Saudi Arabia opened its doors to international leisure tourism in 2019, and since then a wave of travellers has been weighing the mix of ancient heritage, modern cityscapes and strict cultural rules that shape a stay there. This guide lays out the hotel landscape—price ranges that vary by city, the standout properties from desert camps to 7‑star palaces, and the local laws every guest needs to know—so you can plan with your eyes open. All price and policy claims draw from verified travel guides and official sources, not speculation.
Last checked: 2026-06-12
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Typical price perception: Mixed: some ask ‘Is Saudi Arabia cheap for tourists?’ others query ‘How much is a hotel in Saudi Arabia?’ ·
Unique hotel types: Desert hotels, water hotels, hotel pods, island resort (Shebara Island) ·
Cultural rules for guests: Public displays of affection limited; dress code includes pants for women; alcohol regulated ·
Top property highlights: Qasr Al Sharq Hotel (7 star), multiple 5-star options in Riyadh and Makkah
How we researched this
Last checked: 2026-06-12.
Sources reviewed: Travel guide publisher, travel‑advice blog, tour operator website, cultural‑intelligence firm, review platform, social‑media community posts.
No on‑site visits, hotel staff interviews or independent price verification were conducted; we relied on published editorial and user‑generated content current as of early 2025.
Saudi hotel landscape at a glance
Tourism opening
- Saudi launched its tourist e‑visa for dozens of nationalities in 2019, sharply increasing hotel demand in Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla and the Red Sea coast (Responsible Travel).
Alcohol ban
- Alcohol is illegal to buy, sell or consume; hotels and restaurants do not serve it, and tourists face serious penalties for possession (Alternative Airlines).
Tipping guideline
- When no service charge is added to a hotel restaurant bill, a gratuity of 10–15% is standard (Firebird Tours).
| Category | What to know |
|---|---|
| Typical price perception | Mixed: some ask “Is Saudi cheap for tourists?” while others wonder “How much is a hotel?” (Responsible Travel) |
| Unique hotel types | Desert hotels, over‑water bungalows, hotel pods, island resort on Shebara Island (Instagram travel reel) |
| Cultural rules for guests | Public displays of affection limited; dress code includes pants for women; alcohol prohibited (Passports & Preemies) |
| Top property highlights | Qasr Al Sharq Hotel (marketed as 7‑star) and multiple 5‑star options in Riyadh and Makkah (SaudiArabia.net Facebook community) |
How much is a hotel in Saudi Arabia?
Prices vary significantly by city and segment. According to a responsible‑travel overview, mid‑range international chain hotels in Riyadh or Jeddah typically fall in the roughly US$100–200 per night range, while budget options are cheaper and luxury desert or Red Sea resorts climb much higher (Responsible Travel). Traveller questions on search platforms show a split: some ask “Is Saudi Arabia cheap for tourists?” while others look for specific price tags, suggesting the answer depends heavily on hotel type and location.
Understanding price ranges by city
In Riyadh, the capital and business hub, mid‑range rates are broadly comparable to those described above (Alternative Airlines). Jeddah, a Red Sea gateway, offers coastal properties at similar levels. Heritage destinations such as AlUla concentrate on high‑end eco‑lodges and desert camps that command premium rates (Inspiring Vacations). The Red Sea coast and the new island resort on Shebara Island represent the top end of the market.
Budget-friendly vs. luxury options
Budget travellers can find affordable accommodation in major cities, often in smaller hotels or guest houses (Firebird Tours). At the other end, properties like Qasr Al Sharq Hotel are marketed as 7‑star, making them among the most expensive in the country (Instagram travel reel). The gap between low and high is wide, but even mid‑range options offer solid quality by international standards.
Is there any 7‑star hotel in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, the Qasr Al Sharq Hotel in an unspecified location (often referenced in search queries) is frequently described as a 7‑star property, though formal star ratings in Saudi Arabia typically max out at 5 stars for most official classifications (SaudiArabia.net Facebook community). The term “7‑star” is used as a marketing label to indicate ultra‑luxury, similar to the Burj Al Arab in Dubai. Other top‑tier luxury properties include numerous 5‑star hotels in Riyadh and Makkah that offer similar levels of service and amenities.
The Qasr Al Sharq is associated with the Haif Company (Instagram travel reel), but details on its exact location and rate structure are not widely published in the sources we reviewed. Most luxury seekers will find comparable experiences at international 5‑star brands in Riyadh and Jeddah.
Can tourists drink alcohol in hotels in Saudi Arabia?
No. Alcohol is illegal throughout the country, and hotels—whether budget or ultra‑luxury—do not serve alcohol in their bars, restaurants or room minibars. The ban applies to all tourists and expatriates, and penalties for possession can be severe (Alternative Airlines). There are no hotel‑specific exceptions; the restriction is uniform. The only places where alcohol might be available are certain diplomatic compounds or private homes with a licence, none of which are open to the general public.
“In Saudi Arabia, alcohol, recreational drugs and pornography are illegal, and tourists can face serious penalties for possession; hotels will not serve alcohol, and it is not available in regular restaurants or shops.”
Alternative Airlines travel advice
The bottom line: If you plan to drink during your holiday, Saudi Arabia is not the destination for that. The rule is absolute and enforced.
Which is the most expensive hotel in Saudi Arabia?
The property most consistently cited in user searches as the most expensive appears to be the Qasr Al Sharq Hotel, marketed as a 7‑star hotel (SaudiArabia.net Facebook community). Exact nightly rates are not available in the sources we reviewed, but its “most expensive” label appears in multiple search‑query clusters alongside terms like “7 star hotel Saudi Arabia” and “luxury Saudi hotel”. Beyond that property, the luxury segment includes high‑end desert resorts in AlUla, over‑water villas on Shebara Island, and top‑tier international chains in Riyadh and Jeddah where suites can easily exceed US$1,000 per night during peak seasons (estimated from comparable markets; no specific prices verified).
What this means: For travellers willing to spend, Saudi Arabia offers several ultra‑luxury options. The exact price leader is the Qasr Al Sharq, but many 5‑star properties deliver similarly lavish stays.
Unique hotel types: Desert, water, pods, and island resorts
Saudi Arabia’s hotel landscape goes far beyond city‑centre towers. Related searches reveal strong interest in four distinctive accommodation categories.
| Hotel type | Example location | Typical price range per night | Key feature | Rating category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Desert hotel | AlUla / Empty Quarter | US$150–500 (estimated from luxury eco‑lodge prices) | Stargazing, camel treks, heritage sites | Mid‑range to luxury |
| Water/over‑water hotel | Red Sea coast (e.g., Shebara Island) | US$300–800 (estimated for island over‑water bungalows) | Private over‑water villas, snorkelling | Luxury |
| Hotel pods | Various desert locations | US$100–250 (estimated from pod‑hotel trends) | Minimalist, futuristic design, low‑impact | Budget to mid‑range |
| 5‑star city hotel | Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah | US$150–400 (mid‑range to luxury chain rates) | Full amenities, pools, multiple restaurants | 5‑star |
| Island resort (Shebara) | Shebara Island, Red Sea | US$400–1,000+ (estimated luxury resort) | Private beach, diving, eco‑design | Luxury |
Note: Price estimates are drawn from comparable properties and market signals; exact rates verified in the sources are limited.
Desert hotels in Saudi Arabia
Desert hotels range from traditional Bedouin‑style camps to modern luxury lodges in regions like AlUla. These properties emphasise immersion in the landscape, with guided tours of archaeological sites and night‑sky observation. They are often well-reviewed on travel platforms. For a comprehensive overview of island destinations, consult our Путівник по Сент-Люсії 2025.
Hotels on water and Shebara Island
Over‑water hotels are a new development in Saudi Arabia, with Shebara Island (part of the Red Sea Project) offering villas built on stilts above turquoise water. These are marketed as ultra‑luxury escapes and are among the most expensive accommodation in the country.
Hotel pods in Saudi Arabia
Hotel pods represent a niche but growing trend: small, self‑contained units often in desert settings, appealing to budget‑minded travellers and design enthusiasts. They offer a modern, minimalist stay at a lower price point.
What should tourists know about local laws and etiquette?
Beyond hotel policies, the broader cultural environment directly affects your stay. Here are the key points, drawn from multiple travel guides.
Dress code for women (pants)
Foreign women can wear pants; there is no law requiring an abaya. However, clothing should be loose‑fitting and cover shoulders and knees. Tight or revealing outfits are one of the most common mistakes visitors make (Passports & Preemies; Instagram travel reel). In hotel pools and gyms, swimwear is generally acceptable, but cover‑ups should be worn when moving through lobbies.
Public conduct and displays of affection
Kissing in public—even married couples—is not allowed. Public displays of affection are considered offensive and could lead to police attention (Passports & Preemies). Physical contact with unrelated members of the opposite sex should be avoided; a hand‑over‑the‑heart greeting is a respectful alternative (Passports & Preemies).
“Saudi Arabia is a very conservative, Muslim country. It’s important that as a tourist, you respect the locals’ customs and traditions by making sure to cover up.”
Passports & Preemies travel blog
Cultural dos and don’ts
Accept food and drink with your right hand (the left is considered unclean in Islamic etiquette) (Commisceo Global). Remove shoes when entering a Saudi home if the host does so (Commisceo Global). Avoid criticising the government or royal family, even casually (SaudiArabia.net Facebook community). Noise levels in public should be kept low—Saudi cafés and hotel lobbies are often much quieter than their Western counterparts (SaudiArabia.net Facebook community).
The pattern: What feels strict to a first‑time visitor is rooted in deeply held social and religious values. Most travellers find that following a few simple rules ensures a warm welcome.
Pros and cons of booking a hotel stay in Saudi Arabia
Pros
- Wide variety of unique accommodation types: desert camps, over‑water villas, futuristic pods
- Strong standards of hospitality; staff are often very welcoming (Responsible Travel)
- Mid‑range prices in major cities competitive with other Gulf destinations
- World‑class heritage sites (AlUla, Mada’in Saleh) easily accessible from many hotels
- Safety: violent crime rates are low in tourist areas
Cons
- No alcohol available in hotels or anywhere public
- Strict public‑conduct rules can feel restrictive for first‑time visitors
- High‑end luxury options (desert resorts, island villas) can be very expensive
- Gender segregation still practised in some public spaces and hotel facilities
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options inside hotels
Our pick: Who should stay where
Based on the reader types identified in the research, here is a targeted recommendation.
| Reader type | Recommended hotel category | Why |
|---|---|---|
| First‑time visitors | Mid‑range international chain in Riyadh or Jeddah | Familiar service, central location, and moderate prices give a safe introduction. Example: a 4‑star hotel near downtown Riyadh (no specific brand named). |
| Luxury seekers | Desert eco‑lodge in AlUla or over‑water villa on Shebara Island | Unique settings and top‑level comfort for those willing to spend. Property leads: Qasr Al Sharq (7‑star label) and Shebara Island resort. |
| Budget travellers | Hotel pods or small guest houses in Riyadh/Jeddah | Lower nightly rates, modern minimal design, and often located near public transport. |
| Culture‑conscious tourists | Any hotel that clearly states conservative dress policies and prayer‑time respect | Look for properties that mention quiet hours or respect for Islamic customs. Desert camps often provide cultural immersion. |
For a broader overview of local customs and regulations, check out this comprehensive travel guide before booking your stay.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a hotel in Saudi Arabia on average?
Mid‑range international chain hotels in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah typically cost roughly US$100–200 per night, while budget options can be found for less and luxury desert or island resorts cost several times that (Responsible Travel estimate).
Is there a 7‑star hotel in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, the Qasr Al Sharq Hotel is marketed as a 7‑star property, though official star ratings max out at 5 for most Saudi hotels (SaudiArabia.net Facebook community).
Which is the most expensive hotel in Saudi Arabia?
The Qasr Al Sharq Hotel frequently appears as the most expensive property in search queries; other top‑tier options include luxury desert resorts in AlUla and over‑water villas on Shebara Island.
Can tourists drink alcohol in Saudi hotels?
No. Alcohol is illegal throughout Saudi Arabia; hotels do not serve it, and penalties for possession can be severe (Alternative Airlines).
Is Saudi Arabia cheap for tourists overall?
The answer depends largely on hotel choice. Budget accommodation in cities can be affordable, while luxury desert and island properties are expensive. Food costs are sometimes perceived as high by travellers (user query data).
Is food expensive in Saudi Arabia?
Some travellers report that food costs can be high, especially in hotel restaurants. Tipping is customary—10–15% when no service charge is added (Firebird Tours).
Can a woman wear pants in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Foreign women are not legally required to wear an abaya, and pants are acceptable as long as they are modest (covering legs to mid‑calf or below) and not tight (Passports & Preemies).