Masjid al-Haram (Kaaba)
Region: Mecca
Religious heritage
The largest sacred mosque in Islam, the center of Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage.
Tourism in Saudi Arabia
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Prophet's Mosque
Region: Medina
Religious heritage
The second holiest site, housing the tomb of Prophet Muhammad. Symbolized by its emerald dome.
At-Turaif District (Diriyah Ruins)
Region: Near Riyadh
Cultural heritage
The former capital of the First Saudi State, registered as a World Heritage site.
Madain Saleh (Hegra)
Region: AlUla
Cultural heritage
Nabataean rock-cut tombs with preservation quality second only to Petra.
AlUla Old Town and rock formations
Region: AlUla
Natural/Cultural hybrid
A new tourism hub featuring cinematic sandstone canyons and ancient settlements.
Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn)
Region: Riyadh Province
Natural
A breathtaking trekking site with cliffs over 300m high overlooking the horizon.
Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad)
Region: Jeddah
Cultural heritage
The gateway to the Red Sea with traditional coral stone houses.
Kingdom Centre Observatory
Region: Riyadh
Modern architecture
The 'sky bridge' offers a 360-degree panorama of the capital.
Red Sea coral reefs
Region: Off Jeddah
Natural
A diving paradise with pristine marine ecosystems.
Taif Highland rose farms
Region: Taif
Natural/Agritourism
Damask roses bloom in early summer; distillery tours available.
Suggested itineraries
Golden Triangle Route: Holy Sites and Modern Cities
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: Riyadh old town, Diriyah ruins, Mecca pilgrimage areas, Jeddah old town
Arrive in the capital for Riyadh sightseeing, travel by train or plane to Mecca for Umrah experience, then enjoy history and the sea in coastal Jeddah in this one-week itinerary.
AlUla Desert Adventure
Duration (days): 4
Highlights: Madain Saleh, AlUla megaliths, Hot air balloon experience, Starry sky camping
Explore the mystical northwest by 4WD and camel, and enjoy glamping under the stars in this short-term plan.
Red Sea Luxury Diving Vacation
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Jeddah Corniche, Farasan Islands, Wreck dive sites, Seafood market
Based in Jeddah, take day cruises to observe coral reefs and manta rays, and relax at seaside luxury resorts.
Travel tips
- Tourist visas can be obtained via online eVisa in just a few minutes.
- Summer (June-August) can reach nearly 50°C, so outdoor activities are safer early morning or at dusk.
- Women are recommended to wear abaya in public, but color and design freedom has increased.
- Credit cards are widely accepted, making cashless payments convenient.
- Taxis and ride-hailing apps are difficult to catch during Friday noon congregational prayers.
- Avoid photographing military facilities, government buildings, and religious police.
- Use bottled or hotel RO water for drinking; avoid well water.
- Air conditioning is strong in hotels and malls, so bring a light jacket.
- Tipping culture is limited, but around 10% is standard at upscale restaurants.
- Dates and Bahraini perfumes keep well at room temperature and are easy to bring into Japan.