Saudi Arabia

There is a threat of terrorism in Saudi Arabia. An attack could happen anywhere, at any time.

Several terror incidents have happened in Saudi Arabia in recent years, including those targeted at Saudi security forces. 

On occasion, attacks have targeted the minority Shia community in Saudi Arabia’s eastern province.

Foreigners have died or been injured in attacks that were targeted at others.

Further attacks are possible. 

Possible terrorism targets include:

• shopping malls
• restaurants
• recreational facilities
• entertainment events
• embassies and consulates
• other symbols of Western culture

Attacks may be planned or random, large or small. Tactics could include bombings, drive-by shootings or kidnapping.

If you're in Saudi Arabia:

• be alert to possible threats and avoid possible targets for a terror attack
• always have a clear exit plan in case there's a security incident
• monitor the media for new or emerging threats
• report any suspicious activity or items to police
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

The political situation within Saudi Arabia is currently stable. However, the security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

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.

Most 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
• 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

Overall the rate of crime in Saudi Arabia is low.

Theft can occur, including in crowded places, malls and from vehicles.

Carry only what you need. Leave other valuables in a secure place.

Keep vehicle doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even when moving.

Take care when travelling outside towns and cities, and in crowded areas.

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.

Make sure any unused SIM cards are kept in a safe place or deactivated by contacting your service provider, to prevent misuse by others. Do not share any verification code received on your mobile with others. Verify any text message claiming to be from the bank by communicating directly with the bank.

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.

Punishment for social media activities (including commenting, posting, re-posting and liking content considered illegal or against the royal family) can result in 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 be 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.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Travellers to Saudi Arabia (excluding residents) must have medical insurance that includes coverage for the cost of COVID-19 treatment. If you're entering on a tourist visa (eVisa), coverage for COVID-19 treatment is included in the visa cost. You can review the policy of medical insurance to confirm what is and isn't covered via the Council of Health Insurance website. For further details, see the Visit Saudi website. See further details on the Visit Saudi website.

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

Resident identity card holders

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

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

If you're admitted to one of the intensive care units, you won't be allowed to move to another hospital without prior approval by both hospitals as well as your travel insurance provider.

Tourists

Saudi tourist visas include some medical insurance. Check the Visit Saudi website and the insurance policy website for further information.

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

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

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 (Healthdirect Australia)

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, check if it's legal in Saudi Arabia. Take enough legal medicine for your trip. Carry your medicine in its original packaging and a copy of your prescription or a dated letter 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 - see Health

More information:

• Medication

MERS CoV

Cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have been reported in Saudi Arabia.

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

Sandstorms and dust storms

Sandstorms and dust storms are common. They can cause allergies and breathing problems. During sandstorms or dust storms either stay indoors, wear a mask or seek medical advice.

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria is present in the Asir and Jizan areas by the border with Yemen.

Cases of chloroquine-resistant strains of malaria are reported.

Other insect-borne diseases that occur include:

• dengue
• leishmaniasis

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases occur. These include:

• typhoid
• hepatitis
• brucellosis
• rabies

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled, treated or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products

Don't swim in fresh water to avoid exposure to waterborne diseases, such as bilharzia (schistosomiasis).

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

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 need to pay 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. 

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

Actions that are offensive or anti-social but not criminal in Australia could be against Saudi law.

If you break Saudi law, even without knowing, the punishment may be severe.

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.

Local authorities have arrested Australians travelling or living in Saudi Arabia and didn't always report these cases to the Embassy of Australia in Riyadh.

If you're arrested, approval from local authorities for Embassy staff to visit you may take many months to be obtained.

More information:

• Arrested or detained overseas

Drugs

Penalties for trafficking, possessing or using drugs are severe. These can include the death penalty.

Police may detain you if you're in the company of someone who is involved in drug cases, including trafficking, possessing or using drugs. You may remain in detention until investigations of all parties are concluded.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Local and commercial matters

Get professional advice for local legal matters, including, but not limited to:

• family law – divorce, child custody and child support
• business or employment matters

Understand your rights and obligations. This includes if you're involved in a commercial or employment/labour dispute with your employer or sponsor. Authorities may not let you leave the country until the dispute is resolved. Commercial or labour dispute cases may take years to finalise.

You also need to understand your rights to make decisions for your children or yourself if you're in Saudi Arabia as a dependent sponsored by a primary visa holder. If you're sponsored and are 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 the 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

Authorities can detain you without charge if you're suspected of committing an offence and keep you detained while they investigate. 

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

Trials are held under Islamic law and procedures.

People convicted of serious offences can face:

• long jail sentences
• heavy fines
• deportation
• lashes

Penalties for some offences are severe and can carry 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 tenets of Islam'. This includes:

• alcohol
• pork products
• pornography – including images of scantily clad people, particularly women
• political and religious books, comics and materials, other than those about Islam
• 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
• 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 license from the relevant local Saudi authorities. Violators could face a five-year prison sentence and fines of up to 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
• have sexual relations or live together outside of marriage
• get pregnant or give birth outside of marriage

It's also illegal to:

• mock, provoke or question public order, religious values or public morals
• criticise Saudi Arabia, its people, policy, the royal family, the leadership, officials or Islam
• 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.

It's illegal to possess or trade in alcohol in Saudi Arabia. Authorities have detained travellers on arrival when police smelled alcohol on their breath.

It's illegal to take photos of:

• government buildings
• military sites and checkpoints
• diplomatic missions
• palaces
• motorcades
• some religious sites
• accidents
• fights

Get permission before taking photographs of people, especially women and children.

LGBTQIA+ laws

Same-sex relationships are illegal. Saudi Arabia doesn't recognise or allow same-sex marriages and rights. Authorities can impose severe punishment. 

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. 

Sexual assault

Sexual assault and harassment are illegal in Saudi Arabia, but may still occur, particularly in large crowds.

If you're sexually assaulted, you may face criminal prosecution. Authorities may not consider you to be a victim of crime. Sexual assault victims may be jailed after reporting incidents to local police or when seeking medical help.

If you're a victim of sexual assault, find out about support services as quickly as possible from the:

• Embassy of Australia in Riyadh
• Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra

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 travelling to Saudi Arabia for a major entertainment event such as the MDLBEAST Music Festival (where reports of sexual harassment are common), you may need to take extra precautions, particularly as a female.

Women face greater risks than men and may be more vulnerable. These risks include:

• unwanted attention
• verbal harassment
• groping (especially at crowded events)
• sexual assault

Consider your clothing and dress. Many countries are more conservative than Australia and have different standards for women and men. Dressing conservatively may help you avoid unwanted attention, including clothing styles that locals may consider different.

Be aware of your surroundings. If you feel uncomfortable, leave.

Be cautious of unsolicited invitations from strangers, especially if they try to separate you from your travelling companions.

Only use licensed taxis or approved ride-share services (such as Uber, Bolt, or Jeeny). Refuse offers from drivers who approach you.

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. Authorities will seize extra passports if they find them, and charges, including imprisonment, may be laid if you hold a second nationality without permission from the relevant Saudi authorities.

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.

The Saudi weekend is Friday and Saturday.

Ramadan

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Saudi Arabia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws during this time.

Don't 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 much less strict than it used to be, particularly in Saudi Arabia's major urban centres. However, it may still occur in some areas of public places such as gyms, restaurants and shops. Segregation may be by gender or family.

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 Taste Regulations. Read more on Public decorum.

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. 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.

Read more on Public decorum.

More information:

• Advice for women

Travelling from Sudan to Saudi Arabia

See the travel advice for Sudan for information about flying from Sudan to Saudi Arabia.

Entry visa

You need a valid visa to enter Saudi Arabia. You can apply for an e-visa at the Visit Saudi website.

Australian citizens holding valid Australian passports can apply for tourist visas online or upon arrival. 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). 

Tourist visas are valid for 12 months and allow for multiple entries starting from the date of issuance. The total period of stay must not exceed (90) days throughout the total 12 months of the visa validity. The visa cannot be extended and cannot be used to gain employment, paid or voluntary, in the country.

Ensure that you read and understand the conditions of your visa. A daily fine will be imposed if you overstay your visa or exceed the maximum stay conditions. You won't be permitted to leave the country until the fine is paid in full. In line with the Consular Services Charter, the Australian Embassy cannot waive or reduce fines, or request the local authorities to do so.

If you overstay your visa, you may face:

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

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

Australians visiting Saudi Arabia for purposes other than tourism 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 for more information.

The Nusuk platform has been launched to register and facilitate visas and travel arrangements for Hajj and Umrah. This is the only platform the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has approved to provide Hajj visas and services.

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

You may not be allowed to enter through a land crossing, for example the King Fahd Causeway from Bahrain, on 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.

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.

Around Hajj time, Saudi authorities restrict entry to and exit from some airports including Jeddah, Madinah, Yanbu, and Taif to Hajj visas holders only. Other travellers may need to justify their need to travel to any of these cities/airport before they can be allowed to board the flight. You can still enter Saudi Arabia through other entry points. Check with your airline, travel agency and your nearest Saudi Embassy/Consulate for up-to-date information.

Exit visas

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

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.

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.

See Local laws

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 Australians under a travel ban. This means that you won't be able to leave the country 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

Authorities are strict with travel bans. They can take months or even years to resolve.

Only Saudi Arabian authorities, and in very limited cases your sponsor, can remove travel bans. Saudi sponsors may have considerable power in dispute negotiations.

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 about whose permission is required is available on the Absher platform.

Saudi authorities have introduced fees for dependants that apply to iqama holders.

If you're an expat with outstanding fees for dependants, you may have to pay the fees before you can:

• apply for an exit or re-entry visa
• renew your Iqama
• leave for the final time

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.

More information:

• Hajj

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.

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

If you're travelling on an emergency passport, Saudi authorities will not allow you to enter the country. You must have a full validity passport to enter. You can exit the country on an emergency passport but 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 have been issued an emergency passport while in Saudi Arabia to replace your lost/stolen passport, you may be required to provide a police report upon your departure.

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 you lose your passport before arriving in Saudi Arabia:

• you may not be able to enter the country
• the Embassy of Australia may not be able to provide you with a new passport, as personal lodgement is compulsory to obtain 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).

When you enter or leave Saudi Arabia, declare amounts of more than SAR60,000 or equivalent per family or group. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

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

You can change Australian dollars 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

If you have a residency permit (iqama), you'll need to get a Saudi driver’s licence.

To drive in Saudi Arabia, you'll need:

• a valid Australian driver's licence, and
• 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 in Saudi Arabia and always wear a seat belt. 

Safety hazards include:

• drivers ignoring road rules and driving while distracted
• bad weather limiting visibility
• poor road conditions in some parts of the country
• camels straying onto roads

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

If you plan to drive:

• check your insurance covers you
• learn local traffic rules and behaviour
• know what to do in case of an incident or accident
• always keep your car windows up and doors locked, even when moving

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 taxis and limousines, preferably arranged through your accommodation or licensed rideshare services (such as Uber, Bolt, or Jeeny).

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

Don't share taxis with unknown passengers.

Public transport

Saudi Arabia has inter-city bus and limited rail services throughout the country.

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.

Due to the military conflict in Yemen, military vessels are stationed in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea.

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. See Safety

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.

Embassy of Australia, 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