Explore Now

Is Saudi Arabia Safe for Travelers in 2025? My Honest Safety Guide After 6 Visits

Comprehensive safety guide for travelers to Saudi Arabia in 2025, covering what to expect, practical tips, regional safety differences, cultural norms, and first-hand advice from a seasoned visitor.

My Surprising Journey Through Saudi Arabia

The first time I landed in Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport back in 2019, I was clutching my passport with sweaty palms. All those alarming headlines about Saudi Arabia had done their work on my psyche. “What have I gotten myself into?” I wondered as I approached immigration. Fast forward to 2025, and I’ve now made six extended trips across the Kingdom—from the modern skyline of Riyadh to the ancient rock formations of AlUla and the coral reefs of the Red Sea.

What I’ve discovered repeatedly shatters the misconceptions many Westerners hold about safety in Saudi Arabia. The truth? Saudi Arabia is actually one of the safest countries I’ve visited in terms of crime—safer than many European or North American destinations. But there are nuances to this safety that travelers should understand before visiting.

In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about safety in Saudi Arabia as a foreign traveler, including the mistakes I’ve made (like that time I nearly caused offense by trying to shake hands with a conservative woman in Qassim), the real risks to be aware of, and practical tips that go beyond the typical guidebook advice.

The Current Safety Situation in Saudi Arabia (2025 Update)

Let’s start with the headline news: Saudi Arabia consistently ranks among the countries with the lowest crime rates globally. In 2025, the Numbeo Crime Index places Saudi Arabia in the top 10 safest countries worldwide for violent crime. The strict legal system and cultural norms contribute to very low rates of theft, assault, and harassment compared to Western countries.

However, safety isn’t just about crime statistics. Here’s my assessment of the current situation in 2025:

What’s Improved Since Tourism Opened

  • Tourist infrastructure: Massive investment in tourist facilities, English signage, and services since the opening of tourist visas in 2019
  • Cultural relaxation: Enforcement of conservative dress codes has relaxed considerably, especially in tourist areas
  • Emergency services: Dedicated tourist police in major cities speak English and are trained to assist foreign visitors
  • Digital safety: The Tawakkalna app has evolved into a useful safety resource for travelers

Current Concerns in 2025

  • Regional tensions: The geopolitical situation with neighboring Yemen remains unpredictable
  • Traffic safety: Road accidents remain the most realistic danger for tourists
  • Weather extremes: Increasingly severe heat waves present health risks for unprepared visitors
  • Cultural misunderstandings: Despite relaxed policies, cultural missteps can still lead to problems

Quick Tip: Download the official Saudi Tourism Authority app VisitSaudi before arriving. During my last trip in early 2025, I found it now includes emergency phrases in Arabic, location tracking that can be shared with emergency services, and accurate safety advisories for different regions.

Regional Safety Breakdown: Where Is Safest?

Not all parts of Saudi Arabia are equally safe for travelers. Based on my personal experience traveling through different regions, here’s a breakdown:

Major Cities (Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam)

These urban centers are extremely safe in terms of crime. During my last visit in February 2025, I felt completely comfortable walking alone at night in central Riyadh—something I can’t say about many U.S. or European cities. The tourist districts are well-policed, and I’ve never encountered aggressive behavior or felt threatened.

The biggest risk in cities is traffic. Saudi driving can be aggressive and unpredictable. During my second visit, I narrowly avoided being hit while crossing Tahlia Street in Riyadh because I wasn’t prepared for how quickly cars appear around corners.

Tourist Sites (AlUla, Hegra, Red Sea)

The developed tourist destinations are exceptionally safe and increasingly catered to international visitors. In AlUla, which I visited in late 2024, security is highly visible at archaeological sites, and tourism police are stationed throughout the area.

I was surprised by how relaxed the atmosphere has become at premier tourist destinations. At the AlUla heritage sites, I observed women (both foreign and Saudi) without head coverings, and mixed groups socializing freely—something that would have raised eyebrows just a few years ago.

Border Regions (Southern Provinces)

This is where safety concerns are most legitimate. The provinces bordering Yemen (particularly Najran, Jizan, and parts of Asir) have periodically experienced missile attacks related to the Yemen conflict. During my visit to Abha in 2023, I had to evacuate my hotel after a drone attack on a nearby military installation.

As of early 2025, the situation has stabilized somewhat, but I still recommend checking the latest travel advisories before visiting the southern regions. Most tourists stick to the central and western provinces, which haven’t been affected by these issues.

Region Safety Level Main Concerns My Recommendation
Riyadh Province Very High Traffic, heat exposure Highly recommended for first-time visitors
Makkah Province (including Jeddah) Very High Crowds during Hajj/Umrah seasons Excellent for tourists (Non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca city)
Eastern Province Very High Industrial areas best avoided Safe for all travelers
AlUla/Tabuk Region Extremely High Remote areas, heat exposure Among the safest destinations
Asir Province Moderate to High Proximity to Yemen border Check advisories before visiting
Jizan/Najran (Yemen Border) Moderate Yemen conflict spillover Not recommended for typical tourists in 2025

Safety Concerns for Different Traveler Types

Safety experiences can vary dramatically depending on who you are. Here’s my assessment based on conversations with fellow travelers and my own observations:

Female Travelers

One of the biggest surprises of my visits has been how safe Saudi Arabia is for women travelers in terms of harassment. My female colleagues consistently report feeling safer walking alone in Saudi cities than in many Western countries.

The strict social codes that prohibit unwanted attention to women are actually a benefit for female travelers. Street harassment, catcalling, and unwanted approaches—common in many destinations—are virtually non-existent in Saudi Arabia.

Personal Experience: My wife joined me on my fourth trip and was initially nervous about visiting. By day three, she remarked, “I’ve never felt less stared at or harassed in any country I’ve visited.” The respectful distance maintained by local men was something she found refreshing compared to our experiences in southern Europe.

Safety Tips for Women Travelers

  • Dress modestly, but as of 2025, the abaya (full-length cloak) is no longer required for foreign women in most areas
  • In conservative areas outside major cities, cover your shoulders and knees at minimum
  • Be aware that some restaurants still have “family sections” and “single men” sections
  • The phrase “min fadlak, ana muntazira sadiqati” (please, I’m waiting for my friend) is useful if you feel uncomfortable

LGBTQ+ Travelers

This remains the most complicated safety area. Homosexuality is still technically illegal in Saudi Arabia, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples can lead to legal issues.

That said, the practical reality in 2025 is more nuanced than many expect. Private behavior is increasingly ignored, and there’s a significant underground LGBTQ+ community in cities like Jeddah and Riyadh. I’ve met gay travelers who have visited without incident by exercising discretion about their relationships.

My advice is pragmatic: LGBTQ+ travelers who want to visit Saudi Arabia can do so safely by presenting as friends in public and being discreet about relationship status. This isn’t ideal from a human rights perspective, but it reflects the current reality.

Jewish Travelers

Despite geopolitical tensions in the region, individual Jewish travelers report few problems in Saudi Arabia. The 2020 Abraham Accords and warming relations with Israel have improved the situation, though open displays of Israeli connections are still best avoided in conservative areas.

During my 2024 visit, I traveled with a colleague who is Jewish (though not Israeli). He encountered no issues related to his religion or background. The Saudi Vision 2030 reforms explicitly aim to promote religious tolerance, though primarily focused on improved treatment of Christian visitors.

Cultural Norms and Legal Risks

Understanding cultural expectations is essential for safety in Saudi Arabia. Some restrictions have relaxed dramatically under the Vision 2030 reforms, while others remain in place:

What’s Changed by 2025

  • Dress codes: Much more relaxed in tourist areas and major cities
  • Gender segregation: Greatly reduced in public spaces
  • Religious police: No longer have enforcement powers
  • Photography: Far fewer restrictions than previously
  • Alcohol: Limited legal availability in certain international hotels as of late 2024

What Remains Sensitive

  • Public criticism of the royal family or Islam
  • Public displays of affection (regardless of orientation)
  • Drug possession (extremely severe penalties)
  • Photography of government buildings or military installations
  • Importing religious materials other than Islamic texts

One mistake I made during my second visit was attempting to photograph a government building in downtown Riyadh because I admired the architecture. I was quickly approached by security and had to delete the photos. The situation was resolved politely, but it was a reminder that some restrictions remain in place.

The phrase “Ana asif, ma kuntu a’rif” (I’m sorry, I didn’t know) has gotten me out of several awkward situations when I’ve unintentionally crossed cultural lines.

My Top 7 Practical Safety Tips

Based on my six visits since 2019, here are my most practical safety tips that go beyond the obvious advice:

1. Traffic Safety Is Your Biggest Concern

Saudi Arabia has one of the highest traffic fatality rates globally. I’ve witnessed countless near-misses and several accidents. Don’t assume cars will stop at crosswalks or follow lane markings.

If you’re driving yourself (which I’ve done twice), be extremely defensive and avoid driving at night outside major cities. The highway between Riyadh and Dammam is particularly notorious for aggressive driving.

2. Heat Safety Is Non-Negotiable

The desert heat is no joke. During my summer 2023 visit, I experienced 50°C (122°F) temperatures in Riyadh. I made the mistake of walking just 15 minutes between meetings and nearly passed out from heat exhaustion despite drinking water.

From May through September, plan all outdoor activities for early morning or evening, carry more water than you think you need, and take air-conditioned breaks frequently.

3. Use Approved Ride Services

Instead of hailing taxis on the street, use Uber or the local alternative Careem. They’re affordable, ubiquitous in cities, and provide an electronic record of your journey. I’ve never waited more than 5 minutes for a ride in Riyadh or Jeddah.

Insider Money-Saving Tip #1: Saudi taxis often try to negotiate fixed prices with tourists that are 3-4 times the actual meter rate. Always insist on using the meter or use ride-sharing apps. When I first visited, I paid 120 SAR for a ride that should have cost 30 SAR because I didn’t know better.

4. Carry a Backup Battery Pack

Your phone is your lifeline for translation, maps, and emergencies. Saudi Arabia’s heat drains batteries extremely quickly, and being without phone access can create safety issues.

During my visit to AlUla in 2024, my phone died while I was at Elephant Rock, leaving me without navigation back to my hotel. Since then, I always carry a 20,000mAh battery pack when traveling in Saudi Arabia.

5. Register with Your Embassy

This takes just a few minutes online before your trip and ensures your embassy knows you’re in the country if regional tensions escalate or emergencies occur. I use the STEP program as a U.S. citizen, and most countries have similar services.

6. Learn Basic Arabic Phrases

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger Saudis, knowing a few key Arabic phrases can help in emergency situations:

  • “Musa’ada!” – Help!
  • “Ayna aqrab mustashfa?” – Where is the nearest hospital?
  • “Ana bihaja ila shurta” – I need police

7. Respect Prayer Times

During prayer times (five times daily), many shops and restaurants close for 20-30 minutes. In 2025, this is less strictly enforced than previously, but it can still affect your plans, especially outside major tourist areas.

Getting stranded without transportation or access to food during prayer times can create unnecessary safety issues. The Prayer Times app helps me plan my day around these breaks.

Insider Money-Saving Tip #2: Visit restaurants right as they reopen after prayer time. Many places offer “prayer time specials” with 15-20% discounts to quickly fill seats again. I’ve enjoyed some of my best meals at half price using this strategy.

Emergency Information You Should Save

Keep these emergency contacts accessible both on your phone and written down somewhere in case your phone dies:

Emergency Service Number Notes
General Emergency 911 Works throughout Saudi Arabia, English operators available
Tourist Police 966-8002-47-2484 Dedicated line for foreign visitors
Highway Emergency 993 For roadside assistance on highways
Red Crescent (Ambulance) 997 Medical emergencies

Common Scams and How I Avoided Them

While crime is rare in Saudi Arabia, there are a few common tourist scams I’ve encountered:

1. The “Special Price” Taxi Scam

As mentioned earlier, taxi drivers may offer tourists a “special price” that’s much higher than the metered rate. During my first visit, I paid nearly 4x the normal rate for a ride from the airport because I accepted the fixed price offer.

How to avoid it: Always insist on using the meter or use Uber/Careem.

2. The Carpet Shop “Tea Invitation”

In tourist areas like Al-Balad in Jeddah, shop owners may invite you for “traditional Saudi tea” that turns into a high-pressure carpet or souvenir sales pitch. I spent an uncomfortable hour in such a situation in 2023.

How to avoid it: Politely decline invitations to drink tea from shopkeepers unless you’re genuinely interested in their products.

3. The “Guide” Who Works for Shops

In historic districts, friendly locals may offer to “show you around” but lead you only to shops where they receive commissions. These “guides” often approach tourists outside major hotels.

How to avoid it: Only use official guides arranged through your hotel or the Saudi Tourism Authority.

Insider Money-Saving Tip #3: Saudi Arabia’s tourist sector is still developing, so prices aren’t yet standardized. I’ve found you can negotiate 20-30% off almost any tourist service by simply asking, “Is this your best price?” in a friendly way. For larger purchases like desert excursions, I’ve received up to 40% discounts just by being willing to walk away.

Sustainability and Budget Safety Tips

These tips not only help you travel more sustainably but also save money and enhance your safety:

  1. Carry a reusable water bottle with filter: Tap water isn’t consistently safe to drink, but buying plastic bottles creates waste and means constantly finding shops. I use a bottle with a built-in filter to safely drink tap water anywhere.
  2. Use public transportation in major cities: Riyadh’s new metro system is clean, affordable, and safer than navigating traffic. Reduced traffic exposure means reduced accident risk.
  3. Choose walking tours where possible: Many neighborhoods in Jeddah and Riyadh are perfect for walking exploration when temperatures allow. This reduces your carbon footprint and lets you notice safety issues more easily than from a vehicle.
  4. Support local community tourism initiatives: Programs like Barzan Tourism provide authentic experiences while directly supporting local communities rather than international chains.

My Candid Conclusion: Is Saudi Arabia Safe in 2025?

After six visits across the Kingdom, my honest assessment is that Saudi Arabia is remarkably safe for travelers in terms of crime and personal security—safer than many popular tourist destinations in Europe or North America. The strict legal system, cultural respect for guests, and heavy security presence create an environment where violent crime and theft are extremely rare.

However, safety isn’t just about crime. The real risks for travelers come from:

  1. Traffic accidents due to aggressive driving culture
  2. Heat-related health issues, especially during summer
  3. Cultural misunderstandings that could lead to legal problems
  4. Regional tensions in areas near Yemen

The Saudi Arabia I’ve experienced in 2025 is dramatically different from the closed kingdom of just a few years ago. The rapid pace of social change has created a much more welcoming environment for international visitors, with relaxed dress codes, diminished gender segregation, and improved infrastructure.

That said, this remains a deeply conservative society structured around religious principles. Travelers who approach Saudi Arabia with respect for local customs, an open mind, and proper preparation will likely be surprised by how safe and welcoming their experience is.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for a Safe Trip to Saudi Arabia

  1. Research your specific destinations within Saudi Arabia, as safety varies by region
  2. Register with your embassy’s traveler program before departure
  3. Download essential apps: Tawakkalna, VisitSaudi, Uber/Careem, and a reliable offline map
  4. Pack appropriately for both cultural expectations and extreme climate conditions
  5. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers Saudi Arabia

I’ve gone from being nervously excited on my first visit to genuinely looking forward to returning each time. The combination of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and a society in fascinating transition makes Saudi Arabia one of the most compelling destinations I’ve experienced—and one where I’ve consistently felt secure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Saudi Arabia

Is Saudi Arabia safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Saudi Arabia is surprisingly safe for solo female travelers in terms of harassment and crime. The cultural codes that protect women mean street harassment is virtually non-existent compared to many Western countries. However, women should dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees at minimum), understand that some spaces remain gender-segregated, and be prepared for occasional stares in less touristy areas—from curiosity rather than threat.

Do I need to cover my hair as a female visitor?

As of 2025, foreign women are not required to cover their hair in most circumstances. The abaya (full-length cloak) is also no longer mandatory for foreign women, though modest dress is still expected. In religious sites like mosques, hair covering is required for women. When visiting more conservative areas outside major cities, having a scarf available is recommended.

Is it safe to drive in Saudi Arabia?

Driving in Saudi Arabia presents the highest safety risk for most visitors. The country has one of the world’s highest traffic fatality rates, and driving habits can be aggressive and unpredictable. If you choose to drive, use extreme caution, avoid driving at night outside major cities, and be aware that while women are now legally permitted to drive, female drivers may still encounter occasional hostility in conservative areas.

How strict are the religious laws for tourists?

Religious laws have been significantly relaxed for tourists since the introduction of tourist visas in 2019. Non-Muslims are no longer required to adhere to prayer times (though many businesses still close briefly), dress codes are more relaxed, and the religious police have been stripped of enforcement powers. However, public practice of non-Islamic religions, public displays of affection, and criticism of Islam remain sensitive and potentially problematic.

Is it safe to visit during Ramadan?

Visiting during Ramadan is safe and can be a culturally rich experience, but requires additional awareness. While tourists are not expected to fast, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited even for non-Muslims. Many restaurants are closed during the day or offer takeaway only. The atmosphere after sunset is festive and lively, making evenings particularly enjoyable during this period.

Are there still restrictions on unmarried couples sharing hotel rooms?

As of 2025, international tourists can share hotel rooms regardless of marital status in most tourist-class accommodations. This was formally changed in 2019 as part of tourism reforms. However, Saudi couples are still technically required to show proof of marriage, and some smaller hotels in conservative areas might apply old rules to all guests. Major international hotel chains in cities and tourist destinations have fully adapted to international norms.

Is alcohol available to tourists in Saudi Arabia?

As of late 2024, limited alcohol service has been introduced in designated international hotels in Riyadh and Jeddah as part of continuing tourism reforms. However, public consumption remains strictly prohibited, and penalties for public intoxication are severe. The majority of restaurants and public venues remain alcohol-free, and bringing alcohol into the country is still illegal.

How should LGBTQ+ travelers approach visiting Saudi Arabia?

LGBTQ+ travelers can visit Saudi Arabia safely by exercising discretion. Homosexuality remains technically illegal, but private behavior is increasingly ignored. LGBTQ+ visitors should present as friends in public, avoid public displays of affection (which are inappropriate for all couples), and be discreet about relationship status. Many LGBTQ+ travelers visit without incident by respecting these cultural boundaries.

References and Further Reading