Saudi Through your Lens – Photographing the Kingdom
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Here’s just under a thousand on how best to get snap happy in Saudi Arabia.
With camera phones and affordable DSLRs, photography is a popular and accessible hobby – whether for personal memories, the Instagram or TikTok clout, or as an artistic pursuit – and Saudi is no different. It helps that the Kingdom of Sights is an eye-catching place, from modern art to ancient heritage, traditional clothes to cutting-edge fashion, live music to sporting drama there’s always something to see and to snap – and you’ll often see Saudis snapping too!
So, read on to learn how to get the photos you want to take your experience to the next level and show others what they’re missing.
Am I allowed to take photos in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, of course! People here love taking photos and there’s a longstanding and thriving photography scene in the Kingdom.
Are there any customs I need to be aware of?
As with anywhere, it’s always polite to ask people’s permission and respect their privacy – Especially if you’re going to be taking a photo of them where they’re clearly identifiable.
Are there actual laws around photography?
The 2019 Public Decency Law governs photography. It’s not there to be restrictive or moralistic, it’s there to make sure everyone – both visitors and residents – are mindful of each other’s privacy. In short:
- Don’t take photos of people without their permission
- Photography is permitted in public places unless a sign prohibiting photography is posted, but…
- Don’t take photos of sensitive or restricted sites (which will nearly always be signposted as such – if in doubt, just ask!)
Can I take photos professionally in the Kingdom?
Of course, but you’ll need a license – available here.
If you’re using larger camera equipment, particularly telephoto lenses, you’ll obviously stand out that much more. So, do make sure you’re as polite as possible, minimize disruption, and – as always – don’t infringe on people’s privacy and sensitive areas.
What about drones? Can I use them for photography?
Like everywhere, drones are becoming incredibly popular in the Kingdom, for stunning urban and desert photography, record-breaking light shows, and as part of the growing esports scene.
The popularity of drones hasn’t been impeded by the need for a license though, possibly because the application process is easily done online line through the Saudi Arabian General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). Completing this process will give you full insight into all the applicable rules and regulations, but in general, it’s all about respecting privacy and operating the equipment safely and responsibly (which we’re sure you would do anyway).
What and where are some of the best landscapes to photograph in Saudi?
Whatever your interest – street-life or wild-life, ancient or modern, urban or countryside, night or day – Saudi Arabia has sights for every shutter.
If it’s traditional Arabia that you’re interested in, try the traditional markets such as Souk Al-Zal in Riyadh or Jeddah’s multicultural old-town souks, the stunning rock and desert landscapes of AlUla or Edge of the World just outside Riyadh, or check out the festivals celebrating local culture such as the Aseer Flowermen Festival or the various date festivals that showcase the Kingdom’s different varieties and flavors. Of course, one of the most eye-catching aspects of Saudi Arabia today is how the traditional and the modern complement each other – in Riyadh alone, check out the contrast between the iconic Kingdom Centre and At-Turaif World Heritage site in Riyadh’s historic Diriyah district.
What about all these modern sports and entertainment going on I’ve heard about?
They certainly are! There’s a huge range of live events – music, sports, and more – going on that seem to offer up the chance for that ‘one in a million’ shot nearly every few minutes. For live music, check out the various cultural ‘Seasons’ hosted across the Kingdom, Riyadh and Jeddah are the most famous and showcase a rich array of local and international talent in stunning settings. For sports… where to begin? There’s LIV Golf, the ROSHN Saudi League football or international esports tournaments, motorsports like the Saudi Grand Prix and Dakar Rally, not to mention adventure sports like rock climbing, mountain biking, and more across the Kingdom.
And if you just want to look beyond it all, Saudi Arabia has some awe-inspiring locations for stargazing.
Who are some notable Saudi photographers I can check out?
Just as with arts, music, food, and film, Saudi photography has blossomed in recent years and, thanks to the internet, it’s easier than ever to find and appreciate their work – #saudiphotographers is a good place to start!
As you’ll see from that #hashtag, there’s a diverse array of subject matter. For example, if it’s street photography you want to focus on, you could try Zuhair AlTuraifi, a popular street photographer and blogger, or Norah AlAmri an award-winning young photographer of both Saudi street life and landscapes. Staying on landscapes, Ibrahim Sarhan takes incredible photos of the Kingdom’s diverse natural world, particularly in its green south, while Tasneem AlSultan is another award-winning photographer who shoots landscapes as well as fashion, documentary, portraits and more. Similarly, Abeer Ahmed combines art, documentary, and fashion. In all cases, these portfolios are windows into the soul of Saudi life.
We hope this article has been useful and has inspired you to plan your trip, adjust your f-stops and apertures, and start getting snap happy in the un-shuttered Kingdom of Photography.
