Saudi Arabia Opens Up to Visitors

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2-03-2009 @ 10:31AM

Siobhan said...

I grew up there as an expat, and I can tell you one thing for sure, the diving alone would make it worth the trip, both on the Persian Gulf and Red Sea sides.

2-03-2009 @ 11:08AM

I 100% agree with you comment about diving in the Red Sea off Saudi. Unspoilt, huge coral cliffs to swim along...diving perfection. But the Gulf side??? We must have been in different countries, shallow, a few rocks, maybe a manta or a whale shark if you were very, very lucky. 3 hour boat ride to get in water deeper than your knees. Sewage, Oil sludge...

Also, I believe Saudi started issuing tourist visas around 99/2000.

The wearing of the abaya (Sp?) is far from mandatory in all areas. Where I lived in the eastern province, conservative dress was sufficient.

The heat is brutal, but then like Vegas, you don't go outside much, and Spring can be very pleasant.

Having said all that, I was there 5 years, and I can't remember doing anything "touristy" except shopping. If you want to see the region, head for Oman; Historic, safe and only a stones throw from Dubai when you need to scratch the shopping/partying itch.

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