Saudi Arabia has relaxed its dress code significantly. Men should wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves. Shorts are fine at beaches. Women no longer need an abaya, but should dress modestly covering shoulders and knees. At religious sites, dress more conservatively.
Daily life revolves around five daily prayers. Shops briefly close during prayer times (20-30 minutes each). During Ramadan, no eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight. Hotel restaurants serve guests. Non-Muslims cannot enter Mecca and Medina.
Saudi hospitality is legendary. Remove shoes when entering homes. Accept offered coffee and dates. Use your right hand for eating and greeting. Always ask permission before photographing people. Avoid public displays of affection.
The weekend is Friday and Saturday. Alcohol is strictly prohibited. The currency is Saudi Riyal (SAR); credit cards are widely accepted. English is widely spoken in cities. Learn Arabic greetings like "As-salamu alaykum". Saudi Arabia is very safe with low crime. Emergency: 911.
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