Local laws that catch crew out in Jeddah

Alcohol is illegal. The FCDO says do not bring alcohol into Saudi Arabia or arrive under the influence, and that it is illegal to drink alcohol or be drunk in public. Police have arrested British nationals for disorderly or offensive behaviour when drinking. Brewing, possessing or selling can bring severe penalties including prison. Alcohol is also a prohibited import, alongside pork products and pornographic material, so duty free stays on the aircraft.

There is zero tolerance for drug offences and the penalties are severe. You can get a prison sentence of up to five years and a fine of 30,000 Saudi riyals for possessing even small amounts, and the FCDO warns you may face a long period of detention before trial. Dealing and smuggling can result in the death penalty.

Men and women must wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the elbow and below the knees. Avoid clothing that is tight-fitting, carries profane slogans or images, or carries symbols or slogans that could be viewed as political, which the FCDO warns can lead to arrest. Female travellers do not have to wear an abaya or cover their hair.

Sex outside marriage and adultery are illegal, including for tourists, and if you or your partner becomes pregnant outside marriage you could both face penalties including imprisonment and deportation. Same-sex relations are illegal, though the FCDO notes legal action is uncommon. There are special arrangements for visitors and unmarried tourists may share hotel rooms. It is illegal to practise any religion other than Islam, though the authorities accept private practice, and illegal to try to convert people.