Saudi Arabia

Gastroenteritis, or traveller’s diarrhoea, can occur in Saudi Arabia due to exposure to food or water contaminated with bacteria. Symptoms commonly include loose or watery stools, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. Although hygiene standards are generally high in major cities, it is important to be aware of risks, prevention and treatment.

Most cases are mild and resolve within a few days. The most important treatment is maintaining hydration, particularly in hot weather, as fluid loss can quickly lead to dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions are recommended if diarrhoea develops. Medical care should be sought if symptoms are severe, last more than a few days, or are accompanied by fever, blood in the faeces, or signs of dehydration. Antibiotics are only reserved for severe illness and high-risk patients.

Extreme heat is one of the most significant health risks in Saudi Arabia, particularly between May and September, when temperatures can exceed 45°C. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop quickly, especially in travellers not accustomed to desert climates, during outdoor activities, or while attending crowded events such as pilgrimages.

Early symptoms may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, muscle cramps, and excessive sweating. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and may cause confusion, collapse, or loss of consciousness. To reduce risk, limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, wear loose, light-coloured clothing, seek shade, use sunscreen, and drink fluids frequently, even if you are not thirsty. Alcohol and caffeine can worsen dehydration and should be limited.

Malaria is present in parts of Saudi Arabia, including the Asir and Jazan regions near the Yemen border.

Malaria is a serious infection caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. Symptoms can include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue, and can appear days to weeks after exposure. Severe malaria can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Travellers visiting areas at risk of malaria transmission should consult a travel doctor about taking prescription antimalarial medication. Preventive measures also include using insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and sleeping in screened or air-conditioned accommodation.

Rabies is rare but present in Saudi Arabia, primarily in dogs, cats, and other mammals. Travellers should avoid contact with animals, especially strays, and seek immediate medical assessment for any bite or scratch. Urgent medical assessment is crucial as rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms develop.

Pre-exposure rabies vaccination is generally recommended for travellers who will be working with or spending considerable time around animals, and for those who will be travelling remotely or for an extended period.

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that has been reported in parts of Saudi Arabia, particularly in some urban and coastal areas. While uncommon, outbreaks can occur, and travellers may be exposed through mosquito bites during the daytime.

Symptoms often include fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, and fatigue. Prevention relies on avoiding mosquito bites by using insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and staying in air-conditioned or well-screened accommodation.

Respiratory infections, including Tuberculosis and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), are present in Saudi Arabia, although the risk to most travellers is low.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a long-term bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs and can cause cough, fatigue, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. TB is present in Saudi Arabia, but the risk for most short-term travellers is low.

MERS is a viral respiratory illness linked to close contact with infected people or camels, with most cases occurring in healthcare settings or after exposure to camels or camel products. Symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Travellers should practise good hand hygiene, avoid sick people and camels, avoid unpasteurised camel products, and seek medical care if respiratory symptoms develop during or after travel.

Rift Valley fever is a viral infection spread mainly through contact with infected animals, animal tissues, or mosquito bites. It is primarily associated with livestock such as sheep, goats, and cattle, and is rare in travellers.

Most human infections cause mild flu-like illness, including fever, weakness, and muscle pain, but severe disease affecting the eyes, liver, or bleeding disorders can occur in rare cases. Travellers should avoid contact with livestock, animal blood or tissues, and ensure meat and animal products are thoroughly cooked. Using insect repellent also helps reduce risk.

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection transmitted through contact with contaminated freshwater, where parasites enter the skin during swimming, wading, or bathing. The risk in Saudi Arabia is very low, but exposure can occur in untreated freshwater sources such as lakes, rivers, or irrigation canals.

Early symptoms may include a rash or itchy skin, followed weeks later by fever, cough, fatigue, or abdominal discomfort. Some infections can result in bleeding into the bladder and others bleeding into the bowel. To reduce risk, travellers should avoid swimming or wading in freshwater and choose well-maintained swimming pools or seawater instead. Safe water (boiled, filtered, or treated) should be used for bathing where freshwater exposure cannot be avoided.