7 remarkable days in Saudi

Unearth ancient wonders in unique, 21st century style. Savor world-class dining in state-of-the-art surroundings, explore record setting sights from innovative new angles, and embark on thrilling, one-of-a-kind adventures amongst diverse, spellbinding scenery.

From the iconic skyline of Riyadh, to Jeddah’s cosmopolitan Red Sea shores, and the classic meets contemporary oasis of AlUla, Saudi’s trailblazing destinations are brimming full of experiences that go the extra mile. Discover their can’t-miss highlights on one remarkable, week-long adventure.

Boundary-pushing landmarks, cutting-edge cultural events, once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences, and a plethora of luxe shopping and sleeping options that exceed all expectations—Riyadh is Saudi’s undisputed capital of cool.

Start in true Riyadh style with a thrilling high-speed lift ride up to the 99th floor of the Kingdom Center, a magnificent city landmark, whose glass-enclosed Sky Bridge offers breathtaking views over the futuristic metropolis below. With the vast Al Mamlaka shopping mall and staggering choice of dining options on site, it’s the complete ‘Riyadh package’ under one roof.

Another ultramodern destination that ‘has it all’ is King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), a striking new area spanning 1.6 square-kilometers at the heart of the capital. From innovative public spaces and hip restaurant openings, to five-star hotels and a lively program of concerts under the stars, this cutting-edge district is the epitome of 21st century Riyadh. Revel in its award-winning architecture as you shop, eat, sleep, and repeat.

Visiting between October and April? See the capital transform during Riyadh Season, a family winter spectacular unlike anything else on earth. Ride rollercoasters, walk among butterflies, encounter world civilizations, and experience thrilling pop-up adventures—from Blippi to Barbie—as you explore its enchanting realm of music, modern art, interactive events, and immersive dining experiences. Showcasing the very latest and greatest in multisensory entertainment across 10 uniquely-themed zones, this cultural extravaganza is well worth traveling for.

Riyadh’s Ramla Terraza offers trendy food and beverage spots with a real ‘wow’ factor, making meals a standout highlight of any trip. From hip, homegrown coffee roasters to innovative Middle-Eastern bistros and world-class fine dining venues—the capital’s vibrant culinary scene rivals the very best on earth. Take eating out to a whole new level at The Globe, an exceptional, upmarket dining venue housed in an enormous glass ball, suspended high above the city. Or revel in the remarkable surroundings of Diriyah Bujairi Terrace—a phenomenal old-meets-new dining experience overlooking the city’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, At-Turaif. Taste what’s trending in the capital before unearthing the birthplace of the nation at this renowned heritage monument—the first capital of the Saudi Dynasty, and one of the most architecturally-impressive mudbrick settlements on earth.

Dive amongst shipwrecks, lose yourself down ancient incense-infused alleyways, watch the world’s largest fountain spring to life, and stroll, cycle or cafe-hop along a sleek, state of the art waterfront. Magical adventures abound in Saudi’s culturally-rich melting pot: the spellbinding Red Sea city of Jeddah.

Immerse yourself in Jeddah’s remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Town district of Al Balad, an enchanting living museum encased in magnificent World Heritage architecture. Taste the legacy of Hijazi cuisine, savor the distinctive coral stone craftsmanship, browse authentic souks and modern galleries, and experience the charming interplay of classic and contemporary life that makes this area so unique.

Time for a change of scene as you fast-forward to the future at Jeddah Corniche, a striking waterfront development spanning 18 miles of Red Sea coastline. With artificial swimming bays, walking and cycling paths, children's parks, beaches, and even an outdoor sculpture museum, this reimagined leisure space really has thought of everything. Watch the record-breaking King Fahd’s Fountain light show before dining at your pick of cosmopolitan cafés with enchanting sea views. Or get your fill of luxury labels, state-of-the-art movies and international dining options at the vast Red Sea Mall.

Looking to up the adrenaline? From heart-racing jet skiing to once in a lifetime scuba diving expeditions, Jeddah is Saudi’s number one beach and watersports destination. Uncover sunken shipwrecks, snorkel alongside turtles and bull sharks, charter your own private fishing expedition, visit the Jeddah Yacht Club, or take to the skies on a thrilling parasail flight. The riches of the Red Sea await; how you discover them is up to you.

Back on dry land, the unique delights of Jeddah continue. Wander the waterfront of the Jeddah Yacht Club Marina to glimpse some of the world’s most luxurious superyachts, browse its waterfront designer stores, and take in its crowning jewel: a 20 meter-high glass and steel structure inspired by a ship’s mast. Visiting with sports fans? Catch one of Jeddah’s two premier-league football clubs in action at the cutting-edge King Abdullah Sports City. Or unravel the mysteries of the city’s 2,500 year-old history at the Tayebat Museum—a superbly curated exhibition set over four expansive floors.

Picture a pristine desert oasis steeped in 200,000 years of human history. This is the unique world you enter at AlUla, a monumental landscape carved by some of Arabia’s earliest inhabitants. Peel back the layers of this time capsule-like realm as you immerse yourself in its bewitching blend of culture, adventure, and natural splendor, all with the very best of contemporary design and first-rate hospitality, dining, and shopping experiences at your fingertips.

Feel the echo of ancient civilizations in the sprawling Nabataean city of Hegra, Saudi’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a wonder worth traveling for alone. Here, more than 110 ornate tombs, carved large as houses into sandstone mountains, lie waiting to be savored across a captivating, 52-hectare site. Embrace the journey of the earliest explorers as you unearth its treasures by vintage Land Rover; see its remains magically illuminated during the multi-sensory spectacle, Hegra after Dark; and watch history unfold before you as the archeological excavations continue.

Make more unforgettable memories at Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, where desert sky meets architectural genius on a mesmerizing glass canvas. It’s more than a remarkable landmark, too. From Andrea Bocelli to Andy Warhol, this thrilling event space continues to lure big names from across the globe, while its regionally-inspired restaurant, Maraya Social—helmed by Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton—is one of Saudi’s standout dining experiences.

And the contemporary wonders don’t stop there: From luxury campsites to five-star eco resorts, AlUla’s trailblazing accommodation options blend seamlessly with their surroundings, epitomizing the latest and greatest in sustainable design, and immersing you in the bewitching landscape. Be it classic wonder or cutting-edge design, AlUla invites you to savor the best of both worlds, with typical Saudi splendor.