Culture

Inayah Sadiq explains why she recommends Saudi Arabia for holidays

January, 07, 2025-03:27

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Inayah Sadiq explains why she recommends Saudi Arabia for holidays: 

Inayah Sadiq, a travel content creator who spent 15 years living in Saudi Arabia, shares essential etiquette tips for visitors and addresses common misconceptions about the country. She advocates for Saudi Arabia as a holiday destination, highlighting its welcoming atmosphere and rich culture. As international tourism begins to flourish in Saudi Arabia, particularly with the upcoming 2034 World Cup, many travelers may be considering a visit but feel uncertain about the experience. Inayah's insights may help alleviate those concerns. In a recent video, she outlined six key etiquette rules to follow while in Saudi Arabia and provided additional information to MailOnline Travel about must-see locations, prevalent myths, and a suggested travel itinerary. When asked about her advice for those hesitant to visit, she emphasized the safety of the country and the warmth of its people, urging potential travelers to look beyond negative media portrayals.

Inayah is passionate about showcasing the beauty of Saudi Arabia, as evidenced by her experiences at notable sites like Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Edge of the World viewpoint, located approximately 100 kilometers from the capital. Visitors should not overlook the culinary delights and the vibrant souk shopping experience. Inayah emphasized that tourists ought to try Kabsa (a spiced rice and meat dish), mandi (meat and rice cooked in a pit), ma’moul (buttery cookies), maqshush (buckwheat bites drizzled with honey and ghee), and muttabbaq (stuffed pancakes). The souks provide an excellent opportunity for tourists to acquire spices and souvenirs while immersing themselves in Saudi hospitality and traditions.

She specifically recommended Souk al Zal in Al Dirah, Riyadh, as an excellent destination for this experience. It is essential for tourists to be aware of the local customs and regulations, as highlighted by Inayah in her TikTok video. In her comments to MailOnline, she stated: "As with any travel destination, exercising common sense and respecting local customs is crucial. Avoid making negative remarks about Islam or the Saudi state, always seek permission before photographing individuals, and adhere to local dress codes to ensure a respectful and safe visit.  "Modest attire is advised—women should cover their shoulders and knees—and it is important to honor local traditions. Alcohol is banned, and certain behaviors may be restricted.

"Keep interactions discreet, as public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Refrain from photographing locals, particularly women, and sensitive locations such as government buildings." Inayah also advised planning activities around prayer times, noting that some businesses may close during these periods. When greeting others or exchanging items, it is customary to use the right hand, and declining food or drink from a host is considered impolite. Traffic is another factor for travelers to consider.

Inayah remarked, "If I had to highlight one downside of Saudi Arabia, it would be the traffic in Riyadh. The surge in tourism and population growth has resulted in congested roads, often leading to longer travel times than anticipated. "However, with the recent introduction of the Riyadh Metro, this issue is expected to improve, providing a promising solution for more efficient transportation in the future."