Let’s be honest—Saudi Arabia probably wasn’t on your top 5 travel bucket list a few years ago. It wasn’t even on mine. But things are changing fast, and if you’re a curious traveler who loves culture, nature, and getting off the beaten path, Saudi Arabia might just surprise you in the best way possible. saudi arabia for tourists

Yep, we’re talking about desert adventures, ancient history, cosmopolitan cities, and that feeling of discovering a place that’s still a bit of a mystery to most. So if you’re on the fence or just getting curious, this post is your friendly nudge to dig deeper.

First Things First: Why Go?

Saudi Arabia has only recently opened up to tourism. For decades, the country was mostly off-limits to casual travelers—unless you were going for business or pilgrimage. But in 2019, the Kingdom launched its tourist visa program, and suddenly, a whole new world became accessible.

We’re talking about a place that’s home to the birthplace of Islam, untouched Red Sea beaches, epic deserts, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites that have been under the radar for way too long. The diversity here is real—from the futuristic vibe of Riyadh and NEOM to the ancient tombs of AlUla that look straight out of Indiana Jones.

So if you like the idea of being ahead of the travel trend—and discovering a place before the crowds do—Saudi Arabia has that pioneer feel.

Let’s Talk About Culture

Saudi Arabia is deeply rooted in tradition but is also changing quickly. You’ll feel this contrast everywhere—from the dress code to the tech-savvy locals glued to their phones.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Dress modestly. Men can wear jeans and T-shirts (just avoid sleeveless tops in public), while women don’t need to wear abayas anymore but should still dress conservatively—think long pants or skirts and covered shoulders.
• Respect local customs. You’re a guest, and it really goes a long way to be polite and open-minded. Saudis are known for their hospitality, and they’re proud of their culture. Ask questions! Be curious.
• Friday is the holy day, so keep in mind that shops and restaurants may open late or close for prayer breaks.

That said, people are incredibly welcoming. Don’t be surprised if strangers strike up conversations, offer you Arabic coffee, or invite you to join them for a meal. They’re just proud to show you their world.

The Must-See Spots (Trust Me on These)

Alright, now for the good stuff—what to actually do and see. Saudi is huge (seriously, it’s the size of Western Europe), so you’ll need to choose your adventure depending on how much time you have.

 AlUla – The Star of the Show

If there’s one place you can’t miss, it’s AlUla. Imagine Petra in Jordan, but without the crowds. It’s home to Hegra, Saudi’s first UNESCO site, filled with Nabatean tombs carved into sandstone cliffs. It’s magical at sunrise or sunset.

Bonus? The surrounding landscape is unreal—towering rocks, hidden canyons, and palm-dotted oases. There are even luxury desert resorts, art installations, and open-air concerts under the stars. It’s like nowhere else. saudi arabia for tourists

 Riyadh – Futuristic Meets Traditional

Saudi Arabia’s capital is where skyscrapers meet souks. Visit the Kingdom Centre Tower for panoramic views, then dive into history at the National Museum or Diriyah, the restored birthplace of the Saudi state. Riyadh is also where you’ll get a real feel for modern Saudi life—and yes, there’s a booming coffee scene too.

Jeddah – The Laid-Back Red Sea Gateway

Jeddah is coastal, colorful, and a little more chill. The historic Al-Balad district is full of old coral houses and winding alleys—it’s like stepping back in time. The Corniche is perfect for a sunset stroll, and the diving here is world-class. We’re talking vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and hardly any other divers around. Win-win.

The Empty Quarter—Pure Desert Vibes

If you want to go full Lawrence of Arabia, this is it. The Rub’ al Khali, or Empty Quarter, is one of the largest sand deserts in the world. Think endless dunes, camels, and starlit skies that’ll make you forget about Instagram (okay, maybe just one post).

What About the Food?

Let’s just say: come hungry. saudi arabia for tourists

Saudi cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and made for sharing. You’ll find dishes like:

• Kabsa – a spiced rice and meat dish that’s basically the national comfort food
• Mutabbaq – a delicious stuffed pancake
• Samboosa – crispy pockets filled with meat or veggies (perfect snack)
• And of course, dates and Arabic coffee are a daily ritual.

You’ll also find tons of international food in the cities—from sushi to Shake Shack. But I always recommend trying local. Go where the locals go—it’s always the best food. saudi arabia for tourists

Some Quick Travel Tips (from Someone Who’s Been)

• Getting a visa is easy. You can apply online for a tourist eVisa in minutes. It’s valid for multiple entries over a year.
• It’s safe. Like, really safe. Crime rates are low, and solo travelers (even women) have reported feeling comfortable. Just use common sense, as always.
• English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few Arabic phrases like shukran (thank you) goes a long way.
• Rent a car if you plan to explore beyond the cities. Public transport is still limited, but road trips here are part of the adventure.
• Connectivity is solid. Grab a local SIM or eSIM when you arrive. Internet speeds are fast, and coverage is wide, even in the desert.

So, Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. Saudi Arabia is one of those places that feels like a real adventure. It challenges your preconceptions, rewards you with genuine experiences, and gives you the rare feeling of discovering something before it hits the mainstream.

No, it’s not your typical beach-and-cocktail kind of trip. But if you’re into history, culture, epic landscapes, and you want something a little different, it’s totally worth the flight.

Just go with an open mind, a sense of wonder, and a bit of flexibility. You’ll come back with stories no one else has—and probably a few new friends, too.

Have you been to Saudi Arabia or planning to go soon? Drop your questions or experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear your take!

If you are travelling to Saudi Arabia and need a SIM card, choose between daily, monthly, or data packages without expiration here; if you prefer instant connectivity and your phone supports it, get an eSIM