Making the most of King Abdulla Port
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
The port lies north of King Abdullah Economic City, also called KAEC.
Cruise passengers departing Saudi Arabia or arriving through one of its ports can use the country's new eVisa, priced at about 130 Euro.
Saudi Arabia do's and dont's
Alcohol and drugs are completely prohibited in the country, where Sharia, or Islamic law, is strictly enforced. Ship bars open and restaurants serve alcohol once the vessel is 12 nautical miles from the Saudi coastline.
Bring a doctor's prescription for any medication. Men and women should dress modestly in public, covering shoulders and knees and avoiding tight-fitting clothing or items with profane language or images. Female tourists no longer need head coverings when walking around, but must cover their heads in places of worship.
In public, it is simply not done to walk down the street hand in hand or display affection.
Homosexual or extra-marital sexual relations, including adultery, are illegal and may incur severe penalties; being transgender is also illegal. Transgender travellers to Saudi Arabia are likely to face significant difficulties and risks if authorities discover this. However, MSC Cruises is determining its approach and has confirmed that gay cruisers are not banned from entering the Kingdom and sailing.
Do not connect your iPhone to a Bluetooth speaker and play it in a public spot.
Sharia law forbids public observance of any religion other than Islam, so check your jewellery. Jewish visitors may enter the Kingdom, except with an Israeli passport or a stamp from a visit to Israel.
Taking photographs or recording videos without permission is prohibited.
King Abdullah Economic City is a modern metropolis and booming tourist destination, 100 kilometers north of Jeddah on the Red Sea coast. Conceived in 2005 to attract international business, KAEC also has a strong leisure appeal. The Royal Greens Golf & Country Club, among the Middle East's most renowned golf clubs, hosts international tournaments, while a motorsports park is under construction in the recently developed Lagoona leisure area. Another draw is the expansive waterfront, enjoyed year-round because KAEC's desert climate averages 28 degrees C, extending from the bike-friendly…
The massive Museum of Science and Technology displays artifacts on the contributions of Muslim scientists, inventors, engineers and mathematicians. Jabir ibn Hayyan, Abbas bin Firnas, al-Kindi, al-Razi, al-Jazari and Taqi al-Din were the finest scientists, inventors, engineers, mathematicians and teachers of the time. Copies of the famed Muslim engineer al- Jazari's huge Elephant Water Clock and Castle Clock are held here. Water-raising machinery and other mechanical systems in the building show technological progress around the world, alongside other interactive exhibitions and displays tracing the…
Nearby places
For a delightful day in King Abdullah Economic City, plan time at Yam Beach and Pure Beach, among Saudi Arabia's finest beach destinations. Both are notable for beautiful water, a wonderful atmosphere and golden sand. On the virgin Bay La Sun district coastlines, Yam Beach has a natural pool enclosed by coral reefs. These KAEC beaches support paddle-boarding, kayaking and snorkeling, while those not wishing to enter the water can relax and recharge on the nearest sunbed.
Food and shopping
Shopping mall hours are Saturday to Tuesday, 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM, and Wednesday & Thursday, 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM.
Money
Saudi Arabia's currency is the Saudi riyal (SAR).
Staying connected
Arabic is Saudi Arabia's official language, while English is widely understood.
Internet access is available in malls and cafes.