Safety: visitors to Saudi Arabia should be aware that the country is very conservative and the culture and laws are determined by religious beliefs. Anything that contravenes these beliefs is likely to have serious consequences and the penalties are harsh. Public expressions of any other religions are forbidden. Alcohol is banned and not available for purchase throughout the country. Avoid insulting or criticising the Royal Family, the government, and the Saudi people. Make sure that you dress appropriately and avoid wearing revealing clothing, even of the weather is hot. Swimwear is only tolerated at the beach resorts and bikinis are not appropriate. When to go: Saudi Arabia is comprised of a harsh and arid landscape which is typical of the Middle East. The dry desert region determines the weather, meaning that daytime temperatures can be unbearingly hot while the nights are considerably cooler. The coastal areas tend to be more humid and the mountainous inland area is pleasantly cooler. The summer months of July and August are best avoided as these are the hottest months. The average summer temperature is 27°C to 43°C; however, the mercury often climbs higher, sometimes hitting 50°C. The winter is the best time to take a holiday as it is considerably cooler. Money: the currency in Saudi Arabia is the riyal (SAR) which is comprised of 100 halala which can be further broken down into 400 qurush. Notes come in denominations of SAR500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are available in 50, 25, 10 and 5 halala, and 10, 5, 2 and 1 qurush. Language: Arabic is the official language in Saudi Arabia, although English is widely spoken throughout the country. Hindi and Urdu are often used in the marketplaces and by expatriates. Most signs are written in Arabic and English. Women should wait for a man to offer his hand as it is not usual for a Muslim man to shake hands with a woman. Hierarchy and seniority play an important part in conducting business. Age is also an important part of Saudi culture and respect should always be shown to elders. Emergency: 112
Recommended hospitals:
Riyadh - King Faisal Specialist Hospital. Tel: 464 7272
Dhahran – Saudi ARAMCO Hospital. Tel: 877 8251 | 
