Saudi Arabia offers vast deserts, dramatic mountains, and Red Sea and Gulf coastlines, alongside dynamic modern cities that are opening up to international visitors. You will find a blend of deep heritage, contemporary culture, and fast-evolving leisure experiences.
Discover Saudi Arabia
Discover Saudi Arabia
Why visit Saudi Arabia?
What to expect
Expect modern skylines in cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah, ancient sites, and new culture and entertainment districts. Travel brings you from high plateaus and desert escarpments to seaside promenades and emerging resort areas.
Plan your trip
Saudi Arabia is growing as a gateway to the Arabian Peninsula, with expanding infrastructure and visitor services. Plan time to experience both major cities and a foray into the desert or coastal regions to appreciate the country’s variety.
Top experiences in Saudi Arabia
Take in Riyadh’s evolving skyline
Head to Riyadh’s landmark towers and new business districts for sweeping city views, modern galleries, and lively cafes that show the capital’s contemporary side.
Explore heritage quarters
Wander restored old towns and traditional mud-brick neighbourhoods where narrow lanes, old gateways, and historic houses reveal the country’s architectural legacy.
Venture into the desert
Join a guided excursion to the surrounding desert for dune drives, rocky escarpments, and unforgettable sunsets over wide open landscapes.
Stroll Red Sea and Gulf corniches
Along the coasts, landscaped corniches offer walking paths, public art, and sea views, ideal for evening strolls in the cooler hours of the day.
Discover Saudi Arabia’s museum scene
Visit national and regional museums to see artefacts, archaeological finds, and interactive displays that trace the country’s history and rapid modern transformation.
Experience Saudi Arabia’s way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights link major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam efficiently, while new highways make intercity journeys by car or coach straightforward. Within cities, you can use taxis, ride-hailing apps, and, in some places, new metro and bus networks.
Local life & culture
Daily life moves to a relaxed evening rhythm, with families and friends meeting in parks, cafes, and along corniches. You will notice strong traditions of hospitality, from friendly greetings to a welcoming approach towards visitors discovering the country.
Where to unwind
Escape to desert retreats, coastal promenades, and landscaped city parks for fresh air and open space. Mountain and plateau areas offer cooler temperatures at certain times of year, ideal for hiking and scenic viewpoints.
A taste of Saudi Arabia
National dishes & specialties
You can try dishes such as fragrant rice with slow-cooked meats, grilled skewers, and rich stews, with different regions putting their own twist on traditional recipes and ingredients.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities like Riyadh you will find casual eateries, international chains, and contemporary restaurants sharing space in malls and lifestyle districts, offering everything from regional flavours to global comfort food.
Signature & scenic dining
Look for restaurants with city views from upper floors, or venues overlooking parks and corniches, where stylish interiors and attentive service turn a meal into a memorable part of your trip.
Retail therapy in Saudi Arabia
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Riyadh and other major cities feature large malls and lifestyle centres that combine international fashion, local designers, entertainment, and dining, all in climate-controlled comfort.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional souqs and smaller markets are ideal for browsing local textiles, fragrances, jewellery, and handicrafts, with Riyadh and other regional cities each reflecting their own style and heritage motifs.
Evening retail scene
As temperatures ease after sunset, shopping streets, cafes, and malls come to life, with illuminated facades and late-opening stores creating a relaxed evening atmosphere.
Best time to visit Saudi Arabia
From November to March (shoulder season), many parts of Saudi Arabia enjoy milder weather, often around 15–25°C (59–77°F), making city exploration and desert trips more comfortable. April to May and October (shoulder season) can be warm to hot, with temperatures typically between 25–35°C (77–95°F), suited to coastal visits and shorter outdoor activities. June to September (peak season) brings very hot conditions, especially inland, where daytime temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F); this is a good time to focus on indoor attractions and air-conditioned spaces.