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Saudi Arabia’s historical treasure has long been hidden behind almost insurmountable obstacles for international tourists, especially female travelers.
However, the barriers to entering a conservative state have been alleviated over the past few years due to a series of reforms.
Now, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia offers e-Visas to travelers, even women visiting solos, whose controversial ban has been lifted.
Today, women traveling to Saudi Arabia do not need male companions and do not need more restrictive than “humble” clothing.
I have lived near Qatar over the past three years and I have crossed the Saudi border several times and each time I have seen women’s behavior change, which are becoming more free and more independent.
Saudi Arabia is a stunning country filled with natural wonders and sights that last for a long time, allowing visitors to experience truly unique places that do not occupy visitors. However.
So far I have finally seen miracles like Hegra, the beautiful old town of Jeddah, as well as the largest oasis in the world (Al-Ahsa Oasis).
I was also surprised by the way Saudi Arabian locals welcomed, their interest in tourists and their openness to strangers.
This reminds you that no matter what you think of a country’s politics, what really matters is the locals.
Still, like visiting any foreign country, there are some things to consider before booking a trip, which is twice as good as female travelers.
Here are all you need to know about how it feels when you go to Saudi Arabia…
Dress requirements
Ulrike Lemmin-Woolfrey is located in Alura, Saudi Arabia when visiting the world’s largest mirror-covered building, Maraya. -Ian Lemmin-woolfrey
Women and men are advised to cover their shoulders while traveling to any Islamic country, wear shorts or skirts, cover their shoulders or skirts.
But while destinations like Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, may have developed easier methods for international tourists, Saudi Arabia remains somewhat conservative.
Female travelers are not required to cover their hair, but female travelers are advised to wear moderate clothing.
Paula Jensch, a German event planner who lives in Qatar, visited Riyadh for leisure activities in the summer of 2024 and said she found herself packaging differently for other trips.
“The packaging process pays more attention to wearing decent clothes, making sure there is nothing too tight or exposed, if wearing leggings, to make sure to pack an oversized shirt,” she said.
“But for the younger generation of women trying to break traditions and norms, they advised me not to.”
“Because it only makes it difficult for them to break free. So while I did pack Abayas (the loose robe everywhere), I hardly used them.”
The Saudi Arabian Tourism Commission recommends that visiting religious sites, such as mosques, has some separate rules that require women to cover their hair and take off their shoes.
I found the guide to be suitable for larger, more modern cities like Riyadh or Jeddah where people may be more open and used to external influences.
However, when you are currently traveling to the countryside, visiting the village and meeting someone who may have never seen a tourist, a more moderate dressing may lead to a more comfortable experience.
Also, wearing loose Abaya on some slippery clothes is a great way to deal with the heat.
Walk around
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia and its major financial hub, is known for its heavy traffic. – Didier Marti/Moment RF/Getty Images
A road trip is indeed one of the best ways to explore this vast country – women in Saudi Arabia have been allowed to drive since June 2018.
The infrastructure around driving is very good, with long straight roads on the main roads in Arabic and English, regular service and clear signage.
But when a motorcycle enters the city, you need the nerves of steel, and local drivers seem to ignore various driving rules and laws, and the signage is confusing.
I’m not usually a timid driver, but I often end up driving in an adrenaline haze trying to figure out if I should follow any rules.
Ubers are an easy choice when driving in Saudi Arabian cities. But sometimes it is scrupulous, and users report that Uber’s own app sometimes recommends not taking certain cars due to a low driver rating or poor vehicle condition.
Those planning to drive autonomously can also use rental cars.
If it is not self-driving, travelers can hire a driver in private English, or join many available trips.
Safety factor
In Saudi Arabia, female travelers are often respected.
The U.S. State Department repeatedly issued warnings about heading to the southern border due to the war with Yemen, but all other suggestions were relatively simple.
Visitors should always be alert, especially when traveling alone.
Nicole Brewer, an English teacher, freelance writer and content creator at I Luv 2 Globe Trot, visited Jeddah and Alula in spring 2023 with a female friend.
“We both feel safe there,” the American winemaker told CNN. “People welcome us, we didn’t have any problems. I will go to Saudi Arabia again and there will be no problems next time.”
But it’s important that you don’t let common sense fall out of the window, no matter how safe you are.
Jensch had few problems with his trip to Riyadh, but it is recommended that travelers always be cautious, just like any major city. These include “Beware of our property in public places and make sure not to leave your phone or laptop behind.”
Women’s travel only
Two years ago, Nicole Brewer from the United States traveled to Saudi Arabia with a friend. She posed for her in our habitat alula resort. – Renee Evans
One of the biggest changes that Saudi Arabia has taken place throughout Saudi Arabia in recent years is that there are more women working in public careers.
Travelers can find female guides, drivers and even scuba diving coaches anywhere.
For those who prefer to be among other women, most travel agencies offer women-only trips, and women’s guides are accompanied by groups.
“We are committed to providing women with excellent travel experience. Our team includes highly qualified female guides who ensure a safe, enjoyable and tailor-made trip for female travelers,” Fokharia Luxury Tours female tour guide Nourah Bassam Al-Meaiweed told CNN.
Whether you are a woman or a bunch of women, self-driving or going on a tour, Saudi Arabia is as safe as any country and may be more popular.
“I would say that traveling to the area is not as terrible as some people think,” Brewer said. “As a U.S. travel, (also) living in the U.S., I’m respected.
“As long as you respect people and culture, that’s fine.”
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