Saudi Arabia Travel Health Guide for US Travelers
A physician-reviewed health and safety guide for Americans traveling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
As of March 2026, the U.S. Department of State advises Americans to Exercise Increased Caution in Saudi Arabia due to terrorism and risks from attacks. Always check the latest advisory at travel.state.gov before departing.
Before You Travel to Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a land of stark desert beauty, ancient history, and burgeoning modern cities. For US travelers, understanding local customs, dress codes, and health precautions is paramount. Plan to consult a travel medicine physician at least 6–8 weeks before departure for necessary vaccinations and advice.
Visit a Travel Clinic
See a board-certified travel medicine physician 6–8 weeks before your trip. Discuss routine vaccinations and any country-specific recommendations. Bring your immunization records.
Get Travel Insurance
Ensure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Saudi Arabian healthcare is excellent but can be expensive for non-residents.
Documents & Registration
Enroll in the State Department's STEP program at step.state.gov for emergency alerts. Keep copies of your passport and visa readily accessible.
Pack a Medical Kit
Bring all prescription medications with a doctor's note, insect repellent (especially for mosquitoes and sandflies), hand sanitizer, basic first-aid supplies, and any preferred over-the-counter remedies.
Water & Food Safety
Tap water in Saudi Arabia is generally not safe for consumption. Drink only sealed bottled water. Be cautious with street food; opt for well-cooked meals from reputable establishments. Peel fruits and vegetables.
Cash & Payments
Major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, large stores, and restaurants. However, it's advisable to carry some local currency (Saudi Riyal) for smaller purchases, taxis, and local markets.
Yellow Fever in Saudi Arabia
What is Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, headache, and muscle aches. Severe cases can lead to jaundice, bleeding, and organ failure. While not endemic to Saudi Arabia, the vaccination requirement is a measure to prevent its introduction.
The yellow fever vaccine is a safe and effective live-attenuated vaccine. It must be administered at an authorized Yellow Fever Vaccination Center and recorded on an official International Certificate of Vaccination. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel if this requirement applies to you.
Malaria in Saudi Arabia
While the risk is low for most travelers, if your itinerary includes travel to the southwestern rural border areas, consult your travel medicine physician about antimalarial medication.
Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone)
Start 1–2 days before arrival, take daily, continue for 7 days after leaving. Well-tolerated and often recommended for this risk profile.
Start 1–2 days before arrival, take daily, continue for 28 days after leaving. Cost-effective option. Be aware of sun sensitivity.
Weekly dosing. Consider if other options are not suitable. Discuss potential neuropsychiatric side effects with your doctor.
If you develop a fever after traveling to malaria-risk areas in Saudi Arabia, seek medical attention immediately and inform your doctor about your travel history. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
Regardless of malaria risk, take precautions against mosquito bites. Use insect repellent containing DEET (≥30%), wear long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk, and sleep in screened or air-conditioned rooms.
Recommended Vaccines for Saudi Arabia
The following vaccines are recommended or required by the CDC and WHO for US travelers to Saudi Arabia. Your physician will tailor recommendations based on your itinerary and health profile.
Required only if arriving from a country with risk of YF transmission or with long transit in such a country.
Recommended due to potential exposure through contaminated food and water, especially outside major cities.
Strongly recommended for all travelers due to the risk of exposure through contaminated food and water.
Recommended for those who may have close contact with local populations, receive medical care, or undergo procedures.
Recommended for travelers spending extended time outdoors, those with close contact with animals, or in rural areas. Saudi Arabia has a low incidence but risk exists.
MMR Vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date, including MMR, as outbreaks can occur.
Influenza Vaccine & COVID-19
Recommended annual flu shot. Ensure COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are current.
Healthcare System in Saudi Arabia
Major Cities (Riyadh, Jeddah, etc.)
Excellent private hospitals and some public hospitals offer advanced medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. Many physicians speak English.
Emergency Services
Emergency services are readily available in urban areas. Response times are generally efficient. Medical evacuation within the country is usually not necessary but is available for international transport if required.
Payment Policy
Payment is expected at the time of service. Private hospitals and clinics typically accept major credit cards. Public hospitals may have different procedures. Ensure your travel insurance details are readily available.
While Saudi Arabia offers excellent healthcare, medical evacuation to another country might still be considered for highly specialized treatments not available locally, or in remote areas. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended.
Emergency Numbers in Saudi Arabia
US Embassy Riyadh
Abdullah bin Huzafa Al-Semari Street, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh 12567
Phone: +966-11-488-7700
Emergencies: +966-11-488-7700
sa.usembassy.gov
US State Dept 24/7 Hotline
For US citizens in distress abroad:
From US/Canada: +1-888-407-4747
From abroad: +1-202-501-4444
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
STEP Enrollment
Register your trip at step.state.gov before departure. STEP allows the US Embassy to contact you during emergencies, natural disasters, or civil unrest and helps locate you if something goes wrong.
Nature & Weather Risks
Extreme Heat & Sandstorms
Saudi Arabia experiences extreme heat, especially in summer. Sandstorms (known as shamal) can occur, reducing visibility and causing respiratory irritation. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, wear hats, and follow local advice during sandstorms.
Water Scarcity
Water is a precious resource. While safe bottled water is available, be mindful of conservation efforts. Avoid swimming in untreated natural bodies of water due to potential contamination.
Animal Encounters
Wildlife is generally sparse in populated areas. Be cautious of stray dogs, particularly in rural or less developed areas. Avoid disturbing any wildlife you may encounter.
Road Safety
Road safety can be a concern. Driving standards vary, and accidents can occur. Adhere to speed limits, drive defensively, and avoid driving at night when visibility is poor and animals may be on the road.
Sun & UV Exposure
Intense sun and high UV levels are common. Protect yourself by wearing sunscreen (SPF 30+), a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and light, loose-fitting clothing. Seek shade during peak sun hours.
Crime, Terrorism & Safety Risks
Petty Crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and minor theft, can occur, especially in crowded areas like markets and airports. Be aware of your surroundings and secure your valuables.
Personal Safety
Saudi Arabia is generally a safe country with low violent crime rates against foreigners. However, exercise caution, especially at night. Respect local laws and customs, including dress codes.
Religious Sites & Protests
Avoid large public gatherings and demonstrations. Be respectful when visiting religious sites; adhere strictly to dress codes and visiting hours.
Saudi Arabia enforces strict laws based on Islamic Sharia. Public displays of affection, consumption of alcohol, and dress code violations can lead to severe penalties. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs before your trip.
Other Health Risks in Saudi Arabia
Can occur due to changes in diet and water. Practice good food and water hygiene to minimize risk. Carry anti-diarrheal medication.
Mosquito-borne illness reported in some areas. Prevention is key: use insect repellent and wear protective clothing.
During sandstorms, respiratory irritation can occur. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions should take extra precautions.
As with any international travel, practice safe sex and avoid activities that carry risk of bloodborne infections.
Pre-Departure Checklist for Saudi Arabia
- See a travel medicine physician — discuss routine vaccinations and country-specific risks
- Get Yellow Fever vaccine if required based on your itinerary
- Discuss antimalarial medication if traveling to high-risk border areas
- Update all routine vaccines: MMR, Tdap, polio booster, flu, COVID-19
- Discuss Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Rabies vaccines with your doctor
- Purchase comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage
- Enroll in STEP at
