Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SURVIVAL GUIDE
Directory A-Z
ACCOMMODATION
Camping
Camping is permitted anywhere in the Kingdom (bar security-sensitive areas) and Saudis
love to camp. At the handful of camping grounds, such as Asir National Park, there are no
facilities but the sites are free.
Hotels
Quoted room rates include private bathroom, unless stated otherwise, and exclude the 15%
service charge that is added to your bill by all five- and some four-star hotels and
restaurants.
In the high season - during the hajj (particularly in Jeddah), at the end of Ramadan, dur-
ing school holidays and in summer (June to August) - prices in Abha, Taif and other moun-
tain regions can increase anywhere between 50% and 150%.
Saudi Arabia has a generous selection of top-range hotels and the government is keen to
get Westerners on business trips to stay in them. Most offer the usual five-star facilities in-
cluding business centres, internet access, swimming pools and fitness centres. Hotels quote
rack rates, but offer corporate discounts to tour operators, embassies and companies with
whom they have prior agreements and it's always worth checking online for cheaper deals.
If you're travelling for business ask your company to fax the hotel with your dates to en-
sure a discount.
Note that many hotels offer weekend packages, which offer special rates - if you're
planning a whole weekend somewhere, enquire.
During hajj season, the end of Ramadan and school holidays, reserve well in advance.
SLEEPING PRICE RANGES
Throughout this chapter, the order of accommodation listings is according to price, from the cheapest to the most
expensive. Each place to stay is accompanied by one of the following symbols. The price relates to a double room
with private bathroom; unless otherwise stated, room prices do not include taxes or breakfast.
$ less than SR400
$$ SR400-1000
$$$ more than SR1000
