About Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 

On September 23, 1932, King Abdulaziz Al-Saud laid the foundation of the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Large reserves of oil were discovered soon after, and within a span of six years, commercial production of oil began. The fortune of Saudi Arabia changed forever and the Kingdom rapidly moved on the path of a modern industrial state. Today Saudi Arabia holds a 25% share of the total Arab GDP and is the world’s 25th exporter/importer.

Visas 
Foreigners wish to visit Kingdom of Saudi Arabia must have a valid passport and a Saudi Business Visa. Sponsor in Kingdom issues an invitation letter to the respective Saudi Embassy/Consulates. It takes minimum three weeks for all visa processes.

Time 
Local time is GMT +3 hours in winter and summer.

Climate 
March to August - Summer Time temperature ranges approx. 35C-40C.
September to February - Winter Time temperature between 7C - 20C
For 5 days forecast please click : http://www.pme.gov.sa/5d.asp?key=2 

Currency 
Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR) = 100 Halalas.
1 US Dollar = 3.77 SAR

Plenty of ATMs across the Kingdom offer wide-ranging services from cash withdrawal to utility bill payment. Saudi Arabian Riyal can be easily converted to any foreign currency (dollars, euro, krona etc.) at any of the local banks.

There are no restrictions on the import or export of foreign or local currency through official means.

Credit Cards 
Visitors will find many credit cards are readily accepted by almost every business and retail shops. Master Card, Visa International, American Express and Diner's Club International are among those in common use.

Electrical Voltage 
110 or 220 volts

Business Hours 
Government

• Official working days are from Saturday to Wednesday and working hours - 07:30 to 14:30
• Weekends are Thursday and Friday
• During Holy month of Ramadan working hours 10:00 to 15:00

LM Erisson Saudi Arabia

• Official working days are from Saturday to Wednesday and working hours - 08:00 to 18:00
• Weekends are Thursday and Friday

Note: 
It is advisable to keep a low profile or avoid going out to the market during prayer times as the shop are closed and it is seen as respectful to abide by local customs.

Tourism 
When in Riyadh, one can visit gold and carpet souk, National museum, Al Masmak Old Royal Palace, Diraiyah Old City, Al Faisaliah Mall, Kingdom Mall and downtown markets.

Food 
Riyadh is rich with every kind of restaurant; Arabic, Lebanese, Indian, Pakistani, French, Italian, Thai, Greek, Chinese, Mexican, Japanese etc. There are numerous fast food centers in the city.

Drink 
Alcohol is strictly prohibited. Local and international non-alcoholic softdrinks are easily available in restaurants and super markets. Also well known international coffee bars are common.

Tipping 
It is customary to leave a tip for the waiter, the sum would average 10-15% of the bill total.