Saudi Arabia has transformed into one of the most sought-after destinations for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences combined with modern luxury. From the historic streets of AlUla to the pristine beaches of the Red Sea, this comprehensive guide will help you plan the perfect trip to explore Saudi Arabia’s most beautiful places.
Why Visit Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia offers an unforgettable blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and rapidly evolving modern attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast seeking ancient wonders or an adventure seeker looking for unique experiences, this destination has something for everyone.
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (November-February)
Mild and pleasant weather conditions (18-25°C/64-77°F)
Popular winter events including MDLBeast Soundstorm and Riyadh Season
Higher pricing for accommodations and activities
Larger crowds at major attractions
Shoulder Season (March-April, September-October)
Comfortable temperatures before extreme heat
Special events like the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix
Better deals on accommodations
Less crowded experiences at major sites
Off-Season (May-August)
Very hot climate (often exceeding 40°C/104°F)
Budget advantages with significant discounts
Indoor activities and coastal areas remain pleasant
Tips: Visit coastal areas, plan indoor activities during midday
How to Get There
By Air
Major international airports: King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh), King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah), King Fahd International Airport (Dammam)
Popular airlines: Saudia, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways
Average flight times: 7-8 hours from major European cities, 13-16 hours from North America
Transportation options: Airport taxis, rideshare apps, hotel shuttles
By Land
Border crossings with Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, and Oman
Necessary documentation: Valid passport, Saudi visa, vehicle registration
Self-driving considerations: International driving permit required
Where to Stay
Luxury Accommodations
Ritz-Carlton Riyadh
Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower
Waldorf Astoria Jeddah
Al Faisaliah Hotel Riyadh
Price ranges: $300-1000+ per night
Mid-Range Options
Hilton Garden Inn Riyadh
Park Inn by Radisson Dammam
Centro Shaheen Jeddah by Rotana
Best neighborhoods: Al Olaya (Riyadh), Al Hamra (Jeddah)
Price ranges: $100-250 per night
Budget-Friendly Choices
OYO Rooms across major cities
ibis Styles Riyadh Olaya
Al Eairy Furnished Apartments
Price ranges: $50-100 per night
Must-See Attractions
Historical Sites
AlUla and Hegra (Madain Saleh)
Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site
Over 100 well-preserved tombs carved into sandstone
Visitor center with guided tours available
Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for photography
Tickets: Reserve online in advance
Diriyah
UNESCO World Heritage site and birthplace of Saudi Arabia
At-Turaif historic district with mud-brick structures
New museums and cultural attractions
Dining and shopping in the newly developed area
Night illuminations provide spectacular views
Jeddah Historical District (Al-Balad)
UNESCO World Heritage site with traditional architecture
Historic coral houses and ancient trading port
Nassif House Museum
Traditional souks for shopping
Best explored with a local guide
Natural Wonders
The Red Sea Coast
Pristine beaches and world-class diving
Coral reefs with abundant marine life
Developing luxury resorts along NEOM and Red Sea Project
Best areas: Yanbu, Umluj, Farasan Islands
Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn)
Dramatic cliff views over endless desert
Part of the Tuwaiq escarpment
90km from Riyadh
4WD vehicle recommended
Best time: Sunrise or sunset
Asir National Park
Saudi Arabia’s highest mountains
Lush terraced landscapes
Rijal Almaa traditional village
Cable car rides for panoramic views
Ideal for hiking and bird watching
Cultural Experiences
National Museum of Saudi Arabia (Riyadh)
Comprehensive history from prehistoric to modern era
Interactive exhibits and artifacts
Audio guides available in multiple languages
Connected to Murabba Palace
King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra)
Architectural marvel in Dhahran
Contemporary art exhibits
Library and theater performances
Cultural and educational programs
Spectacular lighting at night
Taif Rose Farms
Famous for rose harvesting (April-May)
Rose oil production facilities
Rose water products and souvenirs
Traditional harvesting demonstrations
Surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes
Local Cuisine
Traditional Dishes
Must-try local specialties:
Kabsa (spiced rice with meat)
Mandi (smoky rice dish with lamb)
Jareesh (crushed wheat with meat)
Mutabbaq (stuffed pancake)
Saudi dates and Arabic coffee
Where to find authentic versions:
Najd Village restaurants (multiple locations)
Al Orjouan (Riyadh)
Beit Al Mandi (Jeddah)
Local homes through Airbnb Experiences
Best Restaurants
High-end dining:
Myazu (Japanese-Saudi fusion in Riyadh)
Mirage (Jeddah Waterfront)
Somewhere (Riyadh)
The Globe (Al Faisaliah Tower, Riyadh)
Local favorites:
Al Baik (famous fried chicken chain)
Mama Noura (for shawarma)
Set Al Sham (Syrian cuisine)
Herfy (Saudi fast-food chain)
Food Tours and Cooking Classes
Jeddah Food Tour (explores Al-Balad district)
Saudi Cooking Experience in Riyadh
Dates farm tours in Al-Ahsa
Market visits to spice souks
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Hidden Gems
Al-Ahsa Oasis
World’s largest natural oasis
UNESCO World Heritage site
Hot and cold springs
Date palm groves
Al-Qara Mountain caves
Farasan Islands
Archipelago in the Red Sea
Pristine beaches and diving
Gazelle sanctuary
Ottoman-era architecture
Accessible by ferry from Jizan
Wadi Lajab
Dramatic canyon in southwestern Saudi Arabia
Swimming in freshwater pools
Hiking between towering cliffs
Lush vegetation
4WD vehicle required for access
Local Neighborhoods
Al Khobar Corniche
Seafront promenade
Local fishing culture
Family-friendly atmosphere
Traditional cafes
Spectacular sunset views
Diplomatic Quarter (Riyadh)
Landscaped gardens and walking paths
International restaurants
Modern architecture
Art installations
Safe and clean environment
Shopping Guide
Traditional Markets
Souq Al Zal (Riyadh)
Traditional handicrafts and antiques
Bedouin jewelry and textiles
Dallah coffee pots and spices
Operating hours: 9am-12pm, 4pm-10pm
Bargaining expected
Souq Al Alawi (Mecca)
Religious items and souvenirs
Dates and honey
Prayer rugs and clothing
Gold and jewelry
Busiest after prayer times
Qaisariah Souq (Al-Hofuf)
One of Saudi’s oldest markets
Traditional handicrafts
Local sweets and delicacies
Historical architecture
Best visited with a local guide
Modern Shopping
Kingdom Centre Mall (Riyadh)
Luxury international brands
Sky Bridge observation deck
Fine dining options
Entertainment facilities
Tax-free shopping information
Red Sea Mall (Jeddah)
Over 500 stores
Indoor theme park
International and local brands
Waterfront location
Cultural events and exhibitions
Practical Information
Budget Planning
Daily cost estimates:
Luxury: $300-500+ per day
Mid-range: $150-300 per day
Budget: $50-150 per day
Money-saving tips:
Visit during shoulder season
Use ride-sharing apps
Eat at local establishments
Book accommodations in advance
Look for bundled tours
Currency information:
Saudi Riyal (SAR)
ATMs widely available in cities
Credit cards accepted in most establishments
Keep some cash for small vendors and taxis
Safety Tips
Saudi Arabia has low crime rates
Follow local customs and dress modestly
Women no longer required to wear abayas but modest dress recommended
Emergency number: 911
Register with your embassy
Local Transportation
No comprehensive public transit system yet
Metro available in Riyadh (partial operation)
Careem and Uber widely available
Taxis available but negotiate fare in advance
Car rental requires International Driving Permit
When to Book
Flights
Best booking window: 2-5 months in advance
Peak season requires earlier booking
Airlines: Saudia offers best domestic connections
Best deals often on Tuesday/Wednesday
Consider neighboring Gulf airports for better rates
Accommodations
Book luxury properties 3-6 months ahead
Mid-range: 1-3 months advance booking recommended
Budget options available with shorter notice
Mecca/Medina require much earlier booking during Hajj/Umrah
Booking.com and Agoda offer good coverage
Suggested Itineraries
3-Day Itinerary (Riyadh Focus)
Day 1: Historic Riyadh
Morning: National Museum and Masmak Fortress
Lunch at Najd Village
Afternoon: Diriyah UNESCO site
Evening: Kingdom Centre observation deck
Dinner in Tahlia Street
Day 2: Modern Riyadh & Desert
Morning: King Abdullah Financial District
Lunch at The Zone
Afternoon: Edge of the World excursion
Evening: Dinner at a traditional restaurant
Day 3: Culture and Shopping
Morning: Ithra (if in Eastern Province) or local museum
Lunch at a local cafe
Afternoon: Souq Al Zal for shopping
Evening: Traditional Saudi dinner experience
5-Day Itinerary (Riyadh & Jeddah)
Days 1-2: Riyadh (as above)
Day 3: Travel to Jeddah
Morning flight to Jeddah
Lunch at Al-Balad district
Afternoon: Explore historic Jeddah
Evening: Corniche visit and seafood dinner
Day 4: Modern Jeddah
Morning: Jeddah Waterfront
Lunch at a mall
Afternoon: Fakieh Aquarium
Evening: Floating Mosque and dinner
Day 5: Red Sea Experience
Day trip to nearby beaches
Snorkeling or diving experience
Seafood lunch at beach restaurant
Evening: Farewell dinner in Jeddah
7-Day Itinerary (Saudi Highlights)
Days 1-2: Riyadh
Days 3-4: AlUla
Historical sites and desert experiences
Luxury desert camping
Ancient rock art and landscapes
Days 5-7: Red Sea Coast
Beach resorts
Water activities
Island excursions
Cultural experiences
Travel Tips and Hacks
Packing Essentials
Modest clothing (covering shoulders/knees)
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Comfortable walking shoes
Light jacket for evening desert temperatures
Universal adapter
Money-Saving Tips
Visit museums on free days
Use Entertainer app for 2-for-1 deals
Eat lunch at food courts
Take advantage of hotel breakfast buffets
Use public beaches rather than resort beaches
Cultural Etiquette
Respect prayer times (shops close briefly)
Public displays of affection discouraged
Ask permission before photographing locals
Remove shoes when entering homes
Right hand for eating/greeting
Best Photo Spots
Sunrise and Sunset Locations
Edge of the World
Golden hour creates dramatic shadows
Rocky foreground with endless desert
Best accessed from Riyadh (4WD needed)
Jeddah Corniche
Stunning waterfront views
King Fahd Fountain illumination
Coastal scenery with modern architecture
AlUla Rock Formations
Ancient tombs with dramatic lighting
Desert landscapes with unique textures
Elephant Rock especially photogenic
Instagram-Worthy Spots
Maraya Concert Hall (AlUla)
World’s largest mirrored building
Desert reflections create surreal images
Best in late afternoon light
Ithra Building (Dhahran)
Futuristic architecture
Night lighting creates dramatic effects
Interior spaces offer unique perspectives
Al-Balad (Jeddah)
Historic coral buildings
Traditional wooden balconies (rawashin)
Narrow atmospheric alleyways
Best in early morning or late afternoon
FAQ
What’s the best time to visit Saudi Arabia?
November to February offers the most pleasant weather, though prices are higher and attractions busier.
How much does a trip to Saudi Arabia cost?
Budget travelers can manage on $50-150 per day, mid-range travelers should budget $150-300 daily, and luxury experiences start from $300+ per day.
Is Saudi Arabia safe for solo travelers?
Saudi Arabia has low crime rates and is generally safe, though solo female travelers should dress modestly and respect cultural norms.
What are the must-try local dishes?
Don’t miss kabsa (spiced rice with meat), mandi, jareesh, Saudi dates, and traditional Arabic coffee.
How many days should I spend in Saudi Arabia?
A minimum of 5-7 days is recommended to experience key highlights, though 10-14 days allows for a more comprehensive exploration.
What’s the best way to get around Saudi Arabia?
For intercity travel, domestic flights are best. Within cities, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are convenient and affordable.
Do I need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia?
Most visitors require an e-Visa, which can be obtained online. The tourism visa allows for a stay of up to 90 days.
What are the best areas to stay in Saudi Arabia?
In Riyadh, Al Olaya and Diplomatic Quarter are recommended. In Jeddah, the Corniche area and Al Hamra district offer the best options.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s beautiful places offer a perfect blend of ancient history, natural wonders, and modern innovations. From the mysterious desert landscapes of AlUla to the emerging coastal paradises along the Red Sea, the kingdom provides endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. As the country continues to open its doors to international tourism, now is the perfect time to experience these beautiful destinations while they still maintain their authentic character and before they become mainstream tourist hotspots.
