Making the most of Yanbu
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
Yanbu is a small port, but significant port development is planned. The aim is to create two new ports along this Red Sea coast, redevelop the ports at Yanbu and Jeddah as integrated parts of their cities, and develop another port on the Gulf Coast.
Saudi Arabia has introduced an eVisa for cruise passengers departing from the country or arriving at one of its ports. It costs about 130 Euro.
Watch the video.
Saudi Arabia do's and dont's
Alcohol and drugs are absolutely prohibited in the country, where Sharia, or Islamic law, is strictly enforced. Bars open and alcohol is served in restaurants once your ship is 12 nautical miles from the Saudi coastline.
Carry 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 clothes with profane language or images. Female tourists no longer have to cover their heads while walking around, but must do so in places of worship.
Walking down the street hand in hand or making any public displays of affection is simply not done.
Homosexual or extra-marital sexual relations, including adultery, are illegal and may carry severe penalties. Being transgender is also illegal. If authorities discover this, transgender people travelling to Saudi Arabia are likely to encounter significant difficulties and risks. However, MSC Cruises is determining its approach, while confirming that gay cruisers are definitely not banned from entering the Kingdom and sailing.
If you are considering connecting an iPhone to a Bluetooth speaker and playing it in a public spot, don't.
Public observance of any religion except Islam is prohibited by Sharia law, so check your jewellery. Jewish visitors may enter the Kingdom, but not with an Israeli passport or a stamp from a visit to Israel.
Pictures and videos may not be taken or recorded without permission.
In Madinah province, Yanbu is the Red Sea's second largest port city after Jeddah and one of its oldest seaports. It is the major port for the holy city of Madinah. As well as playing an important economic role, it has historical importance as a major port for receiving pilgrims. Yanbu's economy has traditionally been linked to the pilgrimage route, trade and date exports. The port is expanding to ease pressure on Jeddah port.
Yanbu has a natural harbor with fine Red Sea views and wide, largely unspoiled coral reefs. The area is excellent for water activities including scuba diving, fishing and birdwatching.
Food and shopping
From Saturday to Tuesday, shopping malls open 10:00 AM–12:00 AM. Their Wednesday & Thursday hours are 10:00 AM–2:00 AM.
Money
Saudi Arabia's currency is the Saudi riyal (SAR).
Staying connected
In Saudi Arabia, Arabic is official and English is widely understood.
Internet is available both in malls and in cafes.