Saudi Arabia
Arabia's Hidden Treasures Revealed
Welcome to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia!
A Land of Ancient Mysteries, Futuristic Cities, and Unforgettable Journeys.
Prepare to discover a destination that has, until recently, been hidden from the eyes of the world. Saudi Arabia is opening its doors, inviting you to be among the first to explore a land of breathtaking beauty, profound history, and ambitious vision. This is a country on a grand scale, where you can wander through ancient tombs carved into desert canyons, gaze up at glittering skyscrapers that pierce the clouds, and dive into pristine coral reefs in the Red Sea.
This is a journey into the heart of Arabia, a place of transformation and warm, genuine hospitality, known as ‘Hafawah’. Here at Global Travel Solutions, we are thrilled to guide you through this incredible, newly accessible country, unlocking its ancient secrets and showcasing its dazzling future. This isn't just a holiday; it’s a chance to witness history in the making.
Important Information
Flight Time
A direct flight from the UK to major Saudi cities like Riyadh or Jeddah takes approximately 6.5 to 7 hours.
Transportation
Saudi Arabia is a vast country, but travel is made easy with modern infrastructure. Internal flights are the best way to cover the large distances between cities. The new Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Jeddah with the holy city of Medina
Currency
The currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, it’s always useful to have some cash for shopping in traditional souqs.
Languages
Arabic is the official language. However, English is widely spoken in the business and tourism sectors, and you will find most road signs and menus are bilingual, making it very easy for visitors to navigate.
Warm Weather & Bright Skies?
Saudi Arabia is a desert country, so planning your visit for the cooler months is key.
Winter (October - March): This is the ideal time to visit. The days are gloriously sunny and warm, perfect for exploring, while the evenings are pleasantly cool.
Summer (May - September): This season is best avoided for tourism as the heat is extreme, making daytime outdoor activities nearly impossible.
Shoulder Seasons (April & October): Can be very pleasant, but temperatures will be climbing.
Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages
Saudi Arabia is the heart of the Islamic world and home to the two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina. Each year, millions of Muslims from around the globe travel here to perform the sacred pilgrimages of Hajj and Umrah.
It is very important for visitors to know that access to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina is reserved exclusively for Muslims. Hajj is the annual pilgrimage that takes place at a specific time in the Islamic calendar, while Umrah is a pilgrimage that can be undertaken at any time of the year.
Here at Global Travel Solutions, we have dedicated specialists who can arrange seamless and spiritually fulfilling Hajj and Umrah travel packages for our Muslim clients. We take care of all the details, from special visas to flights and accommodation, allowing you to focus on your sacred journey.
Top Places to Visit
AlUla: The Timeless Desert Wonder
Prepare to be utterly mesmerised. AlUla is an extraordinary, vast open-air museum set in a stunning desert valley. Its crown jewel is Hegra, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, where over 100 magnificent, monumental tombs are carved directly into sandstone cliffs, rivalling even Petra in Jordan. Discover otherworldly rock formations like Elephant Rock and marvel at Maraya, the world's largest mirrored building, which shimmers like a desert mirage.
Jeddah: The Bride of the Red Sea
Jeddah has a wonderfully relaxed, artistic soul. Its historic heart is Al-Balad, a magical UNESCO site where you can get lost in maze-like alleyways, admiring ancient coral-stone houses with their intricate wooden balconies. Contrast this by strolling along the modern waterfront Corniche, home to striking sculptures, beautiful mosques (including the famous 'floating' Al-Rahmah Mosque), and a cool sea breeze.
Riyadh: The Futuristic Capital
Riyadh is the vibrant, beating heart of modern Saudi Arabia. It’s a city of dazzling contrasts, where you can ascend the gleaming Kingdom Centre for breathtaking views from its Sky Bridge, then journey back in time at Diriyah. This beautifully restored mud-brick city is the birthplace of the Saudi state and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a fascinating glimpse into the nation's soul.
The Red Sea: A Pristine Underwater Paradise
Discover the future of luxury travel. The Saudi Red Sea coast is one of the world's last hidden treasures, an untouched coastline fringed by the fourth-largest barrier reef system in the world. Brand new, eco-conscious luxury resorts are opening on pristine islands, offering access to turquoise waters, vibrant coral gardens, and an incredible diversity of marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and dugongs.
Things to Do in Saudi Arabia
Go Stargazing in the AlUla Desert
Far from any city lights, the deserts of AlUla offer some of the most spectacular night skies on Earth. Join a guided stargazing tour where you can lie back on a traditional carpet, sip on warm tea, and watch the Milky Way blaze across the sky in breathtaking clarity as a guide shares ancient stories of the constellations.
Explore the Birthplace of a Kingdom at Diriyah
Don’t just see ruins, walk through a living history book. The At-Turaif district in Diriyah has been meticulously restored into a world-class cultural hub. Wander through the ancient palaces, mosques, and marketplaces where the first Saudi state was born, and immerse yourself in the story of a nation.
Experience True Saudi Hospitality with a Traditional Meal
Food is central to Saudi culture. Experience it by sharing a traditional meal of Kabsa, the delicious national dish of spiced rice and tender meat, often served on a large platter to be eaten together. The welcoming ritual of being served aromatic Arabic coffee (Qahwa) and sweet dates is a taste of the country's famous hospitality.
Scuba Dive in the Untouched Red Sea
For divers and snorkellers, the Red Sea is a dream come true. The visibility is incredible, and the reefs are in pristine condition, teeming with colourful fish and healthy coral. This is your chance to explore a vibrant underwater world that very few have ever had the chance to see.
Your Journey Through Arabia Begins
Ready to witness the transformation of a kingdom?
Saudi Arabia offers a journey like no other. It’s a rare opportunity to be a pioneer, to explore a destination that blends jaw-dropping ancient history with a hyper-modern vision for the future. From the silent majesty of the desert to the buzz of its rising cities, this is a country of incredible diversity, warm welcomes, and unforgettable experiences.
Let us at Global Travel Solutions be your expert guide on this trip of a lifetime. Get in touch, and let’s start planning your extraordinary Arabian adventure.
