Aya Yesentayeva
Luxury Hotelier | Travel Enthusiast
Just a decade ago, the idea of holidaying in Saudi Arabia seemed like a distant dream for most Americans. The kingdom was largely closed to tourists, with visas primarily reserved for business travellers and religious pilgrims. But can Americans travel to saudi arabia?
Today, this cultural powerhouse of the Middle East has undergone a remarkable transformation, throwing open its doors to welcome American tourists through a streamlined e-visa system.
The shift represents more than just a change in policy—it’s an invitation to explore a land where ancient traditions meet modern ambitions.
From the bustling souks of Jeddah to the futuristic NEOM project, Saudi Arabia offers American travellers an authentic Arabian experience with unprecedented ease of access.
Current Regulations and Policies
American citizens can now visit Saudi Arabia more easily than ever before, thanks to recent changes in the kingdom’s visa policies. Since 2019, Saudi Arabia has introduced an e-visa system that allows US tourists to obtain travel authorization online within minutes.
The current regulations require Americans to:
- Apply for a tourist visa through the official Visit Saudi platform
- Hold a passport valid for at least 6 months
- Have a return ticket
- Book approved accommodation in advance
- Obtain travel insurance covering COVID-19
Female travellers no longer need to wear an abaya or headscarf, though modest dress is still expected. However, public displays of affection remain prohibited, and religious customs should be respected during Ramadan.
Saudi Arabia maintains strict policies on bringing in certain items.
Alcohol, pork products, and religious materials other than Islamic items are prohibited. Additionally, visitors must download and register on the Tawakkalna app for access to public places and to demonstrate their health status.
[Book Your Saudi Adventure]
Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens
Saudi Arabia offers several visa categories for American visitors. The most common is the tourist eVisa, valid for one year with multiple entries and stays of up to 90 days. Business visas allow stays up to 180 days, while diplomatic and official visas require embassy application.
The eVisa application process is straightforward:
- Complete the online form at Visit Saudi
- Upload a passport-style photo
- Provide passport details
- Pay the visa fee (approximately $120 USD)
- Submit proof of accommodation
Required documents include:
- Valid passport with 6 months validity
- Digital passport photo
- Confirmed hotel reservations
- Travel insurance certificate
- Return flight tickets
Processing typically takes 2-3 business days, though express service is available for additional fees. For religious visits during Hajj or Umrah, special pilgrimage visas must be obtained through licensed tour operators.
[Apply for Saudi eVisa]
Travel Restrictions and Safety Precautions
The U.S. Department of State advises increased caution when travelling to Saudi Arabia, particularly in areas near the Yemen border due to terrorism and missile/drone attacks. The Eastern Province and regions within 50 miles of the Yemen border are considered high-risk zones.
U.S. Embassy personnel face restrictions on:
- Travel to areas within 50 miles of the Yemen border
- Visits to certain districts in Eastern Province
- Non-essential travel to Qatif and surrounding suburbs
- Movement during night hours in various regions
For your safety, take these precautions:
- Register with the STEP program before travel
- Maintain awareness of surroundings
- Avoid large public gatherings
- Keep emergency contacts readily available
- Follow local authorities’ guidance
- Stay updated on security situations
- Carry proper identification at all times
In major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, standard security measures apply. However, remain vigilant in crowded areas, shopping centres, and religious sites. Consider downloading the Tawakkalna app for real-time safety alerts.
[Register for STEP Program]
Security and Personal Safety
Maintaining personal safety in Saudi Arabia requires vigilance and awareness. The primary security concerns include potential missile attacks near the Yemen border and terrorism risks in certain regions. To stay secure, implement these essential safety measures:
- Vary your daily routines and travel routes
- Stay in hotels with proper security measures
- Avoid predictable patterns when visiting public places
- Keep emergency numbers readily accessible
- Install a reliable VPN for secure communications
- Maintain a low profile in public areas
- Travel with trusted local guides when possible
When moving around cities, use reputable transportation services and avoid travelling alone at night. Keep valuables in your hotel safe and carry only essential items. It’s crucial to stay informed about local security situations through the U.S. Embassy alerts and the Tawakkalna app.
Choose accommodation in well-secured areas, preferably in major international hotel chains with established safety protocols. During religious events or large gatherings, exercise additional caution and follow guidance from local authorities.
[Register for Embassy Updates]
Social Media and Legal Concerns
Social media use in Saudi Arabia requires extreme caution as posts deemed offensive can result in severe legal consequences, including arrest and imprisonment. The kingdom actively monitors social media activities, and even posts made before entering the country could lead to detention.
Key social media restrictions include:
- No criticism of Islam, the royal family, or government policies
- No sharing of content considered immoral or indecent
- No spreading “fake news” or rumours
- No posting photos/videos without subjects’ consent
- No advocacy for banned groups or organisations
Possession of prohibited items carries strict penalties:
- Alcohol: Prison terms up to 6 months
- Non-Islamic religious materials: Immediate confiscation
- Narcotics: Potential death penalty
- Pornographic content: Heavy fines and imprisonment
To avoid issues, enable strict privacy settings on social platforms, avoid political commentary, and refrain from sharing photos of government buildings or military installations. Consider using a licensed VPN service, but be aware that only government-approved VPNs are legal.
[Review Saudi Cyber Laws]
Health and Vaccination Requirements
Travellers to Saudi Arabia should ensure their routine vaccinations are up to date and obtain additional recommended immunizations. The Saudi Ministry of Health strongly recommends:
- Hepatitis A and B vaccines
- Typhoid vaccination
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- Tetanus-diphtheria
- COVID-19 vaccination with approved vaccines
For optimal health protection during your stay:
- Drink only bottled or boiled water
- Avoid raw or undercooked foods
- Use mosquito repellent in coastal areas
- Carry prescription medications in original containers
- Pack a basic medical kit
During summer months, take precautions against heat-related illness:
- Stay hydrated
- Limit outdoor activities between 10 AM and 4 PM
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
- Use high SPF sunscreen
Medical facilities in major cities meet international standards, but travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential. The Tawakkalna app remains mandatory for accessing healthcare facilities and monitoring public health status.
[Book Travel Insurance]
COVID-19 Travel Requirements
Saudi Arabia has significantly relaxed its pandemic-related entry requirements, making travel more accessible for American visitors. As of the latest updates, there are no COVID-19 testing requirements or quarantine measures in place for travellers arriving from the United States, regardless of vaccination status.
While PCR tests are no longer mandatory, visitors should:
- Keep their vaccination records handy (if vaccinated)
- Download the Tawakkalna app for venue access
- Monitor local health guidelines during their stay
- Maintain standard hygiene practices
The Tawakkalna app remains an essential tool for accessing public spaces, shopping centres, and government buildings. While no longer used for COVID-19 status verification, it serves as a digital ID and facility access pass.
Some venues may still implement their own health and safety measures, including temperature checks or mask requirements. It’s advisable to carry face masks, as they might be required in healthcare facilities or during periods of increased health concerns.
[Download Tawakkalna App]
Cultural and Social Practices
Saudi Arabia’s strict cultural and religious customs require careful attention from American visitors. When in public, dress modestly - men should wear long trousers and sleeved shirts, while women should ensure shoulders, knees, and midriff are covered, though headscarves are no longer mandatory in most settings.
Essential etiquette tips include:
- Use only your right hand for eating and passing items
- Remove shoes before entering homes or mosques
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan
- Stand respectfully when the call to prayer sounds
- Maintain appropriate distance from the opposite gender
Tipping practices vary by service:
- Restaurants: 10-15% if service charge isn’t included
- Taxis: Round up or add 10%
- Hotel staff: 10-20 SAR per service
- Tour guides: 50-100 SAR per day
During religious holidays and prayer times, most businesses close temporarily. Plan activities accordingly and respect these important cultural moments. Photography requires discretion – always seek permission before photographing people, and avoid capturing government buildings or religious sites.
[Respect Local Customs]
Practical Travel Preparations
Before travelling to Saudi Arabia, ensure your passport validity extends at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date. Make copies of important documents and store them separately from originals.
Essential preparations include:
- Registering with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
- Saving emergency contacts in your phone and on paper
- Noting locations of nearest U.S. Embassy facilities
- Downloading offline maps and translation apps
Key emergency numbers in Saudi Arabia:
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 997
- Fire: 998
- Traffic Police: 993
The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh provides 24/7 emergency assistance to American citizens. Store their contact number (+966-11-488-3800) and consider saving embassy locations in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dhahran for quick reference.
Before departure, arrange for:
- International calling capability
- Currency exchange or notify bank of travel
- Travel insurance with medical coverage
- Power adapters (Saudi Arabia uses type G sockets, 230V)
[Contact U.S. Embassy]
Additional Travel Tips
When visiting Saudi Arabia, familiarise yourself with these essential practicalities. The local currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR), with major credit cards widely accepted in urban areas. Keep some cash handy for taxis, local markets, and emergencies.
For electronics, Saudi Arabia uses type G sockets with 230V/50Hz power supply. Bring appropriate adapters for your devices, and consider a voltage converter for 110V appliances.
Driving requirements include:
- International Driving Permit
- Valid home country licence
- Minimum age of 21
- Insurance coverage
- Zero alcohol tolerance
For seamless travel:
- Pre-book airport transfers
- Save offline maps
- Learn basic Arabic phrases
- Carry a mix of payment methods
- Keep modest attire readily accessible
- Stay hydrated in the desert climate
- Respect prayer times when planning activities
Transport options in major cities include ride-hailing apps, taxis, and private drivers. Public transport is limited but expanding, with new metro systems in development.
[Book Airport Transfer]
Planning Your Saudi Journey
As Saudi Arabia continues to evolve its tourism landscape, Americans find themselves in a unique position to witness this historic transformation firsthand.
The kingdom’s commitment to modernising its visa processes whilst maintaining its rich cultural heritage creates an intriguing destination for those seeking something beyond conventional travel experiences.
Before embarking on your Saudi adventure, ensure you’ve thoroughly reviewed all entry requirements and cultural considerations.
With proper preparation and respect for local customs, American travellers can safely and confidently explore this fascinating country that’s rapidly becoming more accessible to Western visitors.
Learn more about the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with us at SaudiTravelandleisure.com
