Is Medina Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Medina, has a mixed level of safety for solo female travelers. As a sacred city, security is quite high, especially around the Prophet's Mosque and other holy sites. However, the deeply rooted cultural and religious conservatism requires women to dress modestly, cover their heads and respect local customs. It is advisable to avoid traveling at night and always to stay in a group or in populated areas. Remember to familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs to ensure a more secure trip.

Safety rating

Meet new people

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies, share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing.
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

How safe is Medina?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Safe

Medina, is generally considered safe, especially for female travelers. Authorities maintain a strong security presence, making the city safe even at night. However, it's advisable to follow general safety tips like looking confident, avoiding deserted areas, and dressing modestly according to local cultural norms. As a solo female traveler, you may also want to avoid walking alone at night in less populated regions.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Medina, is generally safe. Buses, taxis and other means of public transportation are regularly monitored and follow strict safety regulations. Women-specific sections on buses are also available. However, cultural customs in the region should be respected, and it's highly recommended to be accompanied by a male if possible, not due to safety issues but as compliance with cultural norms.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

Medina is generally safe for solo female travelers. While unwanted attention or remarks can happen occasionally, most locals are respectful. It is quite common to see women walking around alone, particularly during prayer times. However, it's important to respect local customs and dress modestly, wearing an abaya and covering your hair. It's also worth noting that the level of harassment can vary depending on different factors like time of day and location. Make sure to be alert and aware of your surroundings.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Medina, being one of the holiest cities in Saudi Arabia, is considered relatively safe for travelers including solo female travelers. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or purse snatching aren't very common. The populace is generally respectful and the presence of religious police also helps maintain order. However, as in any city, it's always important to be alert and keep an eye on your belongings.
Tap water:

Tap water:Moderate

While the tap water in Medina, is technically safe to drink as it's treated and filtered, it may not suit everyone due to differences in purification practices and water sources from what your body may be used to. It can also often have a different taste due to the desalination process. For this reason, many locals and tourists prefer drinking bottled water, especially if they have a sensitive stomach.

Is Medina safe to travel?

Is Medina safe right now?

Before your visit to Medina, 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.
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ

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
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦

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
πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί

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