I lived in Saudi Arabia for 15 years – listed below are the etiquette guidelines you should know in the event you go to and the widespread misconceptions vacationers have

Saudi Arabia was once one of the world’s least-visited tourist destinations.

But now it’s opening up to international tourism – with visitor numbers guaranteed to rocket for the 2034 World Cup.

Thinking of going now it’s on the map but not sure it’s your vibe – or worried about a hostile reception?

TikTok traveller Inayah Sadiq (@inayahtravels) may just ignite your wanderlust for the country.

The 27-year-old travel content creator lived in Saudi Arabia for 15 years before moving back to the UK and is keen for the world to see a country she ‘highly recommends as a holiday destination’.

She posted a video outlining six etiquette rules you should always follow while there, and revealed even more about the country to MailOnline Travel, including the best places to visit, the common misconceptions and an ideal itinerary.

We began by asking her what she would say to people nervous about visiting.

She replied: ‘Saudi Arabia is an incredibly safe country, and I would encourage people not to believe everything they see in the media. Saudi people are some of the most hospitable and welcoming you’ll ever meet.

‘I highly recommend it as a holiday destination. Like many Gulf countries, street violence and crimes like muggings are extremely rare, and police presence is strong in major cities.

‘I’d recommend visiting with an open mind, learning about the culture and etiquette beforehand, and embracing the experience.’

Inayah explained that there are quite a few misconceptions about Saudi Arabia. 

She revealed that although ‘it’s true that you can’t drink alcohol, it doesn’t diminish the experience’ of visiting. 

The travel pro added that women don’t need to wear a hijab when they visit. 

She explained: ‘Modesty is encouraged but women don’t need to cover their hair or wear an abaya [a full-length garment] anymore.’

And she asserted that while people may think that ‘women lack rights’ and that ‘there’s no freedom of speech’, ‘Saudi women are highly educated and are increasingly visible in leadership roles’ and the country has a ‘thriving exchange of ideas, especially among younger generations’. 

Worried that it might be extremely hot? Inayah said that that’s not always the case, telling MailOnline: ‘While summers are very hot, the winter months from November to February are pleasantly mild, making it an ideal time to visit.’

So, what’s the travel expert’s favourite thing about Saudi Arabia?

She said: ‘It’s hard to choose just one thing, especially as someone who has grown up here. Watching Saudi Arabia undergo such a remarkable transformation has been nothing short of incredible. Once a more closed-off society, it is now an open, thriving hub of culture and innovation, driven by the visionary leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

‘Saudi Arabia effortlessly blends modern progress with deep-rooted tradition.

‘The hospitality here is unmatched, and the world-class dining scene is truly a standout. Kabsa – the iconic national dish of spiced rice with meat, cardamom, and cinnamon – is an absolute must-try. For a personal favourite, Mama Noura, where I grew up eating, never disappoints with its delicious shawarma.

‘Events like Riyadh Season have brought Saudi Arabia into the global spotlight, bringing unforgettable concerts, thrilling sports events, and top-tier entertainment.

‘In 2023, I had the chance to attend MDL Beast Soundstorm, the largest music festival in the Middle East, where I witnessed incredible performances by artists including David Guetta, Steve Aoki, and Amr Diab.

‘With the Kingdom also preparing to host the Fifa World Cup 2034, Saudi Arabia’s global presence is only set to grow. With all these exciting changes, there has never been a better time to visit and experience this dynamic country firsthand.’

What are the country’s must-see attractions?

Inayah recommended exploring historic sites in the capital, Riyadh, such as Masmak Fort, Murabba Palace, and the mud-brick city of Diriyah, the birthplace of the Saudi state, along with modern areas such as the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the Via Riyadh mall, and Boulevard.

The Kingdom Centre Skybridge, which offers ‘panoramic views’, should also be on the agenda, along with a day trip to the jaw-dropping Edge of the World cliff face, around 100km from Riyadh.  

In Jeddah, Inayah suggested ‘wandering through Al-Balad [the historic district], visiting the Floating Mosque, strolling along the Corniche and snorkelling at Silversands Beach’.

The ancient oasis city of Al-Ula and the nearby magnificent tombs of Mada’in Salih – found in AlUla, Saudi Arabia’s first Unesco World Heritage Site – should also be ‘top of your list’.

She added: ‘Explore Abha, discover the beauty of the Asir Mountains, visit the traditional village of Habala and enjoy the cool climate and lush landscapes.’

Meanwhile, in the desert, tourists can ‘enjoy dune bashing, camel riding and a Bedouin style dinner under the stars’.

Inayah told MailOnline that Muslim tourists should aim to ‘experience the spiritual significance of Mecca and Medina, two of the holiest cities in Islam’.

And no one should miss the food and the souk shopping. 

Inayah said tourists should sample Kabsa (spiced rice and meat), mandi (meat and rice cooked in a pit), ma’moul (butter cookies), maqshush (buckwheat pan bites topped with honey and ghee) and muttabbaq (stuffed pancake), while the souks are where tourists can load up on spices and souvenirs ‘and experience Saudi hospitality and traditions’. 

She added: ‘Souk al Zal in Al Dirah in Riyadh is great for this.’

Of course, tourists will need to be mindful of the country’s customs and rules, as Inayah makes clear in her TikTok video. 

She shared with MailOnline: ‘As with any destination, it’s important to exercise common sense and respect for local customs. Avoid criticising Islam or the Saudi state, always ask permission before taking photos of people and be mindful of local dress codes to ensure a respectful and safe experience.

‘Dress modestly – women should cover their shoulders and knees – and respect local customs. Alcohol is prohibited and certain behaviours may be restricted.

‘Keep interactions private as PDA [public display of affection] is frowned upon. Avoid photographing locals, especially women and sensitive sites like government buildings.’

You’ll also want to plan your schedule around prayer times, warned Inayah, who said: ‘Some businesses close during prayer times so schedule activities accordingly.’

Greetings and exchanging items, meanwhile, should be carried out with the right hand – and don’t decline food or drink from your host. It’s considered impolite. 

Traffic is another consideration for visitors. 

Inayah said: ‘If I had to point out one downside [to Saudi Arabia], it would be the traffic in Riyadh. The rapid tourism boom and growing population have led to congested roads, often making travel time longer than expected.

‘However, with the recent launch of the Riyadh Metro, this challenge is set to improve, offering a promising solution for smoother transportation in the future.’

Last on the list of etiquette advice for a trip to Saudi Arabia? Inayah advised: ‘Engage with locals. Saudis are welcoming and eager to share their culture.’

Want more from Inayah? Find travel tips and inspiration on her Tiktok – @inayahtravels – and Instagram, @inayahtravels. For more on Saudi Arabia visit www.visitsaudi.com/en.