Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
\nFCDO advises against:
\n\nFind out more about why FCDO advises against travel.
\n\nSince 13 July, the Houthis (a military group in Yemen) have launched missiles and drones targeting cities, airports, military and energy sites across Saudi Arabia, including Abha, Jizan, Najran, Riyadh, Jeddah and Yanbu, as well as shipping in the Red Sea. Further attacks are possible. Follow Saudi Civil Defence alerts. See ‘Regional risks’ page.
\n\nBritish nationals currently in the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruption, and should:
\n\nThe US and Iran announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on 17 June 2026 in relation to the conflict in the Middle East, however the situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable. Since 8 July there have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran in a number of locations across the region against US military and civilian infrastructure. There is a risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the region. Before the ceasefire, the Iranian regime had stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions.
\nNo travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nThe Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\n\n\n","slug":"warnings-and-insurance","title":"Warnings and insurance"},{"body":"This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Saudi Arabia’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in Saudi Arabia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Saudi Embassy in the UK.
\n\nFor entry into Saudi Arabia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
\n\nYou may not be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia if your passport shows that you have travelled to, or were born in, Israel.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nYou must get a visa to visit Saudi Arabia. The type of visa you choose depends on your reason for travelling and how long you want to stay.
\n\nIf you overstay your visa, you could face large fines, detention and deportation. You could be banned from returning to Saudi Arabia.
\n\nYou can apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) if you are travelling to Saudi Arabia for:
\n\ntourism
\nbusiness
\nstudy
\nmedical treatment
\nUmrah (outside the Hajj season)
\nAn ETA is is valid for 730 days from the date of issue.
\n\nValid for multiple entries, but only 180 days in total across the 730 day period .
\n\nApply for an ETA online before you travel. If you are travelling for Hajj, you must obtain a separate Hajj visa. See Pilgrimage for more information.
\n\nAn ETA does not include health insurance for your visit. Visas issued before the ETA was introduced will remain valid, in accordance with the conditions and dates on the visa when issued.
\n\nYou can apply for an e-visa if you are a tourist.
\n\nE-visas are:
\n\nApply for an e-visa online or when you arrive at any of Saudi Arabia’s international airports.
\n\nAn e-visa includes health insurance for your visit up to 100,000 Saudi Arabian Riyals (SAR). Medical treatment in Saudi Arabia can be expensive, and you should consider taking out additional travel insurance to cover costs beyond 100,000 SAR.
\n\nYou must get a separate visa for Hajj. See Pilgrimage.
\n\nElectronic visa waivers are for:
\n\nAn electronic visa waiver allows you to enter Saudi Arabia once and stay for up to 180 days.
\n\nAn electronic visa waiver does not include health insurance for your visit.
\n\nApply for an electronic visa waiver online at least 48 hours before your flight, or up to 90 days in advance. You will need to give your flight details.
\n\nYour visa may only allow you to enter Saudi Arabia by air. If you plan to travel to Saudi Arabia by the Bahrain causeway, check your visa before travelling. Ask your travel agent or the Saudi Embassy if you need help.
\n\nIf you’re transferring through Saudi Arabia, you may need a transit visa if:
\n\nCheck with your airline or travel agency if you require a transit visa.
\n\nIf you live in Saudi Arabia, you must get an exit or re-entry permit from your sponsor to leave and re-enter the country. If you leave Saudi Arabia on a final exit permit, you must apply for a new visa to return to the country.
\n\nIf you’re a woman married to a Saudi national, you must get a re-entry or final exit permit from your husband to leave Saudi Arabia. This also applies to children of Saudi nationals.
\n\nIf you plan to travel around the time of the Hajj pilgrimage, check with your airline for any flight restrictions.
\n\nThe Saudi authorities have stopped visitors who are not performing Hajj from flying to Jeddah, Madinah and Taif. You may need a Hajj visa to board flights to these places during Hajj.
\n\nYou will still be able to enter Saudi Arabia through other airports.
\n\nTo enter Saudi Arabia, you must have certificates to prove you’ve had a:
\n\nFor full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Saudi Arabia guide.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Saudi Arabia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
\n\nItems it’s illegal to import include:
\n\ncertain sculptures such as religious symbols \n \nOther items may be examined, including:
\nYou may need special approval to bring some items such as:
\n\nYou may need a licence for:
\n\nIf you need information on customs rules, contact the Saudi Embassy.
\n\n","slug":"entry-requirements","title":"Entry requirements"},{"body":"There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\nTerrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Saudi Arabia.
\nAttacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
\n\nTerrorists have threatened to carry out attacks in the Gulf region, including on:
\n\nBe aware of your surroundings, particularly during high-profile events, and avoid large demonstrations.
\n\nOngoing hostilities between Israel and Lebanon could escalate quickly and pose risks for the wider region.
\n\nMonitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on X, Facebook and Instagram. You can also get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nRead FCDO advice if you’re affected by a crisis abroad.
\n\nPublic demonstrations are illegal. Avoid any protest or demonstration and follow the advice of local authorities.
\n\nThe crime rate in Saudi Arabia is low, but there is petty crime. There have also been more serious crimes, including crimes against women. Take care when travelling outside towns and cities.
\n\nSaudi Arabia is a Muslim country and Islamic law is strictly enforced. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religion so you do not cause offence. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK.
\n\nYou should avoid:
\n\nPenalties include fines, imprisonment and deportation. See Visit Saudi for information on behaviour.
\n\nYou must always carry ID. You can get a fine or prison sentence if you do not have any.
\n\nIf you’re a tourist, carry a copy of your passport and visa.
\n\nIf you live in Saudi Arabia, carry your residency card (‘Iqama’). Police also accept an electronic version of the Iqama on the Tawakkalna app and Absher.
\n\nRamadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. Ramadan in Saudi Arabia started on 18 February in 2026 and will last for 30 days. During this time, do not:
\n\nGet more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.
\n\nYou should also:
\n\nMen and women must wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the elbow and below the knees.
\n\nAvoid clothing that:
\n\nFemale travellers do not have to wear the traditional robe (‘abaya’) or cover their hair. See Visit Saudi for more information on dress codes.
\n\nIt is illegal to practise any religion other than Islam. However, the Saudi authorities accept private practice of other religions.
\n\nIt is illegal to try to convert people to another religion. You can bring other religious books for personal use. However, you may be prosecuted if you try to import large numbers of religious books.
\n\nDo not bring alcohol into Saudi Arabia or arrive under the influence of alcohol.
\n\nIt is illegal to drink alcohol or be drunk in public. Police have arrested British nationals for disorderly or offensive behaviour when drinking. You can face severe penalties, including prison, for brewing, possessing or selling alcohol.
\n\nThere is zero tolerance for drug offences in Saudi Arabia, and the penalties are severe. If you’re arrested for drug offences, you may have a long period of detention before trial. You can get a prison sentence of up to 5 years and a fine of 30,000 Saudi riyals for possessing even small amounts. Drug dealing and smuggling can result in a death sentence.
\n\nSex outside of marriage and adultery are illegal, including for tourists. In the most serious circumstances (for example, those involving Saudi nationals) the penalties could include custodial sentences or deportation. There are special arrangements for visitors, and unmarried tourists may share hotel rooms.
\n\nIf you or your partner becomes pregnant outside marriage in Saudi Arabia, you could both face penalties including imprisonment and deportation. However, in practice, legal action is uncommon.
\n\nDoctors may ask for proof of marriage during antenatal checks.
\n\nTo get a birth certificate from the Saudi authorities, you must provide a marriage certificate. The authorities may compare the date of the marriage against the estimated date of conception.
\n\nIf you’re an unmarried woman who gives birth in Saudi Arabia, you may have difficulties registering the birth of a child in Saudi Arabia. You could be arrested, imprisoned or deported.
\n\nIt is illegal to film or photograph government buildings, diplomatic premises, military installations and palaces.
\n\nIf you produce, transmit or distribute printed, digital, audio or video information, you must get permission from the General Authority of Media Regulation (GCAM) in advance. If you do not, you could get a large fine and a prison sentence.
\n\nOnly photograph local people if you have their consent.
\n\nIt is illegal to say publicly anything that the Saudi authorities deem disruptive to public order. Avoid making comments verbally or on social media on the topics below:
\n\nSpeaking publicly about these issues can be defined by the Saudi authorities as posing a threat to national security. Statements made on social media many years ago, or those published outside Saudi Arabia, may be taken into account. Punishment can include long custodial sentences. The legal processes around national security cases can be complex and slow. If you are detained, it may take some time for the Saudi authorities to grant permission for consular officials to visit you.
\n\nYou’re likely to come under more scrutiny if you’re a British national who also:
\n\nIt is illegal to have 2 passports in your name in Saudi Arabia. Immigration authorities will take additional passports. You must leave Saudi Arabia using the passport you entered on.
\n\nThe Saudi legal system differs from the UK, for example:
\n\nIf you’re detained and need consular assistance, British Embassy staff will visit once they know about your case. In some cases, British Embassy staff have not been allowed to visit immediately or have had limited access.
\n\nThere is no legal aid in Saudi Arabia. You may want to hire a translator if you need to attend a criminal proceeding. Find a translator or interpreter in Saudi Arabia.
\n\nYou can get a fine, prison sentence or travel ban, or face deportation for financial crimes, including:
\n\nThe Saudi authorities can also freeze your bank account or other assets. You may be liable for cheques you signed on behalf of a company.
\n\nThe Saudi authorities could:
\n\nThe Saudi authorities may stop you from leaving the country for:
\n\nIf you’re under a travel ban, you cannot leave the country, even if you’re a British national or dual British-Saudi national. They can take years to resolve. If you’re banned from travel, get legal advice.
\n\nGovernment bodies often keep passports for official purposes. Employers (sponsors) may try to hold onto your passport, but this is illegal.
\n\nIf you’re found guilty of an offence and sentenced to over 3 months in prison, the Saudi authorities can deport you. Sometimes the authorities deport people with shorter sentences, regardless of whether the judgement included deportation. If you’re employed in Saudi Arabia, deportation will impact your employment and may affect your ability to return to Saudi Arabia in the future.
\n\nSame-sex relations are illegal, although legal action is uncommon. All couples should be aware of local customs and avoid showing affection in public.
\n\nVisit Saudi says all visitors are welcome, are not required to disclose their personal information and will have their right to privacy respected.
\n\nBeing transgender is not recognised in Saudi Arabia. Transgender people could also face difficulties with dress codes and access to medical care.
\n\nRead more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nIf you’re planning to drive in Saudi Arabia, see information on driving abroad.
\n\nYou can use a UK photocard driving licence for the first 3 months after you arrive in Saudi Arabia. After that, you must apply for a local licence. Hire care companies may require an international driving permit (IDP).
\n\nStandards of driving are poor and there are a high number of serious accidents on the roads. You should:
\n\nSome cities have an automated traffic system. Anyone caught speeding or committing other traffic offences will be notified by text of their fine. Fines are recorded on the Absher system, which is linked to your passport, residency or ID card. You must pay any outstanding fines through the system before leaving the country. You can pay at the airport but only during Saudi office hours.
\n\nVessels operating in the Gulf of Oman, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb areas may be at increased risk of attack by pirates. See piracy and armed robbery at sea.
\n\nAbha International Airport: The last incident was in 2022 when a number of Houthi led attacks targeted Abha International Airport, resulting in multiple civilian injuries and one death.
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
\n\nHeavy rains from November to February can cause flooding. Use the internet to check weather forecasts. In a flood, follow Civil Defence advice or call them on 998.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"This section has safety advice for regions of Saudi Arabia. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
\n\nYou should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
\n\nFCDO advises against:
\n\nIn 2026, direct military conflict between the Houthi rebel military group and the Governments of Yemen and Saudi Arabia has resumed.
\n\nThe authorities can temporarily close airports near the Saudi Arabia-Yemen border. Check with your airline before travelling to airports near the border.
\n\nSince 13 July 2026, the Houthis have launched missiles and drones targeting several cities, airports, military bases and energy infrastructure sites across Saudi Arabia including Abha, Jizan, Najran, Riyadh, Taif, Jeddah and Yanbu as well as Saudi shipping vessels in the Red Sea. Some civilians have been injured. There is a risk of more attacks and escalation. Saudi Civil Defence issue early warning alerts to people in affected areas.
\n\nIn a missile or drone attack, you should:
\n\nThe Saudi Tourism Authority has banned tourist trips to military zones and border posts.
\n\n","slug":"regional-risks","title":"Regional risks"},{"body":"Many British nationals travel to Saudi Arabia each year for Umrah or Hajj pilgrimage.
\n\nYou should also read the main section on Entry requirements.
\n\nYou can apply for an e-visa or electronic visa waiver to perform Umrah outside of the Hajj season.
\n\nYou can only book a Hajj place through the official Nusuk Hajj platform.
\n\nThe Hajj visa is for a set length of time. It is not extendable. Check your visa expiry date to make sure you know when you must leave Saudi Arabia by. If you overstay, you may incur large fines and/or be detained and deported or banned from returning to Saudi Arabia in the future. Stay with your tour guide and group throughout the Hajj to make sure you receive your Hajj package entitlement.
\n\nKeep your passport and travel documentation safe during Hajj and Umrah. Take photocopies and keep one copy with you. Leave a copy with friends or family. If you lose your passport during the Hajj, you will need to apply for an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) to return to the UK which costs £125. You will need to allow time for the ETD to be processed. See Apply for an Emergency Travel Document for more information.
\n\nYou must have a valid certificate of vaccination against the ACWY strains of meningitis 10 days before arriving for Hajj and Umrah. For more information on health risks and vaccination requirements, read the TravelHealthPro Hajj and Umrah guide.
\n\nCheck Health for advice on bringing medicines into Saudi Arabia. Make sure you have enough medication for your entire trip, including if your return is delayed.
\n\nContagious diseases spread quickly, particularly during Hajj and Ramadan. Flu, colds and respiratory problems are common.
\n\nPrepare for extreme heat. During the summer months, the temperature may exceed 50°C. Consume enough liquids and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
\n\nUK-based organised crime groups target people planning Hajj or Umrah trips. Criminals pick people of any age, gender or location for their scams. Many victims are over the age of 65.
\n\nTo avoid scams:
\n\nWhen paying for your Hajj or Umrah visit:
\n\nIf you have been a victim of Hajj fraud in the UK, contact:
\n\nIf you have booked a Hajj package and have any queries, you should visit Nusuk Hajj or check:
\n\nIf you require consular assistance that is not related to your Nusuk travel package, contact:
\n\nTo plan your visit and keep updated when travelling, see the:
\n\nBefore you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nCall 911 and ask for an ambulance.
\n\nContact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nSee what health risks you’ll face in Saudi Arabia.
\n\nAltitude sickness is a risk in parts of Saudi Arabia. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nContagious diseases spread quickly, particularly during Hajj and Ramadan. There is an increased risk of heat stroke and dehydration during the summer months. Bring basic medicines with you and consume adequate liquids and salts.
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. In Saudi Arabia some prescribed or over-the-counter medicines are controlled substances. You may need approval from the Saudi authorities to bring some prescription drugs. See rules on bringing prescription drugs to Saudi Arabia.
\n\nIf you need to bring controlled or prescription medication, make sure you have an official prescription, hospital note or a letter from your GP, which includes:
\n\nSee narcotics and psychotropic substances information from the Saudi government.
\n\nUK prescriptions are not accepted in Saudi Arabia. Only doctors registered and licensed by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialities may issue prescriptions.
\n\nPharmacies are common and easy to find, particularly in the big cities. All hospitals have a dispensing pharmacy. Shopping malls and plazas sell international brands.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nHealthcare facilities in major Saudi cities are of a high standard. Most towns have a health centre or basic hospital. Serious cases may be transferred by ambulance or air to a hospital in a major city, which might be some distance away.
\n\nFCDO has a list of medical providers in Saudi Arabia where some staff will speak English.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nTelephone: 911 (ambulance, fire, police)
\n\nIf you do not have a Saudi SIM card, call 112 in an emergency.
\n\nContact the Saudi Embassy in London or the Saudi Embassy in the country you are located.
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you’re involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\n\n\nThe Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Saudi Arabia on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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