Does Saudi Arabia Allow Tourism?

By Alice Nichols

Saudi Arabia has been a mystery to the world for a long time. The country, which is known for its oil reserves, has always been closed off to tourists.

However, things have changed in recent years, and Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to visitors from all over the world. So, does Saudi Arabia allow tourism? Let’s find out.

History of Tourism in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has always been a conservative country and was closed off to tourists until 2019. Before that, only Muslims were allowed to visit Mecca and Medina for religious purposes. However, in 2019, the government announced that it would issue tourist visas for the first time.

Current Situation

As of now, Saudi Arabia allows tourists from 49 countries to visit the country with an e-visa or visa-on-arrival. This includes countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and most European nations.

Restrictions

However, there are some restrictions on tourism in Saudi Arabia. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter Mecca or Medina. Also, women under the age of 25 are required to be accompanied by a male relative during their visit.

What Can Tourists Do?

There is plenty for tourists to do in Saudi Arabia. The country is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes like deserts and mountains. There are also many historical sites such as Al-Ula and Mada’in Saleh that date back thousands of years.

Tourists can also experience traditional Arab culture by visiting local markets or attending cultural festivals like Janadriyah.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Saudi Arabia does allow tourism from certain countries under certain restrictions. Non-Muslims cannot visit Mecca or Medina and there are some rules for women travelers as well. However, there is still plenty for tourists to do and see in this fascinating country.