What to Pack for Your Saudi Arabia Trip

Essential Clothing

For Women

• Modest clothing: Long-sleeve tops, maxi skirts, loose pants
• Abaya: Optional but recommended (can be purchased locally)
• Scarves: For visiting religious sites
• Comfortable shoes: For walking (you'll walk a lot!)
• Sandals: Easy to remove for mosques
• Light layers: For air-conditioned buildings

For Men

• Long trousers: Multiple pairs
• Collared shirts: Long or short sleeves
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals: For easy removal
• Light jacket: For cool evenings or AC
• Ihram: If performing Umrah (2 white cloths)

Documents and Money

• Passport: Valid for 6+ months with visa
• Printed eVisa: Multiple copies
• Travel insurance documents
• Hotel reservations
• Return flight tickets
• Emergency contacts list
• Credit/debit cards: Widely accepted
• Cash: Saudi Riyals for small purchases

Health and Personal Care

• Prescription medications: With doctor's letter
• Personal hygiene items
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+): Essential year-round
• Lip balm with SPF
• Hand sanitizer
• First aid kit: Band-aids, pain relievers
• Insect repellent

Electronics and Gadgets

• Phone and charger
• Power adapter: Saudi Arabia uses Type G plugs (UK style)
• Power bank: For long days out
• Camera: With extra batteries/memory cards
• E-reader or tablet
• Headphones

For Spiritual Visits (Mecca/Medina)

• Prayer mat: Portable, lightweight
• Qur'an: Small travel edition
• Prayer beads (Tasbih)
• Small backpack: For personal items
• Reusable water bottle
• Unscented toiletries: For Ihram state

Seasonal Considerations

Winter (November-February)

• Light jacket or sweater for evenings
• Light rain jacket (rare but possible)
• Warm clothes for mountain regions

Summer (May-September)

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics
• Sun hat (wide-brimmed)
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Extra water bottle

What NOT to Pack

• ❌ Alcohol or pork products
• ❌ Inappropriate books or magazines
• ❌ Drones (without special permit)
• ❌ Weapons or sharp objects
• ❌ Revealing clothing