Travel advice for Saudi Arabia.

Here you will find important tips and useful information for Saudi Arabia.

Travel money:

Prepaid Travel credit card

in Swiss francs (CHF)

  • For ATM cash withdrawals

ATM Search

Banknotes

in local currency

  • For minor expenses on arrival in country of destination

Local currency / ISO Code

Saudi riyal SAR

Further Information

Credit cards

 

  • Die gängigen Kreditkarten werden in begrenztem Umfang akzeptiert. Für detaillierte Informationen wenden Sie sich bitte an den Aussteller der betreffenden Karte.

ATM Search

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Practical Information:

Cultural characteristics
  • Saudi Arabia is a conservative Arab/Moslem country. Please observe local customs for dress code and conduct.

  • Ramadan 2019: 05.05. - 04.06.

Security
  • Travelers who wish to travel to this country are advised to inquire about current traveler safety prior to departure.

  • There is a continuing threat of terrorist acts. Also, risk of kidnappings cannot be excluded.

  • Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.

Time difference with Switzerland

+ 2 h / + 1 h during our summer time

National language

Official language

Arabic

Language capabilities

English

Capital

Riyadh (Ar-Riyâdh)

Country code for calling Switzerland

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

Voltage

115/215 volt / adapter required

Travel documents for Swiss citizens

Passport still valid 6 months or more after arrival with visa. No tourist visas are issued. Please inquire early at the Embassy about exact entry regulations. Exit pemit required.

Swiss Embassy / Consulate

Riad, Diplomatic quarter, Riyadh 11693
Tel. +966 1 488 1291

Opening hours

Banks

8.30 - 12.00 h and 16.00 - 20.00 h (Sat - Wed)

Stores

9.00 - 13.00 h and 16.30 - 20.00 h (Sat - Sun)

Driving
  • Swiss driver's license (if obtained at least 1 year previously) incl. Arabic translation required for car rentals.

  • International driver's license required.

  • Minimum age for car rentals: 21 to 25 (varies by company).

Health situation
  • Do not drink tap water.

  • Mosquito protection advised.

  • Minimum risk of malaria.

  • Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.

Other information

Security

  • Travelers who wish to travel to this country are advised to inquire about current traveler safety prior to departure.

  • There is a continuing threat of terrorist acts. Also, risk of kidnappings cannot be excluded.

  • Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.

Special legal regulations

  • Photographing military installations and public buildings (airports, bridges etc.) is prohibited.

  • Possession, transportation and consumption of alcohol prohibited.

  • Severe penalties for violations of drug laws (up to life imprisonment/death penalty).

Ideal for your journey: the Travel card.

Travel is the secure prepaid card for use away from home – without any annual fees. In the event of loss, the card including the balance will be replaced worldwide.

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Important

While every precaution has been taken to verify the information provided, Swiss Bankers Prepaid Services Ltd does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of Country Information. Swiss Bankers therefore shall not be held liable for any damage or loss sustained in connection with any errors or omissions contained therein.

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