Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is a vast desert kingdom opening its doors to the world. Riyadh, the capital, is a hub of modern development and deep tradition, while Jeddah blends Red Sea breezes, coral houses, and Islamic heritage. Mecca and Medina are Islam’s holiest cities, drawing millions of pilgrims each year. Beyond the cities, Al-Ula’s sandstone tombs and rock formations rival Petra in beauty, and the Empty Quarter offers endless dunes and raw adventure. Saudi cuisine features kabsa, dates, and Arabic coffee, shared with warm hospitality. Long closed to tourism, the country is now revealing its landscapes, history, and cultural depth.

Most travelers come for the emerging attractions like AlUla, with its otherworldly rock formations and the Nabatean ruins of Hegra, often called “Saudi Arabia’s Petra.” Riyadh, the capital, is a business-driven city with historic sites like Diriyah, the birthplace of the Saudi state. Jeddah, on the Red Sea coast, mixes old and new with coral stone houses in Al-Balad and contemporary art in slick galleries. For pilgrims, Mecca and Medina remain the spiritual heart, but non-Muslims aren’t permitted to enter those cities. What sets Saudi apart isn’t just its heritage but the sheer range of landscapes: red-sand deserts, green highlands in Asir, turquoise reefs in the Farasan Islands, and even snow in Tabuk.

Saudi Arabia is moderately expensive, but not unmanageable. Major cities offer everything from budget hotels to luxury towers, while rural areas often have guesthouses or basic accommodations. Food is flavorful and hearty, expect kabsa (spiced rice with meat), mutabbaq, hummus, and fresh bread with almost every meal. Street food is common, especially in places like Jeddah and Riyadh, and there’s a growing café culture. Alcohol is strictly banned, so don’t expect bars or nightlife. Socializing revolves around family, food, and cafés.

Getting around Saudi Arabia requires some planning. The train system connects key cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Medina, and the Haramain high-speed train is fast and efficient. Buses exist but are geared more toward locals. Car rental is popular, especially for exploring areas like AlUla or the Empty Quarter. Ride-hailing apps (like Uber and Careem) work well in major cities. Arabic is the official language, but English is widely understood in business and tourist areas. Saudi Arabia is safe, with very low crime rates, but laws and customs are strict, so cultural awareness is key. Public dress codes still apply: modest clothing is expected, though rules have loosened in recent years.

Why Go to Saudi Arabia?

• AlUla & Hegra: Explore dramatic sandstone formations and ancient Nabatean tombs in Hegra, a UNESCO site now open to international tourists.
• Jeddah’s Old City & Red Sea Coast: Wander Al-Balad, dive or snorkel the Red Sea reefs, and enjoy a more relaxed, artsy Gulf vibe.
• Riyadh’s History & Modern Identity: Visit the National Museum, the mudbrick ruins of Diriyah, and climb the Kingdom Tower Skybridge for city views.
• The Empty Quarter & Desert Adventures: Camp in the vast dunes of the Rub’ al Khali, the world’s largest sand desert, remote and surreal.
• Asir Mountains & Cool Highlands: Hike through the cool mountain air of Asir, visit misty villages like Rijal Alma’, and see Saudi Arabia’s greener side.
• Mecca & Medina (for Muslims): Undertake pilgrimage or religious tourism in Mecca and Medina, two of the most important cities in Islam.
• Saudi Cuisine & Café Culture: Try kabsa, mutabbaq, or sambusas, and experience a booming café scene where social life often revolves around coffee and dates.

Who Might Not Enjoy Saudi Arabia

• Party Travelers and Nightlife Enthusiasts: Alcohol is completely banned in Saudi Arabia, and there is no public nightlife scene in the Western sense, no bars, nightclubs, or music festivals. Social entertainment is limited and highly regulated.

• Unmarried Couples or LGBTQ+ Travelers: Public displays of affection are forbidden, and same-sex relationships are criminalized. Unmarried couples may face restrictions when booking accommodations, and LGBTQ+ travelers may feel unsafe or unwelcome.

• Backpackers on a Budget: While Saudi Arabia is opening up to tourism, it still lacks a robust backpacker infrastructure. Hostels are rare, and most travel relies on private transport or organized tours, which can get expensive.

• Solo Female Travelers Seeking Independence: Legal reforms have improved women’s freedom of movement, but cultural conservatism remains strong. Women traveling alone may encounter restrictions or unwanted attention in some areas.

• Travelers Expecting Liberal Social Norms: Saudi Arabia enforces conservative dress codes, religious observance (including daily prayer breaks that affect business hours), and gender segregation in some public spaces.

• Spontaneous or Flexible Travelers: Many sites require advance booking or are closed during prayer times or religious holidays. Spontaneous sightseeing can be frustrating without prior planning.

• Strict Vegetarians or Vegans: Saudi cuisine is centered around meat and rice. While some vegetarian dishes exist, options are limited outside of international restaurants in major cities.

• Travelers Sensitive to Heat: Much of the country is extremely hot and dry for most of the year, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 45°C (113°F). Outdoor activity can be unpleasant or unsafe during peak months.

Riyadh, the capital, offers a modern look into the country, while Mecca and Medina hold immense importance for Muslims. Explore the ancient ruins of Madain Saleh, the rock-cut tombs of Hegra, or relax on the Red Sea beaches near Jeddah.

For many, the journey begins in Riyadh, offering a gateway to understanding Saudi Arabia’s present ambitions, or in Jeddah, acting as a entry point for pilgrims and tourists looking for coastal relaxation. Both cities have major international airports.

Beyond these hubs, venture north to discover the landscapes of AlUla, showcasing ancient civilizations. Alternatively, head east to experience the charm of cities such as Dammam and Al Khobar along the Persian Gulf. For those seeking lesser-known destinations, explore the rugged mountains of Asir National Park in the southwest, or delve into the Empty Quarter, the vast desert.

Highlights

• Mecca: The holiest city in Islam.
• Medina: The second holiest city in Islam, where the Prophet Muhammad is buried.
• Madain Saleh: An archaeological site with well-preserved rock-cut tombs.
• Jeddah: A major port city with a mix of modern and historic attractions.
• Riyadh: The capital city, showcasing modern architecture and culture.

Top Cities

• Riyadh: The political and economic heart of the country.
• Jeddah: A cosmopolitan city on the Red Sea, known for its corniche.
• Dammam: A major city in the Eastern Province, a hub for the oil industry.
• Mecca: Islam’s most sacred city, destination for the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
• Medina: The second holiest city in Islam, home to the Prophet’s Mosque.

Islands & Beaches

• Farasan Islands: A group of islands in the Red Sea, offering diving and birdwatching.
• Umluj: A coastal town known as the “Maldives of Saudi Arabia” for its pristine beaches.
• Half Moon Bay: A popular beach destination near Al Khobar on the Persian Gulf.
• Silver Sands Beach: A private beach in Jeddah known for its clear waters.
• Haql Beach: A beach on the Gulf of Aqaba with a sunken ship wreck visible from the shore.

National Parks

• Asir National Park: A mountainous park in the southwest, known for its juniper forests.
• Harrat al Harrah: A volcanic field in the northwest, known for its unique landscape.
• Rawdat Khuraim National Park: A seasonal park near Riyadh, popular during springtime.
• Al-Ahsa Oasis: Though not technically a national park, it is a large oasis and UNESCO site with a distinctive ecosystem.
• Jubail Marine Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected coastal area in the Persian Gulf.

World Heritage

• Al-Hijr Archaeological Site (Madain Saleh): An ancient city with rock-cut tombs dating back to the Nabataean kingdom.
• At-Turaif District in ad-Dir’iyah: The historic capital of the first Saudi dynasty.
• Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Mecca: A port city with architecture reflecting its role as a gateway for pilgrims.
• Rock Art in the Hail Region: Petroglyphs depicting human and animal figures dating back thousands of years.
• Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape: One of the world’s largest oases with gardens, canals, springs, wells, and historical buildings.

Go on a pilgrimage: for any Muslim, a visit to Saudi Arabia will be all about visiting the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, whether during the holy month or not.

Sightseeing: Saudi’s old Arabian heritage and Islamic architecture is among the holiest and finest in the region.

Shopping: with old bazaars and ultra-modern malls, Jeddah and Riyadh are both great places to shop.

Camel riding: made up of approximately 98 percent desert, the huge Saudi landscape is best travelled on four legs rather than four wheels.

Saudi has made headlines in recent years for brutal terrorist attacks against westerners, particularly in the capital Riyadh. These still occur, and although rare, present a real danger.

Another potential safety threat exists in disobeying the strict laws in the country including bans on homosexuality, alcohol, adultery and visits to Mecca and Medina by non-Muslims. All are punishable by prison sentences or in the worst case scenario, death. The best advice is to avoid the holy cities unless you’re a believer and wait until you get home for any naughty business. Health services are of a high standard in Jeddah and Riyadh, but less so outside these two main cities.