Local Laws and Customs
Saudi Arabia is welcoming, and the Kingdom has changed enormously in recent years. But the law differs from the UK in ways that catch visitors out — and ignorance is not a defence.
This page summarises guidance for UK travellers to Saudi Arabia. It is not a substitute for the official advice, which the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office updates as the situation changes — sometimes at short notice. Read the live FCDO advice for Saudi Arabia before you book and again before you fly, and sign up for FCDO email alerts.
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Questions about your specific booking? Call us on 020 3137 8781.
What UK Visitors Get Wrong
Alcohol and drugs
Both are illegal. Penalties are severe and apply to visitors exactly as they do to residents — prison sentences and deportation are routine. Do not carry alcohol in duty-free, and do not bring distillery equipment or anything that could be read as such.
Prescription medicines
Some medicines legal in the UK are controlled in Saudi Arabia. Carry medication in its original labelled packaging with a copy of your prescription. If you take anything unusual, check with the Saudi Embassy before you fly rather than at the airport.
Photography
It is illegal to photograph or film government buildings, military sites, diplomatic premises and palaces. Do not photograph people — especially women — without permission. Inside the Haram, be considerate: it is a place of worship, not a backdrop.
Social media and cybercrime
Saudi cybercrime law is strict and applies to visitors. Posts perceived as critical of the state, the Royal Family or Islam can carry serious consequences. Assume nothing you post is private.
Dress
Modest dress is expected of everyone. Men: no shorts in public. Women: loose clothing covering arms and legs; an abaya is customary though no longer legally mandatory for visitors. In Makkah and Madinah, dress conservatively at all times.
Ramadan
Eating, drinking or smoking in public between sunrise and sunset during Ramadan is an offence, including for non-Muslims. Hotels make private arrangements for those who are exempt — the elderly, the unwell, travellers.
Public decency
Saudi Arabia has published Public Decency Regulations covering dress and behaviour in public. Fines apply. Public displays of affection are not acceptable.
Makkah is closed to non-Muslims
Entry to Makkah is restricted to Muslims, and parts of Madinah likewise. This is enforced. If you are travelling with a non-Muslim companion, plan the itinerary with us in advance.
Customs restrictions
Illegal to import: alcohol, pork products, pornographic material, weapons, narcotics. Religious books other than for personal use may need approval, and items such as satellite phones, powerful cameras or recording equipment may require a licence.
Overstaying
Overstaying your visa risks large fines, detention, deportation and a ban on returning. Know the validity of the visa you hold — the e-visa and the visa waiver have different rules.
Dual nationals
If you hold both a British passport and another nationality, you must leave Saudi Arabia on the passport you entered on. Entering on a non-British passport can limit the consular assistance the UK is able to give you. If that applies to you, tell your Travel Expert — it changes what we advise.
Not sure whether something applies to you? Ask before you fly, not at the airport.
Ask a Travel Expert