Book cheap flights to Riyadh

Avoid the rainfall, get cheaper accommodation and skip the crowds by visiting Riyadh during the months of April (spring) and October (autumn). Another time to consider is the summer season (May – September); however, this is when temperatures can reach as high as 50°C. The most popular time to visit Riyadh is during the winter months (November – March), when the weather is at its most favourable (although you would experience more rainfall) and the amount of tourists visiting the city reaches its peak.

South Africans require a Visa to enter Saudi Arabia. Make sure you leave plenty of time for Visa processing. Check that your passport will be valid for at least six months after the date of your return, and that it has two blank pages available for entry stamps. For more information, contact the embassy of Saudi Arabia in South Africa telephonically at 27 012 362 4230.

South African Embassy in Saudi Arabia

Address: King Khalid Road, Um Al-Hammam East, Riyadh

Phone: 966 11 442 9716 Fax: 966 11 442 9708

The Centres for Disease Control recommends that travellers visit their doctor and get up to date on all the routine vaccinations before travelling to Saudi Arabia. Other diseases to be wary of include hepatitis A and B, malaria, meningitis, and rabies. Make sure to take the necessary precautions.

Riyadh is a conservative city and its citizens are more traditional in their beliefs. Take note that, as a result, public affection is not encouraged. Women must cover themselves with an abaya and should carry a headscarf as well.

The biggest danger in Riyadh is on the road. Most of the drivers come from areas in developing countries which lack traffic laws, driving schools and even roads. Don’t hesitate to use your hooter.

Consider staying at one of the hotels that are available around the centre of Riyadh. Many of them include restaurants, bars, fitness centres, kids’ playrooms, pools, spas and more. In terms of cost, you’re looking at range from over SR 170 to over SR 2000.

The best option for travelling around Riyadh is by car, either driving yourself or being driven by someone who is familiar with the conditions of Riyadh. Beware when on the road – standard local driving behaviour would be described as aggressive.

Most visitors use the white taxis, which are available throughout the city. The drivers use meters, with a starting fare of over SR 5, and under SR 2 per kilometre after the first one. Most drivers prefer to haggle, however, doing so might save you on your travelling expenses. Male passengers are expected to sit in front while female passengers must sit in the back.

There are buses in Riyadh, but these are mainly used by the labourers, and may prove difficult to use.