Geography
Saudi Arabia is situated in the southwestern part of Asia, covering a significant portion of the Arabian Peninsula. It is bordered by Jordan and Iraq to the north, Kuwait to the northeast, Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates to the east, Oman to the southeast, Yemen to the south, and the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba to the west.
Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East and the 13th largest in the world, with an area of approximately 2,150,000 square kilometers (830,000 square miles). It boasts a population of over 34 million people, making it one of the largest countries in the Middle East. The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken, particularly in major tourist areas.
Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia. Other major cities include Jeddah, Mecca (Makkah), Medina (Al Madinah), Dammam, Khobar, and many more. Saudi Arabia is home to numerous cultural and historical sites, including the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, which are central to Islam. The Nabatean archaeological site of Al-Hijr (Madain Salih) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as is the historic Diriyah area in Riyadh.
 
Best Time to Visit
Saudi Arabia’s best time to visit is summer and winter season. Both seasons have their own perks and can decide to visit according to preference. The official tourist season runs from October to March, however the best months to visit are between November and February when the weather is coldest. When it comes to summer, better discounts, no long queues but dry weather. There are multiple places that can explore and many activities to enjoy including boating, camping and hiking.
Regardless of the month or season to visit Saudi Arabia, the country offers lovely beaches, engaging cities, shopping complexes and multiple mouth-watering cuisines to savior. From sandboarding to camel safaris, there is no dearth of variety in activities to do in Saudi Arabia around the year.
 
Dress Code
Saudi Arabia is an extremely conservative country with a strict dress code.
For tourists, it is no longer compulsory to wear an abaya (except when visiting religious site) or a headscarf but it is recommended to always bring a pashmina everywhere. In any circumstances, tourist can’t be shirtless in Saudi Arabia.
For women, it is advisable to ensure legs, arms and shoulders are covered. Women are recommended to wear modest clothing and avoid wearing tight clothes that shows the shape of the body and legs. Another critical consideration while dressing for Saudi Arabia is to wear only opaque fabrics. People should not be able to see the underpants through clothes.
Men is not required to wear the customary Arabic thobe. However, one must always wear clothing that covers their shoulders and legs. Male tourists should avoid wearing narrow jeans, sleeveless shirts, or shorts in public. Men’s pants and t-shirts are casual apparels and are appropriate to wear daily in any non-formal setting. The t-shirt must not be provocative or affect public sentiment in the country and appropriate for the general public.
 
Health and safety
Saudi Arabia is generally a safe country, it requires careful consideration of health and safety.
Saudi Arabia has a public healthcare system, but it is advisable to have private health insurance for access to better medical facilities. Ensure to have a comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and repatriation. Check travel advisories and the latest security information from your government's travel website before your trip.
 
Currency
The currency of Saudi Arabia is Saudi Riyal or SAR. The Saudi Riyal is divided into 100 halala. The banknotes come in denominations of 1,5,10,20,50,100,200 and 500 riyals. The coins in denominations of 1 or 2 riyals and 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 halala.
ATMs are widely available and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard and American Express) are accepted at many retailers, restaurants, hotels, transportation providers and other businesses throughout the country.
Note that smaller shops may include a surcharge for card payments. It is best to have a cash on hand to avoid additional fees. Some businesses accept digital payment methods such as Apple Pay.
 
Tipping
Tipping in Saudi Arabia is common. Based on the quality of service, tipping is still subject to own discretion.
For Tour Guides:  In a small group, expect to tip $10 per person per day, or $5-$7 in a larger group. You should also tip the driver about $5 per day, and $2-$3 for any other person who helps out (washing the bus, errands, and others)
For Restaurants: It is expected to be between 10 – 15% for good service if there will be no service charge added to the bill. No need to tip if there is a service charge unless the service is exceptional.
For Hotels: Despite the service charge included in the bill, it is common to tip individual services. For the porter, around $1 - $2 while for the housekeeper, around $2 and can leave the tip beside the table or bed.
For Taxis: A customary tip of 10% on top of the fare.
For Spa: Tipping is much expected in high end establishments. About 10% or 2-3 Saudi Riyal is fine.
 
Photography
It is best to be cautious when taking photograph is Saudi Arabia.  Filming or photographing government buildings, military installations, and palaces is not allowed. It is always a good idea to ask permission before taking photographs of people or sensitive locations, and to be respectful of local customs and laws.
 
Communications and Internet Access 
The international dialing code for Saudi Arabia is +966. WiFi is widely available in cities and mobile broadband is increasing. Travelers can easily access prepaid SIM cards or buy eSIMS online to stay connected throughout their journey. Generally, tourists purchase Saudi Arabia internet packages and the common package is the Umrah Package that offers various mobile providers.
 
Alcohol and Smoking 
Consuming alcoholic beverages and smoking is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia. Using or possessing alcoholic beverages is a criminal offense for non-Muslims and is penalized by law. This also applies to people who are just visiting the country. It is also not permitted to bring cigarette into the country.
 
Climate 
Saudi Arabia has a subtropical climate characterized by dry and warm conditions. The country experience four distinct seasons.
Spring (Mid-March to Mid-June): Sprin in Saudi Arabia can be brisk, particularly in the north, where the temperature at night can drop below 15°C. The central and southern regions are warmer, averaging around 20°C after nightfall. Rainfall is at its highest during spring, particularly in the central region and in the southwest over the Aseer Mountains.
Summer (Mid-June to Mid-September): Summer signals the start of rising temperatures across most of the country. The early mornings and long evenings are more temperate, so take advantage of the warm seats to explore Saudi’s world-class scuba diving sites, or try sailing and snorkeling.
Autumn (Mid-September to Mid-December): Autumn brings gentler weather and cool breezes in both Saudi Arabia’s northern regions and the southwestern highlands. Daytime temperatures remain warm in early fall, evenings are milder and fit for outdoor strolling, especially along Jeddah’s waterfront, indulging in al-fresco dining or visiting Al Ahsa’s cool desert springs.
Winter (Mid-December to Mid-March): Take advantage of the beautiful winter weather to explore Saudi Arabia. The balmy days and cool nights are ideal for camping, rock climbing or exploring Saudi Arabia’s verdant highland and bustling cities from Riyadh to Jeddah. Visitors might be lucky enough to see snowfall in the mountains of the northern regions.
 
Electricity
In Saudi Arabia, the standard voltage is 230V and the frequency is 60 Hz. The associated plug is type G, which is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern.
 
Hotels’ Check in / Check out time and Room Types
The general check-in time in Iran is 14:00-15:00 and check out time is 12:00. Request for early check-in and/or late check-out, depends on the availability of the hotel and it is not guaranteed. Additional charges will be made according to hotel’s rules and policies. Double room, twin bedded and single room are available to most hotels. For triple sharing, it is either double or twin room with 1 extra roll away bed or a sofa bed.
 
Domestic Flights
King Khalid International Airport (IATA: RUH, ICAO: OERK), also known as Riyadh Airport. It serves the city of Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. It is the second largest airport in the country after Jeddah Airport.
Riyadh Airport is located 35 kilometers (22 mi) north of Riyadh. KKIA Airport was built to handle the increasing local and international air transport requirements for Riyadh. It is a hub for Saudia and Flynas. It takes 30-45 minutes from airport to the city centre.
 
Holidays in Saudi Arabia
Eid Al-Fitr
Eid Al-Fitr is one of the Saudi Arabia’s biggest celebrations that takes place at the end of Ramadan. The occasion starts with a modest morning meal and prayer at the mosque and continues with larger feasts and livelier celebrations among family and friends. The significance of Eid Al-Fitr resides in the unity and appreciation that is created when people gather under one roof to celebrate this day.
 
Janadriyah National Festival
Janadriyah National Festival is considered to be one of the largest festivals that celebrates the country’s heritage and culture. The folk festival’s activities range from folklore art shows, poetry reciting to camel races and other cultural events and takes place for about two weeks.
 
The Buraidah Date Festival
The Buraidah Date Festival is an annual festival that focuses on date manufacturing, processing and byproducts such as molasses, dough, sugar, jam, and chocolate. It offers more than 30 varieties of dates. The festival takes place over a course of three months that starts in August.
 
Riyadh Spring Festival
The Riyadh Spring Festival is a huge event that celebrates nature and the Spring season. Thousands of people attend this festival to experience mesmerizing flower breeds. The festival focuses on showcasing colorful and fragrant ornamental plants and flowers. The celebration takes place during March for 10 days.
 
Sharqiah Season Festival
Sharqiah Season Festival is massive cultural festival that hosts a variety of international artists, traditional events, film screenings and sporting events. The 10-day event every March is a great way to explore and celebrate Saudi Arabia’s heritage and culture.
 
Responsible Travel
-Sight-seeing tours are operated and led by a local guide and/or local drivers.
-Be sensitive in discussing politics and religion. It is better to do research or some readings prior you travel in Iran.
-Always follow security warning from the authorities. Always best to carry with you your passport as ID.
-Respect local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly, particularly for women.
-Show respect for the local culture and customs, as cultural awareness can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable trip.
-Familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs, as Saudi Arabia has strict rules, particularly concerning dress code, public behavior, and the consumption of alcohol and drugs.
-Always keep in mind that the situation in any country can change, so it's crucial to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and follow the guidance of local authorities and your embassy or consulate while in Saudi Arabia.
Geography
United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates along the eastern coast of Arabian Peninsula. Located in Middle East, UAE is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the west and south, Oman to the east and north east. Abu Dhabi is its capital city. The total land area is 83,600 Km2 (32,278 sq. miles). UAE is largely an arid land with vast sand deserts, but is also characterized by sand dunes, oases, rocky mountains, valleys, marshes and mangroves and salt plains.
 
The estimated population of UAE is about 9.8 million (as of July 2020). There are more than 200 nationalities living and working in the UAE. The expatriate community outnumbers the population of UAE nationals. Indians form the largest foreign community in the UAE, followed by Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, other Asians, Europeans and Africans. Islam is the largest and official state religion. Practice of other religion is allowed by the government. Besides mosques, the UAE is also home to several churches and temples where worshipers practice their religions in an atmosphere of safety, security and mutual respect. The official language of the UAE is Arabic. English is also widely spoken in the country. All road and traffic signs and signs on commercial outlets are in Arabic and English.
 
Best Time to Visit 
The best time to visit UAE is between the months of October and February. The weather at this time of the year is cool and neither too hot or humid. This makes a perfect time to visit some sites and do some travelling.
 
Dress Code 
When visiting UAE remember to dress modestly, particularly in public places like shopping malls and conservative areas. Both men and women might feel more comfortable wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover shoulders, arms and legs. Avoid wearing transparent clothing, sleeveless tops and short skirts or shorts. Any form of nudity is strictly forbidden.
When visiting a mosque, women will be asked to respect the Muslim tradition and wear an abaya and cover their heads. Often, these would be provided at the mosque.
 
Health & Safety 
UAE is a very safe country to travel. In fact, it is among the safest countries in the world. In tourist areas, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs but is rare. Avoid walking alone after dark in isolated places, including pedestrian underpasses. Be prepared for extreme weather. Between June and September, temperatures can exceed 50°C. Sand and dust storms are also common. In extreme heat, stay out of the sun and drink plenty of water.
 
Healthcare facilities in the UAE are generally adequate. However, services might not be available in remote areas. You may have to pay up-front before treatment. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
 
Currency Information 
The local currency in UAE is Dirham (AED or Dh) which is divided into 100 fils. Coins are in 5, 10, 25 and 50 fils and AED1. Notes are in denominations of AED5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000.
 
Currency exchanges and banking facilities are available at most major airports and many are open 24 hours a day. But exchange rates might not be favorable at these outlets. More competitive rates can be obtained from city-centre financial establishments. ATMs can be found in all shopping malls, major supermarkets, most petrol stations and the airport.
 
Tipping 
Tipping is not expected, but is commonly practiced in the Emirate.
For restaurants, taxes and service charge are already in the bill. If you feel being generous or you were given an excellent service the usual amount is between 10-15 percent of the bill.
For hotelier or front liners, normal amount is AED 5-10. But, tip is not expected, staff will not be insulted if you don’t give any.
For Tour guide/driver, 5-10 percent of the tour price per person.
For taxi drivers, usually you round up your fare to the nearest note and let the driver keep the change.
 
Photography 
Taking photos of people, especially women and families, in public places shall not be taken without their permission. Taking photos of people is sensitive issue in UAE’s local culture. Taking photograph of government buildings and military installations are not allowed. Photographing aircraft and plane spotting is illegal as well.
 
Internet Access 
Most of the hotels offer free Wi-Fi to their guests. Public places such as mall also provide free access to Wi-Fi.
Etisalat and du telcom provide mobile phone and internet services in the UAE. Mobile phone reception and internet speed are excellent throughout the UAE. Both providers offer visitor line plan or either tourist plan with various options for making local and international calls, sending text messages and surfing the internet. Visitors need to provide a copy of their passport and UAE visa in order to obtain a local SIM card.
 
Alcohol 
It is punishable offense to drink alcohol without a license. Drinking in public or being under the influence of alcohol in public is punishable offense. In emirate of Sharjah, drinking alcohol is illegal.
 
Climate 
The climate in UAE is hot and humid. Rainfall is sporadic, falling mainly during winter time (November-March). The hottest months are July and August with maximum temperature of 45°C (113°F). Average minimum temperatures in January and February are between 10 and 14 °C (50 and 57 °F).
 
Electricity 
Within the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai, the associated plug type is C or the standard European plug, type D that are mostly used in India, Pakistan and Nepal & last is type G, the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Dubai operates on a 220-230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
 
The Seven Emirates  
Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi is the largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates occupying about 84 percent of the national landmass territory. Abu Dhabi City is the federal capital of UAE. It is rich in natural wonders, where the famous Liwa oasis and Al Ain Garden city can be found. Abu Dhabi is also a centre for world-class sporting event such as: the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, the prestigious Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge cross-country rally and the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
 
Dubai – Dubai is the second largest emirate. It was called ‘Pearl of the Gulf’ and ‘Jewel of the world’ because of its heritage and history. Dubai City is the capital of the emirate. Dubai boasts of world-class hotels, modern architecture, entertainment and dining venues, traditional markets, shopping centers and sporting events. Some of the major tourist attractions in the emirate are the wadis of Hatta, the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel, which is also the world's only seven-star hotel and Burj Khalifa, which is the world's tallest skyscraper.
 
Sharjah – Sharjah is the third largest emirate. It is well known for its beautiful landscapes and seascapes. Sharjah also known for its architectural and cultural wealth. Its touristic sites include historical areas like Heart of Sharjah and modern sites like Al Qasba and Al Majaz waterfront.
 
Ajman – Ajman is the smallest of the seven emirates. It is located along a central creek with a beautiful 16-kilometer-long stretch of white sandy beach. It is famous for its stunning beaches, Masfout Mountains, nature reserves and parks, Masfout Castle, Red Fort and the 18th century Ajman Fort which was converted into Ajman Museum.
 
Umm Al Quwain – Umm Al Quwain is the second smallest and least populated emirate. Umm Al Quwain is situated between Sharjah to the southwest and Ras Al Khaimah to the northeast. The city of Umm Al Quwain is built on a narrow peninsula called Khor Al Bidiyah.  The emirate is known for its numerous recreational activities; from sailing to diving. Traditional activities such as dhow building and sports such as falconry and camel racing are also popular in the emirate. Dreamland Aqua Park, the UAE's largest water park and resort attracts several visitors.
 
Ras Al Kahimah – Ras Al Khaimah is the capital and fourth largest emirate. Currently, Ras Al Khaimah is reinventing itself as a tourism hub. It is often described as the most scenic of all the emirates because of its diverse landscape consisting of sandy deserts, coastal strips with salt flats areas, mangroves and mountains.
 
Fujairah – Fujairah is the only emirate that is situated on the eastern coast of the UAE along the Gulf of Oman. Its economy is based on fishing and agriculture. Its land is irrigated by rainwater from the Hajjar Mountains. Fujairah is distinguished with its rugged mountains, valleys, waterfalls, oases and wide sandy beaches. It has several hot, cold and mineral springs. Fujairah is distinguished with its rugged mountains, valleys, waterfalls, oases and wide sandy beaches. It has several hot, cold and mineral springs. Wadi Al Wurayah waterfalls and Ain Al Madhab Gardens are major touristic attractions. And so are the historic Al Bidya Mosque and the Heritage Village.
 
Responsible Travel 
-Sight-seeing tours are operated and led by a local guide and/or local drivers.
-We encourage clients to buy handmade artifacts from the local producers like Persian carpets and rugs, gold jewelries, milk chocolates, dried dates, Arabic attar, Arabic coffee and spices.
-Help in conserving resources such as water and energy. Keep in mind that most cities in UAE is surrounded by desert and there is a lack of fresh water.
-Littering and spitting in public places are considered offence and subjected to fines.
-When camping at the desert, avoid causing pollution or throwing waste, as these are also subject to fines. This also applies with marine environment.