Is Dhahran Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Dhahran is generally a safe city for solo female travelers. It is a modern city with a high standard of living and hosts a lot of multinational corporations, thus people are used to seeing foreigners. However, the Kingdom requires women to dress modestly in public, covering knees and shoulders. Recently, women in Saudi Arabia have been allowed to travel without a male companion, still, it is advised for Western women to avoid roaming around alone at night and respect the local culture and tradition for a hassle-free stay.

Safety rating

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How safe is Dhahran?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

Dhahran, is generally considered quite safe owing to its high level of security and police presence. However, due to cultural norms and restrictions, it may not be commonplace to see women walking alone at night. It is advisable that women take precautions while venturing out late at night, such as staying in well-lit areas and avoiding isolated locations.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Dhahran is considered safe and reliable. Buses are punctual and often used by expats, locals and tourists. Taxis are prevalent and can be hailed on the street or booked through various app services. Women-only sections are present in buses and trains, and taxi services offer women-only rides as well. However, always remain cautious, especially when traveling alone at night and ensure the vehicle you board is licensed. Always share your ride details with trusted contacts.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

In Dhahran, like much of Saudi Arabia, there are strict regulations and societal norms regarding public behavior and interactions. Although most people are respectful, isolated incidents of street harassment could potentially occur. However, the prevalence is relatively low compared to other global destinations. For additional safety, adhering to local dress codes and societal norms is highly recommended.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Dhahran generally has a low level of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, snatching, and minor scams. Most areas are considered safe, thanks to the strong police presence and strict regulations. However, it's always advised to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places.
Tap water:

Tap water:Unsafe

Tap water in Dhahran, is generally not recommended for drinking. While it is treated and desalinated, the majority of locals and expats prefer to use bottled water for drinking and cooking. The infrastructure may affect the water quality at certain times and locations, but it's mostly safe for bathing and cleaning purposes.

Is Dhahran safe to travel?

Is Dhahran safe right now?

Before your visit to Dhahran, it's essential to check travel advisories for Saudi Arabia, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
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United States Travel AdvisoryReconsider your need to travel

The United States Government advises reconsidering travel to Saudi Arabia due to the threat of missile and drone attacks. Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to terrorism, the risk of arrest based on social media activity, and the importation of prohibited items. Certain areas present an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: January 24, 2024
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Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Saudi Arabia due to potential terrorist attacks and security incidents. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 16, 2024
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Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Saudi Arabia overall due to the threat of terrorism, and missile and drone attacks. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 14, 2024

Safety in Saudi Arabia