Ar Rass City Guide

Local dishes like Kabsa and Mandi are popular. Some international and fast food options exist. Vegetarian and vegan choices are limited but improving. Late-night food is mostly fast food and some local eateries.

Nightlife focuses on cafes, restaurants, and malls. No bars or clubs are available.

Good coffee scene with local cafes and chains. Coffee is an important social drink.

Tipping is not required but appreciated. 5-10% at restaurants is common, and rounding up fares for taxis is normal.

Buy SIM cards easily from STC, Mobily, and Zain stores or the airport. STC offers best coverage and eSIMs. ID registration is needed.

Main areas are clean with basic waste management.

Many pharmacies and minimarts open late or 24/7. Some clinics have extended hours. Late-night food options mostly from fast food.

Supermarkets like Panda, Othaim, and Lulu stock local and some international goods. Most open 8 AM to 11 PM or midnight, with breaks for prayer times. Bargaining happens only in traditional markets.

Card payments work in big stores and restaurants, but cash is common for smaller shops and markets.

ATMs are easy to find at banks and shopping centers. Local ATM fees are low or none. Your home bank may charge foreign fees.

Local schools follow the Saudi curriculum and teach mainly in Arabic. International schools are mostly in bigger cities.

No strong digital nomad community or co-living spaces here.

Parks like King Fahd Park offer green areas for walking and relaxing.

Parks and tracks for running exist. Air quality can suffer during dust storms.

Several men’s and women’s gyms available, often segregated.

Some private clubs have tennis courts.

Padel is growing; a few facilities may offer courts.

Few yoga studios; some gyms include yoga or stretching classes.

Limited information; some gyms offer boxing or fitness with martial arts elements.

No skiing available.

Limited to pools; no natural water sports available.

No surfing due to inland location.

No diving due to distance from coast.

Hospitals like Ar Rass General and Al-Qassim National provide healthcare. Some English-speaking staff available. Pharmacies are common and well stocked.

Tap water is not safe to drink directly. Use bottled water instead.

Family-friendly parks and malls with playgrounds and kid-friendly spots are common. Baby supplies are easy to find.

Strict laws against LGBTQ+ expression. No safe public spaces.

Pet restrictions are strict; few pet-friendly public places. Veterinary services available.