Saudi Arabia has a rich cultural and religious heritage, especially for Muslims. From ancient sites of Islam to religious spaces and modern cities, Saudi Arabia offers it all. So, whether you have a knack for history, culture, religion or modernity; you can find everything in Saudi Arabia during your visit.
If you are visiting Saudi Arabia with Umrah Packages soon, it’s advised to explore the region after completion of holy rituals. From Ziyarath travel to shopping and dining in the Kingdom, you must experience the culture first hand. However, there are certain customs and norms in Saudi Arabia that may be unknown to foreign travellers.
Considering the religious significance, Saudi Arabia may be a culture shock for the travellers from across the globe. Yet, at the same time, the newer policies introduced in the Saudi Vision 2030 plan aim to boost tourism in the country with lookalike facilities. So, this contrast between conservative customs and liberalism is something that many find intriguing.
For the tourists arriving in KSA soon, understanding the cultural mosaic is very important for a safe, memorable and peaceful trip. Here’s what you should know.
Clothing
People in Saudi Arabia like to wear modest clothes. For women, these clothes are usually in the form of a long cloak, also known as ‘Abaya’. Females there prefer to wear Abayas with headscarf and hijab. It’s a sign of their culture and tradition as well. Men, on the other hand, wear ankle-length shirts known as ‘Thawb’. Plus, the red-checkered scarf is also a prominent accessory for men.
For both the genders, modesty and simplicity is a preference in Saudi Arabia. That’s why foreign travellers in KSA must respect the clothing customs. You shouldn’t wear anything that is revealing, too short or too tight. When in the Kingdom, prefer wearing clothes that go with their customs and traditions. So that you can easily blend in with the locals.
Make sure that the clothes you are wearing are also weather appropriate. The hot weather conditions of Saudi Arabia make cotton blended fabric an ideal choice. However, ensure that the fabric remains thick enough and doesn’t reveal any part of your body under bright sunlight.
Even if you are going to the beaches or swimming pools, wear appropriate and modest clothes. This goes for both men and women.
Religious Influence
Saudi Arabia is country that majorly employs Islamic principles and imposes Sharia Law. The presence of the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah further add to its significance. Umrah in the peak seasons can be expensive. So, it’s best solution is to book advance Umrah 2025 Packages from Islamic Travel or any trusted Umrah Travel Agency.
There’s a strict prohibition on gambling, drinking, idol worshipping, etc. Similarly, thefts and crimes are dealt with punishments prescribed in the religion. So be aware of all that. It’s better that you read about the laws that foreign travellers have to follow while in KSA to avoid any inconvenience. For which, you have to understand Islam better, whether you are a believer or non-Muslim.
The Islamic traditions also influence the way of life here. You will find public spaces and shops closed during the prayer times. Finding halal food wouldn’t be problem and the stays you choose will have a very family friendly environment.
Know that non-Muslim travellers to KSA cannot enter and visit Makkah and Madinah. They can explore rest of the country but not these two holy cities by law.
Hospitality
Taking care of the foreign guests is something Saudi people take pride in. if you learn some basic Arabic phrases then it’s an even better thing. You will be able to get a number of discounts during shopping, travelling and staying in KSA by speaking only Arabic language.
When you are visiting someone or going out to eat with them, take something along. It can be a gift, something to eat or anything else you desire. It will show your gratitude and generosity towards the host.
Cuisine
When in Saudi Arabia with Ramadan Umrah Packages or any other time of the year, indulge yourself in traditional Saudi Cuisine. Enjoy the dishes prepared with rich spices like Kabsa, Fatayer, Maklouba, Sambosak and Mandi. Traditional green tea is also worth trying that the locals often enjoy with a piece of sugar.
Just like the Saudi people like to eat main courses, so is their love for desserts. Most of the traditional desserts consists of the ingredients like dates, milk, nuts and honey. So, try them for a completely unique and authentic flavour.
Etiquettes to follow
Saudi people are very sensitive when it comes to etiquettes. Foreign travellers to KSA must research about the cultural mosaic regarding daily etiquettes and practice them. Such as;
- Taking your shoes off when entering someone’s home.
- Greeting people while hugging and kissing (same gender).
- Not using the left hand too often.
- Speaking politely and with respect.
- Not pointing fingers in public even if you don’t have any wrong intention.
- Begin mindful of the closing hours of businesses and prayer breaks.
- Speaking in a mild and soft tone, neither too loud nor too silent.
Interaction with Opposite Gender
Mixing of men and women is something that is frowned upon in Saudi Arabia. Even in the public gatherings, everyone should maintain an appropriate physical distance with the opposite gender. Talking unnecessary with the strangers of opposite gender must be avoided unless its really necessary.
There are separate prayer places for men and women to help them have a comfortable and focused prying experience. Mixed crowds are discouraged whether it’s a religious place, restaurant, shopping mall or the local markets. However, with the exception of your spouse or family.
When you are touring region with your spouse, you should also avoid public displays of affection. Let it be touching, kissing, hugging, etc. You should respect the local culture and traditions.
Photography
Saudi Arabia is a very scenic destination having coast areas, deserts and mountains. On the other hand, the presence of various religious sites, especially Holy Kaabah and Roza-e-Rasool (SAWW) also add to its significance. Travellers arriving in KSA like to do photography to preserve their memories of the trip. However, the rules regarding photography of restricted and sensitive areas might be different.
Know that flying a drone camera is not allowed in any case. If you want to do it, you must obtain permission from the local authorities first. Photographing religious areas and regions having strict photography rules should be approached similarly.
Souvenirs to take Home
If you are present in KSA with Umrah Packages and want to buy souvenirs to take back home, there are a lot of options. You can go to the local markets i.e. Souks to shop for souvenirs. Prominently including;
- Traditional Handicrafts.
- Prayer supplies.
- Dates.
- Oud Perfumes.
- Gold Jewellery.
- Traditional clothing.
- Rugs.
- Arabic coffee and chocolates.
All of these items reflect the local culture in Saudi Arabia.
Anti-LGBTQ Law
Saudi Arabia practices a very strict law against LGBTQ community. Any person doing such unethical things can face serious consequences. From being prosecuted by law and fined to deportation from the Kingdom, anything can happen. So, such people should respect the culture and tradition of Saudi Arabia while touring the kingdom. Otherwise, inconveniences can happen.
Modernization
Under its Saudi Vision 2030 plan, Saudi Arabia is among to boosting region’s economy through tourism, business, and infrastructure development. As a result, there are many tourist places and attractions under construction. Foreign tourists can explore these regions and experience local culture with a touch or modernity. For example, Red Sea Project, Al Ula’s archaeological sites, etc.
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Greeting others in Arabic
As a foreign traveller to KSA, you must also greet others in Arabic language. For this reason, learning some of the basic Arabic phrases will do great wonders for you. Such as;
- Marhaba (means Hello).
- Assalamualaikum (Greeting someone).
- Waalaikumsalam (answer to Assalamualaikum).
- Kaifa halak/halik? (means How are you?).
- Ana Bikhair (means I’m fine).
- Shukran (means Thank you).
- Afwan (means You’re welcome).
- Fehimt (means Understood).
- La (means No).
Respect Ramadan
If you are traveling to Saudi Arabia during Ramadan, then you must respect this month as well. In Ramadan, Muslims fasts throughout the day. That means not drinking or eating anything from dawn (Fajar) till dusk (Maghrib). Many Muslims also arrive with Ramadan Umrah Packages from across the globe to offer holy rituals during this time.
So, if you are a non-Muslim travelling to KSA, you must respect Ramadan as well. Avoid eating or drinking in public spaces. Prefer doing it in a closed space. Though there isn’t any religious restriction to do so, it’s completely out of respect for other people.
