Traveling from the UAE to Saudi Arabia is an exciting journey. In 2026, many people are coming to the kingdom to see amazing new places like Al Ula, the beaches of the Red Sea, and the busy streets of Riyadh.
Since the two countries are neighbors, many people think that the rules are the same. But Saudi Arabia has its own special rules. If you don’t follow them, you could face problems or even fines.
Now, we will explain 7 mistakes you should avoid when planning a trip to Saudi Arabia.
1. Thinking You Don’t Need a Visa
One of the biggest mistakes people make is thinking that a UAE residency permit is enough to enter Saudi Arabia. While UAE citizens (locals) can travel without a visa, expats living in Dubai or Abu Dhabi cannot.
You must apply for a Saudi visa for UAE residents before you travel. Most people choose the e-visa because it is fast and easy to get online. If you show up at the border or the airport without your visa, you will not be allowed to enter. Always make sure you have your printed visa ready to show the officers
2. Forgetting the “6-Month Rule” for Passports
With a valid Saudi visa you can visit multiple time in Saudi Arabia and it’s called Saudi multiple entry visa.
Even if you have a valid visa, your passport must be in good shape. A common mistake is traveling with a passport that is about to expire.
For a Saudi visa for UAE residents, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the day you enter the country. Also, your UAE residence visa should be valid for at least three months. If your papers expire too soon, the immigration officers might send you back. It is always a good idea to check your dates a few weeks before your trip.
3. Not Having the Right Health Insurance
Saudi Arabia requires all tourists to have special health insurance. This isn’t just any insurance; it must be one that is approved by the Saudi government.
Many travelers forget to buy this or think their UAE insurance is enough. Usually, when you apply for your Saudi visa for UAE residents online, the insurance is included in the fee. However, you should always check your visa document to see if the insurance is listed. If you get sick or have an accident without it, the hospital bills can be very high.
4. Wearing the Wrong Clothes
Saudi Arabia is a traditional country. While the rules are becoming more relaxed, you still need to dress modestly.
For Women: You do not have to wear a black cloak (abaya) anymore, but you should wear loose clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
For Men: Avoid wearing very short shorts or shirts without sleeves in public places.
Wearing “disrespectful” clothes is considered a mistake that can lead to a fine. It is better to dress simply to show respect for the local culture.
5. Ignoring Prayer Times
In Saudi Arabia, life follows a special rhythm because of the five daily prayers. During prayer times, many shops, malls, and restaurants close their doors for about 20 to 30 minutes.
A big mistake is planning a shopping trip or a lunch right during prayer time. If you are hungry or in a rush, you might find yourself waiting outside a locked door. It is helpful to download a prayer time app so you can plan your day around these short breaks.
6. Taking Photos of Everything
We all love taking photos for social media, but you have to be careful in Saudi Arabia. It is a mistake to take pictures of government buildings, military sites, or palaces.
Most importantly, you should never take a photo of a local person without asking them first. This is especially true for Saudi women. Respecting people’s privacy is a very big deal in the Kingdom. If you are not sure if a photo is okay, it is always best to ask a security guard or just keep your phone in your pocket.
7. Trying to Enter Mecca as a Non-Muslim
Saudi Arabia has many beautiful holy sites. However, the city of Mecca and parts of Medina are only for Muslims.
Some tourists make the mistake of trying to visit these areas because they want to see the famous architecture. There are clear road signs that tell non-Muslims where they cannot go. If you enter these areas by mistake, you could get into serious legal trouble. Always follow the signs and stick to the many other amazing tourist spots available to everyone.
How to Make Travel Easier
If all these rules sound a bit confusing, don’t worry! You don’t have to do it all by yourself. Many people choose to get help from experts.
Regal Dubai Travel Agency is a great place to start. They are experts at helping people get their travel papers in order. Whether you need a Saudi visa for UAE residents or help with your hotel bookings, the team at Regal Dubai Travel Agency knows exactly what to do. They check every detail to make sure you don’t make any of the mistakes we talked about today.
Other Places to Explore
Once you have visited Saudi Arabia, you might want to see more of the world. The experts at Regal Dubai Travel Agency can also help you with other trips. For example:
If you want to see the green mountains of the South, they can help with an Oman visa for UAE residents.
If you want to see the modern city of Doha, they can guide you on a Qatar visa for UAE residents.
If you are dreaming of beautiful beaches and forests, they can even assist with an Indonesia visa for UAE residents.
Visiting Saudi Arabia From UAE is great trip for UAE residents. The history is deep, the food is delicious, and the people are very kind. By avoiding these 7 common mistakes, you will have a much happier trip. Remember to get your Saudi visa for UAE residents early, dress modestly, and always respect the local customs.