Saudi Arabia Travel Insurance: Plans & Prices
Written By 
Reviewed By Last updated: 08/18/2025
Do You Need Travel Insurance to Visit Saudi Arabia?
Travelers heading to Saudi Arabia must apply for a Tourist Visa in order to enter the country. Part of the application process involves securing mandatory health coverage that lasts for the duration of your stay.
The health insurance policy, which was approved by the Saudi Council of Health Insurance, covers medical emergencies up to SAR 100,000, roughly $27,000. The policy may cover expenses such as hospital bills, diagnostic services, and medications.
While this coverage is mandatory, we strongly recommend obtaining additional protection for your Saudi Arabia trip that includes further medical coverage, as well as protection from cancellations, delays, terrorism, baggage delays, and more.
How Does Saudi Arabian Travel Insurance?
According to Visit Saudi, the cost of a tourist eVisa, which includes the mandatory health insurance policy, will cost SAR 535. This equates to roughly $142.
For further protection, many travelers heading to Saudi Arabia opt to purchase additional coverage through a third party travel insurance provider. The cost of a comprehensive travel insurance policy is determined by a wide-range of factors, including your total insured trip costs, the length of your trip, your age, and the extent of your coverage.
On average, Squaremouth customers that travel to Saudi Arabia typically spend between $350-$400 on a comprehensive travel insurance plan, with an average trip cost of around $6.500.
What Should Your Saudi Arabia Travel Insurance Include?
When traveling to Saudi Arabia, it’s important to have comprehensive travel insurance coverage to protect yourself against unexpected events. Here are some key components your Saudi Arabia travel insurance should include:
- Emergency Medical: For most international trips, we recommend at least $50,000 in medical coverage. Since Saudi Arabia’s required plan doesn’t meet this limit, we recommend additional protection.
- Medical Evacuation: Your insurance should cover the cost of emergency medical evacuations to a suitable medical facility. We recommend at least $100,000 in Medical Evacuation Coverage.
- Trip Cancellation: This coverage protects you financially if you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, injury, death of a family member, and natural disasters.
- Baggage & Personal Item Loss: Make sure your insurance policy includes coverage for loss, theft, or damage to your luggage and personal belongings during your trip.
- Delay Coverage: Reimbursement for expenses incurred due to travel delays, missed connections, or trip disruptions caused by factors such as flight cancellations, severe weather, or transportation strikes.
- Emergency Assistance Services: All travel insurance providers on Squaremouth offer 24/7 emergency assistance services to support you before and during your trip.
- Terrorism Coverage: Given the geopolitical situation in some regions, it’s advisable to check if your insurance includes coverage for acts of terrorism, civil unrest, or political instability.
Before purchasing a policy, carefully review the terms, conditions, and exclusions. Consider your individual needs and the nature of your trip to ensure that the selected policy provides adequate coverage for your specific circumstances. It’s advisable to compare policies from different providers to find the one that best meets your requirements.
Other Saudi Arabia Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for US citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia typically included:
- Visa: US citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia usually need a visa. This could be obtained through the Saudi embassy or consulate before traveling or through the Saudi eVisa system. The eVisa system allows eligible travelers to apply for a visa online.
- Passport: US citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia Travel Tips & General Information
Safety in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is generally considered safe for travelers, including tourists and expatriates. The country has a low crime rate compared to many other countries, and violent crime targeting foreigners is rare.
Saudi Arabia has faced terrorism threats and incidents in the past, although the government has taken significant measures to combat terrorism and enhance security within the country. When in Saudi Arabia, it’s important to remain vigilant and stay informed about local security situations.
Travelers concerned about terrorism should consider travel insurance that includes Trip Cancellation coverage for terrorist events. This coverage provides reimbursement if a terrorist attack forces you to cancel your plans or end your trip early.
Food & Water in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia generally maintains high food and water safety standards, particularly in urban areas and established establishments. The water is generally safe for drinking and cooking, but it’s generally recommended to stick to water bottles when traveling abroad. Bottled water is widely available throughout Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia Weather & Natural Disaster Concerns
Saudi Arabia has a predominantly desert climate with high temperatures and low humidity, although it varies depending on the region. Travelers should be prepared for hot conditions and take appropriate precautions, such as staying hydrated and wearing sun protection, especially if traveling during the summer.
Saudi Arabia is relatively safe from natural disasters compared to other countries, but sandstorms and flash flooding have been known to occur in the region. To protect against severe weather events, many travel insurance plans offer Hurricane & Weather coverage.
FAQs Among U.S. Citizens Visiting Saudi Arabia
What Are the Best Things to Do In Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia offers a wide-variety of cultural, historical, and natural attractions for visitors to explore. Some of the best things to do in the country include:
- Visit Mecca and Medina
- Explore Riyadh
- Discover Historical Sites
- Experience the Edge of the World
- Explore the Red Sea Coast
- Experience Desert Adventures
What Currency is Used in Saudi Arabia?
The official currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR), abbreviated as ر.س or SAR. It is divided into 100 halalas. The Riyal is the main form of currency for everyday transactions throughout the country.
As for credit cards, major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, shops, and other establishments. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash when traveling, especially if you’re going to more remote areas or smaller establishments.
What Should I Wear When I Visit Saudi Arabia?
It’s important to dress modestly and respectfully in Saudi Arabia. Western-style clothing such as pants and t-shirts are generally acceptable for men, however casual clothing should be avoided. Women should also dress modestly, with their clothes covering their body from the shoulders to the ankles. Loose-fitting, long-sleeved tops and ankle-length skirts or pants are appropriate.