More Information

Pakistan at a Glance:

Official Name: Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Pakistan is a Parliamentary democracy: constitutionally composed of President, executive and judiciary. President is the head of the state and supreme commander of the Armed Forces; Prime Minister is the head of the Government.

Basic Facts:
Population 135.28 million
Ethnic composition 95% Muslims, 5% others
Per capita income US$ 460
Currency Pak Rupee
Exports Cotton, textile goods, rice, leather items carpets, sports goods, fruits, handicrafts
Sea Food (Fisheries)
Imports Industrial equipment, vehicles, iron ore, petroleum, edible oil
Languages Urdu (National language) English (Official)
Literacy rate 38.9%
National Flower Jasmine
Flora Pine, Oak, Poplar, Deodar, Maple, Mulberry
Fauna The Pheasant, Leopard, Deer, Ibex, Chinkara, Black buk, Neelgai, Markhor, Marcopolo sheep, Green turtles, River & Sea fish, Crocodile, Water Fowls
Popular games Cricket, Hockey, Football
Agriculture Major crops are cotton, wheat, rice and sugarcane
Total cropped area 22.14 million hectares
Industry Textiles, cement, fertiliser, steel, sugar, electric goods, shipbuilding
Major Airports: 6 - Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar and Gwadar
Seaports International : 2 - Karachi and Bin Qasim
Domestic: 3 - Minora, Gwadar and Pasni

Pakistan National Flag
Dark green with a white vertical bar, a white crescent and a five-pointed star in the middle. The Flag symbolises Pakistan's profound commitment to Islam and Islamic world.

State Emblem
The State Emblem consists of:
1. The crescent and star which is symbol of Islam
2. The shield in the centre shows four major crops
3. Wreath surrounding the shield represents cultural heritage
4. Scroll contains Quaid's motto: Unity, Faith, Discipline

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan emerged as an independent State on 14 August 1947. It comprises four provinces: Punjab, Sindh, North West Frontier and Baluchistan, besides the Federally Administered Tribal Areas. Islamabad is the federal capital. Over 97 per cent of the country's population is Muslim.

Pakistan covers an area of 796,095 sq.km. lying between latitude 24 degree and 37 degree North and longitude 62 degree and 75 degree East. The country borders Iran on the West, while India in the east, Afghanistan in the north and north-west and the People's Republic of China in the north-west to north east.

Climatically, Pakistan enjoys a considerable measure of variety. North and north- western high mountain ranges are extremely cold in winter while the summer months from April to September are very pleasant. The vast plains of the Indus Valley are extremely hot in summer and have cold weather in winter. The coastal strip in the South has a temperate climate. There is general deficiency in the rainfall. In the plains the annual average ranges from 13 cm. In the northern parts of the lower Indus plains to 89 cm. In the Himalayan region. Rains are monsoonal in origin and fall late in summer.

Capital Cities

Islamabad (The Federal Capital of Pakistan)
Islamabad lies at the base of the Margalla Hills adjacent to Rawalpindi, Punjab, on the north side. It became Pakistan's capital in 1959. The ground breaking started in October 1961. In relatively short span, Islamabad has become one of the most impressive capitals in the world, exuding hope and confidence in Pakistan's future.

Karachi (The capital of Sindh Province)
The capital city of Sindh was the capital city of Pakistan until 1959 and birth place of the Quaid-I-Azam. Karachi rubs shoulders with most of the industrialised cities of the world, boasting massive business and commercial centres, tall buildings and beautiful beaches. Karachi, the main seaport of Pakistan also serves as Naval Centre and houses Pakistan National Shipping Corporation.

Lahore (The capital of Punjab Province)
The Capital of Punjab is historical city which proudly hosted the passing of Pakistan Resolution in 1940 by Muslims League under the inspiring leadership of Quaid-I- Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah. Lahore is also a proud custodian of Pakistan's historical and cultural heritage. Being the centre of cultural and literary activities it may rightly be called the cultural capital of Pakistan. The warm and receptive people of Lahore are known for their traditional hospitality.

Peshawar (The capital of Frontier Province)
Boasting of rich and varied traditions and culture, Peshawar the capital of NWFP, is city of lion-hearted people, the proud Pathans. Like other main cities, Peshawar also houses impressive historical places, like Qissakhwani Bazaar, Masjid Mahabat Khan.

Quetta (The capital of Balochistan Province)
Nestling in the picturesque valley between the Murad and Chiltan mountains, Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, is located on the cross-roads leading towards Iran. Quetta takes pride in producing onyx, and onyx-products, and a variety of juicy and dry fruits.

Tourist attractions

Pakistan is a land of many splendours, with rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty. With a varied terrain ranging from the snow-capped mountains in the north to the sunny beaches in the south, Pakistan abounds in tourist attractions.

What makes Quetta and Ziarat valleys the tourists' attraction is that the former is rich in archaeological sites while the latter is surrounded by one of the oldest Juniper forests in the world. Some trees are well over 5,000 years old. In addition, fruit orchards, spread in acres, provide a variety of delicious fruits as apple, black cherry, plums, peaches, pomegranate, apricots, olives etc, and enhance to the beauty of the valleys.

Murree
Murree is one of the most picturesque and well-developed hill station of Pakistan. Recently added, for the tourists, Patriata chair lifts have enhanced the beauty of the Valley. In its close proximity are Gallian which represent nature in its purest and beautiful form.

Northern Areas
The string of beautiful valleys and mountains in the Northern Areas include, Swat, Hunza, Kaghan, Chitral and Gilgit. These area are so charming and enticing that they represent paradise on earth. The People are simple, innocent and large-hearted.

Hanna Lake
The seasonal water reservoir for the city of Quetta, Hanna Lake is ideal place for fishing and boating in the summer months.

Archaeological Sites

Pakistan's archaeological sites are located at a number of places such as Moenjodaro, Harappa, Kot Diji, Taxila, Chakwal, Takht Bahi, Quetta, Dir and Swat. These remind one of the remote past starting from the Stone Age down to the prehistoric Indus Valley Civilisation and further closer to our times.

Harappa and Moenjodaro
The ancient twin cities of Harappa and Moenjodaro are relics of glorious Indus Civilisation. These represent the earlier symbols of civilised society and our living proofs that earlier civilisation was aware of need of cloths, utensils, pottery, well-aired rooms, well-conceived drainage system and sanitation.

Kot Diji
Discovered in late fifties, Kot Diji, 40 km east of Moenjodaro on the left bank, is one of the earliest sites with a wall four to five metres high. This discovery gave new evidence of pre-Harappan culture and pushed back Pakistan's history by another 500 years.

Taxila
Taxila is not just one site, in fact, it is combination of several cities built and destroyed over hundreds of years among beautiful hills, Taxila Museum houses some of the finest specimens of Gandhara sculpture, gold ornaments and scientific instruments. Taxila was site of a great centre of Buddhist learning as well.

Rohtas Fort
The Rohtas Fort, near Jhelum, was built by Sher Shah Suri and his descendants in 16th century. One important aim of its construction was to subdue the Gakhars who had refused to bow before Sher Shah Suri at the cost of their vows of friendship to the Mughals.

Khewra Salt Ranges
Lying in proximity of river Jhelum, the Salt Ranges are said to be world's oldest and largest mines producing finest quality of rock salt. Chakwal Valley The artefacts belonging to the Stone-Age have been found near village Dhoke Pathan at river Swan. The valley was inhabited by Dravidians around 1000 BC, followed in much later years by the Aryans who settled around Katas. The relics of 10thg century have also been found there.

Geographical Facts - Area (Sq.Km)

Pakistan 796,095
Provinces:
Punjab 205,344
Sindh 140,914
NWFP 74,521
Balochistan 347,190
FATA 27,220
Islamabad (Capital) 906

Mountain Peaks
Mountain Peaks--------------------Height--------------------World Rating
K-2 (Mount Godwin Austin)-------28,250 ft./8611 m---------2nd
Nanga Parbat----------------------26,660 ft./8126 m---------8th
Gasherbrum-I----------------------26,470 ft./8068 m---------11th

Rivers
Rivers Length
The Indus--1,800 miles
Jhelum--513 miles
Chenab--772 miles
Ravi--560 miles
Sutlej--964 miles
Beas (tributary of Sutlej)--247 miles

Glaciers
Siachin 75 km
Batura 55 km
Baltora 62 km

Deserts
Thar (in Sindh)
Cholistan (in Punjab)
Thal (in Punjab)

Lakes
Manchar (in Sindh)
Keenjhar (in Sindh)
Hanna (in Balochistan)
Saif-ul-Maluk (in NWFP)
Satpara (in Northern Areas)
Kachura (in Northern Areas)

Major Dams
Mangla Dam
Tarbela Dam
Warsak Dam.

United Kingdom (UK) at a Glance:

Think of England and rolling green hills, fields and hedgerows, Constable and Turner landscapes, royalty, castles, palaces, cathedrals, bustling modern cities and centuries of history come to mind. Wherever you are in England you won’t be far from an ancient ruin, castle or majestic country house and garden. But you also won’t be far from an exciting major city, a National Park, sandy beach or dramatic coastline.

From the sandy beaches and cliff hugging fishing villages of Cornwall, to the dramatic Cumbrian coast, from the White Cliffs of Dover to the pleasure beaches of Blackpool, the coastline of England offers delights and surprises.

Move inland and you'll find an abundance of pretty villages, historic and modern architecture and ancient ruins. The settings range from the fens and flatlands of East Anglia, through the charm of the Cotswolds, where picturesque villages nestle among rolling hills, to the drama of mountain ranges like the Pennines. Weald, wold, moor, vale and dale, the English landscape provides a huge variety to the visitor looking for peaceful relaxation or physical challenge.

The history of England is written in its monuments. The earliest, mysterious prehistoric stone circles, burial chambers and hillside chalk figures dot the countryside. Roman ruins are found from the South to Hadrian's Wall in the far North. Medieval, Tudor and Jacobean churches, palaces and houses give way to gracious Georgian crescents, elegant flat fronted houses, and Victorian gothic fantasies, often juxtaposed with modern, cutting edge designs in the cities and towns

This table gives a general guideline (but no guarantee!) of what to expect in any given month so will help you decide which month would suit you best.

From March until May spring will have arrived, there is a good chance of fine weather but the tourist season will not yet be in full swing.

June through to September is the peak summer period and so the weather should pick up, but remember the crowds will be swelling (accommodation can be hard to find during these months). Gardens will be in full bloom, the evenings long and the warm days just right for wandering around. But if you hate crowds and queuing, avoid these months.

October and November are the months when autumn sets in, and if the air is crisp and dry then this time of year is wonderful. But then again, it might just as easily be damp and misty. But whatever the weather you will probably get uncrowded museums, empty parks and, in London, more luck getting tickets to the theatre.

December through to February is the winter period, and although you will be unlikely to get extremes of cold, it is quite likely to be pretty dark and miserable. But these are also the magical months of Christmas and New Year, with wonderful window displays of Christmas shopping, candle-lit church services and fabulous New Year sales.

As a general guideline the peak season is between April and October and for a first visit, these months are probably the best.

Climate
The climate in Britain is very temperate and so there are no distinct 'wet' or 'dry' seasons and extremes of temperature are rare. Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter are all quite distinct, but the seasons do merge quite gently into one another.
The UK is well known for its rainfall and you can expect rain in every month, even at the height of summer, and so an umbrella is a must. It is also worth noting that changes in the weather can be sudden - it is not unknown for rain, hail and sunshine to all appear one after the other in one afternoon - so you should prepare for all eventualities. The best thing to do is to take lots of layers of clothing with you so that you can cope with anything.

In general terms, it will be colder the further north you go, the south coast tends to be drier than the north and the prevailing winds mean that it is wettest in the west. As the whole of the UK lies quite far north and so daylight hours vary enormously throughout the year. In summer the sun will generally be out from 6.30am to 10pm (longer in Scotland), giving you wonderfully long days, but in winter it gets dark quite early, particularly in the north.

You would think that by now, Brits would be used to their temperamental climate, but no! A touch of snow and roads grind to a halt, a few weeks without rain and drought is declared, and in autumn a few leaves on the line can bring trains to a standstill!

A National Obsession
You will probably find that the British are obsessed with the weather! As far back as the 18th Century, it was noted that 'when two Englishmen meet, their first talk is of the weather.' (Dr Samuel Johnson).

To sound like a native, try pointing out the obvious, for example comment 'a bit windy, isn't it' when its blowing a force 9 gale, or say 'oh, look. It's raining' in the middle of a downpour!

This obsession is also evident in the wealth of sayings and superstitions regarding the weather. Examples include the superstition that if March comes 'in like a lamb' it goes 'out like a lion', and the sayings 'a red sky at night is a shepherd's delight, and a red sky in the morning a shepherd's warning' ... and there are many more!

Health
Foreign visitors should check at home whether you need vaccinations or not, but the general rule is that you won't.

In case of ill health, EU citizens can receive free treatment at National Health Service hospitals. While for non-EU citizens treatment within NHS accident and emergency units only is free - if a non-EU citizen needs to be admitted to a ward, they will be charged. If you are charged medical fees, keep a record of you having paid in order to claim on your insurance. Generally speaking, you will find few health hazards when travelling in England.

The water is safe to drink unless a sign says otherwise (for example on trains), milk is pasteurised and you should find few problems with food if it is cooked properly. However, a change in climate, diet, and water supply in itself can cause problems such as an upset stomach, so take care, especially with your diet.

Pharmacists (usually referred to as Chemists in the UK) are only allowed to dispense a limited number of drugs, but for minor ailments such as an upset stomach or insect bites, they will be able to help. Most open during normal shop hours (Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm), but in larger towns there will usually be at least one pharmacy open late. Most local papers carry a list of pharmacy opening hours.
*Remember, if you have a prescription that you will need renewed while you are away, take a copy with you. And be careful to make sure you know the generic name for your medication, as brand names tend to differ.

Doctors surgeries vary their hours, so do not count on them being open. For example many close during the afternoons and then open again for a couple of hours in the evenings. Outside of hours try a local hospital or in emergencies, dial for an ambulance.

Insurance
* All foreign visitors to the UK should take out some kind of travel insurance to cover the loss, theft or damage of belongings. For Non-EU citizens it is advisable to also make sure that their insurance covers medical treatment, and possibly dental treatment. Always check your existing policy to avoid paying out unnecessarily.

* British tourists should check their household insurance policies, as many will include cover against theft, loss or damage. If you are not covered, you should consider taking out some form of policy to protect your possessions.

If you are unfortunate enough to be the victim of theft, inform the police and then ask for a copy of the police report as this will normally be needed when claiming against insurance policies.

Emergencies
The police in Britain are generally very friendly and helpful, and are commonly known as 'Bobbies'. Officers on the beat (street duty) are easily spotted by their dark blue uniform topped by a domed hat with a silver point on the top. If you are lost and spot a Bobby do ask for directions as they will usually be happy to help.

In case of accident, most major towns and cities will have a hospital with an accident and emergency ward, however, in more rural districts the nearest hospital may be a distance away so your best bet would be to call an ambulance or the police.

Crime
Britain has a reputation of being a pretty safe place as violent crime is quite rare. But crime does occur and tourists are particularly vulnerable so precautions and common sense are still advisable, particularly in cities. Here are some pointers:

Try not to carry large amounts of money or obvious symbols of wealth, and keep your wallet or purse out of sight (back pockets are a big no). Pickpockets do tend to operate in crowded areas, for example the London Underground, so in busy areas do not carry bags where you can't see them for example on your back.

Make sure that you protect your passport, tickets, visa documents etc by carrying them on your person, preferably underneath clothing in a pouch or money belt. Never leave valuables lying around your hotel room or in your car. And if you are backpacking or staying in hostels buy a padlock so that you can secure your possessions in lockers.

Be particularly careful at night. At all times try to stick to busy, well-lit places. And if you have to use public transport at night it is worth taking some extra care - if you are on a bus, try to sit near the driver; or on a train, choose a carriage that has passengers already in it.

Make sure that you take notice of advice from local people. If they tell you an area is unsafe, do not go there.

And above all, trust your instincts. If a situation feels bad, try to get somewhere well lit, with lots of people around where you will feel safer.

Scams
As elsewhere in the world, in the UK you may come across people who try to exploit the unsuspecting. When on holiday, tourists often let down their guard and that makes them especially vulnerable to scams. So again, caution and common sense is vital.

For example, be wary of offers of free lifts and never use an unlicensed taxi, as you may find yourself being driven around in circles with an extortionate fare to pay at the end. Always use a metered cab or official minicab company. Reputable taxis will always have their license displaced on the back and drivers will carry identification.

And if an offer of accommodation sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be particularly wary of hotel or hostel representatives lurking around major transport stations.

Also be wary of efforts to attract or divert you attention (for example with street shows) as you may find your bag is the target of pick pockets.

And do not buy tickets to the theatre, sporting events or tourist attractions on the black market. You will probably find that your ticket is not valid and you will have lost your money.

Luckily, these sorts of situations are rare and most people you meet will be honest and trustworthy. So just keep your wits about you and you will be fine.

Beggars
You may well come across beggars in the UK, particularly in the larger cities. In the vast majority of cases you shouldn't feel threatened or intimidated, but if you do report the incident to the police.

And if you want to hand out money, make sure that you exercise some caution and common sense. For example do not flash around a huge wallet but carry some loose change.

And if you don't believe in giving money directly to beggars, there are several charities you could donate to, for example 'Shelter' is a charity which helps the homeless. You may also see street vendors selling a magazine called the Big Issue which is a popular weekly newspaper sold by homeless people who benefit directly from the sales they make.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) at a Glance:

Formed in December 2, 1971, it is a federation of the following seven emirates -
Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain.

Location: It lies in the Arabian Peninsula at the tip of the rhinoceros horn that protrudes into the Persian Gulf.
Geographic coordinates - 24 00 N, 54 00 E.
Area: 83,600 square kilometres / 32,400 square miles (Roughly the size of Portugal or Maine)
Religion: Islam
Language: Arabic is the official language. Other languages like English and Hindi are widely used, including Urdu, Malayalam, Tagalog. Capital: Abu Dhabi
Time difference: G.M.T: + Four hours; Eastern Standard: +Nine hours
Currency: Arab Emirates Dirham (Dh or AED, pronounced dir-ham); One UAE Dirham = 100fils
Exchange rate: Dh3.6780 = US$1.00
Internet domain: .ae
International dialling code: +971
Life expectancy: 71.4 years (1994)
Literacy rate: 84.6 per cent (1995)
Population: 2,377,453 (1995)
Head of State: President His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

Visas

Citizens of GCC countries (Gulf Cooperation Council: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the Sultanate of Oman) and British nationals with the right of abode in the UK do not need visas to enter the UAE. GCC nationals can stay more or less as long as they like. Britons can stay for a month and can then apply for a visa for a further two months.

Israelis and travellers whose passports bear Israeli stamps are not issued visas.

For an individual to sponsor a visit visa, they must earn over Dh3,000 (about $US815) a month and hold a valid residence visa.

For others, the easiest and most common way to enter the UAE is on a hotel-sponsored visa. This means either a 15-day transit visit or a 30-day visit visa. The difference is that the transit visas cannot be extended. The visit visa can be extended for another 30 days by the hotel that initially acted as sponsor. To get a visa, you must first telephone or fax the hotel making a reservation and requesting a visa. Normally the hotel will require you to stay from one to three nights. You must also fax the hotel a copy of your passport along with the reason for your visit -- tourism is an acceptable reason -- and your arrival date. Make sure the hotel faxes you a copy of the visa when it is ready or the airline may not allow you to board the flight. The time needed to process a visa usually ranges from two days to three weeks.

Whatever kind of visa you request, it will be deposited at the airport for you to collect upon arrival. Transit visas cost Dh 120 and visit visas Dh 60, but the normal hotel charge for the service is about Dh 180.

If your passport shows any sign of travel to Israel, you will be denied entry to the UAE.

Note: Visa laws and regulations are subject to change without notice. It is advisable to contact the UAE Embassy or Consulate nearest to you for clarification.

Saudi Arabia at a Glance:

Visas

Fact File
Official Name: Al-Mamlaka al-Arabiya as-Saudiya (The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia)
Area: 2,250,000 square kilometers (868,730 square miles)
Physical Features: Deserts, Plateaux, Mountains Highest Point: Jabal Sawda
Population: 21.4 million (1999 estimate): 77% urban, 23% rural
Language: Arabic
Religion: Islam
Flag: Green Banner of Islam, bearing the inscription:
"There is no God but God; and Muhammad is his Messenger".
The sword was added in 1906, symbolizing the military successes of Islam and of Ibn Saud, founder of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Anthem: "Sarei Lil Majd Walaya"
Currency: Saudi Riyal
Capital: Riyadh (Estimated population 2001: 4.3 million)
Head of State and Prime Minister: King Fahd bin Abdul Aziz, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques
Highest Court: Supreme Council of Justice Administrative
Regions: Al-Baha, Al-Jouf, Asir, Eastern, Hail, Jizan, Madinah, Makkah, Najran, Northern Border, Qasim, Riyadh, Tabouk

Hajj and Umrah visas
A hajj visa is one that is issued to a Muslim wishing to take part in the hajj, which occurs during the first half of the twelfth Islamic month. Hajj visas are issued according to a quota system -- one for every 1000 Muslims in a country's population. Generally, it is very difficult -- not to say impossible -- to get a hajj visa outside one's home country.

An umrah visa is issued to any Muslim who wishes to visit and pray in the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah. The umrah visa is issued at any time other than the actual hajj. In order to get an umrah visa, application must be made in one's home country or in the country in which one holds permanent residence.

If the applicant is not from a Muslim country or does not have a Muslim name, he will be asked to provide an official document listing Islam as his religion. Converts must provide documentary evidence of their conversion from a mosque. An umrah visa is valid for a week and only for travel to Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah and on the roads linking them. If travel is to be completely by road, one is allowed to travel from the land border where he enters the Kingdom to the Holy Cities.

Other visas
Unlike other countries of the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council -- Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman), Saudi Arabia does not issue tourist visas nor is it possible for a hotel to sponsor a visitor.

Other than the two types of visas discussed above which are only available to Muslims, there exist visitor's visas, residence visas or transit visas.

In all cases, a person entering the Kingdom must have a Saudi sponsor, which means an individual or a company to vouch for the individual's conduct while he is in the country.

WARNING: All government business in Saudi Arabia is conducted according to the Islamic calendar. Any Gregorian (western) date you encounter on official documents is there purely for your convenience and is in no way to be construed as official. The official date will be the Islamic one and as the Islamic year is 11 days shorter than the Gregorian one, confusion can -- and often does -- result. For example, a one month visa is valid for an Islamic month, not a Gregorian one. If the visitor stays for a Gregorian month, there is a distinct possibility he will have overstayed his visa by a day or two and he will almost surely encounter difficulties with the authorities when he attempts to leave the Kingdom.

Visitor's visas
A visitor's visa, which is in actual fact a business visa, is obtained upon a formal invitation from the company or individual sponsoring the visitor. The invitation will include a visa number and it is primarily a statement that the sponsor has obtained a visa for the visitor and that authority to issue the visa has been sent to the appropriate Saudi embassy.

With the visa number in hand, the individual can go to the embassy BUT as visas are issued only by number and not by name, if one has no number, there is absolutely no point in going to the embassy. No number, no visa: the rule is simple and is applied to all applicants. If, on the other hand, the visitor is at the embassy in the morning with his number, he can usually collect his visa in the afternoon.

Residence visas
If you are going to live and work in Saudi Arabia, there is a great deal of paperwork, bureaucratic red-tape and such which your sponsor will have to complete on your behalf. In addition to his work in the Kingdom, you will also have to show copies of your employment contract and academic or professional qualifications. You will also have to have a comprehensive medical examination for which the embassy provides the forms. An important part of the medical examination is a blood test showing that you are HIV negative. (This is the AIDS test.) Once you and your sponsor have completed the paperwork, which usually takes about six weeks, you will be informed of your visa number which will entitle you to collect a visa.

Once you have arrived in the Kingdom, your visa will be converted to a residence visa and in almost every case, you will at this point surrender your passport to your sponsor and be given an igama, or residence permit, which you should carry with you at all times.

In the event of your leaving the country on a holiday, your sponsor will obtain an exit/re-entry visa for you and upon your surrendering your igama to him, you will be given your passport which is only valid for travel outside the Kingdom if there is an exit/re-entry visa stamped in it. If you are leaving the country and not returning, you will be issued an exit-only visa.

Transit visas
Airport transit visas There are 24 and 48 hour transit visas for people passing through Saudi airports. These are issued only after you have satisfied the Saudi embassy that you had absolutely no choice but a transit stop in the Kingdom. If you do get this kind of visa, you will have to surrender your passport to the immigration authorities at the airport and collect it on your way out.

Road transit visas
These are relatively straightforward. People driving between Jordan and either Yemen or Kuwait are normally given three-day transit visas. These are usually issued only by the embassies in Amman or Sana'a. You are required to go to the embassy with your carnet and a visa for the country at the other end of the trip.

People driving between Bahrain, Qatar or the UAE and Jordan are often given seven-day transit visas. People driving between Oman and Jordan are required to get the transit visa in Abu Dhabi.

However, bear in mind that all of this information is unreliable, as there are no hard and fast rules regarding transit visas. There are stories of individuals who obtain visas in their country of origin only to find them invalid at the Saudi border, or who arrive at the Saudi border having been instructed by their local Saudi embassy that this is the appropriate place to source a transit visa, only to be told that only an embassy can issue a transit visa. The basic rule, then, is to double-check all of your facts with your local Saudi embassy and, if possible, with the authorities in Saudi Arabia.

Visa extensions
These can only be obtained by your sponsor.

Saudi Arabia - Consular Information Sheet June 19, 2001
COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Saudi Arabia is a monarchy ruled by a king chosen from and by members of the Al-Saud family. The king rules through royal decrees issued in conjunction with the Council of Ministers, and with advice from the Consultative Council. Members of both councils are appointed by the king. Islamic law is the basis of the authority of the monarchy and provides the foundation of the country's conservative customs and social practices.

Saudi Arabia has a modern and well-developed infrastructure, and facilities for travelers are widely available, although the country does not issue visas for tourism except for approved tour groups. The workweek in Saudi Arabia is Saturday through Wednesday.

ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS:
Passports valid for at least six months and visas are required for entry. Visas are issued for business and work, to visit close relatives, and for transit and religious visits. Visas for tourism are issued only for approved tour groups following organized itineraries. Airport and seaport visas are not available. All visas require a sponsor, can take several months to process, and must be obtained prior to arrival. Women visitors and residents are required to be met by their sponsor upon arrival. Women traveling alone, who are not met by sponsors, have experienced delays before being allowed to enter the country or to continue on to other flights.

Visitors to Saudi Arabia generally obtain a meningitis vaccination prior to arrival. A medical report or physical examination is required to obtain work and residence permits.

Residents working in Saudi Arabia generally must surrender their passports while in the Kingdom. The sponsor (normally the employer) obtains work and residence permits for the employee and for any family members. Family members of those working are not required by law to surrender their passports, though they often do. Residents carry a Saudi residence permit (Iqama) for identification in place of their passports.

Foreign residents traveling within the Kingdom, even between towns in the same province, carry travel letters issued by employers and authenticated by an immigration official or a Chamber of Commerce office. Police at all airports and dozens of roadblocks routinely arrest and imprison violators.

Residents in Saudi Arabia who are departing the country must obtain an exit permit prior to leaving and an exit/reentry permit if they intend to return to Saudi Arabia. The Saudi sponsor's approval is required for exit permits. A married woman residing in Saudi Arabia with her husband must have her husband's approval to receive an exit permit. The father must approve the departure of any children.

Temporary visitors normally do not need an exit permit but may be prevented from departing the country if they are involved in a legal dispute.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of the relationship between the child and an accompanying adult and, when the child's parent(s) or legal guardian is not traveling with the child, permission from that adult for the child's travel. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

DUAL NATIONALITY:
The Saudi government does not recognize dual nationality. The American Embassy and Consulates General in Saudi Arabia inform the resident American community of security matters through a communications system known as the warden faxnet. Persons who are residing in the Kingdom should contact the Embassy or nearest Consulate General for information on their warden contacts. Americans arriving in Saudi Arabia are encouraged to register at the Embassy or Consulates General and obtain the most current security information (see section on Registration.)

CRIME:
Crime is generally not a problem for travelers in Saudi Arabia. However, private Saudi citizens who perceive that conservative standards of conduct are not being observed by a foreigner may harass, pursue, or assault that person.

MEDICAL FACILITIES:
Basic modern medical care and medicines are available in several hospitals and health centers in Saudi Arabia. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization can cost thousands of dollars. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.

MEDICAL INSURANCE:
Many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties, whereas travelers who have purchased overseas medical insurance have, when a medical emergency occurs, found it life-saving. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION:
Malaria is endemic to the low-lying coastal plains of southwest Saudi Arabia, primarily in the Jizan region extending up the coast to the rural area surrounding Jeddah. Visitors to the region are advised to take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. As a further precaution, all persons intending to travel to this region should seek medical advice regarding recommendations for prophylactic anti-malarial medications. Cases of Meningicoccal disease or meningitis are rare. However, during the Hajj season when there is an increased incidence of this disease among those traveling in the vicinity of Makkah and Medina, the Saudi Ministry of Health may require proof of immunization against meningitis. It is recommended that travelers be vaccinated for meningitis prior to travel to the Kingdom.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS:
Safety of Public Transportation: Good
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Good
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Fair
Availability of Roadside Assistance:

Poor Traffic accidents are a significant hazard in Saudi Arabia. Driving habits are generally poor, and accidents involving vehicles driven by minors are not uncommon. In the event of a traffic accident resulting in personal injury, all persons involved (if not in the hospital) may be taken to the local police station. Drivers are likely to be held for several days until responsibility is determined and any reparations paid. In many cases, all drivers are held in custody regardless of fault. Those involved in an accident should immediately contact their sponsor and their Embassy or nearest Consulate.

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS: Saudi customs authorities enforce strict regulations concerning importation into Saudi Arabia of such banned items as alcohol products, weapons and any item that is held to be contrary to the tenets of Islam. This includes non-Islamic religious materials, pork products, and pornography. Saudi customs and postal officials broadly define what is contrary to Islam, and therefore prohibited. Christmas decorations, fashion magazines, and "suggestive" videos may be confiscated and the owner subject to penalties and fines. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Saudi Arabia or one of Saudi Arabia's consulates for specific information regarding customs requirements.

CRIMINAL PENALTIES:
Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe. Persons violating Saudi Arabia's laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, imprisoned or even executed. Suspects can be detained, without charges or legal counsel and with limited consular access, for months during the investigative stage of criminal cases. As stated in Section 5 (CRIME), witnesses to possible criminal incidents also can be detained under similar circumstances for long periods of time. Even when released from detention, witnesses to criminal incidents may be prohibited from leaving the country until investigation of the incident is complete.

Penalties for the import, manufacture, possession, and consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences, fines, public flogging, and/or deportation. The penalty for drug trafficking in Saudi Arabia is death. Saudi officials make no exceptions. Customs inspections at ports of entry are thorough.

Besides alcohol products and illicit drugs, Saudi Arabia also prohibits the import, use, or possession of any item that is held to be contrary to the tenets of Islam (see "Customs Regulations" section above.) The private ownership of weapons is prohibited. Imported and domestic audiovisual media and reading matter are censored.

Homosexual activity is considered to be a criminal offense and those convicted may be sentenced to lashing and/or a prison sentence, or death.

Saudi authorities do not permit criticism of Islam or the royal family. The government prohibits the public practice of religions other than Islam, although private worship by non-Muslims generally is permitted. Non-Muslims suspects of violating these restrictions have been jailed.

EMPLOYMENT AND BUSINESS CONTRACT:
The written, Arabic text of a contract governs employment and business arrangements under Saudi law. Before signing a contract, obtain an independent translation to ensure a full understanding of the contract's terms, limits, and agreements. Verbal assurances or side letters are not binding under Saudi law. In the event of any contract dispute, the Saudi authorities refer to the contract. Since the Saudi sponsor holds the employee's passport and controls the issuance of exit permits, you cannot simply leave Saudi Arabia in the event of a labor or business dispute. If you break an employment or business contract, you may have to pay substantial penalties before being allowed to leave Saudi Arabia.

To change employers in Saudi Arabia requires the permission of the previous employer, which is discretionary. Saudi courts take seriously their responsibility to adjudicate disputes. This process, which is performed in accordance with Saudi law and customs, may require the hiring of legal counsel, should not be entered into without an Arabic translator, and can take several months.

SAUDI CUSTOMS, RELIGIOUS POLICE, AND GENERAL STANDARDS OF CONDUCT:
Islam pervades all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia. It is the official religion of the country, and public observance of any other religion is forbidden. Public non-Muslim religious services are illegal, and public display of non-Islamic religious articles such as crosses and Bibles is not permitted. Travel to Makkah (Mecca) and Medina, the cities where the two holiest mosques of Islam are located, is forbidden to non-Muslims.

The norms for public behavior in Saudi Arabia are extremely conservative, and religious police, known as Mutawwa, are charged with enforcing these standards. Mutawwa are required to carry special identification and usually are accompanied by uniformed police. However, in some cases they have detained persons even without police presence. To ensure that conservative standards of conduct are observed, the Saudi religious police have accosted or arrested foreigners, for improper dress or other infractions, such as consumption of alcohol or association by a female with a male to whom she is not related. While most incidents have resulted only in inconvenience or embarrassment, the potential exists for an individual to be physically harmed or deported.

The Saudi Embassy advises women traveling to Saudi Arabia to dress in a conservative fashion, wearing ankle-length dresses with long sleeves, and not to wear trousers in public. In many areas of Saudi Arabia, particularly Riyadh and the central part of the Kingdom, Mutawwa pressure women to wear a full-length black covering known as an Abaya and to cover their heads. Most women in these areas therefore wear an Abaya and carry a headscarf to avoid being accosted. Women who appear to be of Arab or Asian origin, especially those presumed to be Muslims, face a greater risk of being confronted.

Some Mutawwa try to enforce the rule that men and women who are beyond childhood years may not mingle in public, unless they are family or close relatives. Mutawwa may ask to see proof that a couple is married or related. Women who are arrested for socializing with a man who is not a relative may be charged with prostitution. Some restaurants, particularly fast-food outlets, have refused to serve women who are not accompanied by a close male relative. In addition, many restaurants no longer have a "family section" in which women are permitted to eat. These restrictions are not always posted, and in some cases women violating this policy have been arrested.

Women are not allowed to drive vehicles or ride bicycles on public roads.

In public, dancing, music and movies are forbidden.

Pornography, which is very broadly defined by Saudi authorities, is strictly forbidden.

THE HAJJ:
Muslims who are not resident in Saudi Arabia but who plan to participate in the annual Hajj pilgrimage to the holy cities of Makkah (Mecca) and Medina should pay close attention to the following:

All travel plans should be made through a travel agent in order to book accommodations in advance. Hajj visas are required and are valid only for travel to the two holy cities. Onward travel to Riyadh or other cities in Saudi Arabia is not permitted.

Foreign Muslim residents of the Kingdom may perform the Hajj once every five years. Advance approval must be obtained from an immigration office with the approval of the Saudi sponsor.

King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah is a large and modern facility, with a special terminal with facilities to accommodate hundreds of thousands of pilgrims. However, due to the extremely large number of people arriving, waiting time at the airport upon arrival during the Hajj may be as long as ten hours. Pilgrims should plan on a lengthy wait before leaving the airport on their way to Makkah or Medina. Travelers with only carry-on bags will find baggage transfer at the airport much easier than will those with checked baggage.

Before leaving home, travelers should make at least two copies of their passports, including the pages stamped with Saudi visas. One copy should be left with someone at home and one taken with the traveler. Passports are turned over to Saudi officials upon arrival in the Kingdom and will be given back immediately prior to departure. Upon arrival, all pilgrims are issued an identification card or wrist-band. Travelers should carry this identification at all times.

A money belt or pouch is the best way to carry valuables. Upon arrival it is possible to buy what is known as a "Hajj belt," which is somewhat larger than American equivalents. Pilgrims should bring sufficient funds to cover any unforeseen emergencies. If pilgrims need to purchase Saudi Riyals, there is a bank at the Hajj terminal, but it is not continuously open. Exchange and ATM facilities are available in the city of Makkah, but not at the holy sites.

Visitors should check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, their travel agent, and a Saudi consulate or embassy regarding recommended or required shots. Cases of Meningicoccal disease or meningitis in Americans traveling to Saudi Arabia are rare. However, during the Hajj season when there is an increased incidence of this disease among those traveling in the vicinity of Makkah and Medina, the Saudi Ministry of Health may require proof of immunization against meningitis.

Travelers should expect extremely crowded conditions during the Hajj. Temperatures in Makkah range between 68 and 90 Fahrenheit in February and March. There are many facilities providing water, public accommodations, and other amenities.