Saudi Arabia

Itineraries While it is our intention to adhere to the route described in your contract, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion, it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The contract is a general guide to the tour, region and proposed itinerary any mention of specific wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be encountered, as we can never guarantee what mother nature has to offer us. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Accommodation If a hotel is unexpectedly fully booked, we will always contact you before booking an alternative. We will always offer alternatives of the same level and value for money. Kindly note that water is scarce in many parts of the world, so we always recommend taking short showers and reuse towels if possible.

Emergency Contact Should you need to contact Your Travel Nation during a situation of dire need. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so we may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. We have an emergency line, which will connect you directly with our office.
+1 757 656 3391

Luggage You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be restricted to one medium-sized rolling bag, duffle bag or backpack, maximum 15kg, plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced and space on vehicles is limited.

Packing list
Documents:
• Flight info (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the immigration)
• Insurance info (With photocopies)
• Passport  (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates  (With photocopies)
• Copy of your contract
Essentials:
• Any medication you might need: This should include medication for possible common situations like headaches or diarrhea;
• Sunblock, sunglasses, hat and lip balm.
• Your electronic devices and chargers.
For camera and lenses; we recommend bringing a wide lens (about 17-55mm) for those scenery pictures, and a go pro; Renting a camera is not possible. Please ensure your camera equipment is appropriate for different weather conditions;
•  Clothes: Comfortable and casual clothing, with light colors. You should pack T-shirts, shirts with long sleeves, jeans, a sweater and a jacket (for the cold mornings), swimwear (if the accommodation you selected has a pool or if you do a beach extension), and comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers;
• Insect repellent;
• Refill water bottle;
• Adaptor for A, B and G Type Plugs. 

Laundry Hand washing of clothes can be done at most of the hotels where you will stay. We recommend you bring a non-polluting/biodegradable soap, as well as a roll of simple string to act as a drying line for your clothes. If you arrive in the late afternoon, or if there is poor weather, it may not be possible for your clothes to completely dry. Your hotels may also have a laundry service available at an additional fee.

Visa & Entry requirements Saudi Arabia now offers a tourist e-visa for citizens of many countries, making it easier than ever to visit the Kingdom. The e-visa can be applied for online prior to travel. All visitors to Saudi Arabia must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival. We recommend checking the latest entry requirements with your local Saudi embassy or consulate before departure, as requirements can vary by nationality.

Insurance A travel insurance is highly recommended when traveling. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that we highly recommend good medical coverage and repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
We don’t issue any insurances; however, we recommend using www.worldnomads.com

Health We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least three months before departure or in case of a last-minute tour, as soon as you confirm your travels. Travellers are also advised to carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitiZers/antibacterial wipes on their travels. Medical facilities are basic throughout these countries. For your own safety, we strongly recommend that you advise your local guide of any medical condition that may affect you while travelling. Your local guide will be able to inform you of local health advisories (e.g. drinking water quality). Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor. 

Allergies and dietary restrictions This is something we take very seriously. Upon booking with us, we will send you a form in which you will be able to indicate any dietary preference or restriction or any specific request you might have. We will then provide that information in advance to all the hotels.

Safety and Security Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. 
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, bank cards, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of your group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travelers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our local guides have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

Photography and drone laws Please refrain from taking photos of police stations, airports, bus stations, immigration or border crossings, army barracks and personnel, or any government building. It is against the law and will result in the minimum of your camera being confiscated. Always seek permission before photographing local people, particularly women. Regarding drones, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia regulates all unmanned aerial vehicles. Flying a drone requires prior approval from GACA, and permission must be obtained before bringing or operating a drone in the country. We strongly recommend researching the current regulations and obtaining all required permits well in advance of your trip.

Electricity For Saudi Arabia, there are two associated plug types A, B and G. Plug type A has two flat parallel pins, plug type B has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin, and plug type G has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Saudi Arabia operates on a 220V supply voltage and 60Hz.

Religion Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam and the custodian of its two holiest sites, Mecca and Medina. The vast majority of the Saudi population is Muslim, and Islamic customs and traditions are central to daily life. Visitors are expected to respect local customs, particularly during prayer times and the holy month of Ramadan. Climate Saudi Arabia has a hot desert climate and is generally both sunny and arid, though conditions vary considerably by region. As part of the northern hemisphere, seasons follow a similar pattern to Europe and North America, with cooler temperatures between November and March and peak heat between June and September. Winters are generally mild and pleasant in most areas, though nights in the desert can be surprisingly cold, dropping close to or below freezing in some elevated regions. Summers are extremely hot, with temperatures in Riyadh and the interior regularly exceeding 104°F (40°C). Coastal cities such as Jeddah experience high humidity alongside the heat. The northwest and AlUla region enjoy more temperate conditions in winter, making them particularly delightful to explore during those months.

Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is between October and April, when temperatures are cooler and the weather is far more comfortable for exploring. During these months you can enjoy the open desert landscapes of AlUla, hike to the Edge of the World near Riyadh, dive along the Red Sea, and stroll through the historic streets of Jeddah in much more pleasant conditions.

Alcohol The sale and consumption of alcohol is prohibited throughout Saudi Arabia in accordance with Islamic law. This applies to all visitors and residents alike. No exceptions are made. Please plan accordingly.

Money and Currency The currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Every traveller is different and therefore spending requirements will vary. Some travellers may wish to purchase more souvenirs than most, while others prefer spending on dining and experiences. Please consider your own spending habits when budgeting for shopping and tipping. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and major tourist areas; however, we always recommend carrying some cash for remote locations where card machines may not be available. Please keep in mind that credit- or debit card payments may be subject to an extra charge, varying from 3%–10%.

Dress Code Modest dress is required throughout Saudi Arabia and is an important sign of respect for the local culture. Both men and women should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered when in public. Women are no longer required to wear a full abaya in public, but modest, loose-fitting clothing is strongly recommended. In more conservative areas and religious sites, additional coverage may be required. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal given the heat, and a light scarf or shawl is always handy to have on hand. Don’t forget high-SPF sun protection and sunglasses — the Saudi sun is intense.