Saudi Customs Every Tourist Should Know

Ramadan: Navigating the Holy Month

Ramadan represents the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. Muslims fast from dawn until sunset during this time. Saudi law strictly prohibits eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. This law applies to everyone, including non-Muslim tourists.

Fortunately, you can safely drink water and eat inside screened hotel dining areas. You can also eat freely in the privacy of your hotel room. Check out our complete "Etiquette and Travel Guidelines for Ramadan and Arab Culture" for excellent supplementary advice. Most public restaurants close during the day and reopen at sunset. The cities come alive at night with festive Iftar meals.

...[ Continue to next page ] By: Ruchi Barwal