Traveling to the United States is a dream for many Arabs, whether for tourism, study, or work. However, this dream requires a great deal of preparation and planning, especially since the U.S. is a vast country with rich cultural and geographic diversity. In this guide, we take you on a detailed journey covering U.S. visa application steps, financial planning, bookings, transportation, American culture, and top tips for budget travel to the U.S.
The U.S. includes multiple climate zones. While New York is snowy in December, Florida is warm and sunny. Climate plays a major role in determining the type of activities you can do. For example, if you enjoy skiing, winter in Colorado is ideal. If you prefer beaches, then summer in California or Hawaii is your best bet. So be sure to read about “weather and climate in the United States” before finalizing your itinerary.
Before booking your ticket, ask yourself: how much will I need per day in the U.S.? Daily costs vary by city, but typically range between $150–$250, including accommodation, food, and transport. You can reduce costs by choosing budget hotels or using services like Airbnb.
Do you love museums and exhibitions? Then Washington, D.C. is the right choice. If you’re seeking nature and tranquility, national parks like Yellowstone or Yosemite are perfect. Your destination should align with your goals—whether it’s entertainment, culture, or nature photography.
Before finalizing your plan, take time to browse forums and travel sites. Look for hotel, restaurant, and attraction reviews. Pay special attention to experiences shared by Arab travelers.
One of the first official steps is checking your passport’s expiration date. The U.S. requires that your passport be valid for at least six months after your entry date. This applies to all visa types.
If your trip is for tourism or visiting family, the B-2 tourist visa is the best option. If you’re from a country under the Visa Waiver Program, you can apply online through ESTA—it’s quicker and simpler.
Be sure to bring a recent personal photo, previous passports, a bank statement, a letter from your employer or university, and an invitation letter if applicable.
Creating a realistic budget for your U.S. trip will reduce a lot of stress. For example, plan to spend at least $150 per day, and set aside some extra money for unexpected activities like show tickets or museum entries.
Most stores and restaurants in the U.S. rely on electronic payments. It’s best to carry an international debit or credit card.
Purchasing emergency health insurance is essential—especially for visitors. Travel insurance can also cover trip cancellations or lost luggage, giving you peace of mind throughout your journey.
The earlier you book your tickets, the better the price. Compare airlines like Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Delta. Don’t rely on just one provider.
You can move between U.S. cities using domestic airlines like Southwest or JetBlue. For short distances, you can rely on subways, buses, or even rental cars.
If you’re planning to rent a car, make sure you have an international driving license, and familiarize yourself with local road rules.
In the U.S., apps like Lyft are the fastest and safest way to move around cities. These apps let you track the driver and pay digitally—perfect for first-time visitors.
When packing for the U.S., it’s smart to leave some space in your luggage for items you can buy there instead of carrying them from home. This helps reduce weight and avoid excess baggage fees.
Top service providers in the U.S. include Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. They offer strong coverage and varied data plans.
Be sure your phone is compatible with U.S. networks—especially if you plan to use a local SIM or eSIM.
Engaging with American society requires basic cultural awareness. Respect personal space, use polite phrases like “please” and “thank you,” and always queue properly. Avoid sensitive topics like religion or politics in public conversations. Tipping in restaurants (15–20%) is expected.
For emergencies, call 911 to contact police, ambulance, or fire services anywhere in the U.S.
Flight delays are common in the U.S., especially during holidays or in severe weather (like snowstorms or hurricanes). To stay updated, check your flight status through the airline’s app or the airport website.
Regularly check weather updates and flight details, especially close to your travel date. This helps avoid surprises and allows for backup planning.
Start planning your U.S. trip early to avoid last-minute stress and ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Don’t forget to book your U.S. visa appointment as early as possible to handle all formalities on time.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your entry into the U.S. to ensure your visa application is accepted.
Yes. Even if you’re from a visa-exempt country, you must submit an ESTA request online before traveling. It allows entry for short tourism or business visits.
Ride-sharing apps like Lyft are the best and easiest option for traveling within American cities. They’re safe, fast, and offer a range of prices.
You can buy an eSIM plan from a certified U.S. provider online and activate it before you travel—allowing instant internet access without replacing your physical SIM.