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Saudi Arabia
- Saudi Arabia poses a low level of safety and security challenges. Key travel risks to travelers in Saudi Arabia include strict legal and cultural norms, potential security concerns near Yemen's border, extreme heat conditions, and the need for caution regarding road safety due to high traffic accident rates.
- The nation has strict laws that impact social behavior, dress codes, and the separation of genders in public spaces, significantly affecting the experiences of Western travelers.
Risk Factors
- Overall crime rates are low. Pickpocketing and bag snatching are rare but can occur in crowded areas like markets, malls, or during large events.
- Scams involving overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers or counterfeit goods in markets may target tourists.
- Online fraud, phishing, and Wi-Fi hacking are growing risks, particularly for travelers using unsecured networks. Update devices and app software prior to travel, and avoid public Wi-Fi for accessing sensitive accounts or making online transactions. The use of a VPN (virtual private network) is encouraged for enhanced online security.
- Female travelers may face unwanted attention or harassment, though this is less common in well-trafficked public spaces.
- Road conditions vary across the country; urban areas have well-maintained roads, but rural and remote areas can have less developed infrastructure.
- The safest means of intercity travel in Saudi Arabia is using the high-speed Haramain Railway for routes like Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina, or flying with reputable airlines such as Saudia for longer distances.
- Avoid taking rides from private vehicles that are not officially registered as a taxi. Official taxis in Saudi Arabia are marked with a yellow license plate strip on the front and back.
- Ride-sharing apps like Careem and Uber are widely used in Saudi Arabia, offering safe, reliable, and trackable rides with upfront pricing.
- Protests and demonstrations are rare due to strict government controls, but any form of public dissent should be avoided as it can result in arrest and severe penalties.
- Some areas within the Eastern Province, particularly around Qatif, have experienced sporadic unrest in the past, largely driven by sectarian tensions.
- Saudi Arabia’s minority Shia Muslim population has historically been the target of terror actors, with hard-line Sunni Islamist groups such as the Islamic State (IS) periodically targeting Shia places of worship.
- Avoid Shia-dominated areas, particularly in the Eastern Province (e.g., Qatif), during religious holidays due to the elevated risk of terrorism.
- Past attacks have targeted areas frequented by foreign nationals, including the Riyadh Season Festival and the US consulate in Jeddah. The security forces are generally capable of stopping terrorist plots, though the overall threat remains.
- The risk of terror attacks is heightened during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and other religious holidays. Stay aware of local advisories and avoid large gatherings during these times.
- Flash floods are the most common natural disaster, occurring during heavy rains, particularly in low-lying areas, deserts, and cities with limited drainage systems. Urban areas like Jeddah, Riyadh, and Mecca are particularly vulnerable during the rainy season (November to April).
- Frequent in desert regions, sandstorms reduce visibility, disrupt travel, and can pose respiratory health risks. Stay indoors during severe storms and keep windows and doors sealed.
- Temperatures in Saudi Arabia can exceed 122°F during the summer months, increasing the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and exhaustion. Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours (12–4 PM).
- The social laws of Saudi Arabia are strictly enforced, and infractions can lead to severe penalties including detention. Avoid public displays of affection and adhere to local dress codes.
- The powers of the Saudi religious police have been significantly reduced, but it is still important to adhere to local customs and laws.
- Capital punishment can be implemented for several crimes under Saudi law, including apostasy, homosexuality, espionage, and drug smuggling. Avoid behaviors that could be construed as illegal.
- Public criticism of the Saudi royal family comes with significant legal risk. Avoid making critical statements, either online or in person, that are perceived as anti-monarchy.