Travel Basics – 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

Everything you need to know about planning your trip to the 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah. Advice on visas, health, staying safe & more.

• The 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is scheduled from April 18-20
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• F1 Experiences Ticket Packages are already available
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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is located on the Arabian Peninsula in Western Asia. The third-largest country in the region, Saudi Arabia is home to almost 35 million inhabitants. Jeddah Corniche Circuit is located in the city of Jeddah, in the Hejaz region of the country. Jeddah is the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia and is the country’s commercial centre. Formula 1 visited Saudi Arabia for the first time in 2021 for a highly dramatic inaugural race at Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Saudi Arabia?

Visitors from an increasing number of countries (currently 63), including the UK, USA, Canada and the European Union, are able to apply for an e-visa to visit Saudi Arabia. The e-visa allows visitors to spend up to 90 days in the country. More info about Saudi e-visa and list of eligible countries.

Saudi Arabia Travel: Need to Know

• Saudi Arabia operates on Arabian Standard Time (GMT +3 hours).
• Call 112 in case of emergency. The ambulance service can be contacted on 997, while police can be contacted on 999.
• Non-British travellers will need a power adaptor for their trip to Saudi Arabia. The country uses Type G plugs.
• Saudi Arabia is the world’s largest producer of desalinated water. Tap water is safe to drink in the country.
• You drive on the right hand side of the road in Saudi Arabia.
• Learn More: Official Saudi Arabia tourism website

Saudi Language & Culture

The language barrier is unlikely to be a problem during your trip to Saudi Arabia. While Arabic is the official language of the country, English is widely spoken and is a compulsory second language taught in schools.

Saudi Arabia is a conservative country where Islamic laws are observed. Prayers are observed five times per day and shops and restaurants may close during these times. Locals are generally tolerant but you should nevertheless observe social etiquette during your trip. Legally, the consumption of alcohol is banned in Saudi Arabia and public decency laws must be followed.

Staying Safe in Saudi Arabia

Formula 1’s decision to race in Saudi Arabia was met with dismay by human rights organisations due to the country’s poor human rights record. Saudi Arabia has a low crime rate. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas. Be vigilant in public spaces and avoid less-travelled streets, especially at night.

Military conflict between Saudi Arabia and neighbouring Yemen is ongoing and missile attacks near the border do take place. During practice sessions for the 2022 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, a missile fired by Houthi rebels from Yemen struck an oil facility only 10 miles from the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

The threat of terrorism is also significant in Saudi Arabia. Attacks can target Western tourists and tourist sites. on western customs do occur. Be vigilant, particularly in likely targets such as shopping malls and historic sites in Jeddah.

Money

The Saudi Riyal (SAR) is the official currency in Saudi Arabia. It is subdivided into 100 halala. 1 Saudi Riyal is the equivalent of £0.21 GBP, €0.25 EURO or $0.27 USD. Find the exchange rate for your currency on xe.com.

There is no need to take large amounts of money with you to the country. ATMs are plentiful across Saudi Arabia and you’ll find many in Jeddah’s shopping malls. Be aware that you may incur a fee ranging from SAR 2 to SAR 30 for using a non-local bank card. It’s also possible to pay with card or phone in most retail settings, at hotels and restaurants..

Staying Healthy in Saudi Arabia

Healthcare in Saudi Arabia’s major cities, such as Jeddah, is of a high standard. The King Fahd Hospital, located 18km south of Jeddah Corniche Circuit, is the area’s largest hospital. Pharmacies are easily accessible within the city. You should ensure you have adequate travel health insurance in place ahead of your visit.

Saudi Arabia Weather

Jeddah benefits from a desert climate and has tropical temperatures. March is a great time to visit the city, as temperatures are warm but not unbearable. The average daily temperature in Jeddah during March is 26°C (79°F), though you can expect the temperature to drop as night falls at the circuit. It is unlikely to rain during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend. On average, Jeddah sees only half a day of rain during the entire month.

Have you visited Saudi Arabia? Leave a comment below with your travel tips.