Travel Saudi Arabia
Escape the cold winter, extend the summer, or simply quench your seething thirst for adventure: Experience Saudi Arabia in all its diversity. Discover the millennia-old history and culture of the Arabian Peninsula. To make your trip a very special highlight, we will be happy to present you with various options. We create your individual dream holiday - from your personal preferences paired with our local experience.
Our Saudi Arabia Tours
We are happy to customize any trip to your wishes and ideas. The following trips are just examples of how a trip could look like.
- fascinating insights into Jeddah's long and cosmopolitan past
- historical places and rock tombs of AlUla
- Experience Wadis and the "Grand Canyon of Saudi Arabia
- fascinating insights into Jeddah's long and cosmopolitan past
- historical places and rock tombs of Al'Ula
- Experience Wadis and the "Grand Canyon of Saudi Arabia
- Riyadh: birthplace of modern Saudi Arabia, where old-world charm meets 21st-century vision
- UNESCO World Heritage and Historical Site in AlUla Region
- Jeddah: The port city on the Red Sea delights with its ancient history
- Fascinating contrasts: between colorful souks, bustling alleys and gigantic construction projects
- Exploring the birthplace of Saudi Arabia Riyadh
- Tradition and modernity united in the two cities
- Visit palaces and rose farms in Jeddah
Why your next trip should go to Saudi Arabia
Popular luxury hotels in Saudi Arabia
Our aim is to make your trip to Saudi Arabia a very special experience. In addition to a colorful daily program, one thing counts above all: feeling good. After an eventful day, there is hardly anything better than ending the evening in an oasis of well-being: Delicious, authentic food, wellness and a feather-soft bed that sends you off to the land of dreams. Which hotel you choose is, of course, entirely up to you. To help you choose, here are the most popular luxury hotels in the country.
Hotels in Riad
Hotels in Jeddah
Hotels in Al'Ula
What to look forward to on your Saudi Arabia trip
Only dry desert, sand and heat? No way! In fact, you can also enjoy a pleasant sea breeze in Saudi Arabia and benefit from great beaches, water sports and cruises. Those interested in culture will also get their money's worth in Saudi Arabia. Travelers will discover a world that few people have ever seen. The desert state, which until recently was not even accessible to tourists, has countless surprises in store.
Saudi Arabia beaches
Fine white sand and turquoise blue water are not only found in the Far East. Saudi Arabia has some dream beaches to offer on the Red Sea, for example Haql on the Gulf of Aqaba and Farasan Al Kabir on a group of islands in the southwest. There are also popular beaches on the Persian Gulf, such as Uqair or Half Moon Beach south of Dammam.
Not every beach in Saudi Arabia is open to men and women. You are also only allowed to wear a bikini on designated beaches. Therefore, find out in advance what regulations apply at your destination.
Sports: activities in nature
Diving
The Red Sea is considered by divers worldwide as an underwater paradise and also in Saudi Arabia there are numerous great diving spots that are still a real insider tip. Especially around Jeddah you can look forward to dazzling coral reefs and colorful schools of fish. The marine world off Saudi Arabia delights with around 1,000 different fish species, including the largest fish in the world - the whale shark, sea turtles, around 50 shark species, over 300 coral reefs and numerous shipwrecks.
Snorkeling
Those who do not yet dare to dive can also marvel at the paradisiacal underwater world of the Red Sea while snorkeling. Due to the clear water, you can also discover a lot from the surface. It is worth it!
Hiking
A mystical misty hike in the Abha Mountains or the historic trail in Asir: If there's one thing you can do in Saudi Arabia, it's hike! Look forward to exotic rock formations, spectacular views and ancient pilgrimage trails that were already trodden thousands of years ago.
Tip
The island of Jabal Al Laith, located about 200 kilometers from Jeddha, is the main breeding ground of whale sharks and one of the most picturesque dive sites in the country - Also because the crystal clear water ensures optimal visibility.
Zip lining
Zip-lining in Saudi Arabia is an absolute insider tip! Imagine racing along rocky landscapes with a refreshing breeze in your face and a lot of adrenaline in your body. A popular zipline is located in Al'Ula, for example.
Horse riding
Saudi Arabia can be discovered in many ways: on foot, from a boat or even from horseback. Horseback riding is very popular in Saudi Arabia. And travelers can also book a horseback ride through the vast deserts!
Mountain Biking
Why explore the country by car when you can take the mountain bike? Bike fans can look forward to beautiful and wild off-road trails in Saudi Arabia.
Climbing
The mountain Jabal ar Raal is particularly popular for climbing: Once you have climbed the rough rock faces, you are rewarded with unique views. The good thing is that climbing is still in its infancy in Saudi Arabia, which is why the area is not overcrowded.
Kayak, Parasailing, Kite-Surfing
Glide toward the bright red sunset in a kayak, parasail high above and view the water masses from above, or let the wind pull you across the water: The water sports options in Saudi Arabia are vast - and fun!
Sandboarding & Sledding
Here, the desert becomes an adventure playground: sandboarding and sledding are like the typical winter sports of snowboarding and sledding - only here in warm sand. Without the cold, the whole thing is twice as much fun!
Museums, art and culture
National Museum of Saudi Arabia
WHERE. In Riyadh, the country's capital
SPECIAL FEATURES: The museum takes you on a journey into Saudi Arabia's past - in an interactive and entertaining way. In addition to historical aspects, the focus is mainly on works of art! The modern museum building covers 28,000 square meters.
Tayebat Museum
WHERE. In Jeddah
SPECIAL FEATURES: As an ancient port city, Jeddah occupies a central role in Saudi Arabia's history. Travel back 2,500 years and learn how Jeddah and the entire kingdom came to be in the first place. The architecture of the museum alone is worth seeing: the entire building is decorated with ornate stone and wooden ornaments.
King Abdulaziz Center of World Culture
WHERE. In Ithra
SPECIAL FEATURES: This cultural center, also called "Ithra," has become a Saudi landmark and is considered a sensation worldwide. What is exhibited there? Kind of everything. Inside the special rock building, you'll find a museum, a theater, a cinema, a library, several art galleries, a knowledge tower and an ideas center. You can spend at least a whole day here!
Saudi Arabia has a lot to offer not only for those interested in history. The desert state also has an impressive art scene that is constantly expanding. Art lovers can look forward to countless galleries and events. The following two places are popular, for example.
The Art Promenade of Jeddah
A stroll along Jeddah's "Art Promenade" is worthwhile in every respect: the path is lined with creative sculptures, and here and there pretty and thoroughly exquisite cafés, restaurants and cocktail bars invite you to linger. What could be better than high-quality art, first-class delicacies in your belly, and the sound of the waves in the background?
The cubes Maraya
In the middle of the Saudi desert in Al'Ula stands a large glass cube called Maraya, which means "mirror" in Arabic. The cube reflects the desert landscape, which has a surreal effect and has become a popular photo spot. But the inside of the cube is also worth a visit! Here, for example, concerts and theater take place.
By the way: Jeddah is basically a highlight for art fans! The entire city surprises with sculptures on various corners - there are 400 pieces in total!
Popular celebrations and festivals in Saudi Arabia
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has become a colorful cultural center that surprises with countless events. If you travel through the desert state, you should definitely attend one or the other celebration!
Riad Art
Riad Art ist eines von vielen innovativen Projekten, das das Stadtbild von Saudi-Arabiens Hauptstadt weiter verschönern soll. Die Idee: Riad soll sich in eine Art offene Galerie verwandeln. Teile des Projekts sind bereits umgesetzt, so zum Beispiel die Dauerausstellung “Garden City” und das Noor-Festival, ein jährliches Event mit interaktiver Kunst.
Yanbu flower festival
Das Blumenfestival in Yanbu – einer saudischen Hafenstadt am Roten Meer – ist eines der größten Festivals des Landes. Das Blumenevent findet jedes Jahr vom Spätwinter bis zum Frühling statt und hat sogar zwei Guinness-Rekorde aufgestellt. Neben unendlichen Blumenmeeren gibt es auch eine Schmetterlingausstellung und Unterhaltungsprogramme wie Fahrgeschäfte und sogar ein Feuerwerk.
Janadriya Cultural Festival
Probably the most important festival in Saudi Arabia is the Janadriya Culture Festival, which takes place annually in the country's capital Riyadh and serves to cultivate the country's traditional culture. Holidaymakers get a lot on offer here: A camel race kicks off the festival. Sword dances are also on the program. In addition, you can taste countless regional specialties.
Curises
Sights
In addition to museums, art exhibitions and festivals, Saudi Arabia has numerous sights to offer you a glimpse into the country's diverse culture. The list is almost endless. The following attractions provide just a teensy taste.
Fort Masmak
At this fortress in Riyadh, built in 1865, you can immerse yourself in the turbulent history of Saudi Arabia.
Murabba Palace
The former royal palace in Riyadh nowadays houses a museum that gives you an insight into the modern history of the country. It is especially worth visiting in winter, as the extensive gardens are particularly green at this time of year.
Al-Rahma Mosque
The "floating mosque" is one of the landmarks of the city of Jeddah. The airy courtyards are worth a visit and are also accessible to non-Muslim tourists.
Jeddah Tower
The construction project in the north of the city of Jeddah was supposed to be the tallest building in the world at 1,007 meters. However, construction was halted in 2018 and has not yet resumed. However, looking at the tower in its current state of construction is also worthwhile!
Heritage Village
Those interested in culture will get their money's worth in this center in Dammam: from a museum to a handicrafts market to excellent restaurants, the Heritage Village lacks nothing.
Prophet's Mosque
The second largest mosque in the world and the second most important shrine to Islam in Medina is closed to non-Muslims. But with its ten minarets and green dome over the tomb of the Prophet Mohammed, it is impressive even from the outside.
Important: For religious reasons, non-Muslims are forbidden to visit the holy sites of Islam. However, many mosques now allow access to courtyards and other public areas. So before you visit, find out what is allowed on site.
Unesco World Heritage Sites
Saudi Arabia boasts a proud six UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are definitely worth a visit!
Stone City of Hegra
Just like its Jordanian counterpart Petra, the former Nabataean city impresses with ancient facades and tombs. The circular structures were built between 100 B.C. and A.D. 100 on a former trade route.
At-Turaif in Diriyya
The historic district of Diriyya, located northwest of Riyadh, is considered the cradle of the first Saudi dynasty. It is worth exploring the sprawling mud-brick buildings together with a guide.
Historic Jeddah
The old city of the port city of Jeddah, with its characteristic wooden facades, was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. The architecture combines vernacular elements with international influences from brisk trade.
Rock art in the Ha'il region
Around the city of Ha'il, rock paintings bear witness to a former oasis and wadi (desert riverbed). Some of the inscriptions are up to 10,000 years old.
Al-Ahsa Oasis
The largest oasis in the world includes not only an elaborate irrigation system, archaeological sites and historic buildings, but also more than two million date palms.
Cultural area of Hima
The rock inscriptions in the province of Najran, which are up to 7,000 years old, are witnesses to an ancient trade route. You can admire here not only pictorial representations, but also various Arabic, Nabataean and even Greek writings.
Desert
Saudi Arabia is multifaceted and has much more to offer than is commonly known. No wonder: The country has been undergoing rapid change since the doors were opened to travelers. However, Saudi Arabia's sprawling deserts, which take up around 60 percent of the country, are and remain particularly fascinating:
Canyon "Edge of the World"
From a 300-meter cliff near Riyadh in Jebel Fihrayn Canyon, enjoy the spectacular view over a prehistoric sea bed.
Al-Ula Oasis
This ancient oasis town on the former Frankincense Road is one of many ambitious projects to promote tourism in Saudi Arabia. A desert city is being built around the rocks of Hegra, which is expected to become an international tourist magnet in the future.
Rub al-Chali
The "Empty Quarter" is located in southern Saudi Arabia and, with an area the size of Turkey, is considered the largest contiguous sand desert on earth.
Nefud Desert
The desert in the north of the country was a water-rich green landscape in the Stone Age, which is why many settlers settled there. Even today, their traces can be found in numerous archaeological sites, such as the Ha'il region.
Asir Mountains
A popular destination for excursions is the Asir Mountains. The ancient Frankincense Road - one of the oldest trade routes in the world - runs through Asir, which is why there are numerous historic settlements to marvel at here. Discover Saudi Arabia's southern architecture and get close to nature: Hiking and culture fans get both here.
Beware: The road up into the mountains is adventurous, but also quite winding - not a pleasure for everyone. Those with a head for heights can look forward to spectacular views and mysterious lost places. The numerous settlements and villages are no longer inhabited. However, the historic core is maintained! If you stroll through the alleyways here, you can mentally travel back to the old Saudi mountain village.
Entry to Saudi Arabia: airports in the country & tourist visa on arrival
If you would like to travel to Saudi Arabia, there are four international airports to choose from: * King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh * King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah * King Fahd International Airport in Dammam * Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina A direct flight from Frankfurt am Main to Riyadh takes about six hours and - depending on the season and airline - is available from around 500 euros.
Visum bei Ankunft
Packing my suitcase: Saudi Arabia packing list
- Long-sleeved, non-flashy clothing - Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country, after all, and tourists should dress accordingly.
- Travel adapter (G-plug, 3 rectangular holes): If you are coming from Europe or the USA, you will need a travel adapter for Saudi Arabia. Adapters that also have USB ports are handy.
- Reusable water bottle:Plastic waste is a big problem in Saudi Arabia, and people love to buy small plastic bottles of water. Bring your own water bottle for the sake of the environment. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
- Good sunscreen: the Saudi sun is fierce and the dry heat combined with the sun can have serious consequences for your skin.
- A small Arabic dictionary: Communicating at least rudimentarily in the local language is a sign of respect and will be met with goodwill.