Saudi Arabia, a land of deserts, mountains, Red Sea beaches, and ancient civilizations, is one of the most captivating places in the Middle East. From the skyscrapers of Riyadh to the archaeological marvels of AlUla, the country offers a rich blend of tradition and modernity. However, for many travelers, the idea of visiting Saudi Arabia can seem expensive. The good news? You can travel across this majestic country without breaking the bank.

With some planning, smart budgeting, and the right travel tips, you can explore the Kingdom without sacrificing experiences. This guide covers everything you need to know about traveling Saudi Arabia on a budget—transport, accommodation, food, attractions, and insider hacks.

Best Time to Visit for Budget Travelers

Timing your trip right is crucial when trying to save money. The best time to travel to Saudi Arabia on a budget is during the shoulder seasons, particularly from February to April and September to November.

During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and you can avoid the massive surge in prices during the Hajj pilgrimage or winter vacations. Hotel rates and flight tickets tend to be more affordable, and local attractions are less crowded.

Traveling off-peak also allows you to experience Saudi hospitality more personally, without the pressure of crowds or inflated tourist prices.

Affordable Ways to Get to Saudi Arabia

Getting to Saudi Arabia doesn’t have to be costly. Here are several ways to find affordable airfare:

Use fare comparison websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Momondo to find the cheapest routes.
Book early—flights tend to be cheaper if booked 2-3 months in advance.
Look for flights to secondary cities such as Dammam or Medina instead of Riyadh or Jeddah. These are sometimes cheaper and offer excellent connections.
Consider budget airlines like Flynas and Flyadeal that operate regionally and can offer great deals from neighboring countries.

Also, take advantage of new e-visa policies, especially if you’re from eligible countries, which make entry easier and less costly than in the past.

Getting Around the Kingdom on a Budget

Transportation within Saudi Arabia is both affordable and reliable, especially with the recent modernization of its infrastructure.

Buses: Companies like SAPTCO offer extensive and affordable intercity routes. You can travel between cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina for a fraction of what a flight would cost.
Trains: The Saudi Railway Organization and Haramain High-Speed Railway are excellent options, especially between Mecca, Medina, and Jeddah. Trains are punctual, clean, and budget-friendly.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber and Careem operate in most major cities. While slightly more expensive than buses, they offer convenience and are still cheaper than renting a car.
Car Rentals: If you’re traveling with friends or planning to visit remote areas, splitting the cost of a rental car can be economical.

The key is to plan your route strategically, booking tickets online in advance to benefit from discounts and to ensure seat availability.

Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options

Accommodation is often the largest expense when traveling, but in Saudi Arabia, there are plenty of affordable and comfortable options:

Budget Hotels and Motels: In most cities, you can find clean, air-conditioned rooms for as low as $25-$40 per night. Brands like OYO are popular and reliable.
Apartments and Furnished Flats: Platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com list short-term rentals that often come with kitchens, allowing you to save on food as well.
Hostels and Guesthouses: These are less common but are growing in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, catering to backpackers and solo travelers.
Couchsurfing: If you’re looking for a cultural experience and zero-cost accommodation, Couchsurfing communities in Saudi Arabia are welcoming and offer a unique opportunity to explore the Kingdom through local eyes.

Eating Well Without Spending Much

Saudi cuisine is a delightful mix of Middle Eastern and Arabian flavors, and luckily, eating well doesn’t require a big budget.

Street Food and Local Cafeterias: Shawarma, falafel, mutabbaq, and kabsa can be found everywhere and usually cost between $1 to $3.
Local Restaurants: Avoid international chains and instead opt for local restaurants serving traditional dishes. Meals are filling and can range from $5 to $10.
Supermarkets and Bakeries: If you’re staying in a rental with a kitchen, you can buy fresh ingredients from local supermarkets or grab snacks from bakeries for very little.
Food Courts: Malls in Saudi Arabia often have affordable food courts with a wide range of cuisines—Indian, Turkish, Arabic, and Asian.

Free and Low-Cost Things to Do

You don’t need to spend a lot to experience the essence of Saudi Arabia. The country is rich in cultural, historical, and natural attractions that are either free or inexpensive.

Mecca and Medina (for Muslims): These holy cities are deeply spiritual and largely free to explore. Entry is limited to Muslims only.
Historical Jeddah (Al-Balad): This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers free walking tours through ancient architecture and vibrant markets.
Desert Adventures: While guided desert tours can be pricey, exploring the sand dunes independently or joining a budget group trip can cut costs significantly.
Beaches in Jeddah and Dammam: Enjoy the Red Sea and Persian Gulf with no entry fees at public beaches.
Museums and Cultural Centers: Institutions like the National Museum in Riyadh or Ithra in Dhahran offer entry for a few dollars and present deep insight into the country’s history.
Hiking Trails and Nature Reserves: Places like Al Wahbah Crater and the Asir Mountains offer stunning hikes and are usually free to access.

These experiences let you truly explore the Kingdom while staying within budget.

Cultural Tips to Save Money and Stay Respectful

Understanding Saudi culture can enhance your travel experience and prevent unnecessary expenses:

Dress Modestly: While Saudi Arabia has relaxed some dress codes, it’s still wise and respectful to dress conservatively. This also helps you blend in and avoid drawing unwanted attention.
Respect Prayer Times: Shops and businesses often close during prayer. Plan your activities around these times to avoid inconveniences or delays.
Avoid Fines: Public displays of affection, littering, and photographing people without consent can lead to fines. Being respectful ensures a smoother journey and avoids extra costs.
Learn Basic Arabic Phrases: A few words in Arabic can go a long way in winning hearts and possibly discounts.

Hidden Gems That Won’t Cost a Fortune

Saudi Arabia has many underrated places that offer rich experiences at little to no cost:

AlUla (Old Town): Visiting the town is free, and you can marvel at its mudbrick homes and palm groves. While some attractions like Hegra have entrance fees, discounts are often available.
Najran: Near the Yemeni border, this region offers mud castles, colorful souqs, and an authentic Arabian vibe at low prices.
Abha: A city in the Asir Province, known for cool weather, scenic drives, and cable car rides that are more affordable than expected.
Taif: Famous for its rose gardens and local markets, this city is just a short drive from Mecca and a great budget getaway.

When you take the road less traveled, you not only avoid tourist traps but also discover how to truly explore the Kingdom on your terms.

Budget Travel Itinerary Example (7 Days)

Here’s a sample itinerary to help you explore the Kingdom in a week for under $500:

Day 1-2: Riyadh

National Museum, Al Masmak Fortress (Free or <$5)
Stay in a budget hotel ($30/night)

Day 3: Train to Al Qassim or Buraidah

Local markets, camel auction
Bus ride: ~$10
Accommodation: $25

Day 4-5: Medina (Train or Bus)

Explore religious sites (Free)
Eat at local restaurants ($5-7/meal)
Stay at a guesthouse ($20-30)

Day 6-7: Jeddah

Al Balad, Corniche, Red Sea beach (Free)
Street food and shopping in local souqs
Depart from Jeddah

With this plan, you’ll explore the Kingdom from urban hubs to coastal charm without overspending.

Final Tips to Stretch Your Riyals

A few final tricks can help you save even more:

Travel in a group to split accommodation and transportation costs.
Use loyalty points or rewards programs if you have them.
Pack light to avoid baggage fees.
Stay connected with a local SIM card for cheap internet and navigation.
Download local apps for deals on food, rides, and activities.

Traveling Saudi Arabia on a budget isn’t just possible—it’s incredibly rewarding. You’ll get to experience authentic Arabian culture, stunning landscapes, and historical treasures, all while being mindful of your expenses. So pack your bags, keep your itinerary flexible, and set out to explore the Kingdom affordably and adventurously.