Cool Season
From October to April, temperatures are mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
Arabie saoudite
Saudi Arabia, a land of rich history and diverse landscapes, offers travelers a unique experience from its bustling cities to serene deserts. Explore ancient ruins, modern architecture, and vibrant culture across various regions.
Mardetanha · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best MonthsOctober to April
- AirportsKing Khalid International Airport, King Abdulazi
- TransitDomestic flights, buses, taxis
- Power220V, Type G plugs
- TippingNot mandatory, but appreciated
- LanguageArabic (English widely spoken)
01
When to go
The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is during the cooler months from October to April, avoiding the extreme heat of summer.
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Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Hot Season
From May to September, temperatures can soar, limiting outdoor activities.
Transition Seasons
The months of March and October offer a mix of temperatures, suitable for travel.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Urban
Al Olaya
A bustling commercial district in Riyadh, known for its shopping malls and restaurants.
Busy area, great for shopping.
Cultural
Al Balad
The historic district of Jeddah, featuring traditional architecture and vibrant souks.
Explore the old streets.
Scenic
Corniche
A beautiful waterfront area in Jeddah, perfect for evening strolls and dining.
Best enjoyed at sunset.
Coastal
Al Khobar
A modern city near Dammam, known for its beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Great for beach lovers.
Nature
Taif
A mountain town known for its cool climate and beautiful gardens.
Visit in spring for flowers.
Mountain
Abha
Nestled in the Asir Mountains, known for its stunning landscapes and cooler temperatures.
Ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
Heritage
Al Ula
Famous for its archaeological sites and stunning rock formations.
Explore the UNESCO sites.
Urban
Riyadh City Center
The heart of Riyadh with modern skyscrapers and cultural attractions.
Visit the Kingdom Centre.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Kabsa
A traditional Saudi rice dish with meat and spices, commonly found in local restaurants.
→ Try it at a local eatery.
Shawarma
A popular street food made of marinated meat wrapped in pita bread, available in many cities.
→ Look for food stalls.
Mandi
A fragrant rice dish with meat, originating from Yemen but widely enjoyed in Saudi Arabia.
→ Best in the southern regions.
Falafel
Deep-fried chickpea balls, often served in sandwiches or as a snack, found in many cafes.
→ Perfect for a quick bite.
Dates
A staple in Saudi culture, available in markets and often served with coffee.
→ Try different varieties.
Harees
A wheat and meat dish, especially popular during Ramadan, found in local kitchens.
→ Experience it during festivals.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Masjid al-Haram
The holiest mosque in Islam, located in Mecca, attracting millions of pilgrims annually.
Al-Masjid an-Nabawi
The second holiest mosque in Medina, known for its beautiful architecture.
Diriyah
A UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the history of the Saudi state.
Al Ula Heritage Site
Home to ancient tombs and rock formations, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Kingdom Centre Tower
An iconic skyscraper in Riyadh with an observation deck offering panoramic views.
Edge of the World
A stunning geological feature near Riyadh, offering breathtaking views of the horizon.
National Museum of Saudi Arabia
A museum in Riyadh showcasing the rich history and culture of the region.
Al Wahbah Crater
A large volcanic crater located in the western region, ideal for hiking and photography.
Qasr Marid
An ancient castle in Najran, reflecting the region's historical significance.
Jeddah Waterfront
A scenic promenade along the Red Sea, perfect for leisurely walks and dining.
Taif Rose Gardens
Famous for its beautiful rose gardens, especially during the blooming season.
Al Khobar Corniche
A picturesque waterfront area ideal for family outings and relaxation.
Al-Faisaliah Center
A prominent landmark in Riyadh known for its unique design and shopping options.
The Red Sea Project
An ambitious tourism development project along the Red Sea coast, offering luxury resorts.
Al Bujairi Heritage Park
A cultural park in Diriyah, showcasing traditional Saudi architecture and crafts.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Major cities are connected by domestic flights, making travel convenient.
RUHKing Khalid International Airport
JEDKing Abdulaziz International Airport
Public Transport
Buses and taxis are available in most cities, providing easy access to attractions.
Ride-Sharing
Popular apps like Uber and Careem operate in urban areas for convenient travel.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is an option for those wanting to explore remote areas.
Walking
Many attractions in cities are within walking distance, especially in historic areas.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Saudi Arabia uses Type G plugs, with a standard voltage of 220V.
Cash
Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.
Language
Arabic is the official language; English is widely spoken in urban areas.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A week is recommended to explore major attractions comfortably.
Arabie saoudite eSIM
Maps, ferries and tickets are easier with data as soon as you land.