Yanbu City Guide

Mandi, Kabsa, and grilled meats are local staples. Yanbu has Indian, Chinese, and fast food options. Larger restaurants can cater to vegetarians and vegans if you ask.

There are no bars or clubs. People spend evenings at malls, cafés, or parks.

Coffee is important in local hospitality. New specialty cafés and Arabic coffee houses are on the rise, but the scene is still developing.

Tipping isn't required, but small tips are welcomed for good service in restaurants, taxis, and hotels. 5-10% is the usual range.

Buy SIM cards at the airport or from STC, Mobily, or Zain stores in town. Bring your passport or ID for registration; eSIM is available with some carriers.

Streets are usually clean, especially in new areas and along the waterfront. Waste collection is regular.

Many pharmacies and minimarts are open late or all night. Hospitals offer 24/7 emergency care. Some fast food outlets serve late.

Major supermarkets like Panda, Danube, and Lulu Hypermarket sell both local and international products. Markets open early but may close during prayer times.

Card payments work in supermarkets, malls, and most restaurants. Cash is handy for taxis, smaller shops, and markets.

ATMs are easy to find at banks, malls, and supermarkets. Fees for foreign cards depend on the bank, so check with your provider.

Yanbu has several public and private schools. International schools teach in English; apply early as some have waitlists.

Yanbu has little in the way of digital nomad community. Most foreigners here are tied to industry, not remote work.

Parks and landscaped waterfronts like Yanbu Lakes Park give good access to green space for picnics and sports.

The Corniche and Lakes Park are good for running. Areas are safe and popular for walkers and joggers.

Gyms for both men and women are available. Sports clubs offer more activities like football and basketball.

Tennis courts are in some sports clubs and hotels. You usually book directly with the venue.

Padel courts are available in a few sports complexes. Rental and coaching can be arranged in larger clubs.

Yoga classes are held at some women’s gyms and private groups. Options are limited but growing.

A few gyms and clubs offer classes in Taekwondo, Karate, and some other martial arts. English-speaking instructors may be found in private gyms.

No skiing or resorts in or near Yanbu.

You can try kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing along the coast. Rentals are easy to find near the waterfront.

The Red Sea coast here is calm and not suited for surfing. No surf shops or rentals.

Yanbu is a top spot for diving and snorkeling, with easy boat trips to coral reefs. Local shops offer rentals and courses.

Main hospitals include Yanbu General Hospital and Royal Commission Hospital. Private clinics often have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are easy to find and usually open late.

Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Use bottled water, which is easy to find.

Public parks and playgrounds are common. Supplies for children are easy to find; some cafés and restaurants cater to families.

LGBTQ+ travelers should note that local laws are very strict, with high risks and no protections for LGBTQ+ people.

Public spaces and most accommodations are not pet-friendly. Vets and pet shops exist, but policies can be strict.