Saudi Arabia
A Kingdom of Wonders and Ambitions
Saudi Arabia is globally recognized yet often overlooked as a leisure destination, despite hosting millions of visitors annually. While it predominantly welcomes pilgrims undertaking Islamic rites of Hajj and Umrah, the country is equipped to handle large numbers of travelers. In fact, compared to other renowned Middle Eastern destinations, Saudi Arabia receives the highest number of visitors each year. Despite this, it remains relatively unexplored for leisure tourism. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, Saudi Arabia has immense potential to attract leisure travelers. From the bustling streets of Riyadh to the stunning desert landscapes of the Empty Quarter, there is much to discover and explore. As the country continues to open up to international visitors and invest in its tourism infrastructure, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a top leisure destination, offering visitors a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
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Highlights
Archaeological Site
One of the most intriguing facts about Saudi Arabia is the presence of the ancient archaeological site of Al-Ula. This site contains thousands of ancient tombs, dating back to the first millennium BCE. However, what makes it truly unique is the mysterious and enigmatic structures known as "Al-Ula Walls." These massive, low walls crisscross the landscape for over 10,000 kilometers, their purpose and origins still largely unknown.
Largest Desert
Saudi Arabia is home to the world's largest contiguous sand desert, the Rub' al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter. Covering an area of over 650,000 square kilometers, this vast and mesmerizing desert landscape offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience unparalleled natural beauty, stunning dune formations, and a sense of awe-inspiring solitude unlike anywhere else on Earth.
- Visit Mada'in Saleh: Explore the ancient Nabatean city of Mada'in Saleh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its remarkable rock-cut tombs.
- Experience the Empty Quarter: Embark on a desert adventure in the Rub' al Khali, the largest contiguous sand desert in the world, known as the Empty Quarter.
- Discover Al Ula: Wander through the breathtaking landscape of Al Ula, home to spectacular rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and the iconic Elephant Rock.
- Explore the Red Sea: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea and discover vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and stunning underwater landscapes.
- Visit Riyadh's historical sites: Immerse yourself in Riyadh's rich history by visiting attractions such as Diriyah, the Al-Masmak Fortress, and the National Museum.
- Experience traditional markets: Indulge in a cultural experience at traditional souks like the Al-Balad Souq in Jeddah, offering a wide range of goods and local delicacies.
- Enjoy outdoor activities in Asir: Hike through the breathtaking mountains of Asir, known for their terraced fields, lush greenery, and cooler climate.
- Explore the Edge of the World: Witness the stunning cliff formations and panoramic views at the Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn), just outside Riyadh.
- Visit the Al-Hijr Archaeological Site: Explore the well-preserved ruins of Al-Hijr (Madain Salih), an ancient Nabatean city dating back to the 1st century BCE.
- Experience Saudi hospitality: Experience the renowned hospitality of Saudi Arabia by staying in traditional Bedouin camps, enjoying local cuisine, and interacting with friendly locals.
Country Information
- Riyadh
- GMT + 3
- Saudi Riyal
- Islam
- 36 Million
- Arabic
- Riyadh, Abha, Jeddah, Yanbu
- Saudi Arabia is characterized by a desert climate, with the exception of the southwestern part of the country, which exhibits a semi-arid climate. Summers in the central region are extremely hot and dry, ranging from 27°C to 43°C in the inland areas and 27°C to 38°C in coastal areas.
Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia
Journey along the meandering canals and meet the local people as you discover the beauty of the Mekong Delta on an one night river cruise before a speedboat journey to bustling Phnom Penh. Take a Tuk Tuk to Angkor Wat and explore the grounds by torchlight, something few travellers get to explore. Travel like a local as you glide through Saigon‘s fascinating streets on a traditional tuk tuk
Highlights of Vietnam
Discover the unique history and culture of Hanoi, Vietnam‘s Capital as you walk the busy streets and alleyways of the Old Quarter. Cruise the waters of Halong Bay on a traditional junk boat. Take in the stunning scenery and feast on fresh local seafood. Take in the stunning coastal vistas and lush countryside scenery on your drive from Hue to Hoi An. Be charmed by Hoi An, with its antiquated streets and unique insight into traditional Vietnamese life. Explore the Mekong Delta and experience the vibrant scenes and rural villages of Vietnam’s ‘rice bowl’.
Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia
Journey along the meandering canals and meet the local people as you discover the beauty of the Mekong Delta on an one night river cruise before a speedboat journey to bustling Phnom Penh. Take a Tuk Tuk to Angkor Wat and explore the grounds by torchlight, something few travellers get to explore. Travel like a local as you glide through Saigon‘s fascinating streets on a traditional tuk tuk
Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia
Journey along the meandering canals and meet the local people as you discover the beauty of the Mekong Delta on an one night river cruise before a speedboat journey to bustling Phnom Penh. Take a Tuk Tuk to Angkor Wat and explore the grounds by torchlight, something few travellers get to explore. Travel like a local as you glide through Saigon‘s fascinating streets on a traditional tuk tuk
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Top Places to Visit
Riyadh
The birthplace of modern Saudi Arabia, where old-world charm meets 21st-century vision. Riyadh Province – also known as Al-Wosta – is home to the country’s capital: a modern metropolis with a thriving financial and business centre, and a growing cultural scene. It’s a city rich in history, boasting myriad forts, palaces and museums, and some of the country’s most colorful souks.
Jazan
One of the most beautiful and most important Saudi cities. It is located in the southwest of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the Red Sea coast. While the population has not grown over the years, it is one of the most densely populated regions in Saud Arabie due to its narrow area. According to the statistics of 2018, the city’s population is approximately 1.4 million. The mountain of the Fayfa Governorate is also known as the city that embraces the sky. With an altitude of more than 1800 meters, it is characterized by its cold atmosphere, and its high peaks, where the tourist can navigate through local markets, shops and ancient exhibits.
Al Ula
A city in the Medina Region located in north-western Saudi Arabia. Al Ula, The World’s Masterpiece, is one of the oldest cities in the Arabian Peninsula and home to Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. An area rich in historical, geological and geographical significance, this ancient city, once at the crossroads of The Silk Road and The Incense Route, has only recently been re-discovered by the world.
Hail
Nestled between Mount Shammer to the north and Mount Salma to the south, the city of Hail was once the capital of all the Arabian Desert and home to legends like Hatim Al Tai, the Arabian poet whose altruism earned him spots in stories like “One Thousand and One Nights” (also known as “Arabian Nights”). Today it is the capital of the north-central region of Saudi Arabia bearing the same name and a popular stop during the pilgrimage to Makkah. The city of Hail is also known for hosting international events, including a Desert Festival celebrating the area’s culture and the Hail International Rally, where rally cars, quads and motorcycles race through the Nafud Desert and through Hail.
Jeddah
A coastal city located in the western region of Saudi Arabia. Over the years, no Saudi city has been more open to outside influencers such as traders, international artists and Makkah-bound pilgrims than the ancient port of Jeddah. The city’s heart is still intact in Al Balad, the magical historical quarter that has undergone a renaissance in recent years. And the Red Sea is still central to it all — for trade, for diving among pristine reefs, and for fishing for Jeddah’s legendary seafood. The city where Eve was laid to rest (according to local lore) is a beguiling mix of old and new, and one that remains gloriously different.
Abha
Located in the southwest of the Kingdom, this city is famous for being one of the summer destinations for tourists. Abha is known for its cold weather, moderate rains, and picturesque mountainous landscapes, which provide the opportunity to establish four cable car systems to connect the city’s resorts, including linking between the rocky slope in Souda and Al-Habla, the area called The Lake, and some of the mountains of the new city of Abha. In addition, the city of Abha has a rich cultural and traditional heritage, and an architectural diversity that includes mosaic work, thanks to the city’s long history, and for being one of the most densely populated areas in the Arabian peninsula.
