Saudi Arabia
Ancient Nabataean cities, dramatic desert landscapes, and a rapidly opening kingdom
Saudi Arabia is one of the world's most rapidly transforming travel destinations — a kingdom that has opened its doors to international tourism since 2019. From the extraordinary Nabataean ruins of Hegra and the dramatic sandstone formations of AlUla to the futuristic ambitions of NEOM and the ancient streets of Jeddah's Al-Balad, Saudi Arabia offers a depth of experience that few visitors expect.
Top Saudi Arabia to Visit
Handpicked destinations for the ultimate saudi arabia experience
AlUla Region
Saudi Arabia's most extraordinary destination — Nabataean tombs, sandstone canyons, and desert luxury
AlUla is Saudi Arabia's most extraordinary travel destination — a vast archaeological and natural landscape in the northwest of the kingdom containing the UNESCO-listed Hegra (Mada'in Saleh), the Dadan ruins, the iconic Elephant Rock, and the Maraya concert hall (the world's largest mirrored building). The region has been developed into a world-class luxury tourism destination with high-end desert camps and resorts.
Highlights
- Hegra — Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil) — iconic sandstone formation
- Maraya — world's largest mirrored building
- Dadan — ancient Lihyanite and Dadanite kingdom ruins
- World-class luxury desert accommodation
Things to Do
- Tour the Nabataean tombs at Hegra
- Photograph Elephant Rock at sunrise and sunset
- Attend a concert at Maraya
- Explore the Dadan ruins
- Stay in a luxury desert camp
Practical Info
Best Time to Visit
October–April
Recommended Duration
3–5 days
Typical Cost
Guided tours from SAR 200 (£42); accommodation from SAR 800 (£170)/night
Travel Tips
- ·Book guided tours in advance — independent access to Hegra is not permitted
- ·October–April is the best season — summer temperatures exceed 45°C
- ·AlUla has a growing range of luxury accommodation
- ·Saudi Arabia e-visa is available online for most nationalities
- ·Combine with the Winter at Tantora festival (December–February)
Nearby Attractions
Jeddah's Al-Balad (Historic District)
UNESCO-listed coral-stone towers and merchant houses — the soul of old Jeddah
Al-Balad is the historic heart of Jeddah — a UNESCO World Heritage Site of extraordinary coral-stone tower houses (known as Rawasheen) with intricately carved wooden balconies. The district was the commercial and cultural centre of Jeddah for centuries, serving as the gateway to Mecca for pilgrims arriving by sea. Today it is being carefully restored and is one of the most atmospheric historic districts in the Arab world.
Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Coral-stone tower houses with carved wooden balconies
- Historic gateway to Mecca for sea pilgrims
- Al-Shafi'i Mosque — one of the oldest in Jeddah
- Excellent traditional souqs and coffee houses
Things to Do
- Explore the Rawasheen (coral-stone tower houses)
- Visit the Al-Shafi'i Mosque
- Shop in the traditional souqs
- Try traditional Hejazi cuisine
- Visit the King Fahd Fountain (world's tallest) at night
Practical Info
Best Time to Visit
October–April
Recommended Duration
Half day
Typical Cost
Free to explore
Travel Tips
- ·Dress modestly — conservative dress is required in public
- ·The best time to explore Al-Balad is in the morning before it gets hot
- ·Guided tours of Al-Balad are available from Jeddah hotels
- ·Combine with a Red Sea snorkelling trip
- ·Jeddah has direct flights from London and most European cities
Nearby Attractions
More Attractions
Discover more incredible experiences around the world
Ready to explore Saudi Arabia?
Let our AI trip planner build you a personalised itinerary including the best saudi arabia experiences.