Saudi Arabia Travel Guide 2025: This Year’s Surprise Star

Visitor numbers up 48% in Q1 2025
Source: World Tourism Forum

Once considered an off-limits destination, Saudi Arabia is now making headlines as a fast-growing tourist hotspot. Thanks to significant investment in infrastructure, a revamped e-visa system, and major cultural events like Riyadh Season, the Kingdom is capturing the imagination of travellers around the world.

Whether you’re drawn to ancient sites, modern entertainment, or luxurious Red Sea resorts, Saudi Arabia offers a diverse and compelling experience.

What’s Driving the Trend?

Riyadh Season: Entertainment on a Grand Scale

Riyadh Season, running from October to March, is a six-month celebration of culture, sport, and entertainment. Zones such as Boulevard City, Boulevard World and Roshn Front host everything from global music acts and fashion shows to wrestling events and immersive cultural experiences. It’s fast becoming a signature attraction for regional and international visitors alike.

Visit Riyadh Season

The Rise of the Red Sea Resorts

The Red Sea coastline is now home to some of the most ambitious luxury resort developments in the world. These resorts combine environmental sustainability with world-class design and hospitality.

Highlights include:

• Shebara on Sheybarah Island, an eco-conscious resort with futuristic architecture
• Nammos Resort AMAALA, offering a Mediterranean-inspired escape in Triple Bay
• Four Seasons AMAALA, focused on wellness and seclusion
• Desert Rock, a resort carved into sandstone formations
• St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Ritz-Carlton Reserve Nujuma, located on the idyllic Ummahat Islands

These are all part of the Red Sea Project, which aims to attract one million tourists by 2030 while preserving the environment and supporting local communities.

Learn more about the Red Sea Project

Easier Access with the New E-Visa

Saudi Arabia’s e-visa system has been a game-changer. Citizens from dozens of countries can now apply online for a tourist visa within minutes. The process is straightforward and continues to be expanded to include more nationalities and faster processing.

Apply for a Saudi E-Visa

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is between November and March, when temperatures are more comfortable, typically in the mid-20s Celsius (68+ Fahrenheit). Summer temperatures can reach 45°C (113°F) or higher, making outdoor exploration difficult, especially in inland regions.

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Highlights and Must-See Attractions

Hegra (Madain Saleh)

Located near AlUla, Hegra is Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Often described as the sister site to Petra in Jordan, it features spectacular tombs carved into sandstone cliffs by the Nabataean civilisation. Hegra is still relatively unknown to global tourists, offering a peaceful and uncrowded experience.

Explore Hegra with Experience AlUla

Jeddah’s Al-Balad (Old Town)

This historic district is a maze of coral stone buildings, traditional souks, and old merchant houses. It’s one of the most atmospheric parts of Saudi Arabia and a fantastic place for photography, food, and culture.

Attend a Football Match

Catch a match on a Friday night to experience Saudi Arabia’s football culture first-hand. With big-name international players now joining the Saudi Pro League, stadiums in Riyadh and Jeddah are vibrant and full of energy.

Eat Traditional Kabsa in Diriyah

Kabsa – a spiced rice dish typically served with lamb or chicken – is a staple of Saudi cuisine. For the most authentic experience, head to Diriyah, the historic birthplace of the Saudi state, where heritage restaurants offer traditional flavours in beautifully restored settings.

Visit Diriyah

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Activities for Different Types of Travellers

For Families

• Boulevard World: A multi-themed family attraction with rides, VR experiences, and replicas of global landmarks
• Winter Wonderland, Riyadh: Funfair attractions, ice skating, and family shows
• Edge of the World: Safe guided hikes and panoramic desert views suitable for children aged 8+
• King Abdullah Park: A spacious park in Riyadh with fountains, boating, and evening light shows

For Couples

• Private villas at Shebara or Nujuma: Ideal for romantic escapes
• Desert excursions: Sunset dune bashing followed by dinner and stargazing in the Rub’ al Khali
• AlUla Old Town: A charming historical setting perfect for strolling and dining
• Luxury spa treatments: Couples’ hammams and wellness experiences at resorts in AMAALA

For Solo Travellers

• Cooking classes: Learn to prepare Saudi dishes in Jeddah or Riyadh
• Photography tours: Explore sites like Hegra or Al-Balad with a guide
• Join group desert tours: Meet like-minded travellers while exploring off-the-beaten-path landscapes
• Visit local cafés: Enjoy qahwa (Arabic coffee) and chat with locals – solo travellers are often warmly welcomed

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Food and Drink

Can You Drink Alcohol?

Alcohol is currently banned in Saudi Arabia. However, restaurants offer a wide selection of non-alcoholic alternatives, including creative mocktails, fresh juices, and traditional beverages like qahwa served with dates.

Where to Eat

Riyadh

• Suhail: Contemporary Saudi cuisine in a refined setting
• Smokey Beards Q: American-style smoked meats with a local following
• Yauatcha: High-end dim sum and modern Asian dishes

Jeddah

• Tamatim: Modern takes on Levantine and Saudi flavours using fresh ingredients
• Gold Sushi Club: Sophisticated Japanese fusion
• Shobak: A relaxed, family-friendly spot known for local twists on pastries and flatbreads

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Where to Stay

Luxury Options

• The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh: Lavish décor and spacious grounds, popular with dignitaries
• Four Seasons Riyadh: Contemporary comfort with city views and fine dining
• St. Regis Red Sea and Ritz-Carlton Reserve Nujuma: Secluded island resorts offering the ultimate indulgence

Boutique and Mid-Range

• Assila, Jeddah – A Luxury Collection Hotel: Modern and art-focused
• Shada Hotel Al Shati, Jeddah: Affordable style and local flair
• Narcissus Hotel & Spa, Riyadh: Comfortable with spa facilities and good service

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Travel Advice and Etiquette

• Dress modestly: Women are no longer required to wear an abaya, but should dress conservatively. Men should avoid shorts in cities.
• Women can drive: Female visitors are allowed to rent and drive cars in Saudi Arabia
• Cultural norms: Public displays of affection should be avoided. Respect prayer times and local customs
• Friday closures: Friday is a holy day; many businesses open late or remain closed

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Government Travel Advice

Before travelling, check the most up-to-date advice from your country’s official government travel resource.

• UK Foreign Travel Advice – Saudi Arabia
• Australia Smart Traveller – Saudi Arabia
• United States Travel Advisory – Saudi Arabia

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Final Thoughts

Saudi Arabia is no longer an enigma. It is emerging as a major player in global tourism, with a compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural depth, and cutting-edge hospitality. Whether you’re after ancient tombs, futuristic cities, quiet beaches or exciting festivals, there’s a lot more to the Kingdom than most expect.

If you’re looking for somewhere new, bold and rich in contrast, Saudi Arabia should be high on your list for 2025/2026.

Want to see more trending destinations? See our resources below:

• Predicted Trending Destinations for 2026
• Trending Destinations in 2025