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Why Visit Saudi Arabia?
Nestled within the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, Saudi Arabia invites travellers to traverse the crossroads of tradition and modernity. From the hallowed grounds of Mecca and Medina to the bustling markets of Riyadh, and the cosmopolitan charm of Jeddah, the Kingdom unfolds with its rich historical heritage, vibrant cities, and diverse landscapes, complemented by the warm embrace of Saudi hospitality. This unique destination boasts not only the endless golden sands of its Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali) ancient ruins like AlUla along the Incense Route but also the breathtaking shores and coral reefs of the Red Sea, where resorts and underwater treasures await exploration.
As Saudi Arabia unfolds its treasures, you can immerse yourself in the rhythm of its culture, savour the flavours of its cuisine, and witness the transformative journey the country is undertaking.
Best Time to Visit Saudi
Saudi Arabia is a captivating year-round destination, offering lively events in cooler months, lush greenery in spring, water adventures in summer, and pleasant exploration in winter. Pack accordingly for diverse experiences and get ready for a journey filled with cultural richness and natural wonders.
1. Spring: As spring unfolds from mid-March to mid-June, Saudi Arabia experiences brisk weather in the north and warmer conditions in the central and southern regions. Spring showers, especially in the central and southwest regions, create a lush landscape, offering a unique perspective on the country’s natural beauty.
2. Summer: The summer months, from mid-June to mid-September, usher in rising temperatures, with early mornings and long evenings providing ample opportunities for exploration, whether it’s diving in the warm seas or enjoying sailing and snorkeling.
3. Autumn: Spanning from mid-September to mid-December, Autumn brings gentler weather and cool breezes to Saudi Arabia’s northern regions and southwestern highlands. Warm days and mild evenings make outdoor activities, like strolling along Jeddah’s waterfront or dining al-fresco, particularly delightful.
4. Winter: From mid-December to mid-March, the kingdom experiences beautiful winter weather, making it a great time to explore. Balmy days and cool nights create the perfect conditions for camping, rock climbing, or discovering the verdant highlands and bustling cities. Winter visitors might even witness snowfall in the northern regions, adding a magical touch to the landscape. This period is also marked by vibrant events such as AlUla Moments, MDLBeast music festivals, the Islamic Arts Biennale, and the Red Sea International Film Festival.
Must Checkout: Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia
Top 5 Destinations in Saudi Arabia
1. Al Ula
In Al Ula, a treasure trove of history awaits global enthusiasts. Hegra, the first Saudi site honoured with UNESCO World Heritage status, unveils its ancient tales through well-preserved Nabatean tombs and rocks etched with enigmatic symbols dating back to the first century BC. The unique terrain offers extraordinary experiences, from rock climbing and hiking to camping, glamping, and hot air balloon rides beneath the starry desert sky.
While you are at Al Ula, visit the natural wonder of Jabal AlFil Elephant Rock, a massive sandstone formation resembling an elephant, or stroll through the historic Old Town, immersing yourself in the local culture. Here, traditional mud-brick structures and ancient charm invite you to step back in time and experience the rich cultural tapestry of this enchanting destination.
Must Checkout: Saudi Arabia Tour Packages
2. Riyadh
Riyadh, the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is a captivating blend of history and modernity. Steeped in historical significance, the city houses old palaces that witnessed the kingdom’s inception. Today, Riyadh has evolved into a global hub for shopping, entertainment, and business. Here, you can explore the largest entertainment centre, Riyadh Boulevard, for a thrilling experience, or escape to enchanting sand dunes under star-lit skies.
Make sure to indulge in diverse culinary delights, from luxurious international restaurants to local eateries offering authentic Saudi flavours. The city hosts major cultural events, with the Riyadh Season being a vibrant celebration. Discover forever iconic landmarks like Al-Masmak and Al Murabba Fortress, visit the Riyadh Zoo, home to 1300 animals, enjoy panoramic views from the Kingdom Centre Tower, and immerse yourself in Saudi culture at the National Museum.
Checkout Now: Riyadh Tour Packages
3. Jeddah
Jeddah, celebrated by UNESCO for its rich heritage, invites you on a journey through time. Explore the city’s history through antique balconies, stone walkways, and ancient sidewalks. At the same time, the city lies at the divine Red Sea shores allowing magical diving experiences among vibrant coral reefs. Whether wandering through the historic district of Al-Balad or strolling along the Jeddah Corniche, you’ll be immersed in the city’s charm that harmoniously blends history, natural beauty, and modern cultural experiences. While you are at Jeddah, visit the grand King Fahd Fountain, explore marine life at Fakieh Aquarium, offer prayers at the Floating Mosque, and embrace contemporary art at spaces like Athr Gallery.
Suggested Read: Tourist Places to Visit in Jeddah
4. Taif
Taif, also known as the “Friend of the Clouds” nestled in the eastern slopes of the Sarawat Mountains offers a refreshing retreat with its moderate to pleasantly cool climate and stunning landscapes. Famous for its fragrant rose gardens, Taif is a city that comes alive with vibrant colours during the annual Rose Festival. Visitors can indulge in the unique experience of handpicking fresh roses and exploring over 700 rose fields. The city also boasts numerous orchards offering fruit-picking delights, with Taif renowned for citrus fruits, grapes, berries, pomegranates, and figs. Historical sites such as Shubra Palace, where the Treaty of Taif was signed, and the Ottoman-style Taif Souk, where traditional crafts and local produce are showcased, are some of the popular attractions at Taif. Nearby, you can visit the Wahba Crater, the largest and deepest volcanic crater in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
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5. Neom City
Neom City unfolds as a futuristic haven along the Red Sea, showcasing pristine beaches and ambitious urban projects. The Line, an innovative urban environment within Neom, aims for sustainable living. Explore the wonders of Wadi Tayyib Al-Ism, featuring canyons, rock formations, and outdoor adventures. Engage in watersports along the Red Sea coastline, and discover the region’s marine biodiversity. Neom City promises a blend of natural beauty and cutting-edge development, inviting visitors to experience a harmonious balance between modernity and the wonders of nature.
Also Checkout: Things to Do in Saudi Arabia
What to Eat and Where to Eat
When you’re on vacation, it’s the perfect time to treat yourself to some delicious food, especially in Saudi Arabia. The delightful blend of Arabian flavours, reflecting the country’s rich cultural and historical influences. It’s recommended to try local eateries, traditional markets (souks), and cultural events to get an authentic taste of the country’s culinary delights. Here are some traditional dishes and recommended places to savour the best of Saudi Arabian food.
1. Kabsa: Kabsa is the national dish of Saudi Arabia, a spiced rice dish typically served with meat (chicken, lamb, or beef), vegetables, and a flavorful broth.
Where to Eat: Najd Village offers an authentic Kabsa feast, embodying the essence of Saudi cuisine. Set in traditional Najd-style mud houses with courtyards, wells, and vibrant Saudi doors, it provides a cultural and culinary immersion for the ultimate Saudi experience. You can also find excellent Kabsa at local restaurants and traditional fine dining eateries like Maiz at Riyadh.
2. Shakshuka: an enticing blend of poached eggs in a spicy tomato and onion sauce enriched with cayenne, chilli, and cumin
Where to Eat: Breakfast spots and cafes around the country keep us spoiled for choices. Make sure to try the combination of stuffed shakshuka sandwiches, sweet and savoury masoub (banana bread pudding), or muttabag (egg dough filled with chicken, veggies, or beef)from popular places like Al Atherya Village or Bofia.
3. Mandi: Similar to Kabsa, Mandi is a delicious rice dish with meat (usually lamb or chicken), flavoured with a blend of aromatic spices.
Where to Eat: Local restaurants and Mandi specialty shops are the best places to savour this dish.
4. Shawarma: Shawarma is a popular street food in Saudi Arabia. Thinly sliced marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) is wrapped in flatbread with garlic sauce, tahini, and vegetables.
Where to Eat: Known for perfecting shawarmas, Mama Noura in Riyadh is a go-to spot for delicious grilled marinated meat. Street stalls and small shops selling Shawarma are abundant in the country
5. Mutabbaq: Mutabbaq is a stuffed pastry or a folded and fried pancake with stretchy dough filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or sweet fillings. Bakeries and street vendors often offer this tasty treat.
Where to Eat: Many local bakeries, eateries and street stalls in Saudi cities, especially in markets and neighbourhoods, offer freshly made Mutabbaq. Ask locals for recommendations on popular bakeries in the area.
6. Jareesh: Jareesh is a harmonious blend of boiled crushed wheat, onion, rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and an array of spices. With roots tracing back to pre-Islamic times, Jareesh, also known as harees, gains popularity, especially during Ramadan, with its unique consistency akin to a delightful mix between porridge and a dumpling.
7. Saudi Sweets: The country has a fantastic selection of traditional sweets, including mouth watering pastries and tempting buttermilk cookies. Ma’amoul, crumbly cookies stuffed with pistachios, walnuts, almonds, or dates (sometimes with date pudding), offer a delightful treat with a shortbread-like exterior that melts in your mouth. These charming cookies, adorned with signature patterns from wooden moulds, are often served during celebratory occasions and can be found in bakeries around the country.
8. Seafood in Jeddah: Jeddah, being a coastal city, offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Fried Najil, showcasing the soft and succulent white meat of the grouper, and Fried Sijan, a petite yet flavorful delight. Kozi, a Jeddawi specialty, features Hamour fish cooked with tomato, yogurt, garlic, onion, and saffron over a Tawa pan, creating a uniquely distinct flavour profile.
Where to Eat: Visit seafood restaurants along the Jeddah Corniche for a delectable dining experience. You can also discover a seafood haven at Jeddah’s historic port, offering a must-try array of Najil, Hamoor, Hareed, Sijan, and a variety of crustaceans for an unforgettable Hejazi culinary experience.