Arabie Saoudite: Guide de voyage, visas et hébergement gratuit · 2026

Mecca remains closed to non-Muslim visitors, with exclusion zones marked along approaching routes. Medina permits non-Muslims into parts of the central city up to the Prophet's Mosque perimeter, though the mosque compound itself remains restricted. Travellers holding pilgrimage visas face separate regional limits on their movements.

Alcoholic beverages are illegal across the country, with strict nationwide enforcement. Smuggling, manufacturing, or consuming alcohol carries penalties including imprisonment and deportation. Visitors should rely on local alternatives such as traditional coffee, sweetened tea, and non-alcoholic malt drinks.

Traditional meals are eaten using the right hand. Many restaurants continue serving seated guests behind closed doors during prayer periods, though newly arriving diners must wait outside until prayers conclude. Common local dishes include spiced rice plates such as kabsa and mandi.

Legal reforms have removed guardian permission requirements for adult women conducting official business and travelling abroad. Women may register legal documents, obtain passports, and secure accommodation independently. Dress codes in public spaces require modest coverage.

High-speed rail routes connect Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, and King Abdullah Economic City, alongside northern railway links running from Riyadh. Long-distance buses run between urban centers through the state operator SAPTCO. Domestic flights remain the standard option for travel across longer distances.

Violent crime rates remain low, though erratic road traffic presents a regular hazard for pedestrians and drivers. Strict laws penalize illegal drugs, with statutory capital punishment enforced for trafficking and possession. Visitors must avoid public criticism of the monarchy, respect local religious conventions, and refrain from proselytizing.

Prepaid visitor packages are available from major domestic carriers, including STC, Zain, and Mobily. These packages bundle internet data allowances with calling credit and support physical cards as well as digital profiles. Travelers can set up mobile access at international arrival terminals and retail storefronts across major cities.