Saudi Arabia on a Budget: The Ultimate Money-Saving Guide for 2025

Introduction: A Different Saudi Arabia

The first time I landed at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh (RUH), I was sweating bullets – and not just from the desert heat. My bank account was looking painfully slim, and I’d heard Saudi Arabia was nothing but luxury malls and $500-a-night hotels. Fast forward five visits later, and I’m happy to report those fears were completely unfounded. Saudi Arabia’s rapid tourism development has actually created a surprising range of budget options that most travelers don’t know about yet.

Since the kingdom opened to leisure tourists in 2019, I’ve watched accommodation prices stabilize, transportation options multiply, and affordable food scenes flourish beyond the typical tourist paths. My last trip in early 2024 revealed even more budget possibilities that will continue to expand in 2025.

This guide isn’t about scraping by – it’s about experiencing the real Saudi Arabia, connecting with locals, and discovering the country’s stunning natural and cultural heritage without financial stress. I’ve made plenty of money mistakes here (like my disastrous decision to book last-minute transportation during Ramadan), so you don’t have to.

Despite what you might have heard, visiting Saudi Arabia on a budget isn’t just possible – with some insider knowledge, it can offer a more authentic experience than following the luxury tourist trail. Let me share everything I’ve learned about doing Saudi affordably in 2025.

Understanding Saudi’s Tourism Transformation (2019-2025)

Before diving into specific budget tips, it’s worth understanding the massive tourism changes Saudi Arabia has undergone. The kingdom introduced tourist visas in September 2019 as part of its ambitious Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy beyond oil.

When I first visited in early 2020, the tourism infrastructure was still in its infancy. But with each subsequent trip, I’ve witnessed remarkable developments:

• Expanded visa options, including the quick e-visa system (typically approved within 24 hours)
• Relaxed social rules and dress codes, especially in tourist areas
• Development of budget accommodation networks
• Improved public transportation in major cities
• New tourist attractions with competitive pricing

The pandemic temporarily slowed development, but by 2023, tourism was back on track with renewed vigor. The 2025 landscape offers budget travelers more opportunities than ever before, especially if you’re willing to venture beyond the major cities.

Current Tourism Stats & Budget Implications

Saudi Arabia received approximately 93.5 million tourists in 2023 (though most were religious pilgrims), and projections for 2025 exceed 100 million. This volume is creating more budget-friendly competition, particularly in areas developing their tourism sectors.

Local Tip: The phrase “bukra inshallah” (tomorrow, God willing) is one you’ll hear frequently. It reflects the relaxed approach to time in Saudi culture – useful to remember when making budget travel plans that might require flexibility!

Getting Your Saudi Visa (The Money-Saving Way)

The e-visa introduction was a game-changer for budget travelers. On my first visit, visa processing was complex and required sponsorship. Now, tourists from 57 countries (including the US, UK, EU nations, and many Asian countries) can apply online for around 535 SAR ($142).

Budget Visa Hacks

Here are my tested strategies for reducing visa costs:

1. Use the multiple-entry option: If you plan to visit other Gulf countries, the one-year multiple-entry visa offers better value at 535 SAR than the single-entry at 480 SAR ($128).
2. Check for promotional periods: Saudi occasionally runs visa discount campaigns, especially during low seasons (summer) or new tourism initiative launches.
3. Consider transit visas: If you’re stopping over briefly, the 48-hour transit visa is free when booked through Saudi Airlines.
4. Book through authorized agents: Sometimes local travel agencies offer visa packages with discounts when bundled with accommodations.

I made the mistake during my second visit of rushing the application and selecting single-entry when I ended up returning just three months later. Learn from my error and think about your regional travel plans before selecting your visa type.

Apply through the official Saudi e-visa portal to avoid unnecessary third-party fees.

Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia on a Budget

Timing is everything for budget travelers in Saudi. My first visit was in August – a rookie mistake that meant battling 45°C (113°F) temperatures and higher accommodation costs in the limited air-conditioned options.

Seasonal Price Variations

Season	Months	Budget Impact	Weather
High Season	December-February	30-40% price increase	Pleasant (18-25°C/64-77°F)
Shoulder Season	March-April, October-November	Moderate prices	Warm days, cool nights
Low Season	May-September	Lowest prices (except Jeddah)	Very hot (35-45°C/95-113°F)

Religious Holidays & Budget Implications

Saudi Arabia’s religious calendar significantly impacts prices and availability:

• Ramadan: Prices often drop in cities, but services are limited during daylight hours. Evening activities and meals become more expensive. In 2025, Ramadan will fall approximately from March 1 to March 31.
• Hajj: Avoid visiting Makkah and Madinah during the Hajj pilgrimage (approximately June 5-10, 2025) as prices skyrocket throughout western Saudi Arabia.
• Eid holidays: Domestic tourism increases during both Eid al-Fitr (after Ramadan) and Eid al-Adha (after Hajj), driving up prices nationwide.

My personal recommendation for budget travelers is early November. The weather is becoming pleasant, tourist sites aren’t crowded, and prices remain reasonable before the winter high season begins. My November 2023 trip saw temperature ranges of 22-28°C (72-82°F) in Riyadh, perfect for exploration without excessive air conditioning costs.

Budget Accommodation in Saudi Arabia

Accommodation will likely be your biggest expense in Saudi Arabia, but the options have expanded dramatically since my first visit. Back in 2020, I struggled to find anything under $100 per night in Riyadh. By 2024, I was staying comfortably for $40-60 in decent guesthouses.

Budget Accommodation Types

• Budget hotel chains: Brands like OYO Rooms, easyHotel, and ibis have expanded rapidly across Saudi cities, offering rooms from 150-250 SAR ($40-67) per night.
• Family-run guesthouses: These are emerging in tourist areas like Al Ula, Abha, and the outskirts of major cities. Expect to pay 130-200 SAR ($35-53) per night.
• Hostels: A new concept for Saudi Arabia, basic hostels are now operating in Jeddah, Riyadh, and AlUla with beds from 75-120 SAR ($20-32) per night.
• Apartment rentals: For longer stays or groups, short-term apartments offer better value, starting at 200-300 SAR ($53-80) per night in major cities.

Insider Tip: Ask for “ghurfah baseetah” (simple room) when inquiring at hotels. Many properties have basic rooms they don’t advertise online that can be 30-40% cheaper than their standard offerings.

Budget Accommodation Locations

Where you stay matters enormously for your budget:

Riyadh

The Al-Bathaa and Al-Dirah areas near the old city center offer the best budget options, with rooms from 150 SAR ($40). Avoid the Diplomatic Quarter and Financial District, where prices start at 500+ SAR ($133+).

Jeddah

Al-Balad (the historic district) and nearby neighborhoods offer budget accommodations from 170 SAR ($45). The corniche area is beautiful but typically 2-3 times more expensive.

Al Ula

The new tourist town has mostly high-end options, but budget travelers should look in the old town area where local families are opening basic guesthouses from 150-200 SAR ($40-53).

Money-Saving Accommodation Tips

Here are strategies I’ve personally used to cut accommodation costs:

1. Book directly with smaller properties: Call or WhatsApp directly, as many places offer 10-20% discounts for direct bookings.
2. Negotiate longer stays: For stays of 5+ nights, I’ve regularly negotiated 25-30% discounts, especially in non-chain properties.
3. Use local Saudi booking apps: Platforms like Almosafer and Rehlat often have exclusive deals not found on international sites.
4. Consider location carefully: Staying near metro stations in Riyadh or public transport in Jeddah can save substantial transportation costs.

My biggest accommodation mistake was booking a seemingly cheap hotel in southern Riyadh, only to discover I needed expensive taxis to reach any attractions. The extra 50 SAR ($13) per night to stay centrally would have saved me hundreds in transportation.

Getting Around Saudi Arabia on a Budget

Transportation in Saudi Arabia has traditionally been expensive, but recent infrastructure developments have created new budget options. During my first trips, I relied almost exclusively on taxis and ride-shares. By 2023, I was using a mix of public transit and intercity buses that cut my transportation costs by over 60%.

Budget Transportation Options

Within Cities

• Riyadh Metro: The new metro system (fully operational since 2023) connects major attractions with fares from 3-7 SAR ($0.80-1.87). A day pass costs 15 SAR ($4).
• City buses: SAPTCO operates extensive bus networks in major cities with fares around 3-5 SAR ($0.80-1.33).
• Careem/Uber: More expensive than public transport but still reasonable at 15-30 SAR ($4-8) for most intracity trips.

Between Cities

• SAPTCO buses: The national bus network connects major cities with comfortable coaches. A Riyadh-Jeddah ticket costs around 120-150 SAR ($32-40).
• Budget airlines: Flyadeal and Flynas offer domestic flights often cheaper than long-distance buses if booked in advance. I’ve found one-way flights for as low as 99 SAR ($26).
• Shared taxis: At major transportation hubs, you’ll find shared taxis heading to nearby cities for 30-50% less than private taxis.

The Saudi Railways now connect Riyadh with Dammam, Qassim, and Hail, with the high-speed Haramain train linking Makkah, Jeddah, and Madinah. While not the cheapest option, trains offer comfort and value when booked in advance.

Transportation Money-Saving Hacks

1. Use the Wasel transportation card: Available in Riyadh and Jeddah, this rechargeable card saves 10-15% on public transport fares.
2. Book overnight buses: Save on accommodation by taking overnight SAPTCO VIP buses between distant cities like Riyadh-Abha or Jeddah-Tabuk.
3. Flight price tracking: Use Skyscanner or Flyadeal’s price alerts for dramatic fare drops on domestic routes.
4. Explore Careem packages: Careem offers day packages for 150-200 SAR ($40-53) that can be cost-effective for groups visiting multiple sites.

Local Phrase: When negotiating taxi fares, try saying “mumkin takhfeef shwaya?” (Can you reduce it a little?) – I’ve found this polite approach often results in 10-20% discounts.

My Transportation Mistake

During my second visit, I arrived in AlUla without pre-booking transportation to Hegra (Madain Saleh). The only options were expensive private taxis charging 300+ SAR ($80) for what should have been a 30-minute ride. I later discovered that booking through the Experience AlUla app a day in advance would have given me access to shuttle buses for just 50 SAR ($13) round-trip.

Budget Food Guide to Saudi Arabia

Food can be surprisingly affordable in Saudi Arabia if you know where to look. My first few meals were in tourist-oriented restaurants where I paid 75+ SAR ($20+) per meal. Once I ventured into local establishments, I was regularly eating satisfying dishes for 15-25 SAR ($4-7).

Budget Food Options

Establishment Type	Price Range (SAR)	Best Budget Options
Street Food Stalls	5-15 SAR ($1.33-4)	Shawarma, falafel, matabaq (stuffed pancake)
Worker Restaurants	10-25 SAR ($2.67-6.67)	Kabsa, mandi, biryani meals
Fast Food Chains	15-30 SAR ($4-8)	Value meals, local chains like Albaik and Kudu
Food Courts	20-35 SAR ($5.33-9.33)	Mall food courts offer diverse budget options

Where to Find Cheap Eats

Riyadh

The Batha and Olaya districts have countless budget eateries. I regularly visited a small Yemeni restaurant on Olaya Street where a mountain of mandi rice with chicken cost just 18 SAR ($4.80).

Jeddah

Al-Balad (old town) is a street food paradise. The stalls along Gabel Street served the best falafel sandwiches I’ve ever had for just 7 SAR ($1.87).

Eastern Province

Dammam and Al Khobar have excellent budget seafood options. The fish market in Dammam lets you buy fresh fish and pay a small fee (10-15 SAR) for nearby restaurants to cook it.

Food Budget-Saving Strategies

1. Eat where locals eat: Follow workers during lunch breaks to find authentic, affordable restaurants.
2. Embrace street food: Saudi street food is safe, delicious, and the most economical way to eat.
3. Leverage lunch specials: Many restaurants offer business lunch deals at 30-50% off dinner prices.
4. Visit bakeries: Saudi bakeries sell delicious manakish (topped flatbreads) and pastries for 5-10 SAR ($1.33-2.67).
5. Drink tap water: Unlike some neighboring countries, tap water is generally safe in Saudi cities, though bottled water is very affordable (2 SAR/$0.53 for 1.5 liters).

One of the best food discoveries on my trips was finding that many restaurants offer “nuss” (half) portions not listed on menus. Simply asking for “nuss kabsa” often got me a portion that was still huge by Western standards but 30-40% cheaper.

Sensory Detail: Nothing compares to the aroma of Saudi coffee (qahwa) brewing with cardamom in traditional markets. For just 5 SAR ($1.33), you can enjoy unlimited refills while people-watching – one of my favorite budget activities.

Free and Budget-Friendly Attractions

While some Saudi attractions have premium price tags, I’ve discovered numerous free and low-cost experiences that often provided the most memorable moments of my trips.

Free Cultural Experiences

• Historic districts: Al-Balad (Jeddah), Diriyah (Riyadh outskirts), and Al-Hofuf’s Ibrahim Palace are free to explore.
• Markets and souqs: Qaisariah Souq (Al-Hofuf), Souq Al Zal (Riyadh), and Gold Souq (Jeddah) offer authentic cultural immersion.
• Mosques: Many stunning mosques welcome non-Muslim visitors outside prayer times, including Al Rajhi Grand Mosque in Riyadh.
• Public events: The Saudi Seasons calendar features free concerts, cultural shows, and festivals throughout the year.

Low-Cost Natural Attractions

Saudi Arabia’s natural landscapes offer exceptional value:

• Edge of the World: This spectacular cliff formation near Riyadh costs nothing to visit (though transportation adds expense).
• Red Sand Dunes: Just 25km from Riyadh, these dunes offer free desert experiences.
• Beaches: Public beaches in Jeddah, Yanbu, and the Eastern Province cost nothing to enjoy.
• Mountain hiking: The Asir region offers numerous free hiking trails with breathtaking views.

Budget-Friendly Museum Strategies

Many Saudi museums offer excellent value with tickets typically between 20-50 SAR ($5.33-13.33):

• National Museum of Saudi Arabia (Riyadh): 10 SAR ($2.67) entrance fee provides hours of cultural insight.
• King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra, Dhahran): Some exhibits are free, with full access for 30 SAR ($8).
• Museum free days: Many museums offer free entry on certain days – typically Mondays or the first Wednesday of each month.

Attraction Money-Saving Hacks

1. Use the Dahem app: This Saudi discount app offers 2-for-1 deals on attractions and restaurants.
2. Purchase multi-site tickets: In AlUla, the Experience AlUla pass saves 30% on multiple attractions.
3. Visit during off-peak hours: Many sites offer discounted late-afternoon or early-morning tickets.
4. Look for resident discounts: If traveling with Saudi friends, many attractions offer substantial resident discounts they can help you access.

One of my most remarkable budget experiences was visiting the ancient rock art sites in Jubbah (near Hail). This UNESCO World Heritage site charged just 15 SAR ($4) entry, yet contained some of the most stunning prehistoric petroglyphs I’ve seen anywhere in the world.

Budget-Friendly Shopping in Saudi Arabia

While Saudi Arabia is known for luxury shopping, there are plenty of affordable shopping options for budget travelers seeking souvenirs or necessities.

Where to Shop on a Budget

• Traditional souqs: Much more affordable than malls, souqs like Souq Al Zal (Riyadh) offer authentic crafts at negotiable prices.
• Discount stores: Chains like Daiso and Mumuso sell household items and quirky souvenirs from 5-15 SAR ($1.33-4).
• Friday markets: Many cities have weekly markets where prices can be 40-60% lower than in permanent shops.
• Factory outlets: The Saudi Red Sea Collection outlet in Jeddah offers local designer pieces at 50-70% discounts.

Budget Souvenir Ideas

Instead of expensive gold or carpets, consider these affordable authentic souvenirs:

• Date varieties: From 15-30 SAR ($4-8) per kg for premium Saudi dates.
• Arabic coffee sets: Small sets start at 50-75 SAR ($13-20).
• Spice mixes: Authentic Saudi baharat spice blends cost 10-20 SAR ($2.67-5.33).
• Handmade soap: Traditional olive oil soaps from 5-15 SAR ($1.33-4) each.

Negotiation Tips

Negotiating is expected in traditional markets. My approach follows these steps:

1. Start by asking “kam hatha?” (how much is this?).
2. Counter with approximately 50-60% of the initial price.
3. Be prepared to walk away – I’ve often been called back with a better offer.
4. For best results, buy multiple items from the same vendor for volume discounts.

I once made the mistake of showing too much interest in a traditional dagger in Riyadh’s Souq Al Zal. The initial price was 350 SAR ($93). After walking away and returning the next day with less enthusiasm, I purchased it for 160 SAR ($42) – less than half the original price.

Money-Saving Communication & Internet Tips

Staying connected in Saudi Arabia has become much more affordable since my first visit when I paid exorbitant roaming fees.

SIM Card Options

Local SIM cards offer the best value for travelers:

• STC Tourist SIM: 70 SAR ($18.67) for 10 days with 10GB data + local calls.
• Mobily Visitor Line: 99 SAR ($26.40) for 14 days with 15GB data.
• Zain Prepaid: Various packages starting from 35 SAR ($9.33) with data-focused options.

All major providers have booths at airports and mall kiosks. I recommend STC for the best overall coverage throughout the kingdom, especially in remote areas.

Free Wi-Fi Locations

If you’re limiting data usage, reliable free Wi-Fi can be found at:

• Major coffee shop chains (Starbucks, Costa, Dr. Cafe)
• Most shopping malls and food courts
• Public libraries and cultural centers
• Some public parks in major cities now offer free Wi-Fi zones

Communication Apps

WhatsApp is the primary communication method in Saudi Arabia. Other useful apps include:

• Telegram: Popular for group chats and local information.
• Google Translate: Download the Arabic language pack for offline use.
• Waze: Often more accurate than Google Maps in Saudi cities.

On my most recent trip, I discovered that many budget hotels don’t advertise their free airport pickup service. A simple WhatsApp message to the property before arrival often revealed this option, saving 80-120 SAR ($21-32) on airport taxis.

Hidden Budget Gems: Off the Tourist Trail

Some of my most memorable and affordable experiences in Saudi Arabia came from venturing away from the main tourist sites to these budget-friendly alternatives:

Instead of Expensive Desert Camps…

Rather than booking commercial desert experiences (500+ SAR/$133+), visit the Red Sand Dunes just outside Riyadh. Local guides often gather there on weekends and sometimes offer informal dune bashing for 50-100 SAR ($13-27) per person.

Instead of Luxury AlUla…

While AlUla’s premium attractions are spectacular, nearby Dedan and Ikmah offer similar ancient Nabataean heritage sites with lower entrance fees (30-50 SAR/$8-13 versus 80-100 SAR/$21-27 for Hegra).

Instead of Premium Red Sea Resorts…

The public beaches in Yanbu feature the same crystal-clear waters as luxury resorts. The Yanbu waterfront and Historical Area provide free access to beautiful coral gardens within wading distance of shore.

Hidden Urban Gems

• Al-Musmak Dining District (Riyadh): Hidden behind Al-Musmak Fortress are small traditional restaurants serving meals for half the price of tourist establishments.
• Diplomatic Quarter Parks (Riyadh): Beautifully landscaped public parks free to access with stunning desert wadi views.
• Qurtuba Water Tower (Dammam): Free panoramic views of the city and Gulf, especially spectacular at sunset.

Personal Anecdote: My most magical Saudi experience cost nothing at all. While driving between Tabuk and AlUla, I stopped at a roadside area where a Bedouin family was resting. They invited me for tea, refused payment, and shared stories of their ancestral lands. These unexpected cultural exchanges are the true wealth of budget travel in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Saudi Budget Travel Action Plan

After five visits to Saudi Arabia between 2020 and 2024, I’ve refined my approach to experiencing this remarkable country without emptying my bank account. Here’s my 5-step action plan for budget travelers planning a 2025 visit:

1. Time your visit strategically: Book for shoulder seasons (early November or late February) when weather is pleasant but prices are moderate. Avoid religious holidays unless they’re specifically what you’re coming for.
2. Prioritize transportation savings: Apply for an e-visa early, book domestic flights at least 6 weeks in advance, and research public transportation options for each city on your itinerary.
3. Balance your accommodation: Alternate between budget hotels in cities (150-250 SAR/$40-67) and occasional splurges in unique locations. Consider apartment rentals for stays longer than 3 nights.
4. Embrace local food culture: Eat at least 70% of your meals at local establishments rather than tourist restaurants. This alone can save you hundreds of dollars while providing more authentic experiences.
5. Mix free activities with paid attractions: For every premium attraction you visit, balance with 2-3 free experiences like markets, historic districts, natural landscapes, or cultural events.

Saudi Arabia in 2025 offers a fascinating contrast of ancient traditions and rapid modernization. The kingdom’s tourism development has created a sweet spot for budget travelers – infrastructure has improved dramatically, yet many experiences remain authentic and affordable before mass tourism potentially drives prices up.

While researching standard tourist information is valuable, my greatest budget discoveries came from conversations with locals. Saudis are genuinely excited to share their country with visitors and often know hidden gems that no guidebook mentions.

By following these strategies, you can experience the richness of Saudi culture, the magnificence of its landscapes, and the warmth of its people without financial stress. Your Saudi adventure awaits – and it doesn’t have to break the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Travel in Saudi Arabia

Is Saudi Arabia expensive for budget travelers?

Saudi Arabia has a reputation for being expensive, but with strategic planning, you can visit on a similar budget to many European destinations. Daily expenses can range from $50-100 for budget travelers who stay in modest accommodations, use public transportation, and eat at local establishments.

How much should I budget per day for Saudi Arabia in 2025?

For a comfortable budget experience, plan for 200-350 SAR ($53-93) per day, which includes 150-200 SAR ($40-53) for accommodation, 50-75 SAR ($13-20) for food, and 50-75 SAR ($13-20) for transportation and activities. This can be reduced further with shared accommodations and free activities.

Is it safe to use credit cards in Saudi Arabia?

Credit card usage is widespread and safe in Saudi Arabia. However, smaller establishments and traditional markets often prefer cash. I recommend carrying some cash (300-500 SAR) for markets, street food, and remote areas.

Can women travel solo on a budget in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, solo female travelers can safely visit Saudi Arabia on a budget. The country has become significantly more open since 2019. The modest dress code has relaxed (especially in tourist areas), and budget accommodations are safe and professional. Standard safety precautions apply as in any destination.

Do I need to rent a car to travel around Saudi Arabia?

While a rental car provides flexibility for exploring remote areas, it’s not necessary for budget travelers focusing on major cities. Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam have functioning public transportation, and intercity buses or budget airlines connect major destinations. Car rentals start at around 100-150 SAR ($27-40) per day including basic insurance.

What are the cheapest months to visit Saudi Arabia?

The summer months (June-August) offer the lowest prices due to the extreme heat (often exceeding 45°C/113°F). For a better balance of affordability and comfort, May and September-early October provide moderately lower prices with more tolerable temperatures.

How can I experience Saudi culture without spending money?

Many authentic cultural experiences cost nothing: visiting public mosques (outside prayer times), exploring historic districts, attending community events during Saudi Seasons, watching traditional dances in public squares (particularly on weekends), and simply engaging with locals in parks and markets.

What budget-friendly souvenirs can I bring back from Saudi Arabia?

Affordable authentic souvenirs include dates (15-30 SAR/$4-8 per kg), Arabic coffee beans (20-40 SAR/$5-11), spice blends (10-20 SAR/$2.67-5.33), miswak natural toothbrushes (5-10 SAR/$1.33-2.67), and small bottles of oud fragrance (from 30 SAR/$8).

References and Further Reading

1. Official Saudi Tourism Website – The official resource for tourism information, including visa details and attraction listings.
2. Saudia Airlines – The national carrier with domestic flight information and occasional promotions.
3. SAPTCO – Saudi Public Transport Company website for bus schedules and tickets.
4. Experience AlUla – Official site for AlUla attractions with booking options and packages.
5. Almosafer – A local booking site often featuring Saudi-specific hotel deals.
6. Riyadh Metro – Official site with maps, schedules, and fare information.
7. STC – Saudi Telecom Company for visitor SIM cards and data packages.
8. Lonely Planet: Saudi Arabia – Reliable travel information with budget considerations.
9. Ministry of Islamic Affairs – Information about mosque visiting hours and etiquette for non-Muslims.
10. Ministry of Culture – Details on cultural events, many free or low-cost.
11. World Monuments Fund: Diriyah – Information about the historic Diriyah district near Riyadh.
12. UNESCO: AlUla Rock Art Sites – Details on the ancient rock art sites in the AlUla region.