Saudi Arabia

A H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu):  Latest Information

For the latest information, please consult the Saudi Ministry of Health (MOH) website address in English (www.moh.gov.sa/en)  However, it is still under construction. 

TRAVEL INSURANCE

The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is obtained before travelling to Saudia Arabia. Travellers should note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

For entry requirements for Saudi Arabia, please contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.

SAFETY & SECURITY

In view of a continuing threat from terrorist incidents, Irish citizens are advised to undertake essential travel only to Saudi Arabia.

Irish citizens in Saudi Arabia are reminded of the importance of maintaining a high level of personal security, are advised to keep a reasonably low profile and to be especially vigilant in places popular with foreign nationals such as hotels, restaurants and shopping malls. Citizens are urged to ensure the safety of their vehicles at all times.

Citizens are also advised to register with the Embassy in Riyadh during their stay.

CRIME

The overall crime rate is low in Saudi Arabia and is not usually an issue for travellers.  Some petty crime does occur, however, and normal precautions should be taken.

LOCAL LAWS & CUSTOMS

Consumption of Alcohol

The importation and use of alcohol is forbidden. Possession of alcohol may result in imprisonment and corporal punishment.

Illegal Drugs

There are strong penalties for possession of or dealing in illegal drugs, including in some cases the death penalty.

Other Items

The import and use of pork products and pornographic material is forbidden and can lead to imprisonment.

Homosexual behaviour is illegal in saudi Arabia.

Marriage

It should be noted, on marriage to a Saudi national that under the country’s customs the family has strong power over the individual, therefore if a woman wants her right of movement guaranteed, she must insist on a premarital settlement, stipulating this right.  Such an agreement is binding, and can be used in court to settle a possible dispute.

Dress Code

In public, ladies should wear an Abaya, a full-length black over-garment.  It is also advisable to have a head scarf although it is not, strictly speaking, required.  Men are also expected to dress modestly in full length trousers and shirts with sleeves, even if short.

ROAD SAFETY

Women are not allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia.  For male drivers, driving in Saudai Arabia can be difficult, particularly since road signs may not be in roman letters.

Given the relatively low cost, most visitors will use taxis or chauffeur-driven cars. Female travellers should only travel in pre-booked taxis known to be safe and should normally avoid hailing a taxi in the street. 

Most normal rules of the road apply.

HEALTH 

Avian Influenza

In 2007, Saudi Arabia confirmed two separate outbreaks of Avian Flu in fowl but as yet, no cases of a human contracting the virus have been reported.  The outbreaks were recorded in domestic birds and poultry farms respectively.  The Saudi authorities have put extensive measures in place to contain the outbreak which to date have proven successful.

The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low.  However, visits to poultry farms and other places where visitors may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds are not encouraged.

DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR MISSIONS IN SAUDI ARABIA

Irish citizens travelling to Saudi Arabia are advised to register with the Irish Embassy in Riyadh. Contact details for all Irish Missions (including Honorary Consuls) in Saudi Arabia are available here. (Opens in new window)