Why Saudi is your next adventure travel destination

Saudi is the largest country in the Middle East and one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the world. Since opening up to tourism in 2019, Saudi has built up a unique, competitive offering that combines authentic Arabian culture with a rapidly expanding entertainment offer. The focus for the country's future is on establishing a leading global destination by purposefully engineering social, cultural, economic and environmental imperatives.

As the country transforms as a destination, heritage will continue to be at the core of the tourism offering. Saudi has 6 UNESCO World Heritage and more than 10,000 archeological sites. AlUla and Diriyah are just a few examples of heritage preservation being at the heart of Saudi's destination development. Natural assets are also a fundamental part of Saudi's heritage and sustainability with preservation high on the agenda. NEOM will generate zero carbon emissions and Diriyah will welcome 27 million visitors while preserving the UNESCO site at Turaif and restoring Wadi Hanifah.

Saudi offers awe-inspiring natural phenomena and exciting, unique ways to explore its diverse terrain, making the country worthy of a spot on any outdoor enthusiast's bucket list. The kingdom boasts quite an itinerary, from desert and water adventures to camping and hiking through caves and craters.

Desert Adventures

Part of what's special about the Arabian Peninsula — and specifically Saudi — is its desert. In fact, Saudi is home to the largest sand desert on earth. From adrenaline-packed excursions like dune bashing and sandboarding to more serene, history-inspired activities such as camel riding and Arabian camping, the desert in Saudi serves as a canvas for more than just adventure travelers.

Hiking Adventures

Saudi's diverse topography is a delight for hiking enthusiasts. With striking lookout points atop cliffs and an oasis in the desert, there are plenty of adventures to embark upon on foot.

Water Adventures

Saudi is bordered by the Red Sea to the west and the Arabian Gulf to the east — making an adventure on or in the water an ideal way to explore.

Saudi culture is as rich as it is diverse. Visit the country's many mosques and traditional markets to experience a rhythm of life that has little changed over the centuries. Explore the different regions to experience the multicultural variety of foods, lifestyles and customs. And, for a taste of modern Saudi, don't miss the urban districts and entertainment centers where people meet to shop, dine or just spend time with friends.

From traditional dances and handicrafts to gleaming skyscrapers and thriving cities, Saudi is a destination in which history and modernity are inextricably linked and endlessly beguiling.

To experience the best of the country, here are the top three destination highlights.

Riyadh

Riyadh is the birthplace of today's Saudi, where tradition meets 21st century vision. As the country's capital, the city is a thriving metropolis with world-class dining, art and shopping, and a growing cultural scene. The city's fascinating centuries-old history can still be found within its atmospheric souqs, compelling museums and ancient architecture.

During the winter months, the city comes to life with an extraordinary entertainment and lifestyle offering. Riyadh Season, one of the world's largest lifestyle festivals is a celebration of Riyadh through every touchpoint, music, art, theatre and food, spanning several zones across the city and perfect for every visitor.

The MDLBEAST festival is the biggest music festival ever seen in the Middle East. Returning this December for its third edition – MDLBEAST will deliver three days of immersive beats to festival goers from global, regional, and local superstars.

Where To Stay

• Four Seasons

• The Ritz-Carlton

• Intercontinental

• Fairmont

• Shaza

Where To Eat

• Najd Village (Saudi)

• ROKA Riyadh (Japanese)

• Cipriani (Italian)

• LPM Restaurant & Café (French)

Jeddah

Jeddah is the hub of Saudi's burgeoning art and music scene and a true melting pot of diverse cultures. The city is home to the global UNESCO World Heritage site, historic Al Balad, where visitors can explore the antique designs of balconies, stone walkways and ancient sidewalks. Al Balad is a year-round open museum that showcases authentic Hijazi houses, with many of these ancient houses today retaining their exterior and offering modern interiors that serve as cafés and museums. A blend of old and new, Jeddah is one of Saudi's most exciting places to explore.

Jeddah is also famous for its stunning waterfront and divine Red Sea shores. A magical underwater journey offers one-of-a-kind coral reefs and an incomparable diving experience in unexplored waters.

Where To Stay

• Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel

• Shangri-La

• Waldorf Astoria

• The House Hotel

• Shada Hotel

Where To Eat

• Abu Zaid (Saudi)

• Twina (Seafood)

• Central Fish Market (Seafood)

• Kuuru (Nikkei)

• Shang Palace (Chinese)

AlUla

There are few places in the world where you can still feel like a true explorer charting the unknown. Home to Saudi's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, AlUla sits deep in the desert in the northwestern region of the country, with ancient tombs that remain as the legacy of 7,000 years of human civilization.

Surrounded by stunning natural rock formations and canyons, AlUla offers a plethora of adventure sports options and cutting-edge art installations.

Be sure to include a trip to the Oasis. A contrast to the surrounding desert, the lush AlUla Oasis has a longstanding history as a place for respite and relaxation. It also produces an abundance of citrus fruits, dates and more. AlUla remains largely off the global tourism radar, providing unspoiled and authentic adventures in the midst of beautiful desert landscapes.

Where To Stay

• Canyon RV Park

• Habitas AlUla

• Banyan Tree

• Shaden Resort

• Gathern Accommodations

Where To Eat

• Suhail Old Town (Saudi)

• Somewhere (Saudi)

• Maraya Social (International)

• Pink Camel Pastry Boutique (International)

• Circolo (Italian)

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• Tourists from China are eligible for the eVisa, which can be applied for through the quick-and-easy- to use online portal, available on the Visit Saudi website.

• Currently there are weekly flights between Riyadh, Jeddah and Guangzhou.

• Arabic is the official language of Saudi and the primary language used in all dealings and public transactions. English serves as an informal second language in the country and is spoken by a large section of its society.

• Currency exchange and transactions are easy in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia’s national currency is the Saudi riyal (ر.س SAR).