Things To Do
in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia sits at the crossroads of ancient trade routes and modern ambition, blending Bedouin heritage with dazzling contemporary skylines. From the harbors along the Red Sea to the dunes of the Rub' al Khali, the kingdom showcases vast landscapes and a resilient cultural spirit. Magnificent archaeological sites, royal wealth in new developments, and a growing scenes for arts, cuisine, and entertainment invite curious travelers.
Visitors should expect warm hospitality, strict social norms shaped by tradition, and a journey that reveals both timeless deserts and ambitious urban progress.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in the capital city of Riyadh by visiting the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, where you can delve into the intricacies of the country's history and culture. Strolling through the King Abdulaziz Historical Centre, enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens and the stunning architecture that reflects Saudi heritage. Don't forget to savor a traditional Saudi breakfast at a local café.
After lunch, head to the Murabba Palace, a historic site that offers insights into the life of King Abdulaziz. Explore the surrounding area before visiting the local souk, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. Indulge in some delicious street food as you immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.
As the sun sets, visit the Kingdom Centre Tower, an iconic skyscraper that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Enjoy dinner at one of the fine dining restaurants located on the observation deck, providing a unique culinary experience high above Riyadh. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through Al Faisaliah Tower's shopping mall, soaking in the modern side of Saudi Arabia.
Travel to Diriyah, the birthplace of the Saudi state, and wander through the mud-brick ruins of Turaif. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into the architectural beauty of the past and a chance to explore the historical significance of the area. Capture stunning photos of the magnificent structures under the morning sun.
Visit the Diriyah Museum to gain further insights into the history and culture of the area. Enjoy a traditional Saudi lunch at a local restaurant nestled in this historic setting, immersing yourself in the flavors of the region. Afterward, take a stroll along the banks of the Wadi Hanifah, enjoying the serene environment.
As night falls, attend a cultural performance or event that showcases Saudi music and dance, allowing you to witness the country's rich traditions. Dine at one of the local eateries, sampling exquisite desserts infused with dates and nuts. Reflect on your day as you enjoy the atmosphere, filled with the sounds of laughter and joy.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🥪Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries | $40-90 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3-5 km) | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class heritage sites and modern skylines
- Warm hospitality and safety for visitors
- Dramatic desert landscapes and emerging entertainment options
- Strict dress norms in some areas
- Alcohol remains illegal and nightlife is still developing in places
- Very high summer heat can limit outdoor activities
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran jidan" - Thank you very much
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hal tatakallam al-inglizee?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ma ismuki?" - What is your name?
- "Ana atakallam qaleelan min al-Arabiya" - I speak a little Arabic
Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic sandstone escarpment near Riyadh with sweeping desert views—golden light at sunrise or sunset is ideal for landscapes.
Iconic honey-hued towers and canyons, offering dramatic shadows and ancient Nabatean context for photography.
Ancient tombs carved into sandstone; a UNESCO site with monolithic backgrounds perfect for architectural photography.
Coastal skyline and the world’s tallest fountain provide a dramatic backdrop at dusk and night.
Historic coral houses and narrow lanes—textured textures and cultural stories for street photography.
Modern architectural silhouettes against the desert sky; best at blue hour.
Food in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish braised with chicken or lamb and a blend of warm spices; a staple across the kingdom.
Must-Try!
Smoked meat served over basmati rice, cooked slowly in a traditional underground oven for a rich, smoky flavor.
Creamy, milk-enriched rice typically paired with grilled chicken; a Hijazi favorite.
Flaky pastries filled with spiced meat or vegetables; a common street and market snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional markets offering spices, date varieties, perfumeries, and ready-to-eat bites from kebabs to sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Loose-fitting, shoulders and knees covered; women often wear an abaya in traditional settings, though expectations vary by city and venue.
Public interactions should be respectful; handshakes are common with acquaintances, and physical contact between opposite genders is more limited in some contexts.
During prayers, avoid loud activities and respect quiet spaces; many shops close briefly for official prayer times.
Ask permission before photographing individuals; avoid photographing sensitive government or military sites.
Use right hand for giving/receiving; greetings are typically formal—start with a polite hello (salaam) and a smile.
Safety
Tipping in Saudi Arabia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants and hospitality, but not always mandatory. If service charge is not included, a tip of 10–15% is appreciated for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash remains common in smaller venues. Digital wallets (MADA, Apple Pay, STCPay) are increasingly popular, and ride-hailing apps often support in-app payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–September brings extreme heat; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening. Hydrate frequently, wear sun protection, and seek shade. Coastal areas have humidity and hot evenings; indoor attractions are popular during the day.
December–February features mild to cool days and cooler nights; layer up for evenings and desert nights; this is a comfortable season for outdoor exploration and city sightseeing.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies; ideal for trekking, desert drives, and exploring historic sites without the peak heat.
Saudi Arabia at Night
Hiking in Saudi Arabia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A dramatic sandstone escarpment and canyon a short drive from Riyadh, popular for sunrise hikes.
High-altitude hikes in the Asir Mountains near Abha; cooler climate and lush scenery.
A scenic canyon near Taif with palm groves and waterfalls after rain.
Breathtaking sandstone towers and canyons; ancient Nabatean heritage and desert trails.
Airports
How to reach Saudi Arabia by plane.
Serves Riyadh with broad international and domestic connections.
Main gateway to Jeddah and the Red Sea coast.
Serves the Eastern Province including Dammam and Dhahran.
Gateway to Medina; expanding regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The native population forms the majority in most regions.
Large communities from across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East; significant Western expatriates in business and education sectors.
A young demographic with a rapidly growing tech and service economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with large crowds for domestic and international matches.
Traditional desert sport; some events attract tourists.
A historic practice with cultural significance in the region.
Growing among locals and expats with desert-ceased courses.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most major cities; look for dishes based on rice, legumes, vegetables, and dairy. Ask for dishes without meat stock or meat-based sauces, and specify no animal gelatin in broths.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saudi Arabia.