Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Saudi Arabia has numerous amusement parks for children - just about every medium-
sized town has one. They're usually family-only affairs and cost SR15/8 per adult/child.
PRACTICALITIES
»
DVD Systems: Like much of Europe and the Middle East, Saudi Arabia belongs to DVD Region 2
»
Electricity: both 110VAC and 220VAC; European two-pin plugs are the norm, but three-pronged British plugs
are also present
»
Weights & Measures: Saudi Arabia uses the metric system
»
Discount Cards: Although there is no official discounting policy for holders of student cards, some official sites
will offer discounts if you ask for them and upon presentation of official student accreditation (international or
local).
»
Smoking is banned in most public spaces, including restaurants, coffee shops and shopping malls.
CUSTOMS REGULATIONS
Despite all warnings, some travellers continue to try to enter Saudi with alcohol. If you
are caught with any amount, you will be returned home on the next flight. If you're
deemed to be in possession of a quantity that exceeds 'personal consumption' punish-
ments are severe (including the death penalty if convicted of smuggling).
DVDs, videos or suspect-looking books are passed to the Ministry of Information offi-
cials for inspection. Unfamiliar or suspect-looking items may be confiscated for further
inspection for up to 48 hours. Receipts are issued for later collection once items have been
inspected and passed. Laptops and computer media are not checked unless officials are
suspicious.
EMBASSIES & CONSULATES
All of the following are in Riyadh's diplomatic quarter in the west of Riyadh. They gener-
ally open from 9am to 4pm Saturday to Wednesday.
Australian
(
01-488 7788;
www.saudiarabia.embassy.gov.au
)
Bahraini
(
01-488 0044;
www.mofa.gov.bh/riyadh/Home.aspx
)
Canadian
(
French
(
01-434 4100;
www.ambafrance-sa.org
)
German
(
01-277 6919;
www.riad.diplo.de
)
Irish
(
01-488 2300;
www.embassyofireland.org.sa
)
Jordanian
(
01-488 0039;
www.jordanembassyksa.gov.jo
)
