Travelogue: Traveling through Saudi Arabia as a woman alone AND diving at Five Corals & Seven Sisters

When I decided to travel to Saudi Arabia, I received questions and concerned looks from different quarters.
As a female tourist, it is quickly expected that you might feel uncomfortable or even unsafe in a country with strict rules, especially when it comes to women’s rights.
But my experience was completely different.
In fact, at no point did I feel threatened or uncomfortable.
In this blog, I want to share my experience, with a nod to the current rules and a respectful look at the culture.

Jeddah is safe and accessible

My adventure began in Jeddah, a vibrant city on the Red Sea.
What struck me immediately was the presence of police in the city center.
This made me feel safe, but I soon noticed that there was really no need to worry.
As a woman, I could walk around by myself just fine.
It felt almost like any other city in the Middle East, with perhaps just a little more strict rules about dress and manners, but never uncomfortable.

As for clothing, you don’t need to worry.
Summer clothes are fine, as long as you are a little more covered up in town.
It’s a matter of respecting their culture, and actually that’s not much to ask.
Of course you may wear your shorts and shirt on the boat or while diving, and you’ll find that the rules are a little looser in tourist areas, but more coverage in the city is sufficient.
You also feel more comfortable with it, otherwise you will be looked at more anyway.

Diving in the Red Sea at Five Corals and Seven Sisters

After a few days in Jeddah, the real adventure began: diving in the Red Sea.
With the liveaboard Almonda, we explored beautiful places like the Five Corals and Seven Sisters.
What made this trip so special was the mixed composition of the group.
Half of the people on the boat were Arabs, and they were incredibly friendly and easy to get along with.

As a woman, there was not a moment when I felt uncomfortable.
There was a relaxed atmosphere on board, everyone enjoyed the diving, the sun and nature.
It was nice to find that, despite cultural differences, we all shared one passion: diving.
Underwater, everyone is equal, and that created a kind of universal connection.

Minor Cultural Differences: Respect and Understanding

Still, there are some minor cultural differences you need to consider as a woman in Saudi Arabia.
For example, men don’t easily move out of your way on the street or stairs.
In some situations, you just have to get used to the fact that you won’t always be left in front.
It’s those subtle things that are noticeable, but again, not a big obstacle.

A funny incident occurred at the end of the week, when we wanted to take a group photo with the Almonda in the background.
Not all the Arab men wanted to be photographed with the women.
This probably had to do with the fact that we were standing in our summer dresses.
They are very polite and respectful, but prefer not to be photographed with a woman in lighter clothing.
No problem of course, we just kept this in mind.
It is their way of showing respect for their culture and religion.

The Current Rules and Women’s Rights

Saudi Arabia has gone through quite a few changes in recent years when it comes to women’s rights.
Women are now allowed to drive a car and have more freedom to travel, but there are still restrictions.
You notice that these changes are still in flux, and as a tourist you are a spectator of a fascinating process.
Most local women are very covered up, especially in the city, but they are as friendly and helpful as anyone else.

Yet I never felt I had to be wary or restricted.
Above all, it is important to be aware of and respect cultural rules.
Small adjustments, such as wearing a slightly longer skirt and covering shoulders and arms show mutual respect.
And yes, men are not likely to get ahead of you when taking a seat at the table, but that is a minor inconvenience compared to the wonderful experiences you can have here.

A Relaxed Journey with Respect for Culture

My trip to Saudi Arabia as a woman was a relaxing, engaging experience.
The nature and diving are breathtaking, the people are friendly, and with a little respect for the culture, you can effortlessly enjoy everything the country has to offer.
Don’t let the stories fool you; traveling to Saudi Arabia really can be a great experience, as long as you open up to the differences and enjoy the similarities.

So, if you have any doubts about traveling to Saudi Arabia as a woman, my advice: go for it!
The country and diving in Saudi Arabia is beautiful.
You will discover that the country has much more to offer than you may think, both above and below the water!