OPENING UP THE KINGDOM
Saudi Arabia is experiencing a momentous time, which is leading the nation towards a future brimming with great potential. With the focus of Saudi Vision 2030 to unlock the true potential of the Kingdom’s tourism industry by promoting both inbound and outbound travel services, Saudi Arabia is shaping up to be one of the world’s leading tourism destinations. Welcoming visitors from across the globe, the Kingdom has opened the gateway to a whole new world of opportunities and experiences with the availability of tourist visas and visa on arrival for 49 nationalities.
Nationals of any country holding a US, UK or Schengen visa in their passports are also eligible to apply for a tourist visa. With a rich heritage, modern attractions, mega developments, daring desert landscapes, breathtaking sights, lush greenery, natural wonders above & below sea level, and some of the coolest diving spots, Saudi Arabia promises unforgettable experiences like never before.
TOURISM OPPORTUNITIES GALORE
Working towards the nation’s goal of achieving 100 million international and domestic overnight visits a year by 2030 and 30 million pilgrims every year by 2030, Discover Saudi serves as your gateway to unlocking the opportunities in the Kingdom. We passionately support the goal of Saudi Vision 2030 to drive inbound and domestic tourism and are key enablers in the development of the local tourism infrastructure.
ADVENTURE & SPORTS
From the adrenaline-fuelled Dakar rally to a meticulous game of golf to the pomp of Formula One, sports and adventure enthusiasts have many opportunities to feed their passion in the Kingdom. In a country home to football fanatics, you can catch a thrilling game at the stadium or witness the rush at a local cafe. In addition, with diverse landscapes and natural wonders like the “Edge of the World”, you can hike or trek to experience the great outdoors.
HISTORY & CULTURE
Saudi Arabia boasts a rich history that dates back thousands of years and is peppered with several significant events. Heavily influenced by Islamic and Bedouin practices, you can see the Kingdom’s colourful culture through its art and music scene in traditional towns and during seasonal events. Moreover, Saudi Arabia’s historical heritage is being preserved through one of the highly anticipated gigaprojects, Diriyah Gate, which is taking shape in Riyadh.
NATURAL WONDERS
From the glistening red sand of the Arabian desert to the misty green mountains in the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia is diverse and possesses unparalleled natural beauty. Witness one of the most beautiful sunsets on a neverending horizon at the Edge of the World in Riyadh, or marvel at the breathtaking cosmos when you stargaze in AlUla. The Kingdom will surely give you an otherworldly experience and beyond during your visit.
SHOPPING
A visit to Saudi Arabia is incomplete without some retail therapy. Those with a taste for the finer things in life have access to a curated mix of top brands like Gucci, Cartier, Dolce&Gabbana and many others across major malls. Get great bargains at traditional souqs and bazaars, and find souvenirs to take home. With gigaprojects and a billion-dollar mega-mall project currently in the pipeline, visitors can gear up for a shopping adventure like no other.
DINING
If you are in Saudi, then you must eat like a Saudi! Sample some of the tastiest treats during your visit. Whether you’re craving delicious local dishes like Kabsa or a fancy fine dining experience at a Michelin-starred international restaurant, you will be spoiled for choices. From AlUla’s first fine dining restaurant, Maraya Social, to a collection of 21 globally-renowned restaurants in Diriyah Gate, Saudi Arabia is the destination for food lovers.
ENTERTAINMENT
Rapidly transforming into a global entertainment hub, the Kingdom has set the stage for stellar events featuring Afrojack and Jennifer Lopez and even sated the appetite of K-Pop fans. Enjoy cultural activities and art during seasonal festivities and other incredible events that showcase unique musical talents. So whether you’re looking for unique artistic expressions or want to enjoy some live music, you will find something for everyone here.
The Kingdom boasts six sites that are currently on the UNESCO World Heritage List, including
MEGA & GIGA PROJECTS
Qiddiya is an entertainment megaproject in Riyadh, a part of the Saudi Vision 2030 framework that aims to diversify the income resources of the country. The master plan for Qiddiya has five primary projects, which include resorts, parks, and a city centre. The first phase of the project, a theme park called Six Flags Qiddiya is expected to be completed by 2024.
SAUDI ARABIA AT A GLANCE
Situated in the heart of the Middle East, Saudi Arabia is a country known for its rich culture, heritage
and as the birthplace of Islam. As the largest country in the Arabian Peninsula (2.15 million km²), Saudi Arabia
borders the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf.
RULERS
GENERAL INFORMATION
CLIMATE
SPRING (MAR - MAY)
Good for: Diving/Snorkelling in the Red Sea; Exploring nature and heritage sites
SUMMER (JUNE - AUG)
Good for: Shopping and indoor entertainment; Exploring cooler regions such as Aseer
AUTUMN (SEPT - NOV)
Good for: Sightseeing and seasonal festivities; Road trips across the Kingdom
WINTER (DEC - FEB)
Good for: Desert safaris and camping; Hiking; trekking and other outdoor activities
ETIQUETTE & RELIGION
Saudi Arabia observes Islamic guiding principles.
GETTING AROUND
Local & international cuisine
Fine dining within major cities
All major fast-food restaurants
TRANSPORT
VIP cars
0Private cars with drivers for your convenience.
Buses
0SAPTCO provides bus transport across the Kingdom.
Trains
0Saudi Railways for travel between Riyadh and Dammam or Northern cities such as Qassim and Al Jouf.Saudi Railways for travel between Riyadh and Dammam or Northern cities such as Qassim and Al Jouf as well as between Jeddah and Madinah & Jeddah and KAEC.
Taxis
0Metered taxis – at airports, malls and public sites.
Car rental
0Car rental – at all airport arrivals or in within major cities.
Mobile apps
0Careem / Uber – bookable via apps.
NIGHTLIFE
Explore Saudi Arabia after hours, as cafes, restaurants and cinemas remain open until 3 am.
