Introduction
Traveling to Saudi Arabia is a genuinely fascinating experience as it is unspoilt by international tourism and it offers a uniqueness from the rest of the Middle East. Discover Saudi Arabia’s distinctive culture and traditions first-hand and enjoy exploring this alluring location free from crowds by being among the first to do so.
The main part of the Arabian Peninsula is covered by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is home to fascinating cities, a remarkable culture, numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and beautifully varied landscapes. The country’s rich heritage and customs are a result of its long history as a centre of commerce and as the birthplace of Islam. Saudi Arabia has recently undergone a cultural transition, adapting centuries-old traditions to match the modern world we inhabit in.
The diving is amazing as the Red Sea is located to its west. The impressive coastline attracts snorkelers and scuba divers looking for fresh territory to explore, especially as a large portion of it, is untamed and overflowing with verdant nature and coral reefs.
In contrast to the serene cities of Makkah and Medina, which are home to spectacular holy sites, Riyadh and Jeddah are vibrant, urban cities with a diverse population. Your trip will be filled with adventure and discovery, where sparkling skyscrapers dazzle above pristine waterways, flourishing towns and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Highlights
AL-ULA ANTIQUITIES (Half day - Al Ula)
Discover the remnants of Saudi Arabia’s ancient kingdoms on this guided half-day tour of Al-Ula. Visit the UNESCO-listed Hegra, the Lion Tombs of Dadan, the maze-like Old Town, and the Jabal Ikmah “open-air library.”
ARABIAN DESERT TREK (Full day - Arabian Desert)
On an exciting half-day adventure, explore the infinite bed of golden dunes in Saudi Arabia. On this exciting full day excursion, go trekking, sandboarding, sand dune driving, or enjoy looking up at the stars.
VISIT AL-ULA’S OLD TOWN (Full day - Al Ula)
Discover the Old Town of Al-Ula, a deserted 12th-century stronghold on the pilgrimage route leading to Mecca. Gain knowledge about the town’s historical significance, encounter local merchants, and wander through fragrant citrus fields on your guided half-day excursion.
Recommended Hotels
Park Hyatt Jedah
On Jeddah’s bustling seafront, this five-star hotel sits idyllically to ensure a glorious stay. Unparalleled views of the Red Sea and King Fahd’s Fountain will let you relax and indulge in stunning surroundings. With 10,000 square metres devoted to wellbeing, the spa hopes to impress. Enjoy impressive flavours in one of the four restaurants available, tasting the international menu, whilst you savour the ocean view.
Shaden Resort
Stay in luxury in the historically significant region of Al-Ula at the marvellous Shaden Resort. This fantastic resort integrates seamlessly with the surrounding, and the stunning, amber-hued rocks. Following a delightful dining experience at the hotel restaurant, rest in one of the comfortable guest rooms before rising to the sun as it emerges over the awesome desert plains.
Four Seasons Riyadh
The Four Seasons Riyadh is a five-star oasis in the middle of the city, located inside the historic Kingdom Centre, one of the tallest buildings in the world. Restaurants, an outdoor pool, and a men’s health club are available to guests. For the best vantage point over Riyadh, you have amazing access to the skybridge at the Kingdom Center.
Sample Itinerary
Days 1 & 2: Arrival In Riyadh
Your Saudi Arabian adventure begins when you take your overnight flight to Riyadh via Dubai. Following your arrival, the second day can be spent at your leisure.
You could begin exploring the impressive metropolis that is Riyadh with its ample shopping opportunities from luxury shopping malls to quaint souks, head over to explore its informative galleries for a taste of culture and art or go back in time by visiting the 19th century fortress, Al Asmak. Riyadh will amaze you as it effortlessly captures its historic past and thrusts it seamlessly into its modern urban city landscape.
Day 3: Riyadh Experience
Visit Diriyah, a UNESCO-listed city that served as the Saudi royal family’s first residence. This amazing city offers 15th century ruins and pilgrimage heritage amidst its contemporary buildings. Visit Dira Souq and Masmak Fort, if you didn’t get the chance to on day 2, before having lunch in a nearby village indulging in local cuisine and flavours. In the afternoon, peruse the National Museum’s exhibitions before dining with sweeping views over Riyadh at the Kingdom Tower Sky Bridge.
Days 4 & 5: Al-Ula Discovery
Before taking a flight to the city of Al-Ula, visit the King Faisal Foundation. The following day is dedicated to touring the UNESCO-listed historical monuments in Hegra, such as Qasr Bint, Diwan, and Qasr al Farid, a Nabataean tomb known as the “lonely castle,” as well as Hijaz Railway Station. Experience a four-wheel drive to the Lion Tombs, then arrive to Elephant Rock to marvel at the beautiful sunset.
Days 6 & 7: Jeddah Exploration
Before taking a flight to the Red Sea city of Jeddah, explore the maze-like Old City of Al-Ula and the Mosa Bin Nusayr castle. The Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum is an excellent site to delve deeper into Saudi Arabia’s past. The following day, explore other Jeddah marvels, including the Alawi Market, the biggest bazaar in the country, the Floating Mosque, the UNESCO-listed old town, and the open-air Sculpture Museum with its delightful 20 pieces of modern art. If you are seafood lover, it is highly recommended to sample fresh fish in some of its restaurants, appreciating the flavours of the Red Sea. Jedda prides itself on its motto of being different, and that comes through in its liberal culture and expressions, whist still being considered an important gateway for pilgrims heading to the holy site of Mecca.
Day 8: Departing Jeddah
Your Arabian adventure ends by returning home, following an indirect flight via Dubai to the UK.
