Security Overview for Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is a centralized state governed according to the strict Islamic Sharia law. Because the country is home to the two holiest cities in Islam (Mecca and Medina), to which non-Muslims may not travel, the Saudi ruling family is often faulted by Islamic extremist groups for its alliance with the US and thus is a target for terrorist attacks.

The threat of terrorist attacks by extremist elements in Saudi Arabia remains high despite recent successes against militants by Saudi security forces. While only one successful terrorist attack has taken place since February 2007, more attacks are likely and security forces routinely arrest wanted militants. Since 2003, terrorists have employed a variety of techniques, including car bombings of housing compounds; complex attacks against offices; suicide bombings; shootings against individuals; assassinations; and kidnappings. Terrorists have often targeted individuals or organizations that failed to observe proper security posture.

The government's extensive counterterrorism campaign has resulted in frequent shootouts between police and suspected militants in many cities. Security checkpoints are common and may cause travel delays. Carry at least two forms of identification at all times.

Exercise extreme caution. Maintain as a low a profile as possible. Alter travel routes by modifying departure times, modes of transport and routes. Be aware of the possibility of people following you or observing your comings and goings. Avoid travel to the border areas with Yemen and Iraq. Also avoid areas where extremist groups are known to reside.

Violent and petty crimes are rare in Saudi Arabia because criminals face severe punishment. Follow common-sense precautions: Stay away from disreputable districts, avoid dark areas at night and be alert for pickpockets and thieves. Some minor incidents involving unruly youths have been reported, especially in Jeddah and Dharan. Most are perpetrated by unemployed young men.

Most Saudi police officers speak only Arabic and have a reputation for being unhelpful and inefficient. Police have been accused of torturing Western citizens accused of involvement in illegal alcohol sales.

Always respect and adhere to the Muslim Sharia Law. Saudi Arabia's Mutawwaiin (religious police), who regularly patrol areas frequented by travelers, may harass or detain anyone they believe is violating Sharia. Harassment of Westerners may increase as anti-US sentiment grows in the country. Women are especially at risk of being physically or sexually harassed. Dress conservatively at all times. Women should only travel in groups. Avoid displays of public affection. Homosexuality is illegal.

Civil unrest is illegal and highly uncommon. Several small Shia' protests in 2011 were violently repressed by security forces, leading to several deaths. Security forces have cracked down on nearly all forms of protest in the wake of the anti-government movements that gripped much of the region beginning in 2011 and will not allow demonstrations to take place. Large gatherings may occur in response to incidents such as traffic accidents or street brawls. Large crowds may block streets in celebrations following major soccer matches by the national or local teams. In the past, such celebrations have turned violent.

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How we determine a country's overall security rating

Each country's current overall risk rating is determined by considering categorical assessments in kidnapping, crime, security services, civil unrest, terrorism and geopolitical stability.

Minimal Threat

Most countries in this category have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with a low rate of unemployment. These countries have overall low rates of crime. Violent crime is almost non-existent. Petty crimes do occur, but are usually limited to petty theft and pick pocketing. Police and military services are trained and trustworthy, but may lack investigative and crime fighting equipment and skills. Strikes and demonstrations are rare and if they occur are usually well planned and managed and rarely spurn violent incidents. There are no known insurgent or terrorist groups.

Low Threat

Most countries in this category will have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with some unemployment. These countries have low crime rates. Violent crimes are rare and usually involve associated persons. Petty crimes such as theft and pick pocketing are a concern and travelers may be directly targeted. Risks can usually be mitigated with simple security measures. Police and military services are well trained and trustworthy but may lack adequate investigative equipment. Incidents of civil unrest such as strikes and demonstrations may disrupt daily life, but are usually non-violent and well coordinated. These countries may experience rare instances of domestic terrorist activity but are not threatened by international terrorism. Anti-government groups may be present but have little or no impact.

Moderate Threat

Most countries in this category will have a somewhat stable political infrastructure and economic system but unemployment and rising inflation cause some instability. These countries have moderate levels of crime. Violent crimes such as sexual assault and murder occur, but few are random incidents. Petty crimes, especially theft or destruction of unattended property, are common. Incidents of armed assault also occur. More threatening crimes are usually limited to urban areas or certain parts of the country. Police and military services may suffer from corruption and lack of training, but are generally adequate for investigations. Strikes and demonstrations can disrupt daily life and may easily spur violence. This country may have a variety of anti-government and domestic terrorist groups that are organized and outspoken against the government and may conduct incidents of violence. Small cells of international terrorist organizations exist but incidents of terrorism are not common.

High Threat

Most countries in the category have unstable political infrastructure and economic system with high rates of unemployment and inflation. Violent and petty crimes are common in most areas and random acts of violence do occur. Some areas may have a general state of lawlessness. Traveling alone, especially at night, should be avoided. There will be a large infiltration of arms in the population. Police and military services lack training and equipment. Both institutions are prone to corruption. Strikes and demonstrations are common and usually violent. Domestic terrorist and insurgent groups are active and well organized. They conduct bombings and other violent acts against government, local and international interests. International terrorist groups exist and may conduct activities within the country and abroad. The country may be involved in cross border warfare.

Extreme Threat

Most countries in this category lack a political infrastructure with any democratic premise and have a high rate of corruption. The economy is unstable with a high rate of unemployment. There is a very high rate of violent and petty crime. A general state of lawlessness exists in most urban and remote areas. Overland travel through the country must be avoided. Many domestic terrorist or rebel groups exist and are frequently active; areas of the country may be controlled by rebel factions. International terrorist operations may be well organized and active. Anti- government actions and large demonstrations are common and violent. Cross border and internal warfare occur.