Saudi Arabia, one of the most inhospitable nations in the world to non-Muslims, appears to be at last adjusting and welcoming foreign visitors.
Allow me to share with you:
Saudi is a great country, composed of lovely people, extremely hospitable, and home to some stunning natural sites, as well as jaw-dropping archaeological sites that you would never imagine.
It is really one of those countries which requires a couple of months to discover because, given its dimensions, there are loads, loads of things to see. Seriously, I can’t recommend Saudi enough.
Capital: Riyadh
Population: 33 million (40th)
Languages: Arabic
Area: 2,149,690km² (12th largest country)
You can apply for an online visa ($140) and, as of 2023, a visa on arrival is also available.
In Saudi Arabia, they use the Saudi Rial. 1 USD = 3.75 SAR ATMs are available pretty much everywhere and credit cards are accepted in most modern cafés, restaurants, and hotels.
Avoid coming here from May to the end of September, when temperatures average around 45ºC.