Saudi Arabia: Riyadh & Jeddah Flights

November to March is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia, with pleasant temperatures for exploring Riyadh, Jeddah and the desert landscapes of AlUla. The winter season also brings major events and festivals.

Summer is extremely hot in most of the country, although the southern highlands around Abha stay cooler.

Saudi Arabia has a desert climate: summers regularly exceed 40°C, especially in Riyadh, and Jeddah is hot and humid. Winters are mild, with cool nights in the desert and the north.

Saudi Arabia uses the Saudi riyal (SAR), pegged to the US dollar. Cards and mobile payments are accepted almost everywhere, including small shops; carry some cash for traditional markets.

Plan on roughly €70–100 per day on a budget and €150–250 per day mid-range. AlUla tours and resort stays are the main costs; Riyadh and Jeddah offer hotels across all budgets.

Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in hotels, airports and business, and signs are usually in both languages.

Citizens of many countries — including the EU, UK, US and others — can apply online for a Saudi tourist eVisa through the official visa platform, and some nationalities can get a visa on arrival. GCC residents may also be eligible. Non-Muslims cannot enter the holy city of Makkah. Rules change and depend on your passport, so always confirm on the official government website or with the embassy before you book.

Domestic flights connect Riyadh, Jeddah and AlUla quickly; Riyadh to Jeddah takes under 2 hours. The Haramain high-speed railway links Jeddah with Makkah and Madinah, and Riyadh has a new metro network.

Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem) are common in cities, and renting a car is popular for road trips.

Try kabsa (spiced rice with meat, the national dish), mandi, jareesh, saleeg and fresh dates with Arabic coffee (qahwa). Jeddah is known for its seafood and street food in Al-Balad.

Saudi Arabia is a conservative Muslim country with deep traditions of hospitality. Dress modestly — loose clothing covering shoulders and knees — though abayas are no longer required for foreign women. Respect prayer times and Ramadan, and note that alcohol is not available.

Mobile networks are fast with wide 5G coverage in cities. Tourist SIMs and eSIMs from STC, Mobily or Zain are available at airports with your passport.