Saudi Arabia, long a mystery to international travelers, especially women, has undergone significant changes in recent years. With new reforms easing travel restrictions, including the introduction of e-visas for solo female travelers and lifting the driving ban, the Kingdom is becoming more accessible to global visitors. While traditional customs still play a major role, female travelers can now explore the country with more freedom, enjoying historic treasures and natural wonders in a way that was once unimaginable. Here’s a closer look at what it’s like for women traveling to Saudi Arabia today.
Saudi Arabia’s New Era for Women Travelers
In the past, Saudi Arabia’s conservative policies made it difficult for many international tourists, especially women, to visit the Kingdom. However, over the past few years, a wave of reforms has opened up the country to foreign visitors. Today, Saudi Arabia offers e-visas, which allow women to travel alone without a male companion. The controversial ban on women driving was lifted in 2018, and women are no longer required to dress as restrictively as they once were.
Despite the country’s progress, Saudi Arabia remains more conservative compared to other Middle Eastern destinations like Dubai. Still, changes in both law and attitude are making the country increasingly accessible to female travelers. The local customs, however, remain important to respect. Saudi Arabia continues to encourage modest dressing, covering shoulders, and wearing skirts or shorts below the knee.
What to Expect: Dressing Modestly in Saudi Arabia
When traveling to Saudi Arabia, female visitors are advised to respect local customs by dressing modestly. While there is no law requiring women to cover their hair, it’s still important to wear appropriate clothing. Paula Jensch, a German events planner who visited Riyadh in the summer of 2024, shared that packing for Saudi Arabia requires thoughtful consideration. “I made sure to pack clothing that wasn’t too tight or revealing. I was told that wearing an abaya was culturally appropriate for foreigners, though some younger women advised against it to help break traditions,” Jensch explains.
The Saudi Arabian Tourism Board offers specific guidelines for religious sites, such as mosques, where women are expected to cover their hair and remove their shoes. In larger cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, people may be more accustomed to international influences, but modesty remains key, especially in rural areas where visitors might stand out more.
For women who want to cope with the heat, a loose abaya can be a practical solution, providing coverage and comfort.
Driving and Transportation: Navigating Saudi Arabia
In 2018, Saudi Arabia lifted the ban on women driving, opening up a new world of exploration for female travelers. The country boasts modern infrastructure with well-maintained roads, clear signage, and regular service stops. However, navigating the bustling cities of Riyadh or Jeddah can be challenging due to confusing traffic laws and local driving habits.
For those who prefer not to drive, Uber services are widely available in major cities, although caution is advised regarding the condition of vehicles and driver ratings. Rental cars and private tours are also popular options for exploring the country, especially for longer trips.
Safety in Saudi Arabia: A Growing Sense of Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for female travelers is safety. While the US State Department issues travel warnings for the southern borders due to the ongoing conflict with Yemen, the rest of the country is considered safe for tourists. Nicole Brewer, an American traveler, shared her positive experience visiting Jeddah and AlUla with a friend in the spring of 2023. “We felt safe and welcomed throughout our visit. I’d happily return and would even consider traveling solo next time,” she says.
Although travelers generally report feeling safe, common sense remains crucial, just as it does in any foreign country. Jensch advises women to be mindful of their belongings in public spaces to avoid potential issues.
Women-Only Tours and Opportunities for Female Travelers
In recent years, the number of women working in public-facing jobs in Saudi Arabia has increased significantly. Female tour guides, drivers, and even scuba instructors are now common, and many tour operators offer women-only tours. These tours provide a comfortable environment for female travelers who prefer to explore the country with other women.
Nourah Bassam Al-Meaiweed, a female tour guide for Fokharia Luxury Tours, told CNN, “We’re dedicated to providing exceptional experiences for women, with female guides ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and tailored tour.” These tours, alongside the growing number of women in tourism-related jobs, reflect Saudi Arabia’s evolving attitude toward female empowerment in the travel industry.
A Changing Landscape for Female Travelers in Saudi Arabia
As Saudi Arabia continues to evolve, it’s becoming an increasingly welcoming destination for female travelers. The reforms in travel laws, along with the growing number of female workers in the tourism sector, are contributing to a more open and inclusive atmosphere. Whether you choose to explore on your own or with a group, Saudi Arabia offers a rich cultural and historical experience that’s more accessible than ever before.
Saudi Arabia may still be more conservative than some other destinations, but as Brewer puts it, “As long as you are respectful of the culture, you will be fine.” For women planning a trip to this fascinating country, there’s a lot to look forward to.
For more travel insights on Saudi Arabia, visit Coleman News.
