Saudi Arabia

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. An attack could happen anywhere, at any time.

There have been several terrorist attacks in the Gulf region in recent years. These have occurred at places visited by foreigners. Take official warnings seriously. In case of an attack, follow the advice of local authorities.

Maintain a high level of security awareness.

Attacks could occur at any time and could target:

• public places, including shopping malls, markets, restaurants, hotels, recreational facilities and mosques
• military sites
• tourist sites, entertainment events and crowded public places
• embassies and consulates
• locations foreigners may visit

More information:

• Terrorism

The political situation within Saudi Arabia is currently stable. 

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Ongoing hostilities pose serious security risks across the region. There are reports of military debris falling in various locations.

Military tensions remain in neighbouring Yemen. 

Missiles, explosive-laden drones and explosive-laden boats have targeted civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, including ports and airports. Most attacks have been intercepted by the Saudi military.

Some of these attacks occur close to the Yemen border, especially in the provinces of Jazan, Najran and Aseer (including Abha). Urban centres in the Eastern Province have been targeted, in addition to oil infrastructure in that province. The capital Riyadh, and cities on the Red Sea, such as Jeddah and Yanbu, have also been targeted in the past. Other areas may be targeted from time to time.

Targets have included:

• urban areas
• oil infrastructure
• military bases
• government facilities
• ports
• public facilities, such as airports

Such attacks may continue. The frequency of attacks vary and not all individual attacks are always widely publicised.

To stay safe in the event of an attack: 

• if you hear a loud explosion or if sirens are activated, immediately seek cover
• stay away from windows or openings.
• seek shelter in the centre of the building at the lowest level possible
• be aware that if an incoming missile or drone is intercepted, falling debris can pose a risk
• after an attack, stay away from any debris
• follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for emerging threats

Demonstrations and protests

Demonstrations are illegal, and any large spontaneous gatherings are unusual. You should avoid any demonstration or protest activity if it occurs. Penalties for participating in demonstrations or protests may be severe. 

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

The overall crime rate in Saudi Arabia is low. Petty crime can occur, including in crowded places, shopping malls and from vehicles.

Protect yourself from crime:

• be alert to petty thieves while in crowded places
• carry only what you need – leave other valuables in a secure place
• keep your vehicle doors and accommodation locked
• take care when travelling outside major cities
• be alert to suspicious behaviour

Sexual assault

If you are sexually assaulted, you may face detention, arrest or criminal prosecution for reporting the incident to local police or when seeking medical help.

If you're a victim of sexual assault, contact the Australian Embassy in Riyadh on +966 11 2500 970, after hours calls will be redirected to the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra:

• +61 2 6261 3305 (if calling from overseas)
• 1300 555 135 (if calling within Australia)
• Australian Embassy in Riyadh

Consular officers can't provide legal or medical advice. However, they can provide lists of English-speaking service providers who may be able to help. See 'Local contacts'.

If you're attending major entertainment events such as the MDLBEAST Music Festival, you may need to take extra precautions, particularly as a woman.

Risks include:

• unwanted attention, groping and verbal sexual harassment
• sexual assault
• unsolicited invitations from strangers

Protect yourself:

• dress conservatively in line with the Public Decency Laws, avoiding clothing that is tight-fitting or revealing
• be aware of your surroundings
• be cautious of unsolicited invitations from strangers
• only use licenced taxis or approved ride-share services, such as Uber, Bolt, or Jeeny and avoid drivers who approach you.

More information:

• Sexual Assault Overseas
• Reducing the risk of sexual assault and harassment

Piracy

Piracy occurs in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

Pirates target all forms of shipping, including:

• commercial vessels
• pleasure craft
• luxury cruise liners
• naval vessels

The International Maritime Bureau issues piracy reports.

If you travel by boat to or near Saudi Arabia despite the risks:

• monitor piracy reports for the region
• exercise extreme caution
• be alert to possible threats
• avoid confrontation

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Australian travellers have been victims of scams overseas where bank accounts have been subjected to online fraud, including through online purchases from foreign countries. Be aware of scams related to renting properties within Saudi Arabia.

Foreign residents in Saudi Arabia have also been the targets of an identity theft scam. Individuals impersonate a call from the Ministry of Interior to discuss a problem with your Absher account and request one-time passwords (OTPs) or identifying information that gives access to your Absher account. It is unlikely that the Ministry of Interior will contact you this way. Treat any calls of this nature as a scam.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media, even for comments published many years earlier. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Punishments for activities on social media, such as commenting, posting, reposting, and liking content deemed illegal or offensive to the royal family, can lead to lengthy prison sentences. 

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

It's very hot in Saudi Arabia. June to August are the hottest months of the year, and the temperature can reach over 50°C. Consume adequate liquids and avoid extended periods in direct sunlight during summer.  

Sandstorms and dust storms are common.

If a natural disaster or severe weather occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor the media and local sources
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

Swimming safety

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

• regularly check weather reports before engaging in water activities and take all warnings seriously
• stay informed by checking media and local sources for any potential dangers
• speak with your travel provider about safety equipment before continuing with your planned activities
• take a friend or family member along when swimming or participating in water activities
• ensure you have travel insurance that covers all planned activities
• be aware of any dress requirements and gender segregation rules. You may need to cover your arms and legs, or use different areas designated for men and women.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy also needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

You should confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away.

If you hold an eVisa for Saudi Arabia, check the health policy linked to your visa, as coverage may be limited. You should confirm the scope of your health insurance policy and any exclusions before you travel. For further information, check the Visit Saudi Official Website.

If you hold a resident identity card (Iqama), your employer must provide medical insurance. Check your insurance policy to confirm what is and isn't covered.

Your Saudi medical insurance will not cover pregnancy or maternity unless you're married and it's in your insurance policy.

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication into or out of Saudi Arabia, check if it’s legal.  

Before you travel:

• check if your medication is a controlled substance by visiting the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) website.
• some medications require a permit, for information check the SFDA Permit Guidelines. Failure to obtain a permit may result in arrest and prosecution.

Take enough legal medicine for your trip. Carry your medicine in its original packaging and a copy of your prescription and a dated report from your doctor that states:

• your name
• the medicine's brand and scientific (chemical) name
• the prescribed dosage and the duration of treatment, and
• that it's for your personal use.

Saudi authorities may detain or deport travellers for:

• carrying medication to treat HIV/AIDS or hepatitis
• testing positive for HIV/AIDS or hepatitis.

More information:

• Medication
• Saudi Food & Drug Authority

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 

Cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have been reported.

Other Middle-Eastern countries have reported imported cases from returned travellers.

Avoid contact with camels. Don't consume raw camel milk, undercooked camel meat, or anything contaminated with camel secretions.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, cough, breathing difficulties or diarrhoea.

More information:

• MERS information card

Air pollution

Air quality in Saudi Arabia, particularly in major cities, can reach high pollution levels.

Dust and sandstorms are severe and common.  

The poor air quality can cause:

• allergies and breathing problems
• traffic delays and accidents

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, you may be affected. If you’re concerned:

• seek medical advice before leaving Australia
• monitor the air quality index
• reduce your exposure.

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria is present in the Asir and Jizan areas, bordering Yemen. Cases of chloroquine-resistant strains of malaria have been reported.

Other infectious diseases, including waterborne and foodborne diseases, are present in Saudi Arabia. Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.  

• typhoid
• hepatitis
• brucellosis
• rabies
• dengue
• leishmaniasis
• bilharzia (schistosomiasis)

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities

Most facilities in major cities offer high to very high-quality services.

Facilities in minor towns and small cities can only do routine procedures.

If you're treated at a private facility, you may be expected to pay in advance before doctors will treat you.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Facilities for travellers with a disability are different to Australia. 

There are major differences between the laws in Australia and Saudi Arabia. Behaviour that could be considered offensive or anti-social, but not criminal, in Australia could violate Saudi law.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Saudi authorities have detained Australians and haven't always notified the Australian Embassy in Riyadh.

If you're detained, it may take several months for the local authorities to grant approval for Embassy staff to visit you.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Ensure that you read carefully the information on our Consular Services Charter to find out what we can and cannot do.

If you are detained, ask the authorities, your family, friends or colleagues to inform the Embassy as soon as possible.

More information:

• Arrested or detained overseas

Drugs

Possession of illicit drugs and alcohol is illegal. Penalties are severe.

Convictions for possession and trafficking of drugs may result in heavy fines, lengthy jail sentences, deportation or the death penalty.

If you're in the company of someone who is involved in drug cases, including trafficking, possessing or using drugs, you may be detained and remain in detention until investigations of all parties are concluded.

It is illegal to bring alcohol into Saudi Arabia and to possess or consume it in the country.

Public intoxication or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is punishable by fines, imprisonment, deportation and confiscation of your driving licence.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Commercial, civil, family and employment law

There are significant differences in the commercial, civil, family and employment laws between Australia and Saudi Arabia.

If you're involved in local legal matters:

• seek professional legal advice
• understand your rights and what you must do under Saudi law.

We can't interfere in commercial and family disputes.

If you become involved in a commercial or employment dispute, your sponsor or employer may prevent you from leaving the country until the dispute is resolved. Commercial or labour dispute cases may take years to resolve.

If you're a dependent sponsored by a primary visa holder and you're involved in a custody or domestic violence dispute with the primary visa holder, you may be unable to leave Saudi Arabia for an extended period if the primary visa holder/sponsor refuses to issue an exit visa to allow you to leave the country. 

Marriage

If you wish to marry a Saudi national, your partner will first need a letter of approval from the Ministry of Interior. Check current requirements and timeframes directly with the relevant local authorities.

Resident identity card

If you're a resident, you must always carry your resident identity card (Iqama).

If you travel on a visa, you should always carry your passport. Saudi authorities have the right to check ID. There are security checkpoints, both in cities and on roads between cities.

Serious offences

It's illegal to:

• Insult, criticise, provoke, or question public order, religious values or public morals or act in a way that is offensive toward the royal family government leadership or Islam. Saudi authorities can detain you without charges if you're suspected of committing an offence and keep you detained while they investigate.
• not comply with police instructions.
• support any group or organisation considered by Saudi authorities to practice violence. These actions are also illegal in social media posts, even if they were made outside Saudi Arabia and years prior to your visit. Foreigners have received lengthy prison sentences for offensive tweets made in the past.

You may have to wait months for legal help or for a court appearance while authorities investigate.

Penalties for some offences are severe and can include the death penalty. These offences include:

• murder  
• serious physical assault
• adultery
• rape
• same-sex relations
• abandoning the Islamic religion
• offences perceived to undermine the state.

Illegal items

It's illegal to import, possess or trade in weapons and items held to be 'contrary to the beliefs of Islam'. Illegal items include:

• alcohol
• pork products
• pornography – including images of scantily clad people, particularly women
• political and religious books, comics and materials
• drones, without prior approval

Authorities scan passenger luggage on arrival.

More information:

• Saudi Customs 

Other illegal activities

In Saudi Arabia, it's illegal to:

• preach or publicly practice a religion other than Islam
• produce or distribute printed or electronic material, without the Ministry of Culture and Information's authorisation
• publicly display or wear non-Islamic religious symbols or text that has symbols or slogans that could be viewed as political or clothes with profane language or image
• carrying flags or banners, especially when performing Hajj and Umrah
• be involved in charity and fundraising activities, including online or via social media without prior approval from local authorities
• post advertisements that result in an income on social media without a licence from the relevant local Saudi authorities. Violators could face a five-year prison sentence and fines of up five million Saudi riyals
• offend the reputation of tourism in the Kingdom, which may include posting negative reviews online about tourist destinations and activities
• say anything blasphemous
• take photos or videos of Government buildings or military sites, palaces, some religious sites and people (particularly children and women) without permission
• get pregnant or give birth outside of marriage

LGBTQIA+ laws

Same-sex relationships and impersonating the opposite sex are illegal. Saudi Arabia doesn't recognise or allow same-sex marriages and rights. Authorities can impose fines and severe punishment, including deportation. 

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Passports with 'X' gender identifier

You will not be able to enter Saudi Arabia if your passport shows 'X' in the gender field. 

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law

The Saudi Government doesn't recognise dual nationality for its citizens. 

If you are a dual national, authorities may seize extra passports if they find them, and charges, including imprisonment, may be laid if you hold a second nationality without prior permission from the relevant Saudi authorities. This doesn’t deprive you of your Australian citizenship.

If you're a dual national (e.g Australian/UK nationals), and you're travelling with both passports, you can only leave Saudi Arabia with the passport you used to enter.

If you're a dual citizen and entered the country on a non-Australian passport, this limits the consular services we can provide, including if you're arrested or detained.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Always respect religious and cultural sensitivities, rules and customs.

Ramadan

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is strictly observed in Saudi Arabia. Take care not to offend others and cultural customs during this time.

It is illegal to eat, drink or smoke in public between sunrise and sunset during Ramadan. Authorities can detain and even deport you for doing so.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Segregation

Segregation in public places is now less strict than in previous years, particularly in major urban centres. However, some facilities, including the Riyadh Metro, gyms, pools, restaurants and shops, may continue to designate areas by gender or families.

Accommodation

Individual travellers seeking to share accommodation have sometimes been refused joint occupancy. The situation is changing as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia transforms. You should contact your accommodation provider to seek clarification on the requirements. It is important to respect local customs and act in a culturally appropriate manner.

Further information can be found on the Visit Saudi Official Website.

Behaviour

Saudi Arabia has strict codes of behaviour. You can be fined for violating Saudi Arabia's Public Decency Regulations.

Locals may be offended if you don't respect these codes. They may interpret this as religious or cultural disrespect.

Dress

Get advice on what is acceptable clothing before you arrive.

Both men and women are asked to dress modestly in public in line with Public Decency Laws. Avoid tight fitting clothing or clothes with profane language or images.

Men and women visiting Saudi Arabia should cover their shoulders and knees in public. If you don’t comply with these requirements, you may face penalties. If approached by authorities, be respectful and remain calm.

More information:

• Public decorum
• Advice for women

Entry visa

You need a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia. You can apply for an e-visa at the Visit Saudi website. Be cautious of fraudulent visa links. Requirements and policies can change at short notice. Visit the Saudi eVisa website for current information on tourist visas. A visa does not guarantee your entry to Saudi Arabia. Check visa conditions prior to your arrival.

If you've had a travel ban placed against you in the past to prevent you from re-entering Saudi Arabia, you should check the duration of the ban prior to your arrival, or you may be denied entry to Saudi Arabia. 

If you have a previous unresolved legal case in Saudi Arabia, you may be arrested when you arrive. This is regardless of the passport you use to re-enter Saudi Arabia (whether you use an Australian or other passport). 

If you hold a tourist visa, it is valid for 12 months and allows multiple entries. You may stay up to 90 days during that period, and the visa cannot be extended or used for any form of work. For further information Visit Saudi Official Website.

If you overstay your visa, you may face:

• a significant fine
• detention while waiting to be deported
• a ban from re-entering Saudi Arabia

You won't be permitted to leave the country until the fine is paid in full. The Australian Embassy cannot waive or reduce fines or request the local authorities to do so.

Tourists under the age of 18 may not be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia unless accompanied by a guardian.

If you're visiting Saudi Arabia for purposes other than tourism, you must obtain a separate and special visa from visa agencies accredited to the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. Contact your nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate.

If you're transiting through Saudi Arabia, you may need a transit visa. Check with your airline, travel agency and your nearest Saudi Embassy/Consulate if you need a transit visa. Information is available on the Visit Saudi website.

Only Muslims are allowed to enter Makkah (Mecca) and Madinah.

You may not be allowed to enter through a land crossing if you hold a business/visit visa that is annotated 'via air'. Note that this may be written in Arabic. Carefully read and understand the restrictions of your Saudi business/visit visa.

The Nusuk platform has been launched to facilitate registration and visa processing for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. This is the only approved platform from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for Hajj visas and services.

During the Hajj period, Saudi authorities may restrict entry to and exit from certain airports. Access to airports in Jeddah, Madinah, Yanbu and Taif for Hajj may be limited to travellers with a valid Hajj visa only. Pilgrims on Hajj visas are not permitted to travel around Saudi Arabia as tourists outside of their pilgrimage itinerary. Check with your airline, travel agency, and your nearest Saudi Embassy/Consulate for up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements during Hajj season.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy or consulate of Saudi Arabia for details about visas, currency, customs, vaccination and quarantine rules.

Exit visas

If you hold a resident identity card (Iqama), you'll need to get an exit/re-entry or final exit permit from the Saudi Ministry of Interior. You must do this through your sponsor.

You may not be eligible for an exit re-entry visa to leave Saudi Arabia if your passport has less than six months validity.

If you're the main visa holder, make sure that all your dependents have valid passports, as you may not be allowed to obtain an exit re-entry visa.

Visitors holding a single-entry or multiple-entry business, work or tourist visa don't need an exit permit to leave Saudi Arabia.

If you're a dual national (e.g Australian/UK nationals), and you're travelling with both passports, you can only leave Saudi Arabia with the passport you used to enter.

Work visa

It's illegal to work for anyone other than the sponsor or employer officially registered as your employer/sponsor on your residence permit in the Saudi Passports Office’s system.

If you do, you may be punished with:

• fines
• detention
• deportation
• a ban from entering Saudi Arabia

Holders of any type of visa other than a work visa or a resident identity card (Iqama) are not allowed to work in Saudi Arabia.

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Saudi Arabia if you're travelling from an area with a risk of yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF)

Polio outbreaks

Travellers under the age of 15 arriving from countries with polio outbreaks must provide proof of up-to-date polio vaccination.

More information:

• Embassy or consulate of Saudi Arabia

Travel bans

Authorities may place you under a travel ban if you're a tourist, visitor or resident identity card (Iqama) holder and you're involved in a dispute about, but not limited to:

• business
• labour
• employment
• fines.

Travel bans are strictly enforced, and they can take months or even years to resolve.

Only Saudi Arabian authorities, and in very limited cases, your sponsor, can remove travel bans.

Private Saudi citizens may also initiate travel bans against expats.

The government may issue travel bans on people who:

• are charged with criminal offences
• are under investigation
• are involved in financial or labour disputes
• have unpaid debts or who have passed bad cheques

Travel restrictions on dependents

Dependents up to the age of 21 of a Saudi Arabian parent need permission to leave Saudi Arabia. More information, visit the Absher platform.

If you're an expat with unpaid dependent fees, you may have to pay the fees before you can:

• apply for an exit or re-entry visa
• renew your Iqama
• leave on your final exit.

Hajj

If you're a non-resident, authorities may restrict your entry via air or land to Jeddah, Madinah, Yanbu and Taif during Hajj time. The restrictions may start from one month prior to the Hajj time.

Prior to your visit to Saudi Arabia, check the health requirements available on Nusuk Hajj and Nusuk Umrah portals

Pilgrims on Hajj visas are not permitted to travel around Saudi Arabia as tourists outside of their pilgrimage itinerary.

More information:

• Hajj
• Ministry of Health

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Other passport conditions

Saudi authorities will not allow you to enter Saudi Arabia on an Australian emergency passport. You can only use an Australian emergency passport to exit and you may be required to provide a police report and/or letter from the Embassy to explain why your passport is different to the passport on which you entered the country.

If you obtain a new passport, including an emergency passport, while in Saudi Arabia to replace your old, lost or stolen passport, you must register the new passport number with the Saudi passport office prior to your departure. Check with your employer/sponsor or the Ministry of Tourism (depending on your visa type) for information on where to complete this process.

Australian travel-related documents issued to non-Australian citizens will not be accepted for entry to Saudi Arabia with an electronic visa (even if you obtained the visa online prior to your arrival). You'll need to contact your nearest Saudi Embassy/Consulate for up-to-date advice and information on the acceptance of your travel document. If your entry into Saudi Arabia is denied despite holding a valid Saudi visa, the Embassy won’t be able to assist to facilitate your entry.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with the international standard for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing ‘X’ in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact your nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen before you arrived in Saudi Arabia:

• you may be denied entry
• the Australian Embassy may not be able to provide you with a new passport
• you may have to return to Australia.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

The local currency is the Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR).

Declare amounts of more than SAR60,000 or equivalent per family or group when you arrive or on departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Declare any precious metals worth more than SAR60,000 per family or group.

You can change currency at commercial banks and exchange bureaus.

ATMs are widely available. Ask your bank if your cards will work in Saudi Arabia.

More information: 

• Saudi Customs 

Driving permit

Saudi Arabia has strict requirements for driver’s licences. If you’re a resident in Saudi Arabia,  you'll need to get a Saudi driver’s licence.

To drive in Saudi Arabia, you'll need:

• a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must get your IDP before departing Australia. 

Visitors to Saudi Arabia can only drive hire cars and not privately owned vehicles. You may only be allowed to use your Australian driving licence and IDP for up to 3 months from arrival in the country. Check with the local Traffic Police and your rental company for up-to-date information.

You must carry your driver's licence and vehicle registration when driving. If you're involved in an accident, notify the traffic police (NAJM) and ask for their instructions.

Road travel

The annual death toll on Saudi roads is extremely high. Exercise extreme caution when driving and always wear a seat belt. 

Safety hazards include camels straying onto roads.

There are checkpoints where you may be required to present identification.

Some Saudi cities have an automated traffic ticketing system. If you're fined, you must pay the fine through this system before leaving the country.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis and rideshare services

Only use registered rideshare services, taxis and limousines. Book transport from reliable a company.

Registered public taxis can be in poor condition, often without meters and without seatbelts.

Public transport

Saudi Arabia has inter-city bus and limited rail services throughout the country. Riyadh also has a metro system.

Travellers often use limousine services for long-distance travel.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Boat travel

Many waters near Saudi Arabia are sensitive because of territorial disputes and security issues.

Military operations are occurring in Yemen and the Red Sea in response to attacks by Houthi militants on ships transiting the Red Sea and surrounding waters, including the Gulf of Aden. 

Due to the current conflict and tensions in Yemen and the region, ships and boats sailing in or around Yemen and the Red Sea could be at high risk of being targeted by missiles, projectile, or waterborne explosive devices. 

There are ongoing disputes about who has jurisdiction over the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Gulf.

People have reported vessels being inspected and crews detained.

Piracy can occur in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

More information:

• Travelling by boat

Air travel

Due to military activity in Yemen, flights in the south of Saudi Arabia can be cancelled or rescheduled at short notice. Affected airports include:

• Jazan
• Abha
• Wadi Aldwasir
• Bisha
• Sharurah
• Najran
• Baha

Check with your travel provider for updates on flights.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

More information:

• Air travel

Travelling with pets

The Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture must approve all pets imported into Saudi Arabia. Prior permit/approval to bring the pet/s must be obtained. Please contact your airline or visit the Saudia website and the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture for more information and requirements.

Tourism Call Centre

Call 930 (from inside Saudi).

Call +966 92 000 0890 (from outside Saudi).

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Emergency services

Call 911.

Fire and rescue services

Call 998.

Medical emergencies

Call 997 or go to the hospital.

Traffic accidents

Call 993.

Highway Patrol

Call 996.

Police

Call 999 or go to the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

General Directorate of Passports

Call 992.

Emergency medical consultation

Call 937.

Domestic and child violence services

If you're in danger, or you/your children have been a victim of domestic violence in Saudi Arabia, consider calling:

• local Saudi police on 999
• the Saudi National Domestic Violence Hotline on 1919

Call 116 111 for the Child Help Line. The Saudi National Family Safety Program runs this service. They help children access Saudi social services.

When reporting domestic violence:

• get a case reference number – all Saudi social and legal help is tied to this case number
• document any injuries and get a copy of any medical reports

If you file a police report or use any Saudi victim services, authorities may inform your sponsor or guardian.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Contact the Australian Embassy in Riyadh for consular help.

Australian Embassy, Riyadh

Diplomatic Quarter
Riyadh
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Phone: +966 11 250 0900
Website: saudiarabia.embassy.gov.au/ryad/home
X: @AusAmbKSA
Facebook: @AusEmbKSA

The working week is Sunday to Thursday.

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia