Saudi Arabia

Cozy lounge area at a desert resort, featuring comfortable seating and stunning views of the desert.

Description

Saudi Arabia tourism offers a mix of rich history, cultural heritage, and modern attractions. Highlights include the stunning AlUla region, home to Hegra (Madain Salih), a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient Nabatean tombs. The holy cities of Mecca and Medina attract millions of pilgrims annually. Riyadh, the capital, features the Kingdom Centre Tower and Diriyah, the birthplace of Saudi Arabia. Jeddah's Al-Balad, a historic district with traditional coral houses, showcases the country's cultural heritage. For adventure seekers, the Red Sea offers world-class diving, and the vast Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert provides thrilling dune experiences. With a mix of tradition and modernity, Saudi Arabia is an emerging travel destination.

The Grand Mosque of Mecca, a large and sacred Islamic site, features a vast courtyard with large umbrellas.

Things to do in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical sites to modern attractions. Explore the UNESCO-listed AlUla and its breathtaking rock formations and ancient tombs at Hegra (Madain Salih). Visit the vibrant city of Riyadh, home to the Kingdom Centre Tower, Diriyah, and the National Museum. In Jeddah, stroll through the historic Al-Balad district, or enjoy diving in the Red Sea's pristine coral reefs. Adventure seekers can go desert dune bashing in the Empty Quarter (Rub' al Khali) or hike in the scenic Asir Mountains. Whether exploring ancient history, modern cities, or natural wonders, Saudi Arabia offers unforgettable experiences.

A view of the grand mosque in Saudi Arabia, showcasing its impressive architecture.

Best local food to try in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabian cuisine is rich in flavors, influenced by Middle Eastern and Bedouin traditions. A must-try dish is Kabsa, a fragrant rice dish cooked with spiced meat, often chicken, lamb, or camel. Mandi, similar to Kabsa, is slow-cooked with tender meat for a smoky flavor. Jareesh, a traditional wheat dish with meat and spices, is a local favorite. Mutabbaq, a crispy stuffed pancake filled with meat and vegetables, is a popular street food. For dessert, Ma'amoul (date-filled cookies) and Kunafa (a sweet pastry with cheese and syrup) are delightful treats. With its bold spices and hearty meals, Saudi cuisine offers an authentic taste of Arabian hospitality.

A man riding an ATV across a sandy desert landscape under a clear blue sky.

Right time to visit Saudi Arabia

The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is during the cooler months, from October to March, when temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), making it ideal for sightseeing, desert adventures, and cultural experiences. This period is perfect for exploring AlUla's ancient sites, Jeddah's Red Sea coastline, and Riyadh's historical landmarks. Winter also hosts major events like Riyadh Season and Diriyah Season.

The summer months, from April to September, can be extremely hot, especially in the desert regions, but coastal cities like Jeddah remain more bearable. Travelers visiting for Hajj or Umrah should check the Islamic calendar for pilgrimage dates.

Gallery

A view of the Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia, highlighting its impressive design. A view of the Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia, highlighting its impressive design. A view of the Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia, highlighting its impressive design.
Cozy lounge area at a desert resort, featuring comfortable seating and stunning views of the desert. Cozy lounge area at a desert resort, featuring comfortable seating and stunning views of the desert. Cozy lounge area at a desert resort, featuring comfortable seating and stunning views of the desert.
The Grand Mosque of Mecca, a large and sacred Islamic site, features a vast courtyard with large umbrellas. The Grand Mosque of Mecca, a large and sacred Islamic site, features a vast courtyard with large umbrellas. The Grand Mosque of Mecca, a large and sacred Islamic site, features a vast courtyard with large umbrellas.
A view of the grand mosque in Saudi Arabia, showcasing its impressive architecture. A view of the grand mosque in Saudi Arabia, showcasing its impressive architecture. A view of the grand mosque in Saudi Arabia, showcasing its impressive architecture.
A man riding an ATV across a sandy desert landscape under a clear blue sky. A man riding an ATV across a sandy desert landscape under a clear blue sky. A man riding an ATV across a sandy desert landscape under a clear blue sky.
A white mosque by the ocean, surrounded by sand and water, creating a serene coastal scene. A white mosque by the ocean, surrounded by sand and water, creating a serene coastal scene. A white mosque by the ocean, surrounded by sand and water, creating a serene coastal scene.

Destinations