Travel Advice Saudi Arabia | Travel Tips| Pyala-Travel.com

Travel Advice Saudi Arabia | Travel Tips Arabia

Money matters
The national currency of Saudi Arabia is the Riyal (SAR). Bank notes are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50 ,100 & 500. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 & 50 Halalas and 1 and 2 Riyals.  For exchange rates see the website of Oanda. 

Credit cards are accepted in the majority of shops and hotels in bigger cities. Foreign bank notes can be easily exchanged at numerous exchange bureaus and banks in Riyadh and other cities of Saudi Arabia. Always bring some extra cash money with you; in smaller cities, in the desert or in bazaars, it's not always possible to pay by card. 

Time difference
Saudi Arabia standard time is 3 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+3).

Dress Code
Saudi Arabia is a strict, Islamic country and it's very much important that, as a guest, you respect the local culture and customs. For women, it is recommended not to wear short skirts, summer dresses, shorts or tank tops in public places. When you are in public, always cover your shoulders and knees. Jewelry must be worn out of sight too. 

The obligation for women to wear an Abaya no longer applies. An Abaya is a black dress that is worn over clothes and covers the shapes of the body. Conservative clothing (as described above), remains a requirement. 

Men have to wear shirts and long trousers. Wearing shorts or a bathing suit is absolutely not allowed, except when you are on the beach or at the pool of your hotel.