SAUDI ARABIA
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Review of Saudi Arabia

Plane Saudi Arabia

December 19, 2024

flexible!

I think you managed to arrange the best itinerary despite having many things I wanted to do across multiple countries.

The schedule could have been a bit tighter, but since there were few flights, this was the best we could do.

I am left dissatisfied with the hotel grade. I think there are differences in the level of satisfaction for each person, so I would have liked a bit more attention to that.

However, the local support, including that aspect, was very attentive. I appreciate your flexibility in accommodating my requests and your consideration.

What kind of country is Saudi Arabia?

In 2019, Saudi Arabia finally made tourist visas generally obtainable.

Several years after opening up to tourism, English has become usable in many places, new hotels are being built one after another, and tourist spots are being developed, captivating many people.
Riyadh, a city where Saudi Arabia's history and modern culture merge, giving birth to popular spots one after another; Jeddah, a port town with a World Heritage old city; Medina, the second holiest city in Islam; AlUla, deep in the northwest desert of Saudi Arabia, with ancient history and breathtaking natural scenery; and Dammam, a modern metropolis by the sea with many unique spots.

It occupies a large part of the Arabian Peninsula and is a fascinating country full of still unknown spots.

Highlights of Saudi Arabia.

  • Riyadh

    Classic

    Area

    The capital of Saudi Arabia. A historically significant land governed by the Saudi royal family even before the establishment of Saudi Arabia, it has grown into one of the largest cities in the Middle East, with numerous skyscrapers and tourist facilities constructed in recent years.

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  • Jeddah

    Classic

    Area

    A city located in the Mecca Province of western Saudi Arabia, overlooking the Red Sea. It is the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia and is known as the gateway to Mecca, the holy site for Muslims. During the Hajj pilgrimage season, the city becomes bustling with over two million Muslims passing through Jeddah on their way to Mecca. In the historic district, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors can enjoy the traditional Arabian streetscape.

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  • Hegra Archaeological Site

    Classic

    spot

    An ancient city in Saudi Arabia built between the 1st century BC and the 1st century AD. Known as Saudi Arabia's first World Heritage site, it is a Nabataean archaeological site second only to the Petra ruins, a filming location for the movie 'Indiana Jones.' In Saudi Arabia, the ruins of Madain Saleh (also known as Hegra) have a history of being considered a cursed place, so visiting with a guide is recommended.

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  • Tuwaiq Mountains

    Hidden Gem

    Experiences

    A sandstone mountain range near Riyadh. Between the mountains, beautiful valleys, rock spires, and vast desert landscapes spread out. Outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and camping are popular, and you can enjoy breathtaking views while learning about geology and the unique flora and fauna of the desert.

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  • Farasan Islands

    Hidden Gem

    Area

    An archipelago floating in the Red Sea in southwestern Saudi Arabia. It has a long history and has been influenced by ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. Untouched nature remains, including clear seas, rich coral reefs, and lush mangroves. You can observe the rich ecosystem through diving and snorkeling.

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  • Al Ahsa Oasis

    Hidden Gem

    Area

    Located in the Al-Ahsa region, known as the world's largest oasis city. Sustainable agriculture has been practiced for over 7,000 years, and it features a cultural landscape with traditional irrigation methods and architecture. It is registered as a World Heritage site as an important heritage demonstrating sustainable living and agricultural wisdom in the harsh desert environment.

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Things to consider when traveling to the United Arab Emirates.

Climate and Best Seasons
  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • May
  • June
  • July
  • August
  • September
  • October
  • November
  • December

Average temperature and precipitation in Saudi Arabia (Riyadh)

Average Temperature and Precipitation

Source: Weather Base (http://www.weatherbase.com/)

Cash, Cards, and Currency Exchange
The currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal. It is recommended to use currency exchange services at airports, as it can be difficult to exchange money at banks.
On the other hand, credit cards are widely accepted in most places within Saudi Arabia, so there is not much need to carry large amounts of cash.
Tips
There is no tipping culture. Tipping is not necessary in restaurants, for hotel housekeeping, or when using restrooms, but if you receive good service, it is considerate to tip to show appreciation. Drivers and guides will appreciate a tip if you feel they provided good service.
Safety
The security in Saudi Arabia is good compared to other Middle Eastern countries.
In urban areas, it is not particularly unusual for women to walk alone.

However, pickpocketing and theft are common in tourist areas, so please take care to secure your belongings.
Clothing
Previously, even foreign women were required to wear an abaya (traditional Arab attire), but this requirement has been abolished. As long as your clothing covers your shoulders and knees, regular clothing is acceptable. However, many local women still wear the abaya, so wearing a dress that does not show body lines can help you blend in. Around sacred areas like mosques, it is advisable to wear a hijab (headscarf), so bring one with you.

Men should also avoid going out in shorts and tank tops.

Due to the strong sunlight, it is more comfortable to have lightweight long sleeves and sunglasses.

Comfortable sneakers are recommended for footwear.
Things to Bring
Multi-plug, regular medication, WiFi, scarf, mobile battery, sun protection items, insect repellent, travel insurance
Visa Requirements and Arrangements
Japanese nationals entering Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes need to obtain a visa or e-Visa in advance.
e-Visa application: https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
Visa applications must be made by the traveler in person, with a prior appointment for biometric registration (fingerprints, facial photo).
Ensure that your passport has at least six months of validity remaining and at least two blank pages available at the time of entry.
Required Vaccinations
There are no mandatory vaccinations required for direct entry into Saudi Arabia from Japan. However, travelers from countries with a risk of yellow fever, or those who have transited for more than 12 hours in such countries, and are over 9 months old, must present a yellow fever vaccination certificate (Yellow Card).

Additionally, if entering for pilgrimage to Mecca or Medina during Hajj (pilgrimage month) or Ramadan (fasting month), necessary vaccinations are announced annually, so please check with the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Japan, the Saudi Ministry of Health, or the Saudi Ministry of Hajj.
Things to note
Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country. When traveling from Japan, be careful not to bring items like cup noodles containing pork extract or cosmetics containing alcohol.

In Saudi Arabia, it is generally prohibited to photograph local women. If there are people in the area you wish to photograph, please confirm whether it is okay to take pictures. If a local asks you to delete a photo, please comply willingly. Nowadays, Saudis also have smartphones and take videos and photos. Generally, there is no problem with photographing landscapes or meals.
 

What is Oooh?

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Do you have concerns like these?

  • Travel agency
    package tours
    don't include your desired locations that
    aren't included...

  • Traveling with parents
    but worried about
    mobility issues...
    Concerned about transportation...

  • Want to fully enjoy
    the local experience
    Taking the last flight to
    make the most of it!

  • Staying at a friend's house locally
    so
    Hotel for 2 nights only only
    need a hotel for 2 nights...

Whatever your concerns or requests may be Oooh can make them come true!

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