Saudi Arabia has opened up to international tourism in recent years, and it offers much more than many visitors expect: ancient Nabataean tombs in AlUla, dramatic cliffs near Riyadh, the coral reefs of the Red Sea, the historic district of Jeddah, and cool green mountains in the southwest. For Muslims, it is also home to Islam's holiest cities, Mecca and Medina. This Saudi Arabia travel guide covers the best time to visit, top places to see, hidden gems, bucket list experiences, and practical tips.
Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia
The best time to visit is from November to March, when temperatures are mild and ideal for exploring cities, deserts, and archaeological sites. This is also the season for major events such as Riyadh Season, the Winter at Tantora festival in AlUla, and the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival. Summer, from June to September, is extremely hot in most of the country, with temperatures often above 45°C in Riyadh, though the southwestern highlands around Abha and Taif stay cooler.
If you are traveling for Umrah, note that the holy cities are busiest during Ramadan and the Hajj season, when accommodation prices rise sharply.
Top Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia
Riyadh
The capital mixes futuristic towers with history. Visit Masmak Fortress, the National Museum, the Kingdom Centre's Sky Bridge for city views, and Diriyah's At-Turaif district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the original home of the Saudi royal family.
Jeddah
The Red Sea port city has a long corniche, the restored coral-stone houses of Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the "Floating Mosque" (Al-Rahma Mosque), built on stilts over the sea. At night, look out for King Fahd's Fountain, one of the tallest fountains in the world.
AlUla and Hegra
AlUla's desert valleys hide Hegra (also called Mada'in Salih), Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, with more than 100 monumental tombs carved by the Nabataeans, the same civilization that built Petra. Don't miss Elephant Rock at sunset, the old town, and the mirrored Maraya concert hall.
Abha and the Asir Region
In the southwest, Abha sits in cool, green mountains with terraced villages, cable cars, and colorful painted houses. Nearby, Rijal Almaa is a historic village of stone towers.
Mecca and Medina
The holy cities are the spiritual heart of Islam and the destination of millions of pilgrims for Umrah and Hajj. Non-Muslims may not enter Mecca, and access to the central area of Medina is also restricted to Muslims. Pilgrims need the correct visa or permit, and Umrah bookings are made through the official Nusuk platform.
Hidden Gems in Saudi Arabia
- Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn): Dramatic cliffs on the Tuwaiq Escarpment, about two hours from Riyadh. Go with a guide and a 4x4.
- Taif: A mountain city known for its roses and fruit, with a rose season in spring.
- Al Wahbah Crater: A huge volcanic crater with a white salt flat at its base.
- Farasan Islands: Remote islands in the Red Sea, great for diving, birdwatching, and quiet beaches.
- Al-Ahsa Oasis: One of the largest palm oases in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the east.
Saudi Arabia Bucket List Experiences
- Watch the sunset over AlUla's rock formations.
- Take a desert safari and camp under the stars.
- Dive or snorkel the coral reefs of the Red Sea.
- Explore Jeddah's Al-Balad at night.
- Visit a camel race or the camel festival.
- Try kabsa, mandi, and Saudi coffee with dates.
- Stand at the Edge of the World near Riyadh.
- Relax at a luxury resort on the Red Sea coast.
Saudi Arabia Travel Tips
- Entry requirements: Citizens of many countries can get a tourist eVisa online or a visa on arrival. GCC citizens do not need a visa. Check the official Visit Saudi website for your nationality.
- Dress code: Dress modestly in public, covering shoulders and knees. Foreign women are not required to wear an abaya or headscarf, except in mosques.
- Customs: Alcohol is prohibited. Public displays of affection should be avoided. During Ramadan, do not eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours.
- Currency: The Saudi riyal (SAR). Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted.
- Getting around: Domestic flights connect the main cities, the Haramain high-speed railway links Mecca, Jeddah, and Medina, and Riyadh has a new metro. Use Uber or Careem in cities, and rent a car for road trips.
- Weekend: The weekend falls on Friday and Saturday.
- Plugs: Type G plugs are most common, at 230 V.
Stay Connected in Saudi Arabia
Mobile data is essential for ride-hailing apps, maps, and booking platforms, and for pilgrims staying in touch with family during Umrah. An egoViet Saudi Arabia eSIM connects as soon as you land, and our Saudi Arabia eSIM guide compares your options. Planning a trip onward? Read our guide to traveling from Saudi Arabia to Turkey.
FAQs: Saudi Arabia Travel Guide
Can tourists visit Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Citizens of many countries can apply for a tourist eVisa online or get a visa on arrival.
Can non-Muslims visit Mecca?
No. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter Mecca, and access to the central area of Medina is restricted to Muslims.
What is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia?
November to March, when the weather is mild and many festivals and events take place.
Do women need to wear an abaya in Saudi Arabia?
Foreign women are not required to wear an abaya, but they should dress modestly. A headscarf is needed when visiting mosques.