Here are some of the frequently asked questions I get. I will keep updating this post.

How can I get a visa?

Currently, tourist visas can only be obtained by attending an international or cultural event

Keep your eyes on www.sharek.sa or subscribe to my blog to get notified the next time a visa is available.

Past Events & Cost

Sports Event:

December 2018 Formula E – GA Ticket 105 USD – Visa 180USD

January 2019 Italian Supercup – GA Ticket 13 USD – Visa 180USD

Cultural Event:

December 2018 – February 2019 – Winter at Tantora – Cheapest Ticket 250 USD

What is the visa duration?

Sports Event is through www.sharek.sa that provide an E Visa for 30 days single entry.

Cultural Event uses a separate platform and the duration may vary based on the event duration.

What is the visa process?

Sports Event: Simply purchase the ticket to attend an event through www.sharek.sa and fill in the required information. You will receive your E Visa in a matter of minutes in your email. That’s it!

Cultural Event: Process varies. Please check with the event team for info.

Do I need a guardian to get a visa?

No, you do not need a guardian.

Can all nationalities apply for the visa?

It depends on the event. Formula E Visa did not have any nationality restriction, however, the Italian Supercup was limited to North Americans/South Americans/UK/Europeans/Australians and New Zealanders.

Do I need to be above 25 years old to get a visa?

No, you don’t.

Do I need a guardian to travel around Saudi?

No, you do not need a guardian.

Can females travel alone in Saudi?

Yes, females can travel independently in Saudi.

I have chosen an airport as a point of entry, can I enter by land?

Yes, you can enter by land. These are the available land borders into Saudi; Bahrain, Jordan, UAE, and Yemen.

What should I wear?

Females:

Length – Above ankle length and below the knee length

Sleeves – 3/4 sleeves is your minimum

Colors – as colorful as you please!

Patterns – As crazy as you wish!

Style – Any style as long as it is decent.

Scarves – Not needed

Burqa – Definitely not needed

Bikinis – 2 piece bikinis are allowed in private beaches/boat trips.

PS: We love unique abayas so expect strangers coming up to you asking where you get it from.

Males – Anything and shorts are allowed.

Note: Shorts are not allowed in Saudi Airlines flights.

Will I be harassed if I don’t wear a black abaya and a headscarf?

No, you won’t but I don’t control the population’s behavior. Personally, I don’t face harassment.

Can the religious police arrest me?

No, they don’t have any authority and almost nonexistent.

Can females and males be seen together?

Yes, they can.

What is the proper way to greet another gender?

This depends on the context.

Hugging is a normal way of greetings with friends and especially expats.

With locals that you meet for the first time, here’s a quick guide.

Male & Male – Handshake or handshake with a kiss on the right cheek and two on the left cheek. Sometimes, they do more on the left.

Male & Female – Wait for the female to give her hand, or else simply nod your head.

Female & Female – Handshake or handshake with a kiss on the cheeks. The number of kisses per cheek varies and it can get confusing. The basic rule is 1 on the right side and 2 on the other side and then step away. Sometimes it can get awkward where the other person expects the 3rd kiss but that’s normal. Just laugh it off or go in for the 3rd kiss.

Saudi is huge! Where should I begin my trip?

This depends on your point of entry and interest. These cities/regions are a must visit; Jeddah, Riyadh, Qassim, Al Ula, Tabuk, Aseer Region, and Jazan Region.

 

Are there buses to go between cities?

Yes, SAPTCO bus has an extensive network and it is the only national bus company.

You can get more details in this post 

How long should I stay in Saudi?

I would say as much as you can. If you are tight on time, 2 to 3 weeks is fair. However, it would be an exhausting trip because the distance between cities is huge.

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Feel free to ask me for advice in the comments below! I could help in planning your trip. I don’t charge! I could also meet you guys when you’re in my town or if I happen to be in the city you’re in!

Last Update: 24-01-2019