The general rule: mutual respect
First-time visitors to the Kingdom quickly discover that people are warm and hospitable, and that most of the expected etiquette rests on one simple idea: respect for the place and its people. You do not need to memorise a long rulebook, just a handful of customs that come up again and again in daily life. We have arranged them by the situations you will actually be in: on the street, in a majlis, at the Holy Mosques and in the car.
On the street and in public places
Dress
Modesty is the general standard. Men usually avoid very short shorts and anything that looks like sleepwear in public. Women visitors are advised to wear loose clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. In and around the two Holy Mosques, modest Islamic dress is the norm, and most women visitors wear an abaya and headscarf there.
Public behaviour
- Public displays of affection, even between married couples, are frowned upon.
- Raised voices and arguments in public are viewed negatively; calm and patience go a long way.
- During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during fasting hours, out of respect for those who are fasting.
Photography
Photograph landmarks freely, but ask before photographing people, especially women and families, and avoid photographing government and military sites.
In the majlis: hospitality and greetings
- Greetings: "As-salamu alaykum" opens every door; the reply is "wa alaykum as-salam". When greeting someone of the opposite sex, wait for them to offer a hand. If they do not, a hand on the heart and a smile is perfectly polite.
- The right hand: use it for eating, drinking, shaking hands, and giving or receiving things.
- Arabic coffee: served in small cups. When you have had enough, give the cup a gentle shake before handing it back.
- Elders: they go first when entering, sitting down and being served.
- Shoes: in many homes and sitting rooms shoes come off at the door, so watch what your hosts do.
- Accepting hospitality: declining everything outright can come across as cold. Accepting at least a cup of coffee or a date is a gracious way to respond.
Prayer times and the rhythm of the day
The day is shaped around the five daily prayers. Some shops may close for a short while at the call to prayer, so plan errands and appointments to avoid those minutes. In Makkah and Madinah, the roads around the Holy Mosques fill up before and after each prayer, which affects pickup times, so allow a margin when you book a car.
Fridays
Friday has its own rhythm. Mosques, and especially the two Holy Mosques, fill up long before Friday prayer, and the surrounding roads are congested before and after it. Many activities start later in the day. If you are travelling or catching a flight on a Friday, plan your departure away from prayer time.
A few words that make a difference
Most hotel and airport staff speak English, but a few Arabic words are always met with a smile: "shukran" (thank you), "law samaht" (please), and "in sha Allah" (God willing), which you will hear constantly whenever anything in the future is discussed. "Ya'tik al-afiyah" is a kind thing to say to someone who has done a job for you.
Families and privacy
Family has a special place in Saudi society. Some restaurants and venues still have family sections, though this is less common in the big cities today. Respect families' privacy in public spaces, and do not sit in an area set aside for families if you are on your own.
At the Holy Mosques
- Keep your voice low and protect the calm of the place.
- Do not walk directly in front of someone praying, and do not step over rows.
- Follow the entry and exit routes and the instructions of the staff.
- Keep personal photography discreet; do not block the flow of people or film worshippers in prayer.
- Entry to Makkah is restricted to Muslims.
In the car with your driver
A good start is to greet the driver as you get in. Because our fares are fixed and agreed in advance, there is no haggling or arguing over the price. If you want to stop to pray or rest, just ask. If someone needs the air conditioning gentler or the volume lower, tell the driver. Tipping is not required, but it is a kind gesture if you were happy with the service.
| Common routes | Sedan | Family SUV / van | VIP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeddah Airport to Makkah | 200 SAR | 350 SAR | 500 SAR |
| Makkah to Madinah | 400 SAR | 600 SAR | 1000 SAR |
| Within Makkah to the Haram | 80 SAR | 150 SAR | 300 SAR |
Fares are per car and paid on arrival. More in our taxi fare guide and on the Makkah taxi page.
Frequently asked questions
Do women visitors have to wear an abaya?
Outside the Holy Mosques, loose and modest clothing is what is expected. In and around the Holy Mosques, an abaya and headscarf are the norm.
Is tipping expected?
It is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants and by anyone who helps carry your luggage.
What should I do when I hear the call to prayer?
Lower any music and loud conversation, and expect that some shops may close briefly.
How do I book a car?
On WhatsApp at +966582918075 or through the booking page. We operate 24/7.