2025 Saudi Arabia Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

🌍Finally waited for it! The ultimate itinerary of Swan Travel’s “Around the World in 60 Days” is revealed! As an old fan who has participated in their Antarctic route, this new itinerary is really exciting for me. Let’s see which cultural destinations will be visited in this ultimate romantic journey through the history of human civilization~ ❗【👇Press below to travel around the world for a cultural journey】❗ 1️⃣Ancient civilization in the Arctic Circle [Ivalo, Finland] ✔️The mysterious Sami tribe, Inari Sami Museum, and the pristine natural scenery of the Arctic Circle 2️⃣ Prehistoric Temple Stonehenge [Bath, England] ✔️Stonehenge sunrise, British Museum expert tour, Tower of London and London Eye 3️⃣ Maasai Epic [Masai Mara, Kenya] ✔️Maasai primitive tribe, Kakiya cave exploration, search for red ochre murals 4️⃣Retracing the Nabataean Civilization [Saudi Arabia AlUla] ✔️World Heritage Hegra, deciphering the code of Nabataean civilization 5️⃣The city of free carnival [Rio de Janeiro, Brazil] ✔️Giant Christ statue, exclusive arrangement of 2026 Chinese New Year × Brazilian Carnival 6️⃣Return to the ancient Inca country [Machu Picchu, Peru] ✔️Panoramic train to the Sky City, experts decipher the Inca civilization, and the Sacred Valley terraces ▪️There are also [Easter Island, Chile], [Northern Territory, Australia]... ✨Highlights✨ ✅Traveled across 6 continents and 11 countries ✅In-depth visit to 7 world cultural heritage sites ✅Exclusive arrangement of Rio Carnival + Chinese New Year dual experience ✅Experts accompany you throughout the trip + top accommodation experience ❗【👇Press below to travel around the world for a cultural journey】❗

Did you know that Saudi Arabia was not open to tourism before 2019? This land is home to both ancient historical sites and modern skyscrapers. It boasts six UNESCO World Heritage Sites and has opened up more natural and cultural sites.‼ ◾️Why choose Saudi Arabia❓ 👉 Convenient e-visa: No need to visit the consulate, just apply for an e-visa on the Saudi tourism website. 👉 Diverse attractions: From ancient ruins to geological wonders and modern cities, Saudi Arabia has it all. 📸Recommended attractions 1️⃣ Hegra Archaeological Site A Saudi World Heritage Site, a testament to the Nabataean civilization. 111 well-preserved ancient tombs and cave paintings tell the story of a thousand years in the desert. One of the isolated landmark tombs is said to be the tomb of a Nabataean royal family member, full of mystery. Recommended activity: Take photos of the carved lion, snake, or eagle decorations and experience the creativity of the Nabataeans. 2️⃣ At-Turaif District in ad-Dir'iyah The first capital of the Saudi dynasty, it retains the unique Najdi architectural style. Mud-brick palaces, mosques, and defensive towers bear witness to the beginnings of Saudi history, and it is also the center of the Wahhabi movement. Recommended activity: Stroll through the ancient city walls and learn about the urban development of Saudi Arabia. 3️⃣ Historic Jeddah A bustling port on the Red Sea, a gateway to trade and religious hubs. Maze-like alleys, spice-scented traditional markets, and colorful "Rawashin" balconies make it a paradise for photographers. Recommended activity: Get lost in the Al-Balad district and explore hidden traditional restaurants and mosques. 4️⃣ Rock Art in the Hail Region These rock paintings record over 10,000 years of human history and are among the richest rock art in the Middle East. From human to animal figures, it's like a time tunnel that takes you back to ancient Arabian life. Recommended activity: Join a guided tour to decipher the mysterious stories in the rock paintings. 5️⃣ Elephant Rock in AlUla A 52-meter-high red sandstone geological wonder, famous for its elephant-like shape. Take photos in the sand dunes during the day, capture the moment when the sunset turns the rocks red at dusk, and stargaze in the sunken lounge area at night. Recommended activity: Check in at Elephant Rock and enjoy a desert night under the stars. Modern architectural surprises 🌟 Maraya Concert Hall: The world's largest mirrored building, reflecting the desert during the day and offering a breathtaking light show at night. Kingdom Centre: A landmark building in Riyadh, with a sky bridge on the top floor, an ideal place to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Whether you want to explore ancient civilizations or experience the fusion of modernity and nature, this land has unexpected surprises for you! Consider adding Saudi Arabia to your travel plans for 2025! 🕌🌏

Take photos! It feels unreal, and I feel like the 15-hour flight was worth it😭 Elephant Rock at sunset is so photogenic. You can sit on a sunken sofa and look at the 52-meter-high Elephant Rock, marveling at the magnificence of nature. No reservation or ticket is required. There is a Salt restaurant (Western fast food such as burgers and fries) and a coffee truck, so you can drink coffee in the desert! Who understands camping and picnicking here? The sunset is around 18:40, and it is completely dark by 19:00. There are only 20 minutes to take photos of the sunset. After dark, you can look up at the stars and the Milky Way in the desert. I recommend driving yourself. Free parking.

#urbanwanderings I the typical Chinese guy who visited Saudi Arabia started my craving for chinese food here. Ended up came to this considerably big Chinese restaurant just about 10mins away from the hotel at Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olya. I would say the food is good and portion was quite well, sufficient to fix my craving! Strong recommend to come here if you have chinese food craving!

#mybesthotel Never ever thought of having a chance to be staying in Hyatt Regency, Riyadh Saudi Arabia. This hotel is by the main street where it can exactly overseeing Kingdom Centre at certain room. The receptionist was so professional and friendly, entertained us during the check-in process and it was seamless. Enjoyed every moment here and definitely will be one of the must return hotels whenever visit Saudi Arabia.

🌟 Saudi Exploration Tour: 5 Days 4 Nights Highlights 🌟 Saudi Arabia, a country that perfectly blends ancient traditions with modern luxury, is attracting the world's attention with its unique charm. Next, we will carefully plan a five-day, four-night exploration tour for you to unveil the mystery of this land. 🗓️ Day 1: Riyadh Explore the Capital's Blend of Old and New 🌄 Morning: Visit Masmak Fortress, a historic fort that witnessed the birth of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and feel the weight of history. 🍔 Noon: Enjoy authentic Saudi cuisine at Najd Village Restaurant, such as grilled lamb with Middle Eastern rice. 🌆 Afternoon: Head to Kingdom Tower, take the high-speed elevator to the top, and enjoy a 360-degree view of Riyadh, experiencing the shock of modern Saudi Arabia. 🗓️ Day 2: Dammam Leisure Time on the Golden Coast 🌄 Morning: Drive to Dammam, with a stop at the Saudi Arabian Eastern Province Natural Reserve to enjoy the beauty of nature. 🍔 Noon: Have a seafood lunch by the sea at Al Khobar Corniche, enjoying the sea breeze and leisure. 🌆 Afternoon: Stroll along the Corniche Seaside Walkway, then explore the Dammam Market to experience the fun of traditional shopping. 🗓️ Day 3: Al-Ula A Cultural Journey Through Time 🌄 All Day: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al-Ula Old Town, tour ancient palaces, forts, and rock art sites to deeply understand Saudi Arabia's long history. In the evening, watch the Al-Ula Light Show, feeling the collision of ancient and modern technology. 🗓️ Day 4: Jeddah The Charm of a Coastal City 🌄 Morning: Head to King Fahd Fountain to admire the world's tallest fountain show. 🍔 Noon: Enjoy international cuisine at the famous Red Sea Mall in Jeddah. 🌆 Afternoon to Evening: Visit the old town of Al Balad, explore traditional buildings and markets, then end the day at Jeddah Aquarium, observing Red Sea creatures up close. 🗓️ Day 5: Return to Riyadh In-Depth Cultural Experience 🌄 Morning: Visit the National Museum to fully understand Saudi history and culture. 🍔 Noon: Have lunch at a specialty restaurant in Riyadh Park Mall. 🌆 Afternoon: Free activities, recommended to go shopping on Olaya Street or experience local coffee culture, then prepare for the return trip. 🚗 Transportation Suggestions: Using Saudi Arabia's well-developed road network for self-driving tours is a good choice, and there are convenient domestic flights between major cities. Within cities, ride-hailing apps or public transportation systems (such as Riyadh's metro) are very convenient. 🍱 Food Recommendations: 🍣 Traditional Saudi Cuisine: Try Harees (crushed wheat porridge), Kabsa (spiced rice with chicken or lamb), and Luqaimat (sweet dough snacks). 🍽️ Modern Restaurants: Riyadh's NOMAD and Jeddah's The Globe offer innovative international cuisine for a high-end dining experience. This journey is just a glimpse of the many wonders Saudi Arabia has to offer. If you have a particular interest in certain attractions or activities, or if you want more detailed travel tips, please feel free to ask, and I will do my best to provide you with assistance!

The magnificent Yardang landforms here are like a diverse array of megaliths in the desert, and the sunken sofas blend seamlessly with the sands. Leaning against the Elephant Rock to watch the sunset is truly relaxing. Elephant Rock is 52 meters tall and was formed by natural erosion. It is also one of the iconic landscapes of AlUla. Address: Elephant Rock, AlUla, Saudi Arabia Plane: Currently, Saudi Arabia offers visa on arrival It's an off-the-beaten-path travel destination, with no direct flights from China yet. You need to transfer through Riyadh or Dubai to get to AlUla. It is recommended to get a visa on arrival directly at the airport. The AlUla airport processes it manually, and all you need is your passport, which is very smooth, for 480 Riyals. Alternatively, you can apply for an e-visa in advance, which is slightly more expensive.

Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 Welcome to Saudi Arabia! This treasure land on the Arabian Peninsula is filled with rich culture, magnificent natural landscapes, and astonishing ancient sites waiting for your exploration! Let me bring you a travel guide full of Saudi Arabian characteristics! 🕌 First, we arrive at Mecca. This city is one of the holiest places in Islam, with numerous mosques and religious relics. Don't forget to visit the most important Islamic landmark - the Great Mosque of Mecca and other ancient sites in the Holy City, and feel the solemnity and sanctity of religion! 🏜️ Next, we go to Riyadh. This modern city is the economic center of Saudi Arabia, with skyscrapers and bustling commercial streets. Don't forget to stroll around the Kingdom Centre Tower and the Riyadh Mall to experience the charm and vitality of modernization! 🐪 Then, let's head to the Sahara Desert. This desert is one of the largest in the world. Don't forget to take a desert tour, ride camels through the sands, and feel the vastness and mystery of the desert! 🏰 Afterward, we visit Madain Saleh. This region has a wealth of historical relics and ancient buildings. Don't forget to visit the old city and the fortress of Madain Saleh to feel the antiquity and mystery of this land! 🍢 Finally, don't forget to taste the Saudi Arabian cuisine! Whether it's crispy lamb, Arabian curry, or the sweet tandir bread, each dish exudes the rich Middle Eastern flavor and unique taste! 🎉 During this journey, you will have the opportunity to appreciate the rich culture and magnificent natural scenery of Saudi Arabia, and feel the warmth and charm of this country. Are you ready to start your Saudi Arabian adventure? Looking forward to exploring this country full of history and mystery with you!

🌈When I first arrived in the city of Mecca, 🕌Saudi Arabia, I was drawn to the mysterious and charming atmosphere of this city. 🌟 🚏Here, I discovered a pearl in the desert - a city full of historical and cultural treasures, as well as many unique charms and styles. 📸On the streets of Mecca, I saw all kinds of people from different countries and cultural backgrounds, but they all had a common goal - to go to the Islamic holy site of Mecca 🔺 Masjid al-Haram and complete the most important religious transaction of their lives. 🌟In this process, they are full of piety and enthusiasm, making the whole city filled with a sacred and solemn atmosphere. 📍Mecca is not just a religious holy site, but also a historic cultural center filled with numerous museums and cultural sites such as 🔺Al-Khobar Park🔺and the Islamic Museum. 🔜Here, you can experience the essence of Arab culture, learn about the history and development of Islam, and feel the diversity and inclusiveness of the city of Mecca. 🕌In Mecca, you can also taste many delicious foods and specialty snacks, such as Mecca rice for those who like lamb and rice, as well as various flavors of desserts and tea. 🍱These delicacies are not just food, but also a culture and a way of life, allowing you to have a deeper understanding of the charm and style of the city of Mecca. 📸🌟In short, in the city of Mecca, you can see the blending and collision of various religious beliefs, cultural histories, and ways of life, and feel the unique charm and style of this city. 🕌Whether you are a religious believer, a cultural enthusiast, or a traveler, Mecca will be an unforgettable experience in your life. 🔜I believe that everyone's experiences and feelings in this city are unique and worth sharing and listening to.

It's my second time to be here after 4 years. It's not only spiritual place but to be back to our real soul, village, and focusing only to think back why we are on this temporary world. they're so many changes since my last visit 4 years ago. the building, the tawafs' area, and most of the place has been renovated bigger and larger. there are also so many people compared to my last visit. it's a beautiful place for our soul and hopefully will come back later within next 3 years ameeen. #fallingforfall #tripblazers #spooktaculartrip #awesomepic #couplestrip

❤️#umrah

baby neo #travel #neo

Some photos of the transit airport in Saudia Arab and in the flight, when I book my flight from trip.com. it was a good experience

—Unlocking the Sandstone Code of the Nabatean Civilization 🌟【Opening】 Nestled in the golden sand dunes of northwestern Saudi Arabia, Madain Saleh (Mada'in Saleh) stands like a rose-hued city frozen in time. As Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, this southern capital of the Nabatean Kingdom weaves tales of 1st-century BC caravans through its 111 exquisitely carved rock tombs. When sunset pierces the towering tombstones, the ochre sandstone glows like honey, revealing why the Quran called this place "Al-Hijr" (The Rocky Place)—every wind-carved groove is an epic engraving of silk and spice-laden camel trains. 🕒【Opening Hours】 Regular Hours: April–October: 06:00–19:00 (avoid midday heat) November–March: 08:00–18:00 (morning mist adds mystery) Starlight Night Tours: Open until 22:00 every Friday & Saturday (sound-and-light projections revive ancient caravan trails) ⚠️ Heritage Etiquette: ① No touching tomb walls (millennia-old pigments are fragile); ② Drones require prior permits (5km no-fly zone around the reserve). 💵【Ticket Prices】 Experience Price (SAR ≈¥1.9) Highlights Basic Site Pass 95 SAR Includes free audio guide Nabatean Craft Workshop 65 SAR Carve your own rose sandstone souvenir Starlight Dinner Package 210 SAR Tomb-view terrace + traditional Zar dance 🔍【Experiences】 1. Tomb Decoder Quest Qasr al-Farid (The Lonely Castle): Explore the largest standalone tomb, with serpent lintels symbolizing wealth guardians. Tomb Acoustics: Clap inside Qasr al-Bint to trigger a 7-second echo (ancient anti-theft design). Caravanserai Zone: Operate replica water wells, reliving caravan survival tactics on the "Incense Route." 2. Immersive Time Travel Holographic Sand Theater: 19:30 show "Queen of Nabatea" (Arabic + English subtitles). Pottery Workshop: Sift soil to reconstruct ancient pottery with caravan markings. Star Map Decoding: Guides use lasers to link tomb layouts to Orion’s Belt. 🔥【Itinerary Tips】 Half-Day Highlights: North Gate → Caravan Well → Qasr al-Farid → Diwan Meeting Hall → Jabal Ithlib Sacred Mountain Full-Day Deep Dive: Add Al-Khuraymat rock art zone (hunt for prehistoric "Crying Camel" graffiti). 🚙【Transport】 Coordinates: "Hegra Archaeological Site", AlUla 43512 🚄 High-Speed Rail: From Riyadh’s King Khalid Airport → Haramain Express to AlUla Station (2hrs) → Shuttle Bus (Blue Line). 🚗 Scenic Drive: Rent a 4x4 at AlUla Airport → 40min via Route 375 (11 viewpoints en route). 🏜️【3-Day Itinerary】 🗺️ Civilization Trail Loop Day 1: Tomb Epic – Full day at Madain Saleh (tombs + starlight dinner) → Overnight at Habitas luxury camp. Day 2: Nature & History – Sunrise at Elephant Rock → Mirror House coffee → Decipher petroglyphs in Ikma Valley. Day 3: Modern Echoes – AlUla Old Town mud-brick workshop → Dareen Canyon suspension bridge. 🛖【Stay Like a Nabatean】 Type | Property | Heritage Perk Cave Villa | Banyan Tree AlUla | Infinity pool reflecting tomb silhouettes Stargazing Pod | Shaden Resort | Roof telescopes decode tomb constellations Heritage Home | Hegra Homestay | Stone houses run by Nabatean descendants 🎒【Packing List】 📦 Desert Archaeology Kit Must-Have | Pro Tip Archaeology Flashlight | Tomb lighting (no phone flashes) Sandstone-Colored Scarf | Sunshield + photo prop (avoid bright colors) Rubbing Paper | Legal rock art tracing (indoor use prohibited) Electrolyte Powders | Combat "invisible dehydration" (4L water daily) 💡 Did You Know? Qasr al-Farid’s unfinished chisel marks reveal Nabatean "installments"—merchants paid deposits to start tombs, but wars left them eternally incomplete! 🌅 When the wind caresses these tombs, you’ll hear whispers of camel bells and stars from 2,000 years ago. (Note: Smart guide bracelets launching in 2025 will auto-play holograms near tombs.) 【Heritage Rules】 No solo exploration of closed tombs. Hikers must buddy up and carry GPS.

| Saudi Arabia. Six Senses Southern Dunes Hotel | Saudi Arabia The interior design by MUZA Lab integrates natural materials, soft textures, and cultural influences to create a serene and sophisticated ambiance. As Saudi Arabia's first LEED Platinum resort, Six Senses Southern Dunes sets a new benchmark for sustainable luxury, redefining desert hospitality while enhancing the natural beauty of the desert.

Saudis tour

✈️ Journey Beyond Borders: Where Every Destination Tells a Story Travel is not just about moving from one place to another — it’s a journey of rediscovery, of reconnecting with the world and, more importantly, with oneself. Every city you visit, every path you take, is filled with stories waiting to be heard, and memories waiting to be created. Whether you're drawn to the serenity of turquoise beaches or the echoes of ancient civilizations in cobbled alleyways, the world is a vast canvas of breathtaking beauty and profound experiences. Some places can’t be described in words — they must be lived, felt, and remembered. 🌍 Destinations That Touch the Soul From the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives, where the sun glimmers on the ocean like scattered pearls, to the snow-covered peaks of Switzerland brushing the skies, the journey carries you through diverse lands and cultures. Wander the romantic streets of Paris, where art and architecture meet elegance. Step back in time in Rome, where every stone tells the tale of emperors and empires. In Asia, walk through Kyoto’s tranquil temples and gardens, or escape into the lush paradise of Bali, where balance and beauty are part of daily life. Each destination offers its own rhythm, colors, and charm — a symphony of experiences waiting for the curious traveler. 🕌 Culture & History: The Living Tapestry of Humanity Traveling is also a journey through human stories. Explore the vibrant bazaars of Istanbul, filled with the scent of spices and the echo of centuries. Discover the royal palaces of Marrakech, painted in shades of desert sunsets. Visit museums, join local celebrations, and taste time-honored cuisines that tell the tale of identity, resilience, and passion. Culture isn’t just something to observe — it’s something to experience, to feel in every step, every interaction, every bite. 🏞️ Nature’s Masterpieces: Reconnect with the Earth For nature lovers, travel offers the rare gift of awe. Hike through misty mountain trails, camp under a sky dusted with stars, dive into coral reefs teeming with color and life. Nature speaks to us in silence — through sunsets, rivers, forests, and winds — and in doing so, reminds us of our place in this magnificent world. These moments, though fleeting, leave a permanent mark on the soul. 🧳 So, Why Do We Travel? We travel to escape the ordinary, to embrace the unfamiliar, to meet others, and ultimately to find ourselves. Each destination changes us just a little — broadens our mind, softens our heart, sharpens our wonder. Travel is not a luxury. It is an investment in memories, a celebration of diversity, a step toward global connection. Start your journey today. Let the world become your journal, and the skies its cover. #travel

A unique overwater hotel Studio Paolo Ferrari studiopaoloferrari Shebara, Royal Villa The project is located on Shebara Island in the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia. Amid its pristine natural landscape, 73 mirrored stainless steel spherical villas resemble pearls naturally born from the sea, floating above the azure waves of the Red Sea in nearly perfect geometric forms.

Basic Information - The hotel opened in 2022 and is located in the heart of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, at Building, 2652 Prince Saud Al Faisal Street, Al-Khalidiyah. Hotel Facilities - The rooms feature modern design, equipped with free Wi-Fi, a kitchenette, luxury bedding, and Purovel brand bathroom amenities. - There is a spa, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant, and more, allowing guests to relax and enjoy delicious food. Surrounding Environment - Adjacent to attractions such as AlBalad and Corniche, close to shopping centers like Stars Avenue Mall, with numerous restaurants and cafes nearby, making it very convenient for both leisure travel and business trips. Services - Provides 5-star service with warm and attentive staff, offering airport transfers, luggage storage, 24-hour front desk, and other services to provide convenience for guests.

Zam Zam Water#makkah

Best Holly place ever in Saudi Arabia #travel

Who knew rocks in the desert could "grow" a hotel?! Saudi Arabia's Desert Rock Hotel is simply mind-blowing! The architectural design was crafted by Oppenheim Architecture, while the interior design was handled by Paul Ferrari's team. The entire hotel is embedded within majestic sandstone mountains, almost blending seamlessly with nature. It's like nature's masterpiece meeting top-tier design! Every suite boasts breathtaking desert views. Imagine watching sunrises, sunsets, and dazzling starry skies right from your room – what a divine experience! Not only is the design stunning, but it also emphasizes sustainability and eco-friendliness. Staying here feels like absorbing the essence of heaven and earth! It perfectly combines primitive ruggedness with modern luxury.

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

Step into Riyadh Winter Wonderland, where the desert transforms into a snowy spectacle. Glittering lights dance across the sky as laughter fills the crisp air. Ice-skating under twinkling stars, thrilling carnival rides, and enchanting performances create a world of wonder. Families gather for festive treats, while children marvel at life-sized snow globes and dazzling parades. The aroma of roasted chestnuts and hot cocoa adds warmth to the chilly breeze. From heart-racing roller coasters to cozy winter markets, every corner is a celebration of joy. Whether building snowmen or watching mesmerizing fireworks, Riyadh’s winter magic is an unforgettable escape into a frosty fairytale.

Suspended 300 meters above Riyadh, the Sky Bridge at Kingdom Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline 🌇. This 65-meter-long marvel connects the two peaks of the tower, creating an architectural masterpiece 🏗️. Visitors ascend via a high-speed elevator 🚀 to the 99th floor, where floor-to-ceiling windows reveal a mesmerizing urban landscape 🌍. Whether at sunrise 🌅 or under the city lights 🌃, the view is unforgettable. The bridge is a must-visit for photographers 📸, thrill-seekers 🎢, and those craving a unique perspective on Riyadh. With luxury shopping 🛍️ and fine dining 🍽️ nearby, it’s an experience beyond heights!

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