The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia introduced a new tourist visa on September 27th, allowing visitors to stay for 90 days. This is a watershed moment for the kingdom's tourism sector, which has been on an up-and-down trajectory but aims to welcome 100 million visitors annually by 2030. Modern Saudi architecture, such as Riyadh's Kingdom Centre and Mecca's Abraj Al Bait, stands in stark contrast to the country's rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. If you are travelling to this nation, we bring you the latest travel guidelines to Saudi Arabia!
Every year, millions of pilgrims go to the nation for deep spiritual experiences since it is also a major religious site. Nevertheless, the country's stringent baggage restrictions demonstrate its dedication to cultural traditions that aim to preserve social peace and uphold societal moral standards, in addition to ensuring the safety of both locals and visitors. Do not want to be stopped by Saudi Arabia airport security? Here is a list of things you absolutely must not bring into Saudi Arabia in your carry-on, listed below.
Alcohol
In Saudi Arabia, it is illegal to consume alcohol in any form. Offenders face deportation, fines, incarceration, or hundreds of lashes as a punishment for their transgressions. You could be stopped by Saudi Airport security if they even catch a whim! You run the danger of being arrested at customs if they find you to be inebriated, even if you could have access to alcohol on the journey over.
Vaping gadgets
Are you taking your electronic cigarette on a flight? Bring your gadget and replacement batteries, but keep them close by; your e-cigarette is not allowed in your carry-on, as it will be confiscated by Saudi Arabia airport security upon arrival!
Smart travel bags
Thinking of bringing a lithium-powered smart backpack on your next trip? A helpful hint: remove the battery before boarding if it is not a button cell. Your smart bag will be unable to access the cabin or cargo until you can do that, and it will be flagged by Saudi Arabia airport security!
Drones
According to the latest travel guidelines to Saudi Arabia, drones cannot be imported into Saudi Arabia for either commercial or personal usage without the General Authority of Civil Aviation's permission. Thus, photographers wishing to acquire airborne images should make prior arrangements.
Balance-assist gadgets
On flights, self-balancing gadgets that run on lithium batteries are forbidden. You can't leave hoverboards, e-skates, and their pals behind, even if you unplug the battery. Your U-runners and wave boards will thus need to be put away until you get back.
Pork
Thinking of feasting on your favourite pork rinds? Well, forget it in Saudi Arabia! Because of the kingdom's commitment to Islamic law, it is forbidden. Anticipate Saudi Arabia airport security to carry out stringent inspections that will result in the removal of any things that are forbidden. For a more seamless introduction, go for alternate snacks that are in line with local norms.
Literary works
The Saudi Arabian book market is not always easy to navigate. It is prohibited to import any kind of pornographic material, including but not limited to DVDs, publications, and even women's fashion magazines that include exposing clothes. Any illicit goods may vanish as quickly as a plot twist in a high-octane movie if Saudi Arabian airport security undertakes comprehensive inspections.
Games
Want to try your luck at a game? Nowhere near Saudi Arabia. Some religious traditions forbid gambling and hence prohibit certain items such as chess sets, dice, and roulette wheels. You should probably just leave your gaming gear at home since anything that is considered prohibited might be seized or fined.
Spiritual literature
Anyone caught carrying a Bible or any other non-Islamic religious goods into the country might face serious consequences. There have been hints from the authorities that people may bring their Bibles into the nation for religious purposes. But if you wave one in public, religious police may report you.