Saudi Arabia
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Visited November 2025
9 days
Experience the Kingdom's transformation through a luxury 9-day journey from Riyadh's modern skyline to AlUla's ancient wonders and the pristine Red Sea coast.
About Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers an extraordinary blend of ancient heritage and modern luxury. This comprehensive itinerary takes you through the Kingdom's most captivating destinations: Riyadh's bustling capital with its impressive museums and modern architecture, Jeddah's historic Al-Balad district and stunning Corniche, AlUla's UNESCO World Heritage sites and desert landscapes, and the Red Sea's pristine coral reefs and luxury resorts. The Kingdom has opened its doors to tourism, revealing treasures that have been hidden for decades.
My Experience
This 9-day luxury journey through Saudi Arabia exceeded all expectations. From the moment I arrived in Riyadh, the Kingdom's hospitality and rapid transformation were evident. The contrast between ancient Diriyah's mud-brick architecture and the gleaming Kingdom Centre was striking. Jeddah's Al-Balad felt like stepping back in time, while the Red Sea's untouched coral reefs offered some of the best snorkeling I've experienced. AlUla was the highlight - watching sunrise over Hegra's Nabataean tombs was truly magical.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incredible luxury accommodations and service
- Rich historical sites and UNESCO World Heritage locations
- Pristine Red Sea coral reefs and marine life
- Excellent vegetarian dining options throughout
- Efficient domestic flights between cities
- Unique desert landscapes and stargazing opportunities
- Modern infrastructure and tourist facilities
- Warm Saudi hospitality and cultural experiences
Cons
- High-end luxury travel comes with premium pricing
- Limited public transportation options
- Hot climate during summer months
- Cultural dress codes to be mindful of
- Alcohol not available
- Some attractions require advance booking
General Tips
1
Book domestic flights in advance for better rates2
Respect local customs and dress modestly3
Download offline maps as some desert areas have limited connectivity4
Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated5
Learn basic Arabic greetings - locals appreciate the effort6
Book restaurant reservations in advance, especially for vegetarian options7
Carry cash as some smaller vendors don't accept cards8
Pack layers for temperature variations between cities and seasonsWhere I Stayed
Multiple luxury properties
Stayed at The Ritz-Carlton properties in Riyadh and Jeddah, Our Habitas AlUla for desert experience, and The Ritz-Carlton Reserve Red Sea for ultimate luxury
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