Banks open at 8am and close by noon, with some branches reopening later in the afternoon. Many shops also close their doors between 1.30pm and 3.30pm, but increasingly those at shopping malls remain open throughout the day. A growing number of shops also stay open until late evening. Those using cars to drive to work must take special precautions. Despite a 150,000-km network of modern roads, driving in the kingdom is not safe.
Horrifying accidents are commonplace.
They are typically caused by teenage drivers who exceed speed limits and ignore safety precautions such as signalling before changing lanes. Accidents are also caused by camels straying onto expressways. The Saudi legal system is noted for its strictness. Swift and severe punishment is meted out to offenders. Those dealing in drugs and alcohol can expect no leniency.