Saudi Arabia and Jordan Combined Tour

Good to Know

Travel Information

Safety, Passport, Visa and Health Information

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination. For example, it covers safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice for Saudi Arabia and Jordan.

Your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive in both countries. Saudi Arabia may also refuse entry if your passport shows you have travelled to, or were born in, Israel. For Saudi Arabia, you must get an e-visa or electronic visa waiver before you travel or on arrival. E-visas are valid for 365 days, for visits of up to 90 days, with multiple entries. You must also have a visa to visit Jordan, available on arrival (40 Jordanian dinars, valid one month). Alternatively, apply for a Jordan Pass online in advance. This avoids tourist entry visa fees if you stay at least 3 nights.

Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country with strictly enforced Islamic law. Therefore, avoid showing affection in public, swearing, playing loud music, or making critical political statements. You must always carry ID. Men and women must also wear loose-fitting clothing covering the elbows and below the knees. Do not bring alcohol into Saudi Arabia. It is also illegal to drink or be drunk in public, with severe penalties for possession or trade. There is zero tolerance for drug offences in both countries, with severe penalties including long prison sentences. Sex outside marriage is illegal in Saudi Arabia, including for tourists. In both countries, it is illegal to photograph government buildings, military sites or people without permission. In addition, drones require a valid licence.

Same-sex relations are illegal in Saudi Arabia, although legal action is uncommon. In Jordan they are not illegal, but public affection may cause offence. At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice. The National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) publishes this on the TravelHealthPro website. Some medicines are controlled substances in Saudi Arabia and may need official prescriptions with specific documentation. Healthcare in major Saudi cities is high standard. However, in Jordan, medical facilities outside Amman and Aqaba are basic. For emergency medical assistance in both countries, call 911 and ask for an ambulance.

What to Bring

Lightweight clothing is essential in midsummer, with a sun-hat and neck protection. However, a sweater and light jacket are advisable for Wadi Rum. This is because early mornings can be very cold when camping in the desert. Winters in Jordan can be cold, so bring suitable warm clothing and a waterproof jacket. Men and women must wear loose-fitting clothing covering the elbows and below the knees in Saudi Arabia. In addition, avoid tight-fitting clothing or clothes with slogans that could be seen as political. Female travellers do not have to wear the abaya or cover their hair. Well-worn low-cut hiking shoes are ideal, with sandals or beach footwear for coastal areas.

Please allow yourself one main piece of luggage and a day-sack. You're expected to carry your own baggage, so don't overload yourself. For example, a soft wheely bag may be easier to manage than a suitcase. We also recommend a sunhat, sunscreen, a torch, insect repellent and a water bottle. In addition, we recommend a solar charger for your phone and other electronics.

While You're There

The Saudi riyal (SAR) is the currency of Saudi Arabia, exchangeable at the airport or in advance. ATMs are also available in major towns. The Jordanian dinar has been the currency of Jordan since 1950, pegged to the US dollar. Sterling and US dollars are widely exchangeable. Many places in both countries accept international credit cards, but not everywhere you'll be travelling. Saudi Arabia uses type G plugs, while Jordan uses types C, D, F, G and J. Both are on a 230V/50Hz supply.

Saudi Arabia has a predominantly desert climate with very hot, dry summers and more temperate winters, with regional variations. Coastal areas near Jeddah range 22-32°C in winter, while Al Ula's desert plateau can drop to 5°C at night. In Jordan, days are generally sunny and hot from April to November (around 32°C). Meanwhile, cold winter nights (December to February) drop to around 0°C, with some rain. Most major UK mobile networks have connections in both countries, at least in larger towns. However, a local SIM card is often better value than roaming. Hotel wifi and cafés offer internet access, although connections can be temperamental. Saudi Arabia also has some social media restrictions.