#saudi travel guide

[sauditravelblog]

Saudi Arabia Travel Restrictions for Women Travelers: What You Need to Know

Saudi Arabia is slowly becoming an adventurous power that attracts visitors from all over the world due to its traditions and liberalization. The slow change of society is one of these changes, which makes the country safer for women tourists. If you are reading this article before you plan a trip, then this is your one stop guide to Saudi Arabia travel that will make your trip amazing and seamless.

New opportunities for Saudi Arabia’s female tourists

Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has undergone great transformations in the past years. This is an attempt to diversify the economy and open the kingdom to tourism, which has resulted in changes to Saudi Arabia’s travel policies and the employment of women.

Key reforms include:

Independent Travel and Living: A few years back, women couldn’t travel alone or live independently, and getting permission from a male family member would have been unheard of. This massive transformation has made it easy for women to travel across Saudi Arabia.

Relaxed Dress Code: Women are no longer obliged to wear the black abaya, but the same policy still requires them to dress conservatively. Clothing can be loose at the shoulder and knee area for women. While a headscarf is not obligatory, it is required in places of worship.

Driving Rights: Women are not prevented from getting a driving license, so they can easily drive through Saudi Arabia or use car hire services.

These are new trends in Saudi Arabia rules for women tourists that have changed the culture of Saudi Arabia and given tourists their liberty.

Managing Entry Limitations and Travel Measures

Now Saudi Arabia travel regulations are relaxed and its visa policies are relaxed and are welcoming tourists from all over the world. Here’s what you need to know about Saudi Arabia entry restrictions:

E-Visa Availability: An e-visa can be applied for online by people from approved countries and it takes up to three working days to process.

Visa on Arrival: Visa on arrival is allowed for some nationalities, especially at main airports. But it is recommended to follow the current guidelines first.

Customs and Entry Procedures: On arrival, Saudi officials will check your visa, passport, and any other documents required. If your paperwork is not in order from the beginning, however, you will experience delays and frustrations.

This is important because it gives you knowledge of Saudi Arabia’s travel requirements so you can enter and travel hassle free.

The Culture Protocol and Basic Saudi Arabic for the Tourist

Tying yourself to Saudi Arabian culture during your trip could benefit you a lot. It’s good to learn some Arabic words, especially the ones that are specific to Saudi dialects, and courtesy is important.

Key Saudi Arabic phrases to Learn:

Greetings:

As-salamu alaykum (Peace be upon you)

Wa alaykum as-salam (And upon you be peace)

Basic Courtesy:

Shukran (Thank you)

Afwan (You’re welcome)

Min fadlak/fadlik (Please – male/female)

Useful Questions:

Ayna al-hammam? (Where is the bathroom?)

Kam ath-thaman? (How much does it cost?)

Practicing these phrases doesn’t guarantee respect, but it does make everyday interactions much easier.

Saudi Arabia travel guide for Women

To ensure your trip is safe and enjoyable, here are some tips tailored to women visiting Saudi Arabia:

Respect the Dress Code: The dress code is more relaxed these days, but dressing decently is still appreciated. It is recommended to wear comfortable and loose fitting clothing, and a scarf may be necessary when visiting mosques.

Plan Transportation: Saudi Arabia has allowed women to drive. Moreover, popular transport applications such as Uber and Careem are also used.

Observe Public Customs: In public places, hugging, kissing, showing affection and other behavior perceived as Western are prohibited. It maintains public order in accordance with societal cultural beliefs.

Stay in Safe Accommodations: There are many lodging options in Saudi Arabia to suit the needs of international travelers. You should check the policies of the property at the time of booking.

Travel Insurance: Make sure you have good travel health insurance to cover any emergencies or related issues.

If you follow these guidelines and stay within the rules Saudi Arabia has set for women travelers, you should be able to have a worry free visit to the Kingdom and enjoy the beautiful scenery Saudi Arabia has to offer.

Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

For women, modernization in Saudi Arabia is a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn about its history and progress. If a woman wants to have a trouble free visit to Saudi Arabia, she must know Saudi Arabia travel rules and proper etiquette. Some simple Saudi Arabic expressions will come in handy, but be careful when choosing your vacation and let Saudi Arabia bewitch you. This country, from the archaeological sites to the recent hosting of women’s rights activists to the slow steps to open Saudi Arabia to tourists, is waiting to be unveiled to women of the world. Whether you’re interested in its historical or artistic side, or you just want to make it an adventurous holiday, this guide will ensure you get the most out of it.

[tboacademyin]

Hidden Gems of Saudi Arabia

Unravel the beauty of middle eastern culture with this comprehensive Saudi Arabia travel guide and embark on a virtual journey of the enchanting country.

Check out the video - 

[nooral-fajr]

🚨 IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT ‼️

We understand that many of you received an email from NUSUK informing you of the start of Public Sales tomorrow.

📣 Please note that only countries that have NOT completed their Quota during the first round of sales will be able to participate in the second round.

If your country is listed above, you will have to wait for the anticipated Third Round of sales!

follow us on ig @nooral_fajr for the latest updates on Hajj ‘25

[travelernight]

10 Amazing Places To Visit In Saudi Arabia

[tejwalbahrain8]

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[burningembers91]

The Beauty and her Beast - Kim Do-Hyun x Fem!Reader

Follow up piece to:

The Choices We Make

Synopsis: Kim Do-Hyun’s feelings for you are growing. And when a group of men threaten you, he steps in. But his feelings for you risk him showing a side of himself he wants to keep hidden.

A/N: thank you for all the love on the first part! I deffo pictured him as a Jack Reacher type in this fic

You hadn’t seen Kim Do-Hyun for a few weeks. You spent every night watching the door, hoping you’d see him walk in, but he never materialised. You were finding it near impossible to keep him from your mind these days, his face and body replaying in your mind when you laid down to sleep. You were desperate to know more about him, to find out who the man was beneath the chiselled features and stoic personality. He set your pulse racing every time you were around him; the man made you nervous, but in the best way possible. You wished you were the kind of girl who could confidently ask a man out; if you were, you’d have asked Do-Hyun out months ago. But you could barely bring yourself to ask for help when the self-checkout at the grocery store packed up, let alone ask out a man who way out of your league. He told he worked in private security, taking different jobs that sent him jet-setting around the world. You wished you could go with him, flying to far off lands. You wished you had the confidence to tell him how he never left your mind, how he drove you crazy with desire.

You’d watch him on the nights he came to eat at the restaurant, his tall frame hunched over the table. He never spoke to anyone else, only you, and it made you feel special somehow. Your mum had warned about men like him, the brooding type who always seemed like they had a secret to hide. 
“It’ll never end well,” she’d tell you time and time again. “Best stick with someone reliable.”
But reliable was boring, and you were sick of sticking to the rules.

Do-Hyun had been in Saudi Arabia for the last three weeks, carrying out a job for some rich client who never revealed his identity. He found himself itching to get back to the city, impatient to see you again. He was always afraid he’d come back to find out you’d gone, that perhaps you’d finally gone travelling, or found a better paying job. He was finding it harder to keep you from his mind, and on his first night back in the city he was craving intimacy. He wished he could go to you, wished he could seek you out, but you were too innocent for him, too pure and goodhearted. He ended up bringing home a woman he met at the bar, a woman whose face he couldn’t remember. He fucked her hard and fast, picturing you the entire time. When he came, he groaned your name, so lost in his fantasy. The woman ended up leaving after delivering a swift slap to his face. He’d deserved it, but it didn’t make him feel guilty. He was hooked on you.

The next night, he made his way to your place of work. He had tried to convince himself that he’d stay away, that he’d try to avoid the beautiful waitress with the soft eyes and perfect curves. He was only tempting fate, torturing himself by looking at what he couldn’t touch. But his feet seemed to automatically guide him to you, and he was powerless to resist.

Your smile was so bright when you saw him walk through the doors, and you bounded over to him like a loyal golden retriever. 
“Long time no see,” you smiled, slightly breathless. Do-Hyun had that affect on you; he always seemed to be able to take your breath away. 
“How have you been?” he asked, taking a seat at his normal table. It wasn’t too busy tonight, and he hoped he’d have a chance to catch up with you. the last few weeks had been so empty without you. 
“Same old,” you sighed, handing him his usual order of Cass beer. “How about you? Where have you been?”
“Saudi Arabia,” he smiled. He told you all about his time there, but had to embellish most of it. He didn’t tell you he’d been sent there to take the life of seven men, men who all had families. He made up some bullshit about riding quad bikes through the desert and feeding camels. He had been to the desert, but he’d spent the entire time caked in blood and sweat.
“I’m so jealous,” you sighed. “I’d give anything to pack up and just go.”
“Well, when you plan your first trip let me know,” Do-Hyun laughed, “I’ll go with you.”

He didn’t know why he’d said that, and he regretted the words as soon as they’d left his mouth. He couldn’t go with you, couldn’t live a life with you no matter how desperate he was to have you. He was a monster, a murderer. You didn’t deserve someone like that; no one did.

Do-Hyun sat and ate his food as you worked, the two of you occasionally making eye contact. He could feel his desire for you burning in the pit of his stomach, the outline of your body in your black skirt and t-shirt driving him crazy. These three weeks away from you had only served to fuel his fantasies of you, his sleepless nights spent dreaming of a life with you.

It was late when a group of men walked in, sauntering up to the bar to demand a table. Do-Hyun had been waiting for you to finish your shift, nursing his third beer while he read a book. As soon as they set foot in the restaurant, every hair on the back of his neck stood up. He was good at recognising trouble, and these men seemed to be the very definition of bad news. 
“We’re about to close I’m afraid,” you said, as their demands for a table only grew louder. Do-Hyun watched you, saw the colour drain from your face. His hands gripped the table, his jaw clenching as he listened to the men speak to you like you were nothing more than shit on the underside of their shoe. He had to be careful though, had to control his temper. One wrong move and he could show you a side of him he never wanted you to see.

The men were relentless, calling you every name under the sun. Do-Hyun wondered if you’d give them a piece of your mind, but you just shook like a timid little lamb on her way to the slaughter.
“I’m sorry,” you choked, “the kitchen has just closed. There’s nothing I can do.”
“Then tell them to fucking open it back up,” one of the men snarled, as he leaned across the bar, grabbing you by the scruff of your t-shirt. You yelped as he yanked you forward, your hip bones hitting the sharp edge of the oak bar. He was hurting you, his rancid breath stinging your eyes as he laughed in your face. He was clearly enjoying this, the fear in your eyes only serving to arouse him.

Do-Hyun was on his feet before he could stop himself. He didn’t give the man a chance to back off before he grabbed him by the back of his shirt, lifting him clean off his feet with one hand. With a force that knocked the wind clean out of your assailant, Do-Hyun slammed him to the ground with a sickening thud. He heard you scream, heard the sound of the man’s companions round on him like hungry hyenas. One by one they came for him, but they were no match for Do-Hyun. You heard bones snap as his fists reigned down punches on the men who tried to hurt you, saw the blood spurt from their noses as fists met cartilage. The entire fight was over in less than a minute, the men who’d tried to intimate you lying in a crumpled heap on the floor

“Are you ok?” Do-Hyun stepped over them like they were yesterday’s trash, coming round your side of the bar to check you over. 
“I’m ok,” you insisted, but your hips burned from impact on the bar, your t-shirt torn from the force with which you’d been pulled forward. “Who the hell are you?” you asked him, surveying the broken men on the floor. You’d never seen anything like it before; he’d taken five men out like they were nothing more than irritating mosquitoes.
“Private security,” he lied, “are you sure you’re ok? You’re shaking.”

He was right; your hands shook so badly you could barely pour yourself a glass of water. 
“Let me,” he smiled, guiding you to a chair as he poured you a glass of water, followed by a strong vodka and coke. You watched as the men picked themselves up, hurrying out of the restaurant with their tails between their legs. You tried to regain your composure, tried to slow your racing heart. Every ounce of sense told you that you should be sacred of this man, but your infatuation with him was only growing. He’d been so quick to defend you, to step in and take out the men who had tried to harm you. You could barely get a text back from the guys you dated, but this virtual stranger had reigned punches down on men who’d had the audacity to scare you.

“Would you like me to walk you home?” he asked you, watching you drain the glass of vodka in record time. Your hands were still shaking, your mascara smudged down your delicate face. He knew he shouldn’t be getting this close to you, not when he’d lashed out so violently in front of you. He could have ordered you a taxi, but he couldn’t quite bring himself to say goodbye to you just yet.
“Yes please,” you whispered, wondering just who the hell this man standing before you really was.

You walked home in silence, still too stunned from the nights events to talk much. His tall frame towered over you; his jacket wrapped round you for warmth. His cologne clung to your senses as you walked, the heady scent of musk and amber drawing you in. You wanted to reach out for his hand, to kiss him, to invite him up to your apartment. But only confident girls did things like that, and you were anything but. 
“Thank you again,” you said, as you arrived outside your front door. 
“It’s nothing,” Do-Hyun smiled, taking back the jacket you offered him. 
“Will you be in tomorrow?” you asked. The thought of having to go back in without his protection was a daunting prospect. 
“I will,” he smiled. He was only in Seoul for another two days and then he was off to Nigeria for God only knew how long. It broke his heart to leave you, even more so knowing there was nothing stopping other men from terrorising you. 
“I’ll see you tomorrow then.” You wanted to stand on your tiptoes and kiss him goodnight, but instead you just smiled and waved.

Do-Hyun could smell your perfume on his jacket as he walked home, the vanilla scent only serving to fuel his fantasies of you. That night he lay with his jacket on his pillow, breathing you in as he thought of you. He hadn’t wanted to leave you at your door tonight. He’d wanted to carry you upstairs, lay you down on the bed and show you how a man should treat you. He wanted to kiss every inch of your body, wanted to make you tremble with pleasure as he fucked you. He wanted to feel you cling to his broad frame, hear you moan his name as he came inside you. He pleasured himself to thoughts of you, so lost in his fantasies that he lay awake until the sun was high in the sky.

He had stop kidding himself, had to stop dreaming of a life with you that he could never have. He was dangerous, a murderer who took lives for his own gain. He’d seen the fear in your eyes as he attacked those men, and that had been nothing more than a warning to the assholes that thought they could intimidate you. He’d removed body parts from men, had carried out the most despicable acts of torture while they begged for mercy, and then eaten lunch straight after. He was a poor excuse for a human, the lowest of the low. He had to try and quit you, had to try and move on before he fell in too deep.

The two of you couldn’t be together. Not when you were pure beauty, and he was nothing but a beast.

[peonycats]

THANK YOU for making a post about your Middle East OCs, I struggled so much to draw KSA eyes 💀 Now I have to fix that, ugh, see you in a thousand years when I'm done 😃🔫

( And maybe it will sound stupid but, who is Hejaz?? )

IM SO SORRY FOR HOW LONG IT TOOK ME TO RESPOND TO THIS ASK KHFHDJKSJKDSFDS BUT I REALLY WANTED TO DROP SOME LORE ABOUT KSA FOR ONCE!!! anyways np for the middle east eyes guide glad it helps :3cccc

Hejaz is one of the historical pre-unification states of what is now Saudi Arabia, and was considered to be the wealthiest and most cosmopolitan region due to hosting the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, and thus, many Muslim pilgrims who traveled to the region. He's also Saudi Arabia (Najd)'s older brother, and the two used to be quite close in their early childhood! Hejaz was always the more outgoing one, compared to the shy and awkward Najd...

[modifiedyincision]

Heyy, a little while ago I asked for help on the plague inc fungus run and you were super helpful. I was wondering if you could give me some tips on beating the necroa virus, I’m really bad at it 😭 I feel like I can get the disease all over pretty quick but once the Z-com bases are set up even with all the upgrades on the zombies, I just can’t get them in the z-com countries without them all dying. Tysm lol sorry for the random ask

im sooo late sorry.. if u dont need this anymore um. well. kms

all of the 'special' plagues are ones i used mega brutal guides to help me beat; i'm doing my test runs on normal, though!

I don't know what you have unlocked in terms of genetic code mods. I'm going to be playing with the limitation of no necroa virus mods, obv. if you need modifications you can play through a fast-win (like virus) and save right before the last person dies, then you can just reload over and over and unlock everything you need. I did this for the special scenarios because im sorry but you could not pay me to do multiple playthroughs of some of these lol

With that said, here's the setup:

catalytic switch

darwinist

aquacyte

urbophile

no necroa stuff. obviously

select what mods you can; otherwise just use what you think would be best. any help is better than none!

There are two ways to play necroa; 'stealth,' where you try and infect a lot of people before unleashing death and zombies, which is what i did in my first winning game (took a few tries), or 'ZOMBIE NOW.' in ZOMBIE NOW you focus on forcing mutations as fast as possible. this ive found to be more reliable method

start in saudi arabia, as usual.

go for zoo shift + rodent when you can, then blood + air. don't get rid of any mutations -- we want them.

save up DNA for segmented genome

at this point we just sit and wait. after getting segmented, we just watch. your virus should be getting some symptoms at this point.

when your necro is discovered it may be tempting to try and hold off the cure. don't bother. that's a waste of DNA. when the first country closes its borders, your instinct may be to buy more transmissions. even if a country is totally isolated and uninfected -- like greenland -- don't restart. we can get around that later.

for now, wait.

it should be mutating. if you don't have reanimation, wait until 60-70% cure. by that point you should be close enough to buy it through mutations AND afford the stuff we're going to rapid-fire buy. if you DO, at any point, mutate reanimation move immediately out of waiting phase and into ZOMBIE MODE

you should have so much DNA; i had ~110

the next phase is ZOMBIE MODE.

anaerobe resuscitation -> enhanced motor -> mast. tension & pep. surge -> anabolic boost & dermal calc.

buy what you can out of the abilities tree. we LOVE abilities tree in this house

horde instinct -> mentality -> vocalization -> pheromones (i needed to wait a bit to get this one) -> structured travel -> drifting fermentation

at this point in my game they had figured out the cure but it was too late, its zombie time.

now you want to clean things up, and prevent z-com from getting a foothold. this is a bit tedious but you gotta do it.

id say pausing is your best friend here

send zombie hoards from a nearby, highly-zombied country to any uninfected islands

send clusters of zombies from highlyl-zombied countries to uninfected or low-infected countries. i was kind of drowning in DNA by this point so you SHOULD be able to do as much zombie-moving as you want.

some places might require 'migration chains'; USA, greenland, iceland, and canada had gotten away infection-free, so i had to send zombies like this: mexico -> USA -> canada -> greenland -> iceland

this can be a bit tedious with the pause-unpause game as you send the damn things everywhere and then wait for them to get there and spread so you can send them somewhere else. z-com really likes islands, central europe, and russia. i'd say do those first and then focus on cleaning up random-ass uninfected european countries or whatever but if youre like me and have 100+ DNA you dont really have to budget you can just send them everywhere

at this point in the game i had infected most of the world (we had some zombies on their way to islands), zombies made up most of the population, and i only had 1 z-com base in the UK, which just appeared.

if you get a z-com base, wherever they pop up, find the nearest zombie-coated countries and spam hordes from them. sure, they can handle a few hundred zombies. but can they handle suddenly being bombed with some millions? not this early they can't.

this should let you deal with any bases before they start being real problems.

at this point in my game i had killed z-com, with only a few rando survivors in like. russia and italy. italy only had 40k zombies which was pretty good, but i was bored so i sent some more zombies their way. not that I had to. at this point its just waiting for people to die. maybe sending zombies places. make sure your map has every country with zombies in it

that should do it

[jordanandegypt]

Hello Jordan.

September 13, 2024

(Warning - this is a little map-heavy! Y'all know how I LOVE maps!!)

Greetings from Amman, Jordan!!  Salam! We have connected with our friends and met our delightful guide, Nader.  Let the trip begin!!!!

We escaped Zürich without eating cheese fondu, buying chocolate or a Swiss watch.  Yes, we have NO proof that we were ever there. Well. we did buy some grandkid stuff and we had a lovely visit, albeit much too short.   And before we leave that topic, I have a correction.  As we walked about this lovely town of Zurich we encountered some super busy multi lane roads and there, my friends, we found the walk/don’t walk signs.  So they do indeed have them despite my reporting that they did not. But they appear to be few and far between.

On Thursday, Sept 12, we flew from Zürich Switzerland to Athen, Greece. 

This morning we flew from Athens to here.  WHY? - you ask.  Money my friends - Money.  Getting to Amman from a lot of places is not easy and not cheap.  I was looking for non-stop flights that were reasonable priced and had the timing I could work with and after much research - (OMG - you cannot believe how much time to put into this silly endeavor) I landed on taking two days and doing these short flights with an overnight in Athens.  Now - the flights were on small planes - and one option I had was to pay an additional $7.00 as insurance against the airlines going bankrupt.🥴. I took that option FYI!

But it all worked out perfectly.  We left Zürich in the AM and arrived in Athens in the early afternoon. The little place we stayed picked us up then arranged for us to be picked up for dinner on the beach.  SWEET!!!!

And MAYBE the Greek Salad and grilled fish was delicious because we were in Greece or because we could hear the Mediterranean lapping right there  - but whatever the reason, dinner was delicious. (Our younger son, Logan, BTW - pointed out that all salads in Greece would be technically Greek salads - but this is not going to bring me down!)

Today we got to Athen’s airport WAY TOO early but so what.  We had a coffee and before we knew it we boarded our flight on Royal Jordanian.  Now - let me say - WOW!!  The cleanest roomiest seats ever and we were traveling coach.  With the exception of one little issue - my gluten free meal was absent - but they scrounged around and I did not go hungry.  “Come ON!” To quote my youngest granddaughter.   I will say not exactly gourmet - but you be the judge.

But would I fly Royal Jordanian again?  Why, yes I would.  A crappy lunch on this lovely airplane with attentive flight attendants was just a little blip.

Another reason I wanted to go through Greece was to adjust myself to being completely unable to read signs.  While in Greece there were somethings I could make a guess on and somethings I could not  - like the sign below.

But once we got to Amman I figured I wouldn’t have a clue about anything - and it appears I am correct.

So, somehow I thought easing myself into that would be a good idea.  BUT clearly the answer is NOPE!  So really the reason for Athen was money...

Anyway - Jordan:

Michigan is about 2.5 times bigger than Jordan but Jordan has more than 11 million+ people, about  1 million more than live in Michigan.  And of that 11 million people 5 million live in Amman - the capital of Jordan.  A peek out of our hotel window lets you know this is a HUGE city!

A quick review on the location of Jordan.

Jordan is bordered by Syria to the north, Iraq to the east, Saudi Arabia to the south, and Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories to the west.   For those of you who were flipping out about us coming here (MOM!), we are indeed close to the Israel/Hamas conflict.  Amman and Jerusalem are just a little more than 60 miles apart.  

But we are visiting this beautiful city and then going north to Jerash.  After Jerash we will be heading south to Petra and we will certainly be close to Israel - but no worries.  You wouldn’t want us to come this far and not get to see Mujib Valley , the Grand Canyon of Jordan.  Hopefully, we will get a look at the Dead Sea as well.

When we arrived we had to buy a Visa and it was exactly as we had been told - EASY- PEASY!!  We stood in a short line - forked over our passports and 40 Jordanian dinars (that I got before we left Saline) and we got a single entry Visa and a welcome to “The Hashemitec Kingdom of Jordan.”  “Enjoy your time here!”

I’m so excited to learn about Jordan, the people, the geography, the history, their politics and more.  Already I learned that 85% of the land is desert and that water is scarce and they have NO OIL.  I admit I was surprised!  I discovered that it is a Sunni Muslim majority religion country (95% according to Wiki)  and I expect to learn more about this.

So the learning begins in earnest tomorrow and I’m going to bed.  We are now in Arabic Standard Time and we are 7 hours ahead of Michigan.  This adjustment is - like the VISA procurement - EASY-PEASY!

Tesbah ala khir. (Good Night in Arabic - and this is NOT easy-peasy). Also just for a little smile - my autocorrect changed that Arabic phrase to "Teabag la Kir" - which I'm pretty sure means nothing.

Salam

[sauditravelblog]

Tips for First-Time Travelers Applying for a Saudi Visa

Have you ever been to Saudi Arabia? Saudi Arabia has a lot to see from the holy sites of Mecca and Medina to the modern skyscrapers of Riyadh and the ancient rock carvings of Al Ula. This is where you will find all you need to know about Saudi visa application, application process, biometrics and travel tips for your trip.

Why Visit Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is one of the most visited countries in the world with its rich history and modern tourism initiatives such as the Vision 2030 project. The first thing you have to do is to get a visa that will suit you according to the reason for travelling (religious, business or leisure).

How to apply Saudi Arabia visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Even if you’ve never been to Saudi, getting a Saudi visa is easy. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Choose the Right Visa Type

Saudi Arabia offers various visa types tailored to different purposes:

Tourist Visa: For leisure and sightseeing.

Business Visa: For business or official use.

Family Visit Visa: For meeting family and relations in Saudi Arabia.

Umrah Visa: For the Umrah pilgrimage.

Select the right visa category to avoid delays or rejection.

2. Know about Saudi Arabia visa biometric requirements

Most visa types require biometric data, such as fingerprints and photographs. Key points to note:

Biometrics are collected at designated visa application center.

Some nationalities will have to provide biometric data on entry to Saudi Arabia.

You should also book your biometric appointment early so that you don’t have to wait during peak seasons.

3. What Documents do you need to Collect?

Ensure you have the following documents ready:

Passport: Valid for travel at least 6 months from the date of travel.

Passport-Sized Photos: The photo must be in white background and meets Saudi visa photo specification.

Completed Application Form: Make sure it is signed and that you fill out all fields.

Flight Itinerary: Entry and exit dates.

Accommodation Details: You will need a hotel booking or an invitation letter from a sponsor.

Travel Insurance: When you apply for a tourist visa, you must be able to pay for your medical expenses.

Proof of Financial Means: Sponsorship proof or bank statements.

4. Submit Your Application

You can submit your application through:

Saudi Arabia eVisa portal is eligible countries.

VFS Global is used for other visa types.

5. Pay the Visa Fees

The type of visa and the processing time determines the visa fees. Always use only authorized payment methods to avoid fraud.

6. Wait for Processing

Visa processing will take 1 to 5 business days, but longer during Ramadan or Hajj season.

Tips for First-Time Travelers

Start Early

Apply for your application 2 – 4 weeks before your travel date to avoid last minute stress.

Double-Check Your Application

You don’t want to be delayed or rejected, so you want to have the right information.

Don’t Miss Biometrics

If you miss your biometric appointment, things can really slow down. Come on time and please schedule your appointment.

Work with Authorized Agents

If you don’t know how to apply Saudi Arabia visa, authorized agents can assist you to make sure your application is complete and correct.

Respect Local Customs

Find out about Saudi culture, how to dress and how to act.

Saudi Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go

After receiving your visa, here are a few tips to prepare for your trip:

1. Best Time to Visit saudi Arabia

Winter (November to February): Ideal for outdoor activities.

Ramadan and Hajj Season: Mecca and Medina are expected to see large crowds.

2. Dress Code

Dress modestly in public spaces.

Women don't have to wear an abaya, but they do have to dress conservatively.

3. Transportation

Many ride hailing apps services like Uber and Careem make it easy to travel.

4. Currency

The official currency is Saudi Riyal (SAR). ATMs and currency exchange centers are everywhere.

5. Language

Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in major cities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rushing the Process: Don’t apply at the last moment as this might result in delays.

Providing False Information: Check that all the information on your supporting documents is correct.

Neglecting Biometrics: Biometric data is needed for visa approval.

Using Unverified Sources: Only use official channels and agents.

Final Thoughts

Applying for your first Saudi visa is very easy if you follow the steps. If you are going to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, to see its rich history or to see its modern attractions, the first step to an unforgettable journey is to understand the visa process. Are you ready for the trip of your life? If you aren’t starting your application today, don’t wait another day.

[taliatravels]

Back in Uganda again - 10 years later

Stepping off the plane in Entebbe, I was surprised how familiar everything still feels. The air smells the same, the accents tickle the ear the same way, the shops are brightly painted with the same paints. To be back somewhere after nearly ten years is such a blessing. I often find myself thinking about how much has changed since 2015--I now have a bachelor, a masters, and a new citizenship, I survived a global pandemic, I moved to Vienna (twice)--but I also marvel at how much is the same. Returning to Red Chilli, the same hotel where my Ugandan adventure began last time brought a special sort of nostalgia. 

But last time I was here, I missed out on touring Kampala. So this time, I was determined not to make the same mistake twice. I set off bright and early on a city tour of Uganda's capital. We started with a tour of the Old Taxi Park, where you can catch a ride to anywhere in Uganda--and some places even farther than that. Following the taxi park, we did a quick jaunt through the Okiwano Market, the biggest market in the city.

After, we made our way up Old Kampala Hill to the Gaddafi National Mosque. The mosque sits on top of the tallest hill in the city, where the British first built their colonial capital. The mosque was first begun by Idi Amin but was not completed before he was ousted in 1979. The mosque remained incomplete until 2002, when Gaddafi visited Kampala and pledged to finish the project. The mosque is built with wood from the Congo, carpets from Turkey, lamps from Egypt and art from Saudi Arabia. After the tour of the interior, we walked up the 292 steps (woof) of the minaret to see the best view of Kampala; from the top, you can see the city stadium, the first Anglican church and the first Catholic church in the city, and the Makerere University campus. 

Next, we traveled to Kabaka Palace, where the kings of Buganda Kingdom used to live. The palace was built in the late 1880s and housed three Bugandan kings before it was commandeered by Idi Amin's forces in the 70s. The palace armory then became the scene of torture and execution for thousands of innocent Ugandans. The guide told me to take a picture of the torture chamber, though I have not included it here, so that I could "remember the horrors of that time."

After perhaps the most depressing part of the tour, we went to lunch. For lunch, we stopped at a small local restaurant called Maama Barbarou, where we feasted on rice, brands, beef stew, yams and more to fortify us before our final stop.

Last, but not least, we visited the Martyr's Shrine, which was built at the site where the 32 first Christians in Uganda were killed for their faith in the late 1800s. The church is magnificent, built in a circular shape to resemble a traditional African home, the interior made of magnificent mahogany wood. On the 3rd of June every year, the area is overtaken by over one million pilgrims, many of whom walk from their homes in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzánia and Burundi. While I was visiting, the guide showed me the exact spot where the martyrs were burned alive, which is now where the church's alter sits. Outside, there is a large amphitheater, which was filled with pilgrims celebrating their faith.

Though the tour of Kampala was a little depressing, I am glad they I got to bettet understand the city and her people before heading to my next location.

[nooral-fajr]

Round 2 sales is scheduled to begin on

Friday February 14th, at 4 PM Makkah time 🕋

which corresponds to:

🕗 8 AM EST (New York)

🕙 10 AM BRT (Brazil)

🕐 1 PM GMT (London)

🕙 10 PM KST (South Korea)

Follow us on ig for all Hajj 2025 updates, @nooral_fajr !

[dknuth]

Saudi Arabia - Final Day

Today is our last day in Jeddah and in Saudi Arabia. I have a 6:20 AM flight tomorrow morning. The ride to the airport leaves at 3 AM.

Today felt a bit like a filler day. We started at a museum in town that has 60, or was it 70, rooms or stuff. It was a version of the house museums on steroids. There was no place to rest your eyes in three floors of exhibits. We were there for an hour and a half!!! In a half hour I was out the door and sitting in the courtyard. It was overwhelming. Even the outside was every design on the old buildings in town.

But the inside... Even the spaces on the walls without exhibits were covered in large panels of text.

Our second stop was the Jeddah Fish Market. It was surprisingly good. The fish looks amazingly fresh and with a large variety and supply. In addition to the fish mongers, there was an area where you could take your fish and have it cleaned and filleted,etc.

Then we to the "Floating Mosque" which isn't floating, it's on piles. Then we stopped at the Jeddah sign along the road. I have no pictures of those.

Then it was a farewell lunch (unfortunately NOT fish.) But while waiting I booked dinner as our favorite Sushi Restaurant for Sunday night.

In Summary

This has been a great trip. My fellow travelers have been knowledgeable and interested in the things we were seeing. Our guides, locals, and others have been enthusiastic and ready to share their experiences and knowledge.

As a result, I've learned a lot about Saudi Arabia's past, present, and possible future.

This is my first AIA tour and it's exactly what I was hoping for; which makes me feel better about the other two I've already booked.

But, I'm also ready to go home to Cathie, and the cats, and even to the cold and the snow.

[hajjtrips]

Perform the sacred journey through Hajj and Umrah travel packages. Renew your Imaan at Allah (SWT)’ House. Click to learn more!

[marhabahaji]

The Ultimate Guide to Umrah Visa: Everything You Need to Know

If you're planning to embark on a sacred journey to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia, one of the foremost things you need to know is the Umrah visa requirements. Obtaining a Umrah visa is a crucial step in making your pilgrimage a reality. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with all the essential information about Umrah visas, including the application process, required documents, fees, and important tips to ensure a smooth application experience. So, let's dive in!

Visa Requirements for Umrah in Saudi Arabia

Before applying for an Umrah visa, it's important to be aware of the basic requirements set by the Saudi authorities. Here are the general prerequisites for obtaining a Umrah visa:

1. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your intended departure for Umrah. Make sure your passport has enough blank pages for visa stickers.

2. Return ticket: You must have a confirmed return ticket.

3. Vaccination certificate: You need to provide a vaccination certificate for meningitis, as required by the Saudi Ministry of Health.

4. Proof of relationship: If you are a female under the age of 45, you must be accompanied by a Mahram (a close male relative) during your journey. The proof of relationship, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate, should be submitted along with the visa application.

Documents Needed for Umrah Visa Application

To complete your Umrah visa application, you will need the following documents:

1. Completed Umrah visa application form: This form can be obtained from the Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulate in your country or online through their official website.

2. Passport-sized photographs: Attach two recent passport-sized photographs with a white background to your visa application.

3. Passport copy: Attach a clear copy of the information page of your passport, including your personal details and photograph.

4. Confirmation of hotel bookings: Provide a copy of your confirmed hotel bookings in Makkah and Madinah for the duration of your stay.

5. Non-refundable flight reservation: Submit a copy of your flight reservation or ticket showing your itinerary for Saudi Arabia.

6. Vaccination certificate: Include a copy of your vaccination certificate for meningitis.

7. Relationship proof documents: If you are a female traveler under the age of 45, provide the necessary documentation to prove your relationship with your Mahram.

Process of Applying for Umrah Visa from India

If you are an Indian national wishing to apply for an Umrah visa, follow these steps:

1. Choose an authorized Umrah agent: Select a reliable and authorized Umrah agent approved by the Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulate in India. They will guide you through the visa application process and assist you with the required documentation.

2. Complete the application form: Fill out the Umrah visa application form accurately and legibly. Make sure to provide all the necessary details and attach the required documents mentioned above.

3. Submission through the agent: Submit your completed application form and supporting documents to your chosen Umrah agent. They will review your application, make any necessary corrections, and submit it on your behalf to the Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulate.

4. Application processing time: The processing time for Umrah visas can vary, but it usually takes around 3 to 5 working days. The embassy will review your application, verify the documents, and issue the visa if everything is in order.

5. Collecting the visa: Once your Umrah visa is approved, your agent will notify you. You can then collect your visa from the agency or have it sent to you through a courier service.

Seamless Online Umrah Visa Application

To streamline the visa application process, the Saudi government has introduced an online portal for Umrah visa applications. This online system has made it more convenient for applicants to submit their documents and track the status of their application. Follow these steps for an online Umrah visa application:

1. Visit the official e-portal: Go to the official website of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and navigate to the "Umrah" section.

2. Create an account: Register your personal information and create an account on the portal.

3. Fill out the application form: Provide all the required details in the online application form. Make sure to enter your information accurately, as any discrepancies may lead to delays or rejection.

4. Upload supporting documents: Scan and upload all the necessary documents, including your passport copy, flight reservation, hotel bookings, and vaccination certificate.

5. Pay the visa fee: Make the payment for the Umrah visa fee through the online payment gateway provided on the portal.

6. Submit the application: After completing all the necessary steps, submit your application online.

7. Track the application status: You can monitor the progress of your application by logging into your online account. The portal will provide updates on the status of your visa application.

8. Collecting the visa: Once your Umrah visa is approved, you can either download it from the portal or collect it from the designated visa collection center.

Umrah Visa Fees and Payment Methods

The Umrah visa fee varies depending on whether it is your first-time or repeat visit, and it is subject to change. It is advisable to check the current visa fee at the time of your application. The payment methods for the Umrah visa fee include:

Online payment: If applying through the online portal, you can make the payment using a debit or credit card.

Payment through an authorized agent: If applying through an Umrah agent, you can pay the visa fee directly to them as per their specified payment methods.

Important Information for Umrah Visa Applicants

Here are some crucial details you should keep in mind when applying for an Umrah visa:

The Umrah visa is valid only for a specific period, typically 30 days. You must complete your pilgrimage within this duration and return to your home country.

The Umrah visa does not allow for any side trips or visits to other cities or countries. You are expected to focus solely on your religious activities during your stay in Saudi Arabia.

It is important to abide by the rules and regulations set by the Saudi authorities during your pilgrimage. Non-compliance can result in penalties and legal consequences.

Understanding the Umrah Visa Validity and Duration

The validity and duration of the Umrah visa can vary based on several factors, such as the time of the year and the specific regulations set by the Saudi government. Here are some key points to understand:

Umrah visas are usually issued for a specific period, typically 30 days. This means you must complete your pilgrimage within this timeframe and return home.

The Umrah visa is typically valid for entry into Saudi Arabia within a set period, usually within the month specified on the visa. Make sure to plan your travel accordingly to utilize the visa within the specified period.

During the holy month of Ramadan, the Saudi government may extend the Umrah visa validity to allow visitors to perform Umrah during this special time. However, it is important to check the specific regulations and requirements for Umrah during Ramadan.

Tips for a Smooth Umrah Visa Application Process

To ensure a seamless experience while applying for your Umrah visa, consider the following tips:

Plan ahead: Start your visa application process well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications or delays. It is advisable to begin the process at least one to two months prior to your intended travel date.

Seek assistance from authorized agents: Consult authorized Umrah agents or travel agencies who are experienced in handling Umrah visa applications. They can guide you through the process, help you gather the required documents, and ensure smooth submission.

Double-check your documents: Before submitting your visa application, thoroughly review all the documents to ensure accuracy and completeness. Any errors or missing information may lead to rejection or delays.

Keep copies of all documents: Make copies of all the documents you submit for your Umrah visa application. These copies can serve as backups and can be helpful in case any issues arise during the process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Umrah Visa

To avoid potential delays or rejections, be mindful of the following common mistakes when applying for a Umrah visa:

Submission of incomplete application forms: Ensure that you fill out the application form accurately, providing all the necessary information. Incomplete forms may be rejected.

Incorrect or expired passports: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and has enough blank pages for the visa sticker. An expired passport or insufficient blank pages can lead to visa rejection.

Inadequate or unclear supporting documents: Provide clear and legible copies of all the required supporting documents. Unclear or incomplete documents can result in delays or visa rejection.

Non-compliance with visa validity rules: Be aware of the validity period mentioned on your Umrah visa and make sure to plan your travel accordingly. Failure to abide by the validity rules can lead to visa cancellation or penalties.

In conclusion, obtaining a Umrah visa is an essential step towards fulfilling your religious obligations. By understanding the visa requirements, following the correct application process, and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to perform Umrah in the blessed cities of Makkah and Madinah.

Remember to always consult authorized Umrah agents or travel agencies for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the Umrah visa application process. Plan ahead, gather all the necessary documents, and embark on your sacred pilgrimage with peace of mind.

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