• Capital: Riyadh
  • Time Zone: GMT +3
  • Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)

Saudi Arabia, officially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is the largest of the countries on the Arabian Peninsula with an area of over 2 million km². It borders Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Yemen, and is bordered by the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf.

Cities

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Riyadh, Arabic Al-Riyāḍ, city and capital of Saudi Arabia. The city’s name is derived from the plural of Arabic rawḍah, meaning gardens or meadows, so named because of a natural fertility provided by its location at the junction of the Ḥanīfah and Al-Baṭḥāʾ wadis. The spectacular view of Riyadh from the sky, illuminated at night by city lights, is reminiscent of its eponymous grasslands; a luminous sea of lights dots the desert as if gardens of fluorescent flowers had suddenly bloomed among its dark outlines. The city is located in the Minṭaqat Al-Riyāḍ, one of the 13 provinces of the country, and is located in the central part of the country and the larger Arabian Peninsula. Few cities in the world have transformed as rapidly as Riyadh, which grew from a small fortified desert village in the 17th century to a modern metropolis of millions in the 20th century. City area, 600 square miles (1,550 square km). Population (2010): 5188286.

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During your visit to Jeddah, you will have the opportunity to witness a rich heritage celebrated by UNESCO. From “historic Jeddah” to the ancient designs of balconies, stone walkways and ancient sidewalks, this destination uncovers secrets that have inspired artists, writers and visitors for hundreds of years. Here you will have the chance to see beautiful sunsets glistening on the divine shores of the Red Sea as well as magical diving experiences with colorful coral reefs. Whether on land or under the sea, you won’t soon forget Jeddah’s many year-round splendours.

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Al’Ula, with its rich detail, is a historic mine that people seek out all over the world. On its land, cultures have met and many civilizations have been built, especially in Hegra, the first Saudi site to appear on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In its historical monuments you will discover hidden stories, as its rocks are full of obscure symbols, exquisite inscriptions and texts dating back to the first century BC. Its territory still reveals one secret after another leading us every day to new historical deductions. Its inhabitants welcome you with a smile and joy, stemming from the generosity of Arab culture. The restaurants here offer your taste buds a special experience, surprising you with a combination of innovative dishes in front of stunning views. Its unique relief offers you the possibility of enjoying exceptional experiences such as climbing, hiking and camping in the magnificent desert under a starry sky, in addition to seasonal events and musical and cultural activities combining a rich history with modern taste.

Language

Arabic and English (second official language).

Electricity

Standard voltage is 110/220V and frequency is 60Hz, type B plugs. No adapter required.

Entry requirements

Please ensure you have all the necessary documentation to enter or exit the countries you will be visiting. Visit www.voyage.gc.ca for the most accurate, up-to-date information. For visas, consult the following link: www.voyage.gc.ca/voyager/advises. Failure to meet the required requirements could result in authorities refusing to let you in or out of the country.

Communication

Country exit code: 00 Saudi Arabia dialing code: 966 For national calls from Saudi Arabia, it is not necessary to dial the country code 966. If you are calling from Canada, you must dial 011, then 966 and the local number in Saudi Arabia.