Table of Contents
- Introduction
- How to Think About “What to See”
- By Region: The Places You Should Not Miss
- Practical Planning: Visas, Permits, and Timing
- Getting Around: Flights, Cars, and Organized Tours
- Places to Stay: Strategy and Recommendations
- Food and Drink: Local Flavors, Where to Eat, and Dining Etiquette
- Culture, Etiquette, and Responsible Behavior
- Health, Safety, and Money
- Activities, Guided Experiences, and How to Book
- Sample Itineraries
- Packing: Essentials for Saudi Conditions
- Responsible Travel: Conservation and Community
- A Planner’s Step-by-Step Framework
- Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction
Saudi Arabia is reshaping global travel with rapid investment in heritage sites, luxury coastal resorts, and carefully managed wilderness access. The Kingdom welcomed millions of leisure visitors after the eVisa program and has developed infrastructure to support both adventure seekers and culturally curious travelers. If you’re deciding what to see in Saudi Arabia, the range is extraordinary—from monumental Nabataean tombs in the desert to coral-studded atolls and highland villages with painted houses.
Short answer: Saudi Arabia rewards travelers who pair cultural curiosity with practical planning. Key highlights include AlUla (Hegra and Maraya), the Edge of the World near Riyadh, Jeddah’s Al Balad and Red Sea diving, and the mountains of Asir; for each, plan seasons, permits, and transport in advance. This article covers what to see across regions, how to build efficient itineraries, essential cultural rules, and step-by-step planning tools to turn interest into a smooth, memorable trip.
Our mission at Saudi Travel & Leisure is to provide the blueprint for an unforgettable Saudi adventure: inspiring storytelling combined with tightly practical logistics so you can see the Kingdom confidently and respectfully.
How to Think About “What to See”
Deciding which places to prioritize is a planning problem as much as a taste question. Start by choosing the travel “mode” you prefer—heritage and quiet contemplation (AlUla, Al Balad), active nature and adventure (Edge of the World, Al Wajah, Wadi Disah), or coastal diving and island hopping (Red Sea). Then layer in logistics: available time, season, mobility (self-drive vs. guided), and necessary permissions. Use that framework to map a route that minimizes backtracking and maximizes the experience you want.
To help you plan with confidence, review the essential travel rules for visitors before finalizing bookings; they clarify visa, public conduct, and entry basics that shape every itinerary.
By Region: The Places You Should Not Miss
AlUla and Northwest: Ancient Rock, Mirrored Architecture, Desert Adventure
AlUla has been elevated in recent years into a living museum. The region combines the scale of desert panoramas with human-scale sites that reward slow exploration.
Hegra (Madâin Ṣāliḥ)
Hegra is Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site and the country’s most accessible Nabataean complex. Tomb façades carved into sandstone cliffs offer the same sense of astonishment as Petra but with far fewer people. A timed entry and guided visit is standard; book slots ahead, choose late afternoon light for photos, and allow time for side trails and the interpretive center.
Practical note: tours often include multiple stops across the protected reserve; wear sun protection and sturdy shoes, and respect restricted areas around fragile archaeology.
Maraya and the AlUla Arts District
Maraya’s mirrored exterior and cultural programming make it a modern focal point. It frequently hosts concerts, exhibitions, and seasonal events. Nearby AlUla Old Town and the emerging arts district provide an intimate counterpoint—mudbrick alleys, handicraft stalls, and cafés where local hospitality is immediate and warm.
Many venues require reservations or are within private properties—confirm access and book any site-specific tickets or restaurant tables well in advance.
Desert Nature and Adventure Activities
From Sharaan Reserve safaris to stargazing camps and adrenaline experiences (giant swings, zip-lines), AlUla is engineered for layered experiences: slow history, active nature, and curated luxury stays. Time your desert activities to early morning or late afternoon—the sun is fierce and temperature swings are significant.
Riyadh and Central Najd: Palace History, Desert Cliffs, and A Rapidly Modernizing Capital
Riyadh pairs formal cultural centers and museums with raw, nearby desert geography.
Diriyah (At-Turaif)
Diriyah is the restored birthplace of the modern Saudi state. Its mud-brick architecture, palace restorations, and new museums provide context for the Kingdom’s recent past. Visit during cooler months and catch evening light-and-sound programs that narrate the site’s history.
The Edge of the World
One of Saudi’s most visceral landscapes, the Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn) offers a vertiginous cliff line and constant horizons. It’s a half-day trip from Riyadh requiring a 4×4 for off-road segments and guidance if you are unfamiliar with desert navigation. Organized tours are strongly recommended for first-time visitors.
Riyadh’s Contemporary Scene
Riyadh’s museums, galleries, and gastronomic scene are expanding rapidly. Combine historical sites with modern museums and a night at a contemporary Saudi restaurant to appreciate the Kingdom’s cultural breadth.
Jeddah & The Red Sea Coast: Coral Reefs, Old Port Streets, and Seafront Life
The Red Sea coast offers both urban cultural richness and marine playgrounds.
Al Balad (Old Jeddah)
Al Balad is the living old port: wooden-lattice windows, coral-stone houses, and souks full of perfumes, spices, and traditional crafts. Walk the lanes with a local guide to understand trade histories, architectural features, and restoration efforts revitalizing the quarter.
Jeddah Corniche and Waterfront Life
The Corniche, with its public art, seaside promenades, and the King Fahd Fountain, is the city’s social spine. Evenings are prime: families, picnics, and food trucks energize the shores.
Red Sea Diving and Island Hopping (Umluj, Farasan, and More)
The Red Sea’s visibility and coral biodiversity make it one of the world’s premier dive destinations. From Jeddah or coastal towns like Umluj, organized boat trips access reef walls, atolls, and shipwrecks. If your goal is marine wildlife—dolphins, hawksbill turtles, and colorful corals—contract reputable dive operators who follow conservation protocols.
Conservation note: coral ecosystems are fragile. Follow no-touch rules, avoid sunscreen products that harm reefs, and choose operators committed to sustainability.
The Asir Highlands and Abha: Painted Villages and Cooler Mountains
The Asir region, centered on Abha, feels unlike the rest of Saudi Arabia—green terraces, painted houses, and cooler mountain air.
Rijal Almaa and Traditional Highland Villages
Rijal Almaa’s multi-story stone houses and bright shutters showcase highland architecture. Plan at least a half-day to stroll alleys, visit the local museum, and learn about tribal life and festival traditions.
Jabal Sawdah and High-Altitude Hiking
Jabal Sawdah and surrounding peaks are the Kingdom’s highest points and a draw for hikers and nature photographers. Hiking requires proper footwear, an early start, and awareness of narrow, sometimes rough roads. Local guesthouses often provide the best orientation for trails and cultural norms.
Eastern Province and Al Ahsa: Oasis Landscapes and Limestone Caves
Al Ahsa is a historic oasis with date-palms, springs, and cave systems.
Al Qarah Mountain and Al Ahsa Oasis
Al Qarah’s honeycomb caves and limestone cliffs offer short climbs and panoramic views. The oasis itself is an agricultural landscape of date palms and historic settlements—visit markets and enjoy shade-filled cafés.
Tabuk, Wadi Disah, and the Northwest: Canyon Country and Coastal Calm
Tabuk province hosts sweeping canyon landscapes and the gateway to the northern Red Sea islands.
Wadi Disah and Tabuk Scenery
Wadi Disah’s towering sandstone pillars and ribboned palm valleys reward exploration by 4×4 and on foot. Travel early in the season to avoid high summer heat and hire local drivers familiar with remote tracks.
Major Natural Curiosities: Craters, Sand Seas, and Atolls
Al Wabah (Al Wahbah) Crater
A near-perfect volcanic maar, Al Wabah is a single geological feature that intrigues for its scale and silence. Rim walks give sweeping views; descending into the crater is discouraged because of unstable rock and reported gas pockets. Treat the rim with care and avoid nighttime descents.
Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter) Expeditions
The Empty Quarter is a scale experience—endless sand, quiet, and strict safety requirements. Tours run from the south and eastern gateways and require experienced desert guides, reliable vehicles, and contingency planning.
Farasan Islands and Offshore Marine Reserves
The Farasan archipelago offers pristine beaches and relatively untouched reefs. Access requires planning and a sea-transport provider; combine with Jazan region cultural visits for a distinct southern coastal experience.
Practical Planning: Visas, Permits, and Timing
Travel to Saudi Arabia requires translation of excitement into documentation and timing.
Visas and Entry
Leisure eVisas are widely available for many nationalities; business and special permits exist for different entry purposes. Check requirements early, and ensure passport validity extends well beyond your planned stay. For certain protected heritage sites or conservation areas, additional permits or pre-booked guided entry are mandatory.
Before finalizing any bookings, consult the official visitor guidelines to confirm visa categories, required documents, and the latest arrival protocols.
Best Time to Visit
Saudi’s climate varies regionally. Coastal and lowland areas are intensely hot in summer; the northwest (AlUla, Tabuk) and highlands (Asir) are mild in winter and pleasantly cool in spring and autumn.
For most travelers aiming to combine desert and urban experiences, late autumn through early spring (October–April) offers the best balance. For mountain hiking, late spring to early summer in Asir provides cooler trekking windows.
Local Permissions and Timed-Entry Sites
Popular sites like Hegra use timed entries to manage conservation; Maraya events may require reserved tickets. If you’re visiting during national festivals or events, book accommodation early—local and international hotels fill quickly.
Use the Kingdom’s official notices and the essential travel rules for visitors to confirm permit requirements for specific protected areas.
Getting Around: Flights, Cars, and Organized Tours
Domestic Flights
Saudi Arabia’s domestic flight network is extensive and often the fastest way to connect long distances (Riyadh–Jeddah–AlUla–Abha–Jazan). For short trip itineraries, domestic flights paired with a single rented car on the ground make sense.
Driving and Rental Cars
Self-driving is common and, in many regions, the most flexible option. Roads between major cities are good, but remote sites require 4×4 vehicles and local knowledge. If you plan off-road days or sand driving, hire a local 4×4 operator or join small-group tours—navigation mistakes are how people get stranded.
Before driving, check international driving license requirements, insurance coverage for desert travel, and local driving laws.
Guided Tours and Local Operators
For archaeological reserves, desert explorations, diving, and some highland treks, guided tours are not only convenient but often mandatory. Guiding adds safety and context: the best guides interpret architecture, point out wildlife, and manage logistics like permits and vehicle recovery.
For research-backed trip options and curated activities, explore reputable activity hubs that aggregate vetted providers for culture and outdoor experiences; find recommendations on our hub for the best activities and attractions at best activities and attractions.
Places to Stay: Strategy and Recommendations
Accommodation ranges from luxury desert resorts and boutique riads to practical city hotels and mountain guesthouses.
If you’re prioritizing convenience near major sights, choose lodgings that reduce transfer time: stay inside or adjacent to AlUla to access Hegra and Maraya early, book centrally in Jeddah for quick access to Al Balad, and reserve mountain lodges in Abha for sunrise treks.
For curated options and booking strategies that match your travel style—family-friendly, boutique, or high-end desert lodges—see detailed recommendations on where to stay and how to choose at where to stay.
Food and Drink: Local Flavors, Where to Eat, and Dining Etiquette
Saudi cuisine is rich and regional. Najdi dishes use rice, lamb, and spices; Hejazi plates incorporate coastal seafood and Levantine influences. Must-try items include mandi (slow-cooked rice and meat), jareesh (cracked wheat dishes), and local coffee rituals served with dates.
Dining ages into local customs: accept hospitality graciously, be mindful of prayer times, and avoid public consumption during fasting hours in Ramadan unless in designated restaurants or if you are in a private setting. For restaurant guides, street-food suggestions, and curated culinary experiences, see our hub for local food and dining at local food and dining.
Culture, Etiquette, and Responsible Behavior
Understanding how to behave respectfully is the single greatest multiplier for a smooth trip.
Dress is conservative compared to many western norms. Women visitors are generally expected to dress modestly—long sleeves and ankle-length skirts or trousers—and in many public places in cities the abaya is no longer mandatory for foreign women, but it remains common in conservative areas and at religious sites. Men should avoid sleeveless shirts and shorts in public spaces.
Prayer times structure the daily rhythm. Shops and services may close briefly for prayer; plan transfers and museum visits around these predictable pauses.
Photography is a common area of tension. Always ask before photographing individuals, especially in rural and tribal regions. Avoid photographing military, infrastructure, or sensitive government buildings.
Public displays of affection are not acceptable. Alcohol remains prohibited nationwide; public intoxication rules are strict. For deeper cultural context, norms, and do-and-don’t lists that will make your trip easier and more respectful, read our notes on cultural etiquette and traditions at cultural etiquette and traditions.
Health, Safety, and Money
Stay up to date on recommended vaccinations, carry basic first-aid, and know that medical facilities in major cities are modern and well-equipped while remote areas require planning for emergencies and evacuation.
ATMs and card acceptance are common in cities, but bring cash for remote markets and small vendors. SIM cards are inexpensive and provide reliable internet; pick one up at the airport for immediate mobile data. For practical travel advice on safety, money, and connectivity, check our practical travel resources at practical travel advice.
Also, before you depart, revisit the official visitor guidelines for health entry requirements and the latest advisories—these are updated regularly and can affect your packing and schedule.
Activities, Guided Experiences, and How to Book
From heritage tours to desert safaris and diving trips, match activity types to local providers who specialize in safety and conservation.
- Archaeological visits: Choose site-authorized guides for Hegra and Diriyah to access interpretive talks and avoid restricted areas.
- Desert and dune driving: Use experienced 4×4 teams and consider recovery gear and satellite communication.
- Diving and snorkeling: Book with operators certified for reef protection who brief on no-touch policies and waste management.
For curated lists of vetted experiences and recommended operators, explore our curated hub of experiences for planning reliable outings at best activities and attractions.
Sample Itineraries
Below are three distinct sample itineraries to help convert interest into realistic trip plans, covering different timeframes and travel styles.
- Five-Day Cultural and Desert Highlights: Land in Riyadh, visit Diriyah, take a guided trip to the Edge of the World, fly to AlUla for an afternoon at Maraya and an evening at Hegra, then depart from Tabuk or return to Riyadh.
- Ten-Day North and Coast: Start in Jeddah, explore Al Balad, do a Red Sea diving day trip, fly to AlUla for two full days (Hegra, Old Town, Maraya), then transfer to Tabuk for Wadi Disah or coastal Umluj island-hopping.
- Two-Week Immersion: Combine Riyadh (museums, Edge of the World) + AlUla (heritage and desert activities) + Jeddah/Red Sea (diving and Al Balad) + Asir (Abha and Rijal Almaa) with internal flights and two multi-day guided experiences (desert camping and highland trekking).
These itineraries can be mixed and matched; always confirm seasonal access and site reservations before booking.
Packing: Essentials for Saudi Conditions
Pack for sun, variable desert nights, and conservative public spaces. A compact first-aid kit, sun protection, reusable water bottle, and a lightweight scarf for modest coverage will be useful. If you plan diving, bring any specialized gear you prefer (most operators provide standard equipment).
For a simple, fast reference, consider the following checklist before you depart:
- Valid passport, printed visa confirmation, and emergency contact photocopies
- Sun protection: broad-spectrum sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- Lightweight layers, modest daywear, and a warmer outer layer for cool desert nights
- Comfortable walking shoes and sturdy sandals
- Portable phone charger, local SIM, and downloadable maps for offline use
- Reusable water bottle and basic medications
Responsible Travel: Conservation and Community
Saudi Arabia’s tourism expansion is deliberately curated to preserve archaeology and ecosystems. Your choices matter: favor businesses that hire local guides, respect permitted visitor routes, and adhere to no-littering and reef-protection rules. When buying handicrafts, prioritize local workshops and authentic artisanal producers to support regional economies.
A Planner’s Step-by-Step Framework
Turn curiosity into a practical plan with a simple four-step framework that I recommend to all readers:
- Decide your travel mode and top priorities (heritage, nature, or coast).
- Build a route that minimizes backtracking; assign arrival and departure hubs based on flight connections and internal distances.
- Lock down site reservations, permits, and any mandatory guided tours first; availability at marquee sites can be limited.
- Confirm local transport and accommodation within 60–90 days of travel; in high season and for special events, secure earlier.
Refer to the official visitor guidelines at the earliest planning stage to ensure visa, documentation, and site-permit alignment with your choices.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many first-time visitors underestimate distances or misjudge the intensity of the sun. Avoid these missteps by pacing you itinerary, allowing buffer days for weather or transfers, and booking essential guided services where required. Don’t assume full access to remote reserves without confirming tour availability; conservation rules sometimes limit daily visitor numbers.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia offers layered, surprising experiences for travelers who plan with respect and purpose—historic tombs and living old towns, towering mountain vistas, coral reefs, and wide desert horizons. Pair your wish list with a practical route, timed entries, and local guides to amplify both ease and depth.
Begin your planning by reviewing the essential travel guidelines for the Kingdom to ensure your trip starts on a secure, informed foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a guide for Hegra and other heritage sites?
A: Many protected sites require guided entry or timed access; a guide enriches your visit and ensures compliance with preservation rules. Always book site-authorized tours when available.
Q: Is Saudi Arabia safe for solo travelers and women traveling alone?
A: Many solo travelers, including women, visit safely. Exercise standard precautions, dress respectfully, and prefer reputable operators for remote activities. City centers are well-policed and hospitable; remote travel requires extra planning and guides.
Q: When is the best time to visit for diving and for desert experiences?
A: For diving on the Red Sea, late spring through early autumn provides warmer water; winter offers excellent visibility. For AlUla and desert activities, autumn to spring (October–April) avoids the extreme summer heat.
Q: Can I visit Mecca or Medina as a non-Muslim tourist?
A: Entry to the holy cities is restricted to Muslims. Non-Muslim visitors should plan itineraries around other cultural, historical, and natural sites in the Kingdom.
If you’re ready to transform your travel intentions into confirmed plans, start now by reviewing the essential travel guidelines for visitors—they contain the vital steps you need before you book.
