Debating what and where to go on your Saudi Arabia itinerary? It’s a fair debate! For decades, Saudi Arabia was the ultimate travel “black box”—a place whispered about but rarely seen by the average backpacker or road-tripper. Now, the visa is easy, the sites are exciting and oh-so-photogenic, and the hospitality is intense.
Albeit we dreamed longingly about how to plan our time. Because planning a trip here is a puzzle of massive distances and ancient history. The biggest challenge is deciding where to go with your time! The country is truly incredible. It is one of the most amazing – and most hospitable – places that we’ve travelled.
So whether you’re here for a quick hit of the main cities or a month-long deep dive into the desert, coast and mountains of the south, here is how to spend your time in the Kingdom. Read on for our 7, 10, 14 and 21 day Saudi Arabia itinerary.
- Saudi Arabia Travel Logistics
Visa
Border Crossing from Bahrain - Our Saudi Arabia Itinerary
- Planning Your Saudi Arabia Itinerary
5 Days
7 Days
14 Days
21 Days - Things To Do In KSA
Riyadh
Jeddah
Dammam
AlUla
Abha - Food in Saudi Arabia
- Accommodation in Saudi Arabia
The Logistics: Before You Arrive in KSA
The Visa:
The easiest way to enter Saudi Arabia is through the Tourist E-Visa program. It usually lands in your inbox within minutes. Citizens of many countries can apply online, which simplifies the entry process significantly.
Major Airports:
The three main international gateways are Riyadh (RUH), Jeddah (JED), and Dammam (DMM). Your choice of itinerary will determine the most logical entry point.
Internal Travel:
Saudi Arabia is enormous. For efficient travel between cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla, domestic flights are efficient, but the real adventure lies in hiring a car. Saudi drivers are… spirited. Be bold. For shorter regional hops (like Riyadh to Dammam), the modern high-speed train is a comfortable alternative.
City Transport:
Inside cities, use Uber or Careem. Even the cities we had our rental car for we often took an Uber into the city centre to explore.
Border Crossing from Bahrain: The King Fahd Causeway
For many visitors touring the GCC region, crossing the $25 \text{ km}$ King Fahd Causeway from Bahrain into the Eastern Province (Dammam/Khobar) is a popular option.
- Visa Required: Even if traveling by land, you must secure your Saudi tourist visa (E-Visa) before arriving at the border. There is typically no visa-on-arrival option at this land crossing.
- The Process: The crossing is usually seamless, involving quick stops at the Bahraini and then the Saudi passport and customs booths located on the artificial islands in the middle of the causeway.
- Timing: Queue times can vary wildly. Avoid Friday and Saturday afternoons, as these are peak times for weekend traffic leaving Saudi Arabia for Bahrain.
What Was Our Saudi Arabia Itinerary?
Saudi is a massive country geographically. (Obvs!).
We had one month of travel in Saudi Arabia.
We started in the North and headed towards the capital by train. Then we flew out west and drove by rental car to the beautiful south of the country:
- Bahrain > taxi > Al Khobar entry border
- Al Khobar > taxi > Dammam
- Dammam > train > Al Hofuf
- Al Hofuf > train > Riyadh
- Riyadh > domestic flight > Tabuk
- Tabuk > rental car > AlUla
- AlUla > rental car > Yanbu
- Jeddah > rental car > Abha
- Abha > rental car > Jeddah
Plus we visited Taif, Halaba, Al Bahah and Al Qunfuddah as towns we stayed at least one night in during our trip around by rental car in East and southern Saudi Arabia!
Read on for details of how to use these connections, transport and recommendations for places to stay on your Saudi Arabia itinerary.
Choosing Your Saudi Arabia Itinerary: 5, 7, 14, or 21 Days
Alright, let’s get into it. Here are four more options for different lengths of Saudi Arabia itinerary.
The 5-Day Saudi Arabia Itinerary: Riyadh & Jeddah
If you only have a few days on your Saudi Arabia itinerary, the ultimate is to split your time between the political power of the capital and the bohemian soul of the Red Sea.
- Riyadh (2 Days): Start at Diriyah, the mud-brick ancestral home of the House of Saud. At night, head to the Kingdom Centre for a view from the Sky Bridge.
- Jeddah (3 Days): Fly to Jeddah and immediately lose yourself in Al-Balad, the historic coral-stone old town. It’s a labyrinth of crumbling beauty.
Things to do in Riyadh
- Kingdom Tower: Riyadh’s iconic and ultra-modern skyscraper. You can walk along the skybridge for an epic view of the city.
- Masmak Fort: The birthplace of the modern kingdom. Gives a good history and map of the old city with artefacts from the area.
- National Museum of Saudi Arabia: The Kingdom’s biggest and best museum showcasing centuries of Arabian prehistory, history, culture and art.
- Deera Square: A lot of history here…
- Najd Village: The best restaurant in Riyadh for tourists with traditional food and a traditional set up inside.
- Al Baik: Any Saudi you meet will recommend you must try Al Baik (it’s fried chicken; like the Middle Eastern answer to KFC). You need to try it!
Day Trips from Riyadh
Riyadh is a city of rapid modernization, but some of Saudi Arabia’s most profound experiences lie just beyond its desert borders. If you have an extra day in the capital, these two destinations offer a perfect contrast:
- Edge Of The World (100km): Known locally as Jabal Tuwaiq, the ‘Edge of the World’ is a geological marvel where 300-meter-high cliffs drop vertically into an ancient ocean bed. Standing at the precipice, the view of the horizon truly lives up to its name. Definitely book this with a tour for the best (and safest) experience.
- Ushaiger (200 km): Atmospheric and beautifully preserved heritage village about 2 hours from Riyadh. Contains several family-run heritage museums.
Transportation from Riyadh
- Train to Al Hofuf: 2.5 hours
- Train to Dammam: 4 hours
- Bus to Dammam: 4.5 hours
- Domestic flight to Tabuk: 1 hr 50 mins
- Drive to Jeddah: 9+ hours
JEDDAH
The port city of Jeddah has long been regarded as Saudi Arabia’s cultural capital; the perfect blend of old and new.
Jeddah has always served as the gateway to Mecca, Islam’s holiest city. So as a result has been heavily influenced by the influx of pilgrims it has received over the centuries.
Things to do in Jeddah
- Jeddah Corniche: A great picnic spot and (obviously) beautiful place for a walk along the Red Sea and waterfront.
- Al Balad: The neighbourhood of Al Balad is the oldest in the city and served as the city-centre for several hundred years.
- King Fahad’s Fountain: The tallest fountain of its type in the world and definitely worth a look.
- Al Balad Souk: Al Balad is home to the main traditional souks in Jeddah like the Bedouin market where in the past Bedouin travellers would sell their own products (now you’ll find food products like coffee, cardamom, grains and nuts).
- Al Romanisah: Not technically a historic or site as listed on KSA’s guiding website but I’m adding it in. Delish and highly recommended by us!
Transportation from Jeddah
- Drive to Al Bahah: 5 hours
- Drive to Yanbu: 3.5 hours
- Drive to Al Qunfudhah: 4 hours
- Drive to Riyadh: 9.5 hours
- Flight to Riyadh: 1.5 hours
The 7-Day Saudi Arabia Itinerary: Riyadh, Jeddah & AlUla
This is famously the Golden Triangle Saudi Arabia itinerary. A week gives you just enough time to add the “Petra of Saudi Arabia” to your list along with Riyadh and Jeddah.
Choose your order of Riyadh, Jeddah and AlUla allowing for two days to explore in each.
- AlUla (2 Days): This is the crown jewel. Visit Hegra (Mada’in Salih), the Nabataean tombs carved into sandstone monoliths. At night, the stargazing at Elephant Rock is world-class.
AL ULA
The very famous Madain Saleh is located near the city of AlUla. This is the iconic image you will have seen of Hegra; the beautiful rock city in the desert that looks a lot like neighbouring Petra in Jordan.
- Tip: The official AlUla website has all the information for visiting Hegra and buying tickets online.
Things to do in AlUla
- Madain Saleh/Hegra: The southernmost settlement of the Nabatean Kingdom (the kingdoms second largest settlement after Petra) consisting of over 131 tock-cut monumental tombs and caves.
- Elephant Rock: An artfully formed outcrop that almost looks as if it must be made for Instagrammers. With some creative license the shape of the rock resembles the form of an elephant with a long trunk.
- Hotel Pakistan: We have added this in as a must-try attraction (ok; restaurant) in AlUla. This has to be some of the best food we came across in Saudi Arabia!
The 14-Day Saudi Arabia Itinerary: Riyadh, AlUla, Abha & Jeddah
Two weeks allows you to head south into the clouds—the part of Saudi that nobody expects.
- Abha (3 Days): This is the high-altitude capital of the Asir region. It’s green, it’s cool, and it’s home to the famous Flower Men.
ABHA
The hilltop city of Abha is the capital city of the Aseer Province in the southwest of the country.
It’s known as a summer playground or resort town for Saudi nationals (to escape the heat of the desert cities during the peak of summer holidays) as well as hosting tourists from all over the GCC that flock here to escape the sweltering summer heat.
- Tip: It can get particularly busy during those summer months and accommodation prices not only skyrocket but make it hard to find somewhere to stay. Plan ahead with that one…
Things To Do In Abha
- Rijal Almaa: This beautiful village is on UNESCO’s tentative heritage list as a colourful stone village that’s original homes have stood the test of time now for centuries.
- Al-Basta: Known as the neighbourhood holding the largest number of ancient buildings and monuments; this is Abha’s main tourist destination.
- Green Mountain: Specifically the iconic mountain of Abha (known favourably as Green Mountain) that provides an incredible view of the city and can only be reached by cable car.
- Abu Kheyal Park: Famous for the bright purple blossoms of Jacaranda trees in the early spring.
- Fog Walkway: Also dubbed the Corniche of Abha where all the infamous pictures with clouds are taken.
The 21-Day Full Circuit Saudi Arabia Itinerary
This is what we did. We had a full month for our Saudi Arabia itinerary. But with 21 days you can start overland from Bahrain in the East, heading Central, then looping the entire West coast to the beach and into the mountains.
- The East (Dammam, Khobar, Al Hofuf): Start on the coast. Take the train from Al Hofuf (home to the incredible Al Qarah caves) to Riyadh.
- The North (Tabuk): Fly from Riyadh to Tabuk. Hire a car. This is the gateway to Wadi Al Disah—a canyon so spectacular it looks CGI.
- The Red Sea Coast (Yanbu & Jeddah): Drive south to Yanbu for some of the best scuba diving on the planet, then hit Jeddah.
- The Mountains (Taif, Rijal Alma, Abha): From Jeddah, climb into the mountains. Visit Taif (the city of roses) before driving down the hairpin bends to Rijal Alma, a gingerbread-style stone village that is easily the most photogenic spot in the country.
Things to Do in Each KSA Destination
If you are extending your trip across Saudi Arabia, here are two essential experiences for each of the country’s key cities:
Riyadh
- Diriyah (At-Turaif): Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif, the ancestral home of the Saudi Royal family, built in traditional mud-brick style.
- Kingdom Centre Tower: Head to the Sky Bridge on the 99th floor for a bird’s-eye view of the capital’s glittering skyline.
Jeddah
- Al-Balad: Explore the historic district’s coral-stone architecture and the famous Roshan balconies that have stood for centuries.
- The Red Sea Corniche: Stroll along the waterfront to see the world’s tallest fountain (King Fahd’s Fountain).
AlUla
- Hegra (Madain Salih): Marvel at the over 100 monumental tombs carved into sandstone outcrops by the Nabateans. It is incredible.
- Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil): Relax at sunset by this massive natural geological formation that resembles an elephant in the desert.
Abha
- Rijal Almaa Heritage Village: Visit this ‘gingerbread’ village of stone houses decorated with white quartz, nestled in the Asir mountains.
- Al Habala (Hanging Village): Take a cable car to this ancient village formerly accessible only by rope ladders, perched on the side of a steep cliff.
Dammam
- Dammam Heritage Village: A must see in Dammam! This was a highlight for us and a great way to learn about the different regions of Saudi Arabia.
- Dammam Corniche: As long as it’s not too hot (read: July or August!) it’s beautiful to walk along the corniche right by sea.
Al Hofuf
- Al Qarah Caves: Hike through the natural wind-carved canyons and cool caves of the Al Qarah Mountain.
- Qaisariah Souq: Traditional market place selling gold jewellery, gifts and textiles.
The Food in Saudi Arabia: What to Eat
Saudi food is about communal plates and plays a very important role in traditional Saudi Arabian culture. Sharing food is seen as a symbol of hospitality.
The most common food items you will come across on your Saudi Arabia itinerary include rice, chicken, lamb, spices, yoghurt, potatoes, bread and dates – LOTS of dates.
- Kabsa: The national dish. Spiced rice with chicken or lamb. Eat it with your hands if you want to be a pro.
- Maqluba: This is a favourite of ours and most simply described as an upside-down rice dish!
- Tamiya (Falafel): Vegetarian fritter made chickpeas/fava beans.
- Mandi: Rice and meat cooked in a Tandoor oven.
- Jereesh: A cracked wheat “porridge” that is pure comfort food.
- Mutabbaq: A thin, pan-fried stuffed pancake (savoury or sweet).
- Dates & Arabic Coffee (Qahwa): You will be served this everywhere. The coffee is yellow/green and spiced with cardamom and saffron. Never say no to the first cup.
Where To Stay on Your Saudi Arabia Itinerary
Here is a list of where we stayed during our travels in Saudi Arabia.
- Dammam: Tulip Inn Suites and Residence Dammam
- Al Hofuf: Lily Hotel Suite Mubarraz
- Riyadh: Capital O 162 Brzeen Hotel
- Tabuk: Rafahyat AlFakhama Furnished Units
- AlUla: AirBnB-Style House
- Yanbu: OYO 273 Star Yanbu Hotel Suites
- Jeddah: Qasr Al Thuraya Hotel Apartments
- Al Qunfudhah: Layali Alandlous Furnished Units
Final Tips for your Saudi Arabia Itinerary
- Prayer Times: Shops and restaurants often close for 20 to 30 minutes during the five daily prayers.
- Alcohol: It is strictly illegal. Don’t try to bring it in. Enjoy the burgeoning mocktail and specialty coffee scene instead — it’s actually world-class.
- Hospitality: If a local invites you for coffee, they mean it. It’s not a polite formality; it’s a cultural pillar. Say yes.
Enjoy Saudi Arabia
So there you have it! That is a whole lot of options for your Saudi Arabia itinerary – plus much more to keep you planning/dreaming/scheming for your Arabian adventure to come.
Have fun and enjoy this incredible country that has for so many years been a mystery to most of the world.
We had a truly fantastic time and hope you do too.
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- India Travel Guide.
- 10 Things To Do In Doha, Qatar.
- Day Trip Islamabad To Murree.
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- Crossing The Moldova Transnistria Border.
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Planning for Travel in Middle East and Beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere in Asia.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world including everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before further planning your Saudi Arabia itinerary!