohol and pornography are strictly forbidden in the Kingdom, and there are a few other items that are forbidden or restricted. Trying to enter the country with restricted or forbidden items may result in arrest, or at the very least, some embarrassing encounters with Saudi officials. Travelers, particularly backpackers roaming from country to country, should be aware of materials that are considered risqué in Saudi Arabia. For a complete list of prohibited and restricted items in Saudi Arabia, tourists should check online before traveling.
A few things not to take to Saudi Arabia
- Alcohol or anything containing alcohol (this includes vanilla extract)
- Narcotics and some medicines that require a doctor’s prescription. (Travelers can check online for specific medications that are not allowed without a prescription.)
- Natural pearls in large quantities. (Cultured pearls are allowed in small quantities.)
- Radio transmitters (walkie-talkies, short-wave, etc.)
- Binoculars, telescopes & drones. (Travelers can buy binoculars and telescopes inside Saudi Arabia but should be careful about using them in residential areas.)
- Products containing pork or frog meat
- Religious statues, carvings or altars
- Any game related to gambling
- All pornographic materials (don’t forget to clear your phones!) & adult toys
- Any items associated with religions other than the Muslim faith (Christmas trees, crosses, stars of David. The Holy Bible may be brought for personal use. Only one Bible per person is allowed.)
- Military uniforms
- Large quantities of expensive jewelry, particularly items containing silver, gold, platinum or precious gemstones
- E-cigarettes
What to know upon entering Saudi Arabia
Travelers should know that handbags and check-in luggage are thoroughly inspected either by X-Ray, narcotics dogs or manually upon entering Saudi Arabia. Authorities can intercept items for further inspection. To avoid this awkwardness, visitors should carefully check bags for prohibited items prior to flying into the country.
Taking photos of public buildings, particularly employees inside or outside public buildings, and Saudi women is illegal in the Kingdom, so guests bringing in cameras or smart phones should be cautious and respect the privacy of locals while sightseeing. Photographing government buildings can actually result in arrest – as can trying to bribe police. If you are approached by police, be respectful, and if threatened with arrest, never try to pay your way out of it! Professional photographers wanting to take photos for business purposes need to apply for a permit from the Ministry of Culture and Information.
Sahary Al Ola Camp – Al Ula
You may also like
