Key takeaways
Saudi Arabia has world-class 5G infrastructure with STC, Mobily and Zain covering all major cities, highways and tourist regions at speeds rivalling any country globally. Historically, VoIP apps like WhatsApp calls and FaceTime were blocked on local SIMs, but a Roamix eSIM routes traffic internationally so these apps work normally without a VPN. The country is undergoing rapid tourism transformation under Vision 2030, with AlUla, Diriyah, the Red Sea coast and NEOM opening to international visitors. A Roamix eSIM activates at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh or King Abdulaziz International in Jeddah, ready before you clear customs.
- STC leads Saudi Arabia's 5G network with the widest coverage across all regions including desert highways, delivering speeds of 200 to 600 Mbps in major cities.
- A Roamix eSIM routes traffic internationally, so WhatsApp calls, FaceTime and Google services work normally without a VPN, which is the main connectivity advantage over a local SIM.
- Saudi Arabia is open to international tourism under Vision 2030, with an e-visa available for over 50 nationalities in minutes at visa.visitsaudi.com.
- The SAR Saudi Riyal is pegged to the USD at 3.75. Cards are widely accepted and contactless payment is common in Riyadh and Jeddah.
- Download offline maps for AlUla, the Edge of the World and desert highway routes before leaving cities, as remote desert regions have limited signal.
Best way to get data in Saudi Arabia
For most visitors to Saudi Arabia, a Roamix eSIM is the only option that delivers both 5G speed and full app access including WhatsApp calling and FaceTime without needing a VPN.
| Option | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Roamix eSIMRecommended | Best for: Most travellers, especially those needing WhatsApp and FaceTime calls | International routing means WhatsApp voice calls, FaceTime and Google Meet work without a VPN, the key advantage over any local SIM or public wifi in Saudi Arabia. |
| Local physical SIM (STC, Mobily, Zain) | Best for: Long stays needing a Saudi number | Available at airports and operator stores with passport ID. Provides excellent 5G speeds but WhatsApp voice calls and FaceTime are blocked. A VPN is required on a local SIM to restore these services. |
| Pocket wifi | Best for: Groups sharing data for browsing only | Available for rent in Riyadh and Jeddah. Same app restrictions apply as a local SIM. VoIP calling still blocked. |
| Carrier roaming | Best for: Very short visits with no setup time | Expensive and may still route through local breakout, meaning VoIP restrictions can apply. A Roamix eSIM is both cheaper and gives unrestricted app access. |
Hotels and malls in Saudi Arabia offer good wifi, but VoIP restrictions apply on local networks even over public wifi. A Roamix eSIM with international routing is the only way to guarantee WhatsApp and FaceTime calling work reliably throughout your stay.
Apps and internet access in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia historically restricted VoIP calling apps on local SIM networks. A Roamix eSIM routes traffic internationally rather than through the local network breakout, so WhatsApp calls, FaceTime and Google Meet work normally without a VPN. Social media, Google Search, navigation and streaming services are fully accessible.
No VPN needed on Roamix
Roamix routes traffic internationally rather than through a restricted local breakout, so apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime and Google work normally without a VPN. This is the most important connectivity advantage for travellers visiting Saudi Arabia.
VoIP calling apps including WhatsApp voice calls, FaceTime and standard SIP calling have historically been blocked or throttled on local Saudi SIM cards. Social media platforms including Instagram, X, Snapchat and TikTok are accessible. Google services are open. Roamix international routing resolves the VoIP restriction without requiring a VPN.
WhatsApp (calls and video), works
WhatsApp voice and video calls are blocked on local Saudi SIM cards. On a Roamix eSIM, traffic routes internationally so WhatsApp calls work normally without a VPN.
FaceTime, works
FaceTime audio and video are blocked on local Saudi SIMs. Roamix international routing bypasses this restriction, so FaceTime works normally.
Google Maps and Search, works
Google services are accessible in Saudi Arabia. Works normally on any connection including local SIMs.
Social media (Instagram, X, TikTok, Snapchat), works
Social media platforms are accessible in Saudi Arabia. All work normally on a Roamix eSIM.
How much data you need
Data needs in Saudi Arabia are driven by navigation across long desert drives, Uber booking in cities and communication apps. The country's advanced 5G infrastructure means high-speed data is available wherever coverage exists.
5 to 8 GB
One week Riyadh and Jeddah city trip
Uber booking, navigation, social uploads, streaming and WhatsApp calls in well-covered 5G cities.
10 to 15 GB
Two week AlUla and Red Sea adventure
Desert navigation, offline map downloads for remote sites, tour booking confirmations and daily video calls via Roamix routing.
20 GB or more
Remote work or extended stay
Video conferencing, tethering and cloud uploads from Saudi Arabia's excellent 5G infrastructure in major cities.
Data per hour, by activity
- Maps and navigation
- 5 MB
- Social media and browsing
- 100 to 150 MB
- Music streaming
- 70 MB
- Standard video streaming
- 700 MB to 1 GB
- Video calls (WhatsApp, FaceTime via Roamix)
- 500 MB to 1.5 GB
Download offline map packs for AlUla, the Edge of the World and any desert highway route before leaving cities. Remote desert driving without offline maps is a real safety risk.
How to set up a Saudi Arabia eSIM
A Roamix Saudi Arabia eSIM is best installed over wifi before departure. It activates automatically on STC, Mobily or Zain when you land at King Khalid International Airport or King Abdulaziz International, so you arrive already connected and apps like WhatsApp calling work immediately.
- 1
Buy your plan on the Roamix Saudi Arabia eSIM page before departure.
- 2
Scan the QR code or tap to install the eSIM over wifi at home.
- 3
Label it Roamix and keep your home SIM as primary for calls and texts.
- 4
Enable data roaming for the Roamix line only.
- 5
Land in Saudi Arabia and the eSIM connects automatically with international routing active.
Works on eSIM-capable phones including iPhone XS and newer (5G on iPhone 12 and newer), Google Pixel 3 and newer, and recent Samsung Galaxy models. The phone must be carrier unlocked.
Roamix sets the correct APN automatically on most devices. If data does not start after landing, apply the APN from your order and toggle airplane mode once.
No data on arrival usually means data roaming is off for the Roamix line. Check Settings, select the network manually if needed, and restart. If WhatsApp calls are not working, confirm the Roamix line is set as the active data line.
Visa and entry for Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia launched its tourist e-visa in 2019 for citizens of over 50 countries, transforming access to the kingdom. The e-visa is available online at visa.visitsaudi.com in minutes and is valid for 90 days of stay within a year. Citizens of the GCC can enter with their national ID. Visitors to Mecca and Medina must be Muslim.
- Visa on arrival
- Available
- eVisa or ETA
- The Saudi tourist e-visa is available at visa.visitsaudi.com for citizens of eligible countries. Cost is around USD 120 to 135 and includes mandatory travel insurance. Processing takes minutes to a few days. The visa allows 90 days in Saudi Arabia within a one-year validity period.
- Passport validity
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Saudi Arabia.
- Onward ticket
- Proof of onward travel and hotel bookings may be requested on arrival or when applying for the e-visa. Ensure all documents are accessible on your phone.
Keep your e-visa, hotel bookings and travel insurance documents accessible on your phone. Use your Roamix eSIM to pull up all documents instantly on arrival at King Khalid International Airport.
Entry rules in Saudi Arabia change as the country opens to tourism. Confirm current requirements at visa.visitsaudi.com and with your national consulate before booking. Note that Mecca and Medina are restricted to Muslim visitors only.
When you land in Saudi Arabia
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How people message here
Saudis use WhatsApp heavily for messaging and increasingly for voice calls over data. Snap and Instagram are widely used for social communication among younger Saudis. WhatsApp calling over a local SIM is restricted, so Roamix international routing is a significant practical advantage.
Do you need a local number?
A local Saudi number is useful for longer stays and for some apps or services requiring Saudi phone verification. For most tourist visits, your home number via Roamix data handles all communication needs.
Keep your home SIM active for SMS two-factor authentication. Use the Roamix line for data, WhatsApp calling and FaceTime, which work normally via international routing.
Airports in Saudi Arabia
RUH
King Khalid International Airport
Riyadh
Free wifi across all terminals. Speeds are good in the main departure and arrivals areas, with strong 5G mobile signal from all operators throughout the airport.
RUH is the main gateway to Riyadh and all central and eastern Saudi Arabia. Activate your Roamix eSIM before landing to have WhatsApp calling live on arrival and to book your taxi or Uber to the city before clearing customs.
JED
King Abdulaziz International Airport
Jeddah
Free wifi available in the new Hajj Terminal and main passenger terminals. Good speeds for downloads and messaging during peak non-Hajj periods.
JED serves Jeddah, the gateway to the Red Sea coast and the Hejaz region. Use Roamix data on arrival to book your Al-Balad hotel transfer and check Red Sea dive conditions before leaving the terminal.
DMM
King Fahd International Airport
Dammam
Free wifi throughout the terminal. Strong 5G mobile coverage from Zain and STC inside and around the airport.
DMM serves the Eastern Province, Al Khobar and Al Ahsa. Use Roamix data to book your Gulf Coast accommodation and plan the Al Ahsa Oasis visit before leaving the terminal.
MED
Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport
Madinah (Medina)
Free wifi in the passenger terminal. The airport primarily serves pilgrims visiting Madinah and has strong 4G LTE coverage from all operators.
MED serves Madinah and provides the closest major air access to AlUla, about 3 to 4 hours drive. Use Roamix data to arrange a transfer vehicle and download offline maps for the AlUla desert drive before leaving Medina.
Getting around Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a vast country where domestic flights are the practical solution for crossing between major cities. Within cities, Uber and Careem are the dominant ride options. Rental cars are essential for exploring AlUla, the Edge of the World and the Red Sea coast independently.
Uber and Careem
Both Uber and Careem operate across Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and major cities. A live data connection on your Roamix eSIM is essential for booking, tracking and paying for rides, which is the primary way most visitors get around urban Saudi Arabia.
Domestic flights (Saudia, flyadeal, flynas)
Essential for the vast distances between Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla and Dammam. Use your Roamix eSIM to check in digitally, store boarding passes and track departures through the airline apps.
Rental car
The best option for AlUla and the Edge of the World, where public transport does not reach. Use Roamix data for live navigation, petrol station locations on desert highways and tour booking confirmations at remote sites.
Riyadh Metro
Riyadh's modern metro opened in 2024 and covers six lines across the capital. Use Roamix data to download the Riyadh Metro app, plan routes and top up your Nol transit card via the digital portal.
Uber and Careem are the dominant transport apps and work extremely well in Riyadh and Jeddah. The Riyadh Metro is modern and clean. For AlUla and the Edge of the World, a rental car with offline navigation downloaded over Roamix data before departure is essential.
Money and payments in Saudi Arabia
The SAR Saudi Riyal is pegged to the USD at 3.75. Saudi Arabia has become very cashless, with Apple Pay and contactless cards accepted across malls, restaurants and Uber. Exchange USD or EUR for SAR at the airport for smaller purchases.
- Cards and cash
- Cards and contactless payments are the norm in cities and tourist destinations. Carry SAR cash for smaller souks, traditional markets and tips in some hospitality venues.
- ATMs
- ATMs are widely available at airports, malls and in all major cities. International cards work reliably on Saudi ATM networks. Choose to be charged in SAR to avoid dynamic currency conversion fees.
- Payment apps
- Apple Pay is widely accepted across modern Saudi retail. Google Pay is less common but growing. STC Pay is the dominant local mobile payment app used by residents.
- Tipping
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 10 to 15 percent for restaurant service where no service charge is included, and a few riyals for hotel staff are customary. Uber and Careem do not require cash tips.
Daily budget
Budget travellers can manage on 150 to 250 SAR a day in the cities. Mid-range including AlUla resort stays runs 400 to 800 SAR per day. Luxury options at NEOM and Red Sea resorts cost significantly more.
Local tips for Saudi Arabia
- Language
- Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in hotels, malls, tourist sites, Uber drivers and among the urban professional class in Riyadh and Jeddah. In rural areas and traditional markets, Arabic is essential.
- Food
- Saudi food culture is rapidly evolving. Traditional dishes include kabsa spiced rice with meat, jareesh crushed wheat stew and saleeg white rice in milk. Riyadh and Jeddah have world-class international restaurant scenes. Alcohol is not available in Saudi Arabia.
- Plugs
- 220V, Type A, B and G plugs
Apps worth having
Uber / Careem
rideshare
The primary way to get around Riyadh and Jeddah. Both require a live data connection on your Roamix eSIM to book, track and pay for rides.
Google Maps
navigation
Detailed Saudi Arabia mapping including AlUla heritage sites and desert highway routes. Download offline packs for desert drives before leaving cities.
Visit Saudi
tourism
The official Saudi tourism app with attraction guides, event listings and booking links for AlUla, Diriyah and other major tourism destinations.
Safety and health in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is generally safe for tourists. The main risks are from the desert environment: extreme heat above 45C in summer, sandstorms, and long distances between petrol stations on desert routes. Respect local customs and dress codes at heritage sites. The country has transformed significantly since 2018 reforms.
- Stay reachable
- Keep your Roamix eSIM active for WhatsApp calls and Google Maps at all times when driving desert routes. Share your GPS location with someone before driving to remote sites like the Edge of the World or Mada'in Saleh. Always carry extra water and have offline maps downloaded before leaving highway coverage.
- Health
- Saudi Arabia has excellent private hospitals in Riyadh and Jeddah. Carry comprehensive travel health insurance as medical care for foreigners is paid privately. The extreme summer heat requires vigilance: stay hydrated, avoid midday sun in June to September and never attempt desert hiking without adequate water.
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe in cities but most Saudis and visitors prefer bottled water, which is cheap and widely available. Bottled water is essential on any desert drive.
Networks and coverage in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia operates one of the most advanced mobile networks in the Middle East. STC (Saudi Telecom Company) leads with the widest 5G deployment and strongest performance on desert highways and remote tourist sites. Mobily provides strong urban competition in Riyadh and Jeddah, while Zain competes aggressively on pricing and urban 5G. All three operators cover the main tourism corridors from Riyadh to AlUla, Jeddah's Al-Balad and the Red Sea coast. A Roamix eSIM connects to the strongest available network on arrival at King Khalid International Airport, with no SIM kiosk required.
STC (Saudi Telecom Company)
Widest 5G coverage in the country including the Riyadh to AlUla highway corridor, Jeddah's historic Al-Balad district and remote desert regions near the Edge of the World. Best choice for comprehensive national coverage.
Mobily
Strong 5G competition in Riyadh and Jeddah with fast urban speeds. Expanding coverage in NEOM and the Red Sea Project. A reliable alternative to STC in the main cities.
Zain
Competitive urban 5G in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. Strong in the Eastern Province near the petrochemical hub of Dhahran and Al Khobar.
- Typical speeds
- Urban 5G in Riyadh and Jeddah delivers 200 to 600 Mbps. Regional 4G on inter-city highways averages 50 to 150 Mbps. AlUla and the Hejaz mountains have 4G coverage on the main access roads.
- 5G
- 5G is live across Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, Dammam and Khobar. STC has the widest 5G national footprint, with Mobily and Zain deploying 5G in all major population centres.
STC is the strongest overall choice for visitors covering multiple regions, from the Red Sea to AlUla and the Eastern Province. For a Riyadh or Jeddah-focused visit, Mobily often delivers the fastest urban 5G speeds at competitive prices.
The vast Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert, remote wadi routes and parts of the Asir mountain highlands have limited to no coverage on any operator. Download offline maps for any drive into the Saudi interior beyond the main highway network. Saudi operators use Band 3 (1800 MHz) and Band 28 (700 MHz) LTE plus n78 (3500 MHz) for 5G, supported by iPhone 12 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and other recent unlocked 5G devices.
Where to go in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is one of the fastest-opening tourism destinations in the world. From the Nabataean rock-cut tombs of Hegra at AlUla to the coral reefs of the Red Sea, the archaeological landscapes of Diriyah near Riyadh and the futuristic megaprojects of NEOM, the scale and diversity of the country rewards a well-planned, connected trip. A Roamix eSIM keeps navigation, tour bookings and communication working across this vast country.
Best time to visit
November to March for most of the country, with temperatures of 15 to 25C ideal for outdoor exploration at AlUla, Diriyah and the Edge of the World. April to October is very hot in the interior, often above 40C, though coastal Jeddah and the Asir mountains stay more tolerable. Ramadan offers a unique cultural experience but changes visitor hours at many sites.
Riyadh and the Najd
The capital and geographic heart of Saudi Arabia. Riyadh blends the ultra-modern Kingdom Centre Tower and Diriyah heritage district with the historic Masmak Fortress. Diriyah, a UNESCO-listed mud-brick city on the western edge of Riyadh, is the ancestral home of the House of Saud and Saudi Arabia's most significant historical site.
- Diriyah At-Turaif
- Kingdom Centre Tower
- Masmak Fortress
- Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn)
- Boulevard Riyadh City
Outstanding 5G coverage across central Riyadh, Diriyah, the King Abdullah Financial District and all major highways around the capital. STC and Mobily both deliver 300 to 600 Mbps in the city centre.
Jeddah and the Hejaz
The gateway to Mecca and Medina on the Red Sea coast, Jeddah's Al-Balad historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage site of coral-built merchant houses with intricate wooden mashrabiya screens. The Jeddah Corniche, the tallest fountain in the world and the vibrant Red Sea waterfront define this cosmopolitan coastal city.
- Al-Balad Historic District
- King Fahd Fountain
- Jeddah Corniche
- Floating Mosque
- Red Sea Mall
Excellent 5G coverage in Al-Balad, the Jeddah Corniche and King Abdulaziz International Airport area. STC and Mobily maintain strong 5G throughout the city. The historic alleyways of Al-Balad can occasionally show slight signal variation inside dense buildings.
AlUla and the Northwest
The northwest of Saudi Arabia holds the kingdom's most dramatic ancient landscape. AlUla is home to Hegra (Mada'in Saleh), Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage site, with Nabataean rock-cut tombs rivalling Petra in Jordan. The AlUla Oasis, Elephant Rock and the Winter at Tantora festival have made this region a premier destination.
- Hegra (Mada'in Saleh) Nabataean Tombs
- Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil)
- AlUla Old Town
- Harrat Viewpoint
- Dadan and Lihyan Tombs
STC provides 4G LTE coverage along the main AlUla access roads and at major site entry points including Hegra. The tombs themselves are in open desert where signal can be intermittent. Download offline maps and booking confirmations in AlUla town before heading to remote sites.
Red Sea Coast and NEOM
Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coastline offers some of the most pristine coral reefs in the world, with visibility up to 30 metres. The Red Sea Project (AMAALA and The Line at NEOM) is transforming the northwest coast into a global luxury tourism destination. Existing diving at Yanbu and Farasan Islands is world class for those seeking uncrowded reefs.
- Yanbu Marine Sanctuary
- Farasan Islands
- NEOM Sindalah Island
- Umluj Village
- Red Sea Coral Reefs
STC 4G and emerging 5G coverage along the main coastal highway and at Yanbu. NEOM's construction zone and remote dive sites have variable coverage. Download dive site maps and resort information before reaching remote coastal areas.
Eastern Province and the Gulf Coast
The Eastern Province along the Arabian Gulf contains Al Ahsa oasis (UNESCO Heritage), the oil facilities of Dhahran, the twin cities of Dammam and Al Khobar, and the causeway to Bahrain. The region is culturally distinct from the Hejaz and Najd, with a significant Shia community and strong influences from Gulf trading culture.
- Al Ahsa Oasis
- King Fahd Causeway
- Dammam Corniche
- Al Khobar Waterfront
- Hofuf Old Town
Excellent 5G coverage throughout Dammam, Al Khobar and the Eastern Province. Zain is particularly strong in this region alongside STC. The King Fahd Causeway to Bahrain has continuous coverage.
Off the beaten path
Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage site, with over 100 Nabataean rock-cut tomb facades cut into sandstone outcrops in the same tradition as Petra in Jordan. Hegra pre-dates Islam and remains one of the most evocative ancient sites in the Arabian Peninsula.
Signal: STC 4G covers the AlUla town area and main Hegra visitor centre. Signal can be intermittent near the furthest tomb groups in open desert. Download your visit confirmation and site map in AlUla town before the drive.
A dramatic escarpment rising 300 metres from the flat Tuwaiq Plateau, offering views across seemingly endless desert toward the Empty Quarter horizon. One of the most accessible and spectacular natural landscapes near Riyadh.
Signal: The Edge of the World is about 90 km from Riyadh on a graded desert track. Mobile coverage drops sharply after leaving the main highway. Download offline navigation and emergency contacts before leaving Riyadh.
The mud-brick UNESCO-listed citadel on the edge of Riyadh where the first Saudi state was founded in the 18th century. At-Turaif is being restored as a living heritage district with guided tours, restaurants and cultural performances.
Signal: Excellent STC and Mobily 5G coverage throughout the Diriyah development zone, including At-Turaif and the adjacent Bujairi Terrace restaurant quarter.
Jeddah's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site of coral-stone merchant houses with elaborate wooden mashrabiya latticework screens. Al-Balad preserves 1,000 years of Red Sea trading culture and is one of the most visually distinctive urban heritage areas in the Middle East.
Signal: Strong STC and Mobily 5G throughout Al-Balad. The narrow alleys can occasionally reduce signal, but 4G is consistently available throughout the district.
A massive naturally sculpted sandstone rock formation rising 52 metres from the desert floor near AlUla, shaped by millions of years of erosion into a form unmistakably resembling an elephant. Best visited at sunset when the red sandstone glows orange.
Signal: STC 4G coverage is available at the Elephant Rock site, which is maintained as a formal AlUla visitor area with parking and a cafe nearby.
The most remote and pristine coral reef system in the Saudi Red Sea, home to Arabian gazelles, mangrove forests and dive sites with visibility up to 30 metres. One of the few genuinely uncrowded dive destinations in the region.
Signal: Limited STC 4G on the main Farasan Al-Kabir island. More remote dive sites and smaller islands are off-grid. Download navigation and dive site maps before reaching the archipelago.
The world's largest natural oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage site of three million date palms, ancient irrigation systems, historic mud-brick forts and hot springs in the heart of the Eastern Province.
Signal: Zain and STC provide strong 4G coverage throughout the Al Ahsa oasis area and Al Hofuf town. Rural farm tracks within the date palm groves have variable signal.
Saudi Arabia's green mountain region, where Asir National Park rises above 3,000 metres with juniper forests, terraced villages, misty valleys and average summer temperatures of 20C, completely unlike the desert stereotype of Saudi Arabia.
Signal: STC has 4G coverage in Abha city and main park entry areas. Highland viewpoints and trekking routes in the Sarawat Mountains can have patchy signal. Download trail maps before heading into the highlands.
The mud-brick and clay fortress in central Riyadh where Ibn Saud retook the city in 1902, the founding moment of modern Saudi Arabia. Now a museum with exhibits on the history of the Saudi state, the spear embedded in the gate from the battle is still visible.
Signal: Excellent STC and Mobily 5G coverage throughout central Riyadh around Masmak, Dira Square and the old city area.
One of the best established and most accessible Red Sea dive destinations in Saudi Arabia, with pristine coral walls, sharks, rays, sea turtles and exceptional visibility accessible from the port city of Yanbu on the Red Sea coast.
Signal: STC 4G coverage in Yanbu city and the main dive resort area. Dive boat transit and offshore reef sites are typically off-grid. Download dive charts and operator contacts before the boat departure.
Events and seasons in Saudi Arabia
February
Saudi Cup Horse Racing
King Abdulaziz Racecourse, Riyadh
The world's richest horse race with a prize fund of USD 20 million, held at the King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh. The event attracts top horses from Europe, the US and the Gulf and is part of Saudi Arabia's global sports calendar.
February
Formula E Saudi Prix
Jeddah Corniche Circuit
The Formula E season opener held on a street circuit along the Jeddah waterfront. The night race against the backdrop of the Red Sea has made the Saudi E-Prix one of the most photographed rounds on the Formula E calendar.
March (during Hegira calendar months)
AlUla Camel Race Festival
AlUla
A traditional camel racing event in the AlUla desert, reflecting one of the oldest sports in Arabian culture. Robot jockeys are now used in elite Saudi camel races, blending ancient tradition with modern technology.
Summer (June to August)
Jeddah Season
Jeddah
Jeddah's summer entertainment season on the Red Sea corniche, featuring international concerts, fireworks, waterparks, sporting events and outdoor dining along the waterfront. Held in summer when Jeddah's coastal climate is more tolerable than the interior.
September 23
Saudi National Day
Nationwide, main celebrations in Riyadh
Saudi Arabia's National Day marking the unification of the kingdom in 1932. Celebrated with aerial displays, fireworks over Riyadh and all major cities, green lighting across landmarks and nationwide cultural events. One of the most festive nights of the year.
October to March
Riyadh Season
Riyadh
Saudi Arabia's flagship entertainment mega-event, transforming Riyadh into a global entertainment destination with concerts from international artists, sporting events, theme parks, cultural exhibitions and massive food festivals across multiple zones in the capital throughout the winter months.
November to December
Diriyah Art Futures
Diriyah, Riyadh
An international contemporary art fair and programming series held in the At-Turaif heritage zone of Diriyah, bringing together Saudi and international artists in the mud-brick setting of the original Saudi capital.
December to March
Winter at Tantora AlUla
AlUla
A world-class winter festival held in the dramatic AlUla desert landscape, featuring international music concerts among ancient Nabataean ruins, hot air balloon rides at sunrise, camel races and cultural programming at Hegra and the AlUla oasis.
Variable (follows Islamic lunar calendar)
Hajj Pilgrimage Season
Mecca and Medina (closed to non-Muslims)
The world's largest annual gathering, with over two million Muslim pilgrims converging on Mecca for the five-day Hajj pilgrimage. Non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca or Medina. Hajj causes significant transport disruption across Saudi Arabia, particularly in Jeddah, and network congestion in the holy cities.
Variable (follows Islamic lunar calendar)
Ramadan in Saudi Arabia
Nationwide
The holy month of Ramadan transforms Saudi society, with daytime fasting, extended prayer times, Iftar feasts after sunset and a vibrant social life through the night. Visitors are expected to refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight hours.
Through the year
- Spring
- March to May sees warming temperatures before the summer heat. AlUla is still pleasant in March, as is the Asir region. By May, interior temperatures begin climbing toward the summer extreme. Spring shoulder season offers lower prices and fewer crowds than winter.
- Summer
- June to September is extreme summer in Saudi Arabia, with temperatures reaching 45C and above in Riyadh and the interior. The Red Sea coast, Jeddah and the Asir highlands are more tolerable. This is the least recommended time for most outdoor tourism, though Jeddah Season runs in summer and hotel prices are lower.
- Fall
- October to November is the start of the pleasant season, with temperatures dropping to 25 to 35C in Riyadh. Riyadh Season begins in October and AlUla tourism picks up. This is an excellent time to visit before the winter peak.
- Winter
- December to February is peak season for Saudi Arabia. Temperatures in Riyadh range from 10 to 22C, comfortable for desert exploration, AlUla visits and the Edge of the World hike. Winter at Tantora, the Saudi Cup and Formula E all fall in this period. Book accommodation and tours well in advance.
Working remotely from Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is an emerging but viable remote work destination for those on the tourism visa, given its world-class 5G infrastructure and rapidly developing hospitality sector. The UTC+3 timezone suits European working hours well.
- Connection
- 5G in Riyadh and Jeddah easily handles video calls, tethering and cloud uploads. A Roamix plan with 20 GB or more suits a full working week, with international routing ensuring all communication tools including WhatsApp and FaceTime work without restriction.
Hotel lobbies and coworking spaces in Riyadh and Jeddah offer reliable wifi. Use your Roamix eSIM as a secure backup and for WhatsApp calling, which may be blocked even on hotel wifi due to local routing.
