Travel tips before travelling to Saudi Arabia from the UK

Travel tips before travelling to Saudi Arabia from the UK is an interesting topic for those planning to make such a plan. It is unacceptable that Saudi Arabia does not have a rich history. After opening up tourism options for this Middle Eastern land, it has become a magnet for tourists from all over the world. Some areas of this country are reserved for Muslims only where non-Muslims cannot enter. Non-Muslims are prohibited in Mecca because it is the centre of worship for Muslims.

A large group of foreigners (Muslims) visit Makkah and Madinah alone for Hajj and Umrah, among other cities. They mostly book Hajj and Umrah packages for themselves apart from other tour packages. But that doesn’t mean they only have two options. The Saudi ministry has allowed anyone can perform Umrah at any time on a visa, but Hajj is not valid for all types.

Travel Tips before travelling to Saudi Arabia from the UK

If you’re planning a trip from the UK to Saudi Arabia, here are some travel tips to help you prepare:

• Obtain a visa
• Check the entry requirements
• Respect local customs and traditions
• Pack appropriately

Obtain a visa:

Most visitors to Saudi Arabia require a visa. You can apply for a visa online through the Saudi government’s e-visa portal. Make sure to apply well in advance of your travel date, as the processing time can take up to several weeks.

Types of visa for travelling to Saudi Arabia from the UK

There are several types of visas available for UK citizens travelling to Saudi Arabia, depending on the purpose and duration of the trip.

Most common types of visas:

1. Tourist Visa
2. Business Visa
3. Work Visa
4. Student Visa
5. Hajj and Umrah Visa
6. Transit Visa

Tourist Visa:

This type of visa allows visitors to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days for tourism purposes, including sightseeing, visiting friends and family and attending cultural events. The validation of a tourist visa is for 1 year with multiple entries. 

Most travel agencies are suggested to their customers the tourist visa for Umrah Packages because of extra time relaxation. It’s a reliable option in 2023. 

Business Visa:

This type of visa allows visitors to travel to Saudi Arabia for business-related activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, and exhibitions.

Work Visa: 

This type of visa is required for those who plan to work in Saudi Arabia. It is issued to individuals who have a job offer from a Saudi employer.

Student Visa: 

This type of visa is issued to those who plan to study in Saudi Arabia. It is issued to individuals who have been accepted to a Saudi educational institution.

Hajj and Umrah Visa: 

This type of visa is issued to those who are travelling to Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj or Umrah. The validity of this visa is up to 3 months. Now, holders of this type of visa can also visit other cities, which was not possible in earlier days.

Transit Visa: 

This type of visa is issued to those who are passing through Saudi Arabia en route to another destination. Saudi Arabia has allowed the passengers of Saudi Airlines and Flynas to stay for 4 days. They can do everything here like a tourist visa holder.

It is important to note that the requirements for each type of visa may vary, so it is recommended to check the specific requirements for the visa type you are applying for.

Check the entry requirements: 

Before travelling to Saudi Arabia from the UK, it is significant to check the entry requirements to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and meet the eligibility criteria for entry. The requirements can vary depending on the type of visa, purpose of travel, and length of stay.

Some of the entry requirements for Saudi Arabia may include a valid passport, a visa, proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test result, and sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay.

It is also important to be aware of any cultural and religious customs and traditions in Saudi Arabia and to dress modestly and respectfully in public places. Failure to comply with local laws and customs can result in fines or even imprisonment.

Checking the entry requirements well in advance of your travel date can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Saudi Arabia.

Respect local customs and traditions: 

Be aware of the cultural customs and traditions in Saudi Arabia, such as avoiding public displays of affection and refraining from drinking alcohol in public.

Saudi Arabia has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions. As such, the local customs and traditions of Saudi Arabia are influenced by Islam and can vary depending on the region and community.

Saudi Arabia has a conservative dress code, particularly for women. Women are expected to dress modestly, covering their heads, arms, and legs in public places. Men are also expected to dress modestly, wearing long pants and shirts with sleeves.

Islam is the predominant religion in Saudi Arabia, and religious observance is an important aspect of daily life. 

Muslims are expected to pray five times a day, fast during the holy month of Ramadan, and make a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. Hospitality is highly valued in Saudi Arabian culture. Visitors are often treated with great warmth and generosity, and it is customary to offer guests food and drink as a sign of hospitality.

Family is an important part of Saudi Arabian culture, and strong family ties are highly valued. Respect for elders and the concept of filial piety are important values in Saudi Arabian society.

In public places, there is often gender segregation, with separate areas for men and women. Men and women are also expected to avoid physical contact with members of the opposite sex who are not related to them.

Respect for authority is an important value in Saudi Arabian culture. It is customary to show deference and respect to those in positions of authority, such as government officials, religious leaders, and elders.

Etiquette is important in Saudi Arabian culture, and it is customary to greet others with the Arabic phrase “assalamu alaikum” (peace be upon you). It is also considered impolite to point with your finger or show the soles of your feet, and it is customary to eat with your right hand.

Overall, visitors to Saudi Arabia should be respectful of local customs and traditions, and make an effort to learn about and follow these customs during their stay.

Pack appropriately: 

When packing for a trip to Saudi Arabia, it’s important to keep in mind the conservative cultural norms and the hot and dry climate. As mentioned before, conservative dress is expected in Saudi Arabia, especially for women. It is recommended to pack long, loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs. For men, long pants and shirts with sleeves are appropriate.

As the weather in Saudi Arabia can be hot and dry, it is recommended to pack comfortable shoes that are suitable for walking on hot pavement or sand.

The sun can be intense in Saudi Arabia, so packing items such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is essential. It is recommended that a woman pack a scarf to cover the head and neck in public places.

It’s always a good idea to pack any necessary medications, as well as any prescriptions in their original containers. The electrical outlets in Saudi Arabia may differ from those in the UK, so it is recommended to pack an adapter to charge electronic devices. It is best to have some local currency on hand when arriving in Saudi Arabia, as some places may not accept credit cards or foreign currency.

If you plan on visiting religious sites, it is important to pack appropriate clothing that covers the entire body, including the head and feet. 

Overall, it is important to pack modest and respectful clothing, comfortable shoes, and items to protect against the sun and heat. Keep in mind local customs and traditions when selecting your wardrobe, and consider the hot and dry climate when packing your luggage. You can also ask someone for recommendations about Travel tips before travelling to Saudi Arabia from the UK.