Saudi Arabia
Middle East · Arabic · Riyal
Dress conservatively, eat with your right hand, and let your host insist three times before you accept.
Today in Saudi Arabia
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5 phrases you need in Saudi Arabia
- Helloالسلام عليكمas-sah-LAH-moo ah-LAY-koom
- Goodbyeمع السلامةMAH-ah sah-LAH-mah
- Pleaseمن فضلكmin FAHD-lak
- Thank youشكراًSHOOK-rahn
- Excuse meلو سمحتlau sah-MAHT
The Trovlr app drills all 8 Saudi Arabia phrases with audio, Duolingo-style. Get the app →
Know before you go
safety
Alcohol is illegal everywhere in the country and drug offenses carry extreme penalties; do not test either, including in your checked luggage.
etiquette
Tourist women no longer need an abaya, but loose clothing covering shoulders and knees is expected; avoid public affection entirely.
money
Cards and the local mada network are accepted almost everywhere; carry small riyal notes for souks, water sellers, and tips to drivers.
transport
Uber and Careem cover the cities, and the Haramain high-speed rail links Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina; note that non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca's holy district.
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