Saudi Arabia
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 37 million people live in Saudi Arabia, on 2,250,000 km². The capital is Riyadh.
- Capital
- Riyadh
- Population
- 36,973,555
- Area
- 2,250,000 km²
- Official language
- Arabic
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in Saudi Arabia?
Sockets take plug type G, at 230 V and 60 Hz.
What is the emergency number in Saudi Arabia?
Call 999 for the police, 997 for an ambulance and 998 for the fire brigade.
Do you tip in Saudi Arabia?
Round up, or leave small change.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Saudi Arabia?
Traffic drives on the right.
What currency is used in Saudi Arabia?
Prices are in Saudi Riyal (SAR).
What language do they speak in Saudi Arabia?
Official language: Arabic.
How do I call a number in Saudi Arabia from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +966.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
