Saudi Arabia occupies four-fifths of the Arabian peninsula. It is bordered to the northwest by Jordan, to the north by Iraq and Kuwait, to the east by the Gulf of Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Oman, and to the south by Yemen.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia receives hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. This conservative country connecting Africa and mainland Asia contains the spiritual centre of the Islamic world, Mecca, and the sacred city of Medina, so most of the visitors are pilgrims, permitted on special religious visas.

Others come to this oil-rich nation on sponsored business trips, generally finding little time or facility for leisure and pleasure. Its cities, however, are not backwaters but modern, bustling commercial centres, offering excellent hotels and some breathtaking sights.

Amongst it all, the magic of Arabia shines through in the souks (markets) where vendors tout everything from carpets to camel milk. Rules and regulations make sightseeing difficult for foreigners except on a few approved and expensive tours. The preserved ancient city of Jeddah is also listed as a 'tourist site', as is that city's seafront corniche, a popular spot with the air of a British seaside resort that draws the country's own domestic holidaymakers.

Occupying most of the Arabian Peninsula, and bordered by no less than eight Middle-eastern states, Saudi Arabia manages its highly controlled religious society alongside the onslaught of its progressive oil-boom industry.

As the birthplace of Muhammad, Saudi Arabia contains the holiest cities of Islam. The Saudis take the responsibility for protecting the integrity of this holy land with utmost seriousness, and Islamic laws are strictly enforced by the mutawwa (religious police).

To the non-Islamic eye, Saudi Arabia also succeeds in being beautiful and praiseworthy. This complex country is likely to remain a significant part of the worldwide map for some time.

INFORMATION FOR VISITORS TO THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

Language

Arabic is the official language in Saudi Arabia, but English is widely understood.

Local Customs: Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country in which Islamic law is strictly enforced. No alcohol, pork products or religious books and artefacts not related to Islam are permitted in the country. There are no bars in Saudi Arabia, and alcohol is served nowhere to anyone of any religious persuasion.

Dress Code

Dress should be conservative at all times, and women should take particular care not to offend. Visitors are advised to familiarise themselves with behaviour and dress codes before entering the country.

Business

Business in Saudi Arabia is conducted in a very different manner to Western countries. Without an invitation to the country, it is impossible to gain entry. Business contacts should be addressed by their title followed by their first name. It may take numerous visits to strengthen a relationship, as this is the core of any business dealing and trust needs to be developed.

Money

The Saudi currency is the Riyal (SAR), divided into 100 halala. 1 US $ = 3.75 SAR

Passport/Visa

All visitors require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, and visas are only granted to those with sponsorship in the country.

Hotels

There is a good range of hotel accommodation throughout the country. Accommodation is generally easy to find, except during the pilgrimage season when advance reservations are recommended.

Photography

Strictly speaking, photography is not permitted. However, many people do still take photos, but are careful to ask permission of the relevant authority before photographing people or any building.