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What to Pack for Riyadh

What to Pack for Riyadh

Riyadh Saudi Arabia Travel Guide

Seasonal Clothing

Choose clothing based on the time of year for comfort.

Winter & Shoulder Seasons

  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Light to medium layers for day, like Long-sleeved shirts and trousers. Evenings need warmer layers (Light jacket, sweater).
  • Spring/Autumn (Mar-May, Oct-Nov): Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen). Light jacket for evenings.
  • Summer (May-Sept): Very lightweight, loose-fitting, breathable clothing. Light colors. Focus on ventilation and Sun protection.

Cultural Dress Code

Adhering to local modesty norms shows respect.

Modesty Guidelines

  • Women: Loose-fitting, non-transparent clothing covering shoulders, elbows, and knees. An abaya is not legally required but highly recommended in traditional/religious areas. Carry a Lightweight scarf for hair cover.
  • Men: Long trousers or jeans, shirts covering shoulders. Long trousers are preferred in public and traditional settings.
  • Religious Sites: Women must cover hair, arms, legs. Men wear long trousers. Remove shoes before prayer areas.

Footwear for Every Occasion

City Walking

Comfortable closed-toe shoes or sturdy Sandals are good for exploring attractions and markets. You may spend much time walking.

Comfort focused

Desert Excursions

Sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots handle sand and uneven terrain. Sandals are not good for dune bashing or desert walks.

Terrain appropriate

Evening Wear

Smart casual footwear works for restaurants and social gatherings. Check specific venue dress codes for formal events.

Smart casual

Essential Documents

Your Travel Papers

Keep all your required documents organized and accessible to avoid delays and ensure a smooth travel experience.

  • Passport: Carry original, photocopies (separate), and digital copies.
  • Visa: Print and digitally store your eVisa confirmation.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If you plan to drive.
  • Vaccination Records: Have copies, especially for recommended vaccines.
  • Reservations: Print and digitally store flight, hotel, and tour confirmations.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Keep printed and digital copies with emergency contacts.
  • Emergency Contacts: List family, embassy, and local emergency services.
  • IDs: Carry student/senior/press IDs if you wish for potential discounts.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Staying connected and powered up is easy with the right electronics and accessories.

Essentials

Photography & Apps

Make the most of your trip with the right tools for capture and navigation.

Recommended Gear & Software

  • Camera Equipment: DSLR or mirrorless cameras work well. Ask permission before photographing people. A Compact travel tripod for cityscapes. Consider retailers like B&H Photo.
  • Apps: Google Maps/Apple Maps for navigation (download offline maps). Uber/Careem for ride-sharing. Google Translate for basic communication (download Arabic offline pack). NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing.
  • Data Backup: Use cloud storage for photos and documents in case of device loss/damage.

Digital Security

Secure Browsing

Consider a VPN for secure internet access, especially on public Wi-Fi networks.

Cloud Storage

Back up important photos and documents to a cloud service for safety.

Device Security

Keep devices password-protected and updated with the latest security software.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

Pack a practical health kit for minor ailments and to stay healthy.

Kit Contents

  • Standard items: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (e.g., Ibuprofen), Anti-diarrhea medication, allergy meds.
  • Riyadh-specific: Rehydration salts (heat), anti-histamines (dust allergies). A Compact travel first aid kit is highly good.
  • Prescription Medications: Bring enough for your trip. Carry prescription copy and doctor's note, in original packaging.

Protection & Hygiene

Be ready for environmental factors and maintain personal hygiene.

External Protection

  • Insect Repellent: Useful for desert areas or evenings outdoors.
  • Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, Lip balm with SPF, wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are vital.
  • Personal Hygiene: Bring preferred brands for toiletries.

Special Health Concerns

Altitude & Heat

  • Riyadh is on a plateau; altitude sickness is rare but stay hydrated.
  • Heat management: Frequent hydration, indoor breaks during peak heat.
  • Water purification: Bottled water is widely available and affordable, so purification options are not typically necessary.

Motion Sickness

  • For long drives or desert excursions, consider motion sickness medication.
  • Dust masks are good for respiratory issues during sandstorms.
  • Overall wellness: Regular rest and balanced meals contribute to comfort.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Desert Safaris/Camping

Dress comfortably and bring sturdy footwear for sand and uneven terrain.

  • Comfortable, loose clothing.
  • Sturdy closed shoes or boots.
  • Hat and sunglasses.
  • Headlamp or Small flashlight for evening.

Hiking Essentials

Good footwear and hydration gear are important for trails like Edge of the World.

Photography Gear

Capture Riyadh's landscapes and cityscapes with the right equipment.

Equipment Decisions

Consider Renting When...

  • You have limited luggage space.
  • The activity is an one-time experience.
  • Rental costs are lower than buying and shipping.
  • You want to try new gear without a full purchase.

Consider Buying When...

  • You frequently engage in the activity.
  • Specific equipment customization is important.
  • You prefer owning your gear for hygiene or comfort.
  • Rental options for specialized gear are scarce.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Do not overlook these valuable items for comfort and security during your travels.

Travel Aids

Specialty Items

Bring specific dietary items or hard-to-find products from home.

Hard-to-Find & Essential Products

  • Dietary Supplements: If you use specific dietary supplements, bring them.
  • Personal Care: Specialized personal care products may be difficult to find.
  • Snacks: Particular brands of snacks may carry a higher price tag or be unavailable locally.
  • Niche Items: Some niche items might be difficult to source in Riyadh.

Sustainable Travel

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduce plastic waste and save money.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Good for markets and malls.

Reusable Utensils

For street food or picnics.

Eco-Friendly Chargers

Solar-powered or energy-efficient options.

Riyadh Specific Needs

Climate Adaptations

  • Dust mask for sandstorms.
  • Electrolyte tablets for hydration in heat.
  • Light-colored clothing to reflect sun.

Cultural & Social

  • Lightweight scarf for women.
  • Unlocked phone for local SIM card.
  • Some cash for local markets.

Packing Pro Tips

Layering clothing offers flexibility for temperature changes. Roll clothes tightly to save space and minimize wrinkles.

Pack liquids in clear, travel-sized containers for security checks. Distribute heavy items evenly in your luggage.