9 DAYS SAUDI ARABIA: KINGDOM OF WONDERS

Riyadh – Capital of Saudi Arabia

Arrive in Riyadh and transfer to the city center, where you will discover key attractions including the Kingdom Centre, Al Masmak Palace Museum, Souk Al-Zal, and the National Museum of Saudi Arabia.

Diriyah Old City

After breakfast, step back in time and explore the Diriyah Old City, the birthplace of Saudi Arabia and home of an UNESCO Heritage Site, where you will see stunning examples of traditional Najdi mudbricks architecture such as the Salwa Palace.

This afternoon, we will take a domestic flight to Abha, a gem nestled in the lush mountains of southwest Saudi Arabia.

Full Day Exploration of Abha

Set out on a 4WD vehicle to explore the dramatic landscape of the mountainous and rugged Jabal Soudah (3,000m) – part of the vast Asir national Park. Journey along winding roads to Rijal Almaa village, known for its multi-storey Yemen-styled stone buildings clustered on a hillside. Meander through its tranquil lanes, where centuries-old mud houses and watchtowers showcase the village’s timeless architectural charm.

Drive approximately one hour to the Fatima Museum of Home Decoration and Women’s Clothes, where vibrant geometric patterns bring the rich heritage of Asir to life.

Habala to Jeddah

Embark on an hour drive to the 400-years-old “hanging village” of Habala, dramatically located 300 meters down a sheer cliff, we will peer down on Habala from the cliffs above.

In the afternoon, we will take a domestic flight from Abha to Jeddah, the “bride of the Red Sea”, is a historic city that for centuries has been a gateway of annual Hajj pilgrimage. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel situated overlooking the Red Sea on Jeddah’s famous corniche. Take in the spectacular King Fahd Fountain, Jeddah’s iconic landmark and the tallest fountain in the world.

Jeddah Highlights

Head to the Tayebat Museum, a landmark building built in the traditional Hijazi (western Saudi Arabia) architectural style that houses a vast eclectic collection of ethnographic items.

Keep your eyes peeled for the impressive Al Rahma floating mosque, and stroll along Jeddah’s beautiful seafront corniche.

Proceed to the atmospheric old town of Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the Mecca Gate into Al Balad, be immersed by the lively incense-scented souqs, multi-storey houses built of coral stone with their distinctive “roshan” wooden windows, art galleries and antique mosques that include the Shafi Masjid – the oldest in Jeddah.

Jeddah to Medina

Transfer to the railway station for your High-Speed train (approx. 1h 45m) to Medina, one of Islam’s two holiest cities, making it a key destination for millions of pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah. Medina is centered around Masjid al Nabawi, also known as the Prophet’s Mosque, which was constructed by the Prophet himself and is also where he is buried. Non-Muslims are welcome to enjoy exterior views of the mosque from the edge of the square.

The Oasis of Al Ula

Today, we will drive about 4 hours to AlUla. This historically rich valley at the crossroads of the Silk Road and the Incense Route is one of the world’s largest living museums and is a place of extraordinary beauty.

Start your exploration of AlUla, one of the world’s great natural masterpieces, with a visit to the Nabataeans site of Hegra by Vintage Land Rover. Set amid a breathtaking desert of sandstone monoliths, Hegra is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 111 monumental tombs, 94 of which are intricately carved into sheer cliffs.

Later, wander through AlUla’s Old Town, immersing yourself in the local atmosphere and culture.

Al Ula Discovery

Begin your day with a Vintage Land Rover ride to at the ancient ruins of Dadan, then continue to Jabal Ikma, home to one of the largest concentrations of rock inscriptions in the region.

Visit the striking Maraya in Ashar Valley, the world’s largest mirrored building and a modern icon of AlUla’s cultural landscape. Afterwards, enjoy the lush surroundings of the AlUla Oasis, where shaded trails and swaying palms offer a refreshing contrast to the desert. As the afternoon light turns golden, conclude your journey at the iconic Elephant Rock (Jabal Alfil), one of AlUla’s most celebrated natural formations.

Transfer to Airport

Enjoy a relaxed morning before transferring to AlUla Airport for your departure flight.