When considering travel to countries that are vastly different from our own, questions of safety and restrictions naturally arise. Saudi Arabia is one of those places that many travelers are curious about, yet also hesitant to visit. In recent years, the country has made a noticeable push to attract more tourists. This effort, known as Vision 2030, is designed to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy and showcase its rich cultural heritage, modern cities, and vast desert landscapes. But as travelers, we can’t simply look at glossy brochures or enticing Instagram photos. We need to weigh safety, cultural restrictions, and practical realities before deciding whether it’s a destination for us.
From a safety standpoint, Saudi Arabia is generally considered secure for tourists. The country has a strong police presence and strict laws that help maintain order. Major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam have the infrastructure to support visitors, and crimes against tourists are rare. Terrorism concerns that once dominated headlines have been significantly reduced in recent years, thanks to the government’s firm measures to protect both its citizens and visitors. Travelers often report feeling physically safe walking around, even at night, which is reassuring.
Yet, while violent crime is not usually a concern, the greater risks for travelers come from cultural misunderstandings and breaking laws—many of which are enforced with much greater severity than in Western countries. This is where restrictions come into play, and where we need to be well-informed before we step off the plane.
The most noticeable restrictions are tied to Saudi Arabia’s conservative interpretation of Islamic law. For instance, alcohol is strictly prohibited. There are no bars, no happy hours, and certainly no bringing your own wine tucked away in your suitcase. Attempting to do so could result in harsh penalties. For those of us who enjoy sundowners or a glass of wine with dinner, this is a significant adjustment. It’s a reminder that when we travel, we are guests in another culture, and respecting the rules is essential.
Dress codes also remain an important part of Saudi society, though they’ve eased in recent years. Women are no longer required to wear the abaya (the long black cloak) in public, nor is it mandatory to cover their hair. However, modest clothing is still expected—long skirts or pants, sleeves covering the arms, and high necklines. Men, too, should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts in public settings. While visitors might not face fines for showing too much skin, they could attract unwanted attention or disapproval. Out of respect, it’s wise to err on the side of modesty.
Social behavior carries restrictions as well. Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, are frowned upon and can result in reprimand or worse. Unmarried couples traveling together may still face scrutiny, though rules have relaxed in recent years, especially in tourist areas. Still, travelers should be mindful of how they present themselves in public spaces.
Then there are digital restrictions—something not everyone thinks about before traveling. Internet usage in Saudi Arabia is monitored, and some websites and apps may be blocked. Social media is widely used, but critical comments about the government or religion can carry severe consequences. It’s a reminder that freedom of expression, something many of us take for granted, does not carry over when we travel to the Kingdom.
On the positive side, Saudi Arabia is opening up in ways that would have been unimaginable a decade ago. Tourist visas are now available online, making access easier. Women can travel without a male guardian, a significant step toward independence for both Saudi women and female visitors. Large-scale events, such as music festivals, art exhibitions, and sports competitions, are being promoted to draw global interest. Travelers who approach the Saudi people with an open mind often find themselves pleasantly surprised by their hospitality, which is a testament to the country’s rich culture.
Health and safety precautions should also be taken into consideration. The desert climate is harsh, with extreme heat in the summer that can be dangerous without proper preparation. Travelers should drink plenty of water, dress appropriately for the heat, and limit exposure to the midday sun. Road safety is another concern, as driving standards can be erratic compared to what many of us are used to. For visitors, hiring a driver or using ride-hailing apps is often the best option.
So, is it safe to travel to Saudi Arabia? Yes, if you approach it with respect, awareness, and preparation. Physically, the risks are low, but culturally, the potential for missteps is high if you arrive uninformed. Unlike destinations where rules are looser and forgiving, Saudi Arabia requires mindfulness from the moment you land. For those willing to adapt, it can be an enriching experience. You can marvel at UNESCO World Heritage sites like Al-Ula, explore the cosmopolitan waterfront of Jeddah, or witness the blend of old and new in Riyadh. The rewards of travel there are unique precisely because the country has been closed to the outside world for so long.
Ultimately, traveling to Saudi Arabia may not be suitable for everyone. It requires a certain flexibility, a willingness to accept restrictions that may feel uncomfortable, and an understanding that we, as visitors, do not set the terms. But for those who embrace it, the trip can offer extraordinary insights into a part of the world that few outsiders truly know.
For us, as global wanderers, the decision to visit Saudi Arabia would depend on weighing our desire for cultural exploration against our comfort with restrictions. It is not about whether the country is safe in the traditional sense…it is. It’s about whether we are prepared to travel within the boundaries it sets, and to see safety not just as freedom from crime, but as the reassurance that rules are enforced to preserve order.
Would we consider visiting Saudi Arabia? If we were in the Middle East at any given time, we might consider it. However, making a special trip from a distant location would deter us.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, October 1, 2015:
