Metal Detecting in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has an official licensing system for archaeological surveying and excavation. The government service covers archaeological exploration and documentation on the surface, underground and underwater, so avoiding digging does not automatically remove the need for authorisation when the purpose is archaeological. The implementing regulations require a licence before anyone other than the responsible heritage authority undertakes archaeological surveying or excavation. I could not confirm a general tourist permission for recreational detecting aimed only at recently lost objects. Before bringing your detector, ask the Heritage Commission about your intended purpose and location, and clarify equipment entry requirements separately with customs.