Buraydah Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards

Local SIM cards are easily available upon arrival at Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ) or from telecom stores within Buraydah. You need your passport to register.

Providers & Coverage

Major mobile providers include STC, Mobily, and Zain.
Network coverage is for the most part good in urban areas and along major highways.
For eSIMs, visit Airalo for convenient digital options.

Internet & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls, often free of charge.

Access & Reliability

Mobile mobile data plans from local SIM cards are generally affordable and offer reliable internet access.
Public Wi-Fi networks are common in most establishments.
Consider a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi for constant connectivity.

Language & Translation

The official language is Arabic. English is understood in tourist-facing establishments, major hotels, and among younger generations.

Resources for Communication

Google Translate or other translation apps are highly recommended.
Download the Arabic offline pack for your translation app.
To pick up basic expressions, Rosetta Stone is a language learning platform.

Important Phrases

Learning a few basic Arabic phrases is a thoughtful gesture and can make your interactions.

Basic Greetings & Courtesy

"Salam Alaikum" (sa-LAM ah-LAY-kum) - Peace be upon you.
"Shukran" (SHUK-ran) - Thank you. "Afwan" (AF-wan) - You're welcome / Excuse me.
"Kam hatha?" (KAM HAH-tha?) - How much is this?

Additional Phrases

Essential Responses

"Wa Alaikum Salam" (wah ah-LAY-kum sa-LAM) - And upon you be peace (response).
"Na'am" (NAH-am) - Yes.
"La" (LAH) - No.
"Min fadlik" (min FAD-lik) - Please (to a female); "Min fadlak" (min FAD-lak) - Please (to a male).

Formal & Respectful

"Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh" (Extended greeting for respect).
Locals appreciate the effort to speak Arabic.
It enriches your interactions with local customs.
A polite demeanor is always well-received.

Communication Tip

Learn a few basic Arabic phrases. Locals appreciate the effort, and it enriches your interactions.

Business Hours & Schedules

Retail Shops

Generally open from 9 AM or 10 AM, often closing for prayer times. They generally reavailable and are open up to 10 PM or 11 PM.

Government Offices

Operate Sunday to Thursday, typically from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM. They are closed on Fridays and Saturdays.

Restaurants

Open for lunch (from 1 PM onwards) and dinner (from 7 PM onwards). Some cafes and hotel dining open earlier for breakfast.

Banking & ATMs

The operating hours of banks Sunday to Thursday, usually from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.

Access & Availability

ATMs are widely available 24/7 at banks, shopping malls, supermarkets, and petrol stations.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
Carrying some local currency (Saudi Riyal) for smaller purchases is advisable.

Religious Holidays

Major Islamic holidays significantly impact business hours and services.

Holiday Impacts

Ramadan: Business hours are significantly reduced; many restaurants open only after Iftar (sunset).
Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha: Most companies close for several days. Advance planning is required.
Saudi National Day (September 23): A public holiday; some businesses may close or operate on reduced hours.

Operating Times

Daily Operations

Shops: 9 AM - 11 PM (with prayer breaks)
Government Offices: 7:30 AM - 2:30 PM (Sun-Thu)
Banks: 9 AM - 4:30 PM (Sun-Thu)

Food & Services

Restaurants Lunch: From 1 PM
Restaurants Dinner: From 7 PM
ATMs: 24/7 Availability

Seasonal Schedules

During the extreme summer heat, some outdoor activities or attractions may have limited or shorter operating hours to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Always check ahead.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Saudi society is conservative. Awareness of customs promotes respectful interaction.

Greeting Customs

Handshakes are common between men. Men usually do not shake hands with women in public unless the woman extends her hand first. A verbal greeting is sufficient.

Interaction Guidelines

Always greet with "Salam Alaikum."
Maintain a respectful personal space during conversations.
A friendly demeanor is always valued.

Appropriate Attire

Modest dress is for both men and women in all public settings.

Dress Code Recommendations

Women should consider carrying a headscarf for religious sites or traditional areas.
Avoid revealing clothing.
Refer to the "What to Pack" section for more details.

Dining & Tipping

When you are eating, use your right hand, especially when sharing food from a communal platter.

Mealtime Practices

Use your right hand for eating.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory (5-10% for good service in restaurants).
Some restaurants may include a service charge.

Photography

Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially women and children. Be discreet.

Visual Etiquette

Avoid photographing government buildings, military installations, or sensitive areas.
Always err on the side of caution.
A polite gesture and a "Shukran" (thank you) after permission.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid Discussion Of

Politics or religion critically.
The royal family, as these are sensitive topics.
Public displays of affection, highly frowned upon.

Prohibited Items

Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited and illegal.
Pork is strictly prohibited and illegal.
Drug use is strictly prohibited and illegal; penalties are severe.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Considerations

Gender segregation is common in many public spaces.
You may encounter separate entrances or dining sections for "singles" (men) and "families."
Respect these customs during your visit.

LGBTQ+ Information

LGBTQ+ acts are illegal in Saudi Arabia and subject to severe penalties.
Public expression of LGBTQ+ identity is not tolerated.
Visitors should be aware of and respect local laws and social customs.

Cultural Courtesy

When unsure about a local custom, observe what others do. A polite demeanor and respectful attitude are always well-received.

Airport Services

Familiarize yourself with services available at Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ).

Airport Lounges

Relax and refresh prior to your flight. Lounges offer comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and refreshments.

Lounge Benefits

Comfortable Seating and Quiet Zones
Complimentary Wi-Fi and Business Facilities
Complimentary Refreshments and Snacks

Flight Delay Compensation

In case of flight disruptions, know your rights for potential compensation.

Disruption Support

Eligibility for delays and cancellations
Compensation for denied boarding
Support for European and International Flights

Baggage Services

Baggage services are available at ELQ for lost and found items or special baggage handling.

Luggage Support

Assistance with lost or damaged luggage.
Information on luggagegage claim procedures.
Special handling for oversized or fragile items.

Car Rental at ELQ

Car rental companies operate at Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ).

Major international brands are available.
Local providers also offer rental services.
Booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons.

General Airport Information

For up-to-date information on airport facilities and services, check the official Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ) website or your airline's website.

Terminal Facilities

Information desks, currency exchange, plus food choices are available.

Security Procedures

Follow all security guidelines for a smooth experience.

Assistance

Request special assistance from your airline in advance if needed.

Departure Tip

Arrive early for domestic and international flights. Check your baggage allowance and security procedures to guarantee a seamless departure. For airport lounge access worldwide, consider Priority Pass. For flight compensation, visit Compensair.

Buraydah Travel Tips