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Saudi, the largest country in the Middle East, first opened its doors and hearts to leisure tourists in 2019. It is home to some of the world’s most exciting destinations, with a plethora of leisure activities you can indulge in!
Experience the Hot Air Balloons in AlUla or discover the untouched wonders of the Red Sea! With its diverse terrain and unparalleled beauty, Saudi offers a wide range of options where adventurous travelers can explore its rich culture, tradition and larger than life monuments.
Saudi, is welcoming and warm, so be prepared to be embraced by the traditional hospitality of the Saudi people. Start packing and get all your travel documents in place in order to fly to this unique and diverse destination. Here are all the steps you need to take before you just pack your bags and go –
Step 1 – Sorting Out Your VISA Requirements And Application
The Saudi government offers various types of visa based on the purpose of tourism. If you have closed Saudi as your next travel destination, then you must follow these 10 guidelines to ensure a seamless fun trip:
- Carry a valid passport – valid for at least six months ahead of the span of stay in Saudi
- If the applicant has an old passport, it must be submitted with the new passport
- Two photographs in accordance with the general photo guidelines mentioned on the website
- Confirmed air ticket for the complete round trip
- Travel insurance issued by the Saudi Embassy, must cover the trip in entirety
- Cover letter from the applicant stating complete personal address, current address, travel details, consular’s details, accommodation address, and purpose of travel
- Hotel voucher that must provide the proof of accommodation and purpose of stay
- Bank statement duly signed and stamped by the bank showing that you can support your stay in Saudi
- A bonafide letter issued by the organization/ institution proving that the applicant is a part of it
- Clear copy of Aadhar Card that is a valid proof of Indian citizenship
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Step 2 – What To Pack For A Trip To Saudi
Saudi is the perfect year-round destination. The more popular tourist cities including Jeddah, Dammam and Riyadh are mostly warm throughout the year.
This makes it the best terrain for water adventures and other leisure activities! There’s a lot happening in Saudi that travellers aren’t always aware of. Which is why it’s important to understand the attractions as well as the cultural norms of the country.
Whilst in Saudi, travelers should dress respectfully and modestly. For women, abayas are not mandatory and are optional. Pack some essentials like a scarf, loose pants and shirts and long skirts. For men, full pants and shirts are essentials to be included in the suitcase.
Make sure you pack the following items –
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Loose pants/ t-shirts
- Full shirts/ pants
- Drybag (in case you plan to visit the beaches)
- Moisturiser for face and body
- Lip balm with sunscreen
- Sun Hat (to protect you from the heat)
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Best Time To Visit Saudi
Saudi is a growing leisure tourism destination and offers something for travelers all times of the year.
Mid-March to Mid-June: Spring in Saudi can be brisk, particularly in the north, where the temperature at night can drop below 15 degrees C.
Mid-June to Mid-September: With the exception of the comparatively mild highlands in the southwest, summer signals the start of rising temperatures across most of the country, with the average hovering around 45 degrees C.
Mid-September to Mid-December: Autumn brings gentler weather and cool breezes in both Saudi’s northern regions and the southwestern highlands.
Mid-December to Mid-March: Take advantage of Saudi’s beautiful winter weather to explore the kingdom.
Culture of Saudi
Saudi’s rich heritage and traditions have been shaped by its position as a historic trade hub and the birthplace of Islam. In recent years, the Kingdom has undergone a significant cultural transformation, evolving century-old customs to fit the contemporary world we live in today.
Must Visit Places In Saudi
Here’s a brief list of the places you must visit when in Saudi –
1. Al Soudah
Soon to be the adventure capital of Saudi, Al Soudah is a mountainous terrain in Asir. It was the first national park of Saudi and is home to beautiful valleys, exotic nature and some of the best hiking trails!
2. Dammam
The metropolitan city of Dammam is home to King Fahd International Airport, the largest airport in the world in terms of land area. As the capital of Saudi’s Eastern Province, the city offers tranquil views and a bustling infrastructure.
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3. Diriyah
The ultimate destination for picnics, history trail walks and exploring the rich cultural heritage of Saudi. There are a plethora of experiences waiting to be untapped at Diriyah.
Make sure you cruise around and explore the restaurants in Al Bujairi, relax in Wadi Hanifah and enjoy the view of Salwa Palace in At-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Farasan Island
Part of the upcoming Red Sea Project, Farasan Island is a beautiful landscape surrounded by turquoise waters. This is your chance to dive into some of the best adventure activities offered by the country.
5. Jeddah
Visit to witness the grand show of erupting waters of King Fahd’s Fountain. This unique fountain pumps up sea water at a speed of 233 miles per hour to a height of 312 meters, making it the tallest fountain of its type in the world!
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6. AlUla
Home to one of the 6 UNESCO heritage sites in Saudi, AlUla has a lot to offer. Starting with Hegra, a delight for your senses with a beautiful skyline and stargazing experience.
Then there is the geographical wonder of the Elephant Rock, known as Jabal Alfil. One of the latest additions to the attractions of AlUla is the Maraya, which is world’s largest mirrored building!
7. Riyadh:
Visit the 99-story tall Kingdom Centre tower in Riyadh that includes Al-Mamlaka shopping mall, offices, the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, and several luxury apartments. Make sure you also get clicked next to the King Abdullah park fountain, a dancing fountain that changes colours!
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What To Eat In Saudi:
We have covered pretty much everything except the flavorful delights of Saudi. Here are some of the delectable delights that you just can’t miss out, especially when you have travelled all the way to Saudi –
1. Kabsa
It is the most popular and traditional Arabic dish, widely available across the country. Kabsa is made of vegetables, meat, and rice, and is generally served during lunch.
2. Kleeja
These are the traditional cardamom cookies prepared with a combination of dried fruits. One of the oldest middle-eastern recipes, Kleeja is the typical dessert of Saudi, more precisely of Qassim region!
3. Martabak
It is a stuffed and fried pancake that is served as a popular street food. There are various filling options like eggs, garlic, onion, and ground meat.
4. Ma’amoul
Traditionally prepared for festivals, these are cookies filled with fruits and nuts. They are typically shaped into domes or balls and served with tea/coffee in Middle Eastern households.
5. Jareesh
One of the oldest dishes in Saudi, jareesh (also known as harees) consists of boiled crushed wheat, onion, rice, meat, broth and spices, such as parsley, cumin and coriander. The final product, which is especially popular during the month of Ramadan, has a consistency somewhere between porridge and a dumpling.
6. Arabic Coffee
It is a must try traditional beverage that is made by brewing Arabica coffee beans. Served during Ramadan and public gatherings, this coffee is seen as a symbol of generosity, hospitality, and pride.
Saudi is home to several exciting destinations that will attract, surprise and delight travelers from all over the world.There are a variety of options for cultural explorers and adventure seekers ranging from the enticing sea to the golden desert, eye-catching shopping malls to appetizing dining, endless mountains to bustling cities. So prepare yourself for an adventure of a lifetime!