Is Riyadh Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Riyadh is fairly safe for solo female travelers. The country has started a significant progressive shift, allowing women more rights and freedoms than the past. However, as a part of its cultural and legal norms, modest dress code must be observed and interactions between unrelated men and women can be seen as inappropriate. There's a low crime rate, but the rules and societal norms are very different, so it is essential to familiarise yourself with them beforehand and respect them throughout your stay. It is recommended to use a trusted guide or have local contacts that can help navigate the cultural norms and rules.

Safety rating

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How safe is Riyadh?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Safe

Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, has seen improvements in its security situations over the years, especially for women. The introduction of Vision 2030 has eased customs and regulations, making it more welcoming for female tourists. Saudi Arabian law enforcement is strong and crime rates, particularly violent crimes, are relatively low compared to other global cities. However, it's best to dress modestly and respect local customs and laws. Solo female travelers should consider using reliable transport services during the night, especially in less populated or unfamiliar areas. While it's generally safe, it's always wise to be alert and cautious at all times, especially when walking alone at night.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation, including the newly opened Riyadh Metro and public buses, in Riyadh, can be considered generally safe. Women have designated sections in public buses and metro trains, further tolling towards safety standards. For added comfort, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem, which also uphold stringently applied safety measures, are widely available. However, always remain aware of your belongings and surroundings in crowded areas.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

While Saudi Arabia has traditionally been known for strict societal norms, the country has made some considerable progress in women's rights. In Riyadh, street harassment is not a rampant issue as it might be perceived. The strict law enforcement significantly deters such behavior. However, it's important to note that the local customs are considerably conservative; hence, following local dress codes and social norms is highly advisable. Women are expected to wear an Abaya in public. Although foreign women are no longer required to wear the headscarves, discretion is encouraged. It's also worth mentioning the women-only spaces in public areas like restaurants, which can provide further comfort.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

While petty crime such as pickpocketing, theft, and scams do occur in Riyadh, these are far less frequent compared to other major cities globally. The strict legal penalties in Saudi Arabia serve to deter such activities. However, vigilance is still necessary. As a solo female traveler, treat your personal belongings with care, and beware of crowded places where pickpockets may operate.

Is Riyadh worth visiting?

Is Riyadh safe for women?

Safety index

4.2 /5

Based on 8 local experiences

Crime index

1.6 /5

Based on 8 local experiences

Riyadh is very very great for tourists everyone here is very friendly and educated! if you decide to come you’d see how it’s very true. i’ve never gotten harassed but i have friends who’d only gotten catcalled and it was in the creepy parts of the city

Posted: January 19, 2025
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Meet locals in Riyadh

ranim

ranim

About Me

Hi my name is Rae,I'm 22 years old traveler, currently studying software engineering, interested in history, books and art 🤗 If you happen to come to my house, all I need you to do is to be eco-friendly and try to put trash in its place, use sustainable lighting and make sure not to waste water. The house is well organized and tied up, you will get your own room with white goods already prepared, and you can enjoy the breakfast with me in the balcony, I have a nice view where you can see all riyadh's skybuildings! NB: I live near the airport so gotta bring your earplugs with u, because the sounds of the planes gets really loud sometimes especially in the balcony and the yard parts.

Speaking

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Alb

Alb

About Me

Very friendly and kind. Looking to make new friends and share adventures

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Stay with locals in Riyadh

Wessam

Wessam

Riyadh

Can host for:

4 days

About me

Easy going person who wants to chill

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Anaïs

Anaïs

Riyadh

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi, i am Anaïs, french lady living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. I enjoy to make people discovering Saudi and would also like to travel to different countries 🙂 My Instagram: a.frenchy.in.saudi

Speaking

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Safety in Saudi Arabia