Everything you need to know before traveling
If you're a Saudi student considering studying in the Philippines, this guide is designed specifically for you. The Philippines is one of the most welcoming countries for Saudi students thanks to easy visa, low cost, and safe environment. But traveling to a new country with a different culture requires good preparation. In this guide, we cover everything: from travel procedures and arrival, to accommodation, halal food, mosques, safety, and Filipino culture. We also provide special tips for Saudi women and a complete packing list. Our goal is to make your educational journey successful and comfortable from day one.
Saudis get a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival. No need to pre-arrange.
Visa can be extended inside the Philippines for ≈ SAR 280 per extra month. Easy procedure at immigration office.
Mandatory for studies over 4 weeks. Costs ≈ SAR 240 one-time, processed via the school.
ID card for foreigners staying over 60 days. Costs ≈ SAR 400, valid one year.
Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific — all fly Riyadh/Jeddah to Manila or Cebu with short layovers.
Usually 30 kg with student extra baggage. Verify airline policy before booking.
Most popular for Saudis. Coastal city, tropical weather, multiple halal restaurants, stunning beaches. Ideal for combining study and tourism.
Best for
For everyone, especially beginners and families
Cool mountain city (15−25°C), strict academics, less tourism, excellent educational results. Ideal for those serious about quick improvement.
Best for
For serious and disciplined students
The capital, urban life, diverse malls and restaurants, but traffic congestion and noise. Suits those wanting big-city environment.
Best for
For students who prefer urban life
All recommended schools provide on-campus housing. Benefits: full safety, proximity to classes, 3 meals included, cleaning service. Types: single / double / triple.
If traveling with family, you can rent a Condo near the school. Rent SAR 1,500−3,500 monthly in Cebu. Includes security, pool, and gym.
Less common for Saudis but excellent for learning local culture. Lower cost (SAR 1,000 monthly) with two daily meals.
B'Cebu provides halal food option on request. Other schools have a shared kitchen. Bring some Saudi spices to add a taste of home.
Halal Choice (Lahug), Pakistani Express (IT Park), Shahrazad Arabian Restaurant (Mango Ave), Alibaba Restaurant. Reasonable prices (SAR 15−40 per meal).
SM Hypermarket, Robinsons, Gaisano provide labeled halal products. Chicken and fish always available. Halal meat needs label verification.
Avoid pork found in many traditional dishes. Always say 'No pork please' when ordering. Tropical fruits are great and rich in vitamins.
Tabunoc, Talisay City
Lapu-Lapu City
Cebu IT Park
Quiapo, Manila
Baguio City
Filipinos are famous for their hospitality and smiles. English is widely spoken.
Use 'Po' and 'Opo' when addressing elders, signals deep respect in Filipino culture.
Casual and comfortable clothing. Saudi attire is respected everywhere without issues.
10% in upscale restaurants. Drivers don't require mandatory tips.
Public political/religious debates, negative comparisons, raising voice in public.
Residential and educational areas in Cebu and Baguio are very safe. Avoid only popular districts at night. Keep a passport copy with you always.
Saudi travel insurance often covers the Philippines. Private healthcare cost is very reasonable. Chong Hua Hospital and Cebu Doctors' Hospital are among the best.
No mandatory vaccines. Recommended: check Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid before travel. Drink only bottled water.
Police: 117. Ambulance: 911. Saudi Embassy in Manila: +632 8488 1430. Save these numbers always.
Contact us for free consultation and choose the package matching your budget and goal.
Deposit 25−40% of package value to confirm booking. Balance paid before or upon arrival.
Find best price via Skyscanner or Wego. Book 60 days early for best price.
Valid passport (6+ months), return ticket, hotel/accommodation booking, simple financial proof.
We send a representative to pick you up at the airport and take you to the school. Free service.
Day 1: Level placement test, school tour, books and room distribution.
Day 2: 1:1 and group classes per your schedule. Study hard and enjoy the experience!
Light summer clothes, 2-3 formal outfits, sportswear, swimwear, shawl for AC areas
Laptop, charger, power adapter (Philippines uses 220V sometimes 110V), headphones, power bank
Your regular personal meds, Panadol, stomach meds, sunscreen SPF 50+, insect repellent
Passport + 5 copies, photos, birth certificate, financial proof, travel insurance
Currency converter (USD or SAR for exchange), backpack, water bottle, personal perfume, toiletries
Spices, dates, Arabic tea, Saudi coffee, herbs — to remind you of home