Saudi Arabia’s global business presence is growing rapidly with Vision 2030, diversification, and foreign investment. As a result, many international professionals and expats are traveling to KSA more frequently for work. However, a successful business trip is not just limited to reaching the country but encompasses how you conduct yourself, stay connected, respect local traditions, and travel comfortably.
Here, we are listing seven important tips that are a must for Saudi Business Travelers.
1. Stay Updated on Visa and Entry Requirements
The Saudi Business Visit Visa is meant for one or more people who wish to visit Saudi Arabia for business purposes. One may apply for the visa through either the online route (eVisa) or an embassy. However, opting for the eVisa route is faster since the application is usually approved within 3 working days.
To apply for the KSA online visa, the key documentation required will include:
- Valid original passport (6+ months remaining validity)
- A copy of said passport
- Two copies of a recent passport-sized photo
- The completed application
- A valid payment method
- A valid government ID card
- An invitation letter from a Saudi company
- Proof of accommodation and travel itinerary
- Biometric data submitted through a biometric collection center or the “Saudi Visa Bio app”.
After providing information related to all of these, you may submit the visa application along with the fee. Once you have the approved visa, be sure to carry a printed copy of the same.
Saudi Business Visit Visa vs. Regular eVisa: Tabular Comparison
A simple comparison between the two can be made as follows:
| Feature | Saudi Business Visit Visa (eVisa) | Regular eVisa |
| Primary Purpose | Business activities, such as meetings, conferences, or project work | Tourism, events, family visits, and Umrah (not Hajj) |
| Sponsor Requirement | Often requires an in-country sponsor and endorsement | No sponsor required |
| Application Method | Can be online through a sponsor | Online application process is available for eligible nationalities |
| Validity | Single-entry visas are valid for 90 days. Multiple-entry visas can be valid for up to 5 years. | One year from the date of issuance |
| Entries | Single or multi-entry | Multi-entry |
| Duration of Stay | 30 to 90 days (per trip) based on your visa | 90 days |
| Visa Extension | Not allowed | Not allowed |
2. Understand Business Etiquette and Cultural Norms
For conducting smooth business meetings, it is important to respect the local customs. These include greetings, attire, and gender-appropriate interactions that match Saudi’s progressive yet conservative business atmosphere.
During business meetings, punctuality, hierarchy, and an indirect communication style are a must. Further, it is also best to avoid sensitive topics (like politics, religion) and maintain polite formality.
Do’s and Don’ts for Business Meetings in Saudi Arabia
Some must-dos for business meetings include:
- Always arrive on time
- Greet individuals with respect and a handshake
- Accept coffee, tea, and dates when offered
- Dress smart but conservative
- Build rapport by engaging in small talk
- Communicate clearly without being loud
- Carry business cards
- Be aware of prayer times and schedule meetings accordingly
Further, some things that you must avoid are:
- Showing impatience or jumping right into business
- Public criticism
- Aggressive negotiation tactics
- Using your phone during the meeting
- Disrespectful body language
3. Dress Code and Professional Appearance
During business meetings, men should go for formal suits or the national attire (thobe). Women, on the other hand, should wear modest clothing. However, wearing an abaya is not always mandatory for foreigners.
The emphasis is on professional yet culturally appropriate presentation. However, you may account for the climate and go for lightweight fabrics during the summer months. Opt for a neutral palette or subtle colors. Avoid flashy accessories and keep the use of makeup and perfume subtle.
Be sure to avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, jeans, sneakers, and graphic t-shirts with offensive messages or images, since they do not reflect modesty or cultural sensitivity.
4. Stay Connected and Secure with Digital Tools
When in Saudi Arabia, get local SIM cards from brands like STC, Mobily, or Zain. You may also look into business internet options for corporate communication, such as VPNs and secure networks. Alternatively, you can get eSIMs from international providers like Airalo and Holafly.
Since Saudi Arabia is making a push toward smart city business infrastructure, especially in NEOM and Riyadh, apps for navigation, translation, and cashless payments (Mada, STC Pay) are available. The aim is to improve the traveling experience significantly.
The top five apps that every business traveler should have include:
- Uber: For booking cabs to get around the city.
- Zoom/ Webex: To conduct meetings with your team back home.
- Tawakkalna: The Saudi Arabian government’s app for accessing digital services.
- TravelPerk: For managing bookings, expenses, and policies during business travel.
- Mada/ Google Pay: For completing online payments easily.
5. Respect Religious and Social Practices
The people of Saudi Arabia have a deep consideration for religious practices. Friday is the main weekly holiday in the country. Further, praying five times a day is the norm for most citizens.
These prayer times are set as per the position of the sun often affects meeting schedules and business hours. Local businesses usually have scheduled breaks during these times to allow people to practice their faith. Thus, it is best to avoid scheduling meetings during prayer times or on Fridays.
Further, during Ramadan, it is respectful not to eat or drink in public during fasting hours. Plus, being respectful in public interactions and attire, not consuming alcohol, and accepting hospitality when offered are good practices.
6. Transportation and Business Travel Logistics
When traveling for business within the country, options include rental cars, chauffeur services, Careem/Uber, or hotel transfers. While traditional taxis are available, you may have to negotiate the fare.
You can also hail public buses operated by SAPTCO, both within the city (like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam) and outside. In Riyadh, the metro offers rapid, driverless transit. When traveling between major cities like Riyadh, Dammam, and Jeddah, you may also opt for intercity trains
If you choose to drive, always check local driving regulations. Usually, foreign licenses are accepted when they have an international permit. Some tips for navigating Riyadh’s and Jeddah’s traffic are:
- Rely on navigation apps like Google Maps.
- Stay calm and prepared for sudden stops/ erratic drivers.
- Wear your seatbelt at all times.
- Roundabouts are common, so stay watchful of them.
- Avoid driving yourself during peak traffic times.
- Plan breaks if you are making a long drive.
- Be doubly cautious when driving at night.
- Watch for pedestrians when driving.
- Avoid distractions (like your phone) that can take your attention off the road.
- Learn basic Arabic phrases.
7. Accommodation, Safety, and After-Hours Conduct
Some of the best business hotels near commercial districts include:
- Crowne Plaza Riyadh Palace by IHG
- Movenpick Hotel And Residences, Riyadh
- Fairmont Ramla Riyadh
- Fairmont Riyadh
- Novotel Riyadh Al Anoud
- Hilton Riyadh Hotel and Residences
- Movenpick Hotel Tahlia, Jeddah
- Ibis Jeddah City Center
- Crowne Plaza Jeddah by IHG
- Holiday Inn Jeddah Gateway By IHG
- Jeddah Hilton
You can choose among the above based on their locations and the budget set for your business trip.
After your business hours, it is common to engage in leisure activities. Some leisure etiquette that you may observe are:
- Dress modestly
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Ask permission before taking photos
- Respect prayer times
- Be respectful in gender-segregated public spaces
- Use your right hand when eating
- Let your host start the meal
- Accept hospitality when offered
- Avoid conversation when eating
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke during daylight hours if you are visiting during Ramadan
- Do not criticize the local politics or the Royal family
- Avoid public intoxication
- Be mindful of the local laws
When traveling across the country, keep the following on hand at all times:
- The Saudi business visit visa
- Your ID
- Passport
- Travel insurance
- Travel itinerary
Further, in addition to the contact details of your embassy, you also need to save the following emergency contacts:
- Police: 999
- Fire Department: 998
- Ambulance: 997
With the above tips in mind, all you need to do is apply for your KSA online visa and get the flight tickets for your next business trip.
Having a Safe and Productive Business Trip to Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, professionalism is as much about respect and awareness as it is about results. Prep for your KSA online visa, learn the cultural etiquette, dress smart, be aware, and use digital tools for a comfortable trip to Saudi cities.
Planning a business trip to Saudi Arabia in 2026? Stay compliant, connected, and confident, and follow our travel guidelines to build lasting business relationships in KSA.
