Saudi Arabia is full of surprises. Whether you love adventure, relaxing by the water, or experiencing something meaningful, this country has it all. Here are some amazing things you can do when you visit Saudi Arabia.
Contents
Quad Biking
If you’re into exciting rides, quad biking is a must-try. In cities like Jeddah , Riyadh, and Madinah, you’ll find spots where you can hop on a gas-powered four-wheeler and ride across sandy hills and rocky terrain. For the best experience, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it’s not too hot.
Horseback Riding
Ever wanted to ride a horse like a pro? Saudi Arabia has plenty of horseback riding places where you can learn or just enjoy the experience. Many places are beginner-friendly, so don’t worry if it’s your first time. For example, Hala Yalla has a horseback riding course in Riyadh for beginners. There are numerous courses and classes like this you can find in Khobar, Jeddah, and elsewhere in Saudi.
Camping
Camping in Saudi Arabia is quite a unique experience. The deserts and parks offer perfect spots to pitch a tent under the stars. Popular places like the Edge of the World near Riyadh or Wadi Al Disah in Tabuk are breathtaking. Just don’t forget warm clothes by the way. It can get surprisingly chilly at night.
Visit the Beach in Yanbu
Yanbu is a hidden gem for beach lovers. As it’s located along the Red Sea, it’s the perfect spot for snorkeling, diving, or just relaxing by the water. We suggest you visit during the cooler months for the best weather.
Go for Umrah
Of course, one of the most special things you can do in Saudi Arabia is go for Umrah. It’s a journey that brings peace and purpose, and visiting Makkah and Madinah is unforgettable. After Umrah, you can also explore historical sites nearby, like Jabal Al-Noor or Quba Mosque, for even more meaning in your trip.
Arriving in Saudi
If you’re making plans to visit Saudi, you’ve probably thought about how to get a visa to enter the country. Here are some different types of Saudi visas you can consider:
- Tourist Visa
- Business Visa
- Employment Visa
- Family Visit Visa
- Student Visa
- Hajj Visa
- Umrah Visa
Not all of the above visa types are easily accessible, however (as of January 2025) if you have a passport from one of the following countries, you can pay for an e-visa upon arrival:
- Albania
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Belgium
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- China (including Hong Kong and Macau)
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Panama
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russia
- San Marino
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- United States
Where to Stay During Your Visit
This is also something you’ve probably considered if you’re thinking of visiting Saudi. You’ll usually have the following options:
- Hotels: You’ll find a wide range of hotels, from fancy ones like the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh or the Jabal Omar Marriott in Makkah to more affordable spots in smaller cities. Many hotels offer great amenities like room service, breakfast buffets, and even shuttles to popular attractions.
- Airbnb and Vacation Rentals: If you want something that feels more like home, Airbnb is a great choice. You can find everything from cozy apartments in Jeddah to large villas in Riyadh. It’s a nice way to stay in local neighborhoods and have more space to yourself.
- Furnished Apartments: If you’re staying for a while or traveling with family, furnished apartments are super convenient.
Getting Around in Saudi Arabia
Taxis:
Taxis are available in most cities, but they’re not always the easiest option. You might have trouble finding one on the street, especially in smaller towns or less busy areas. However, they’re a great backup if you need to get somewhere quickly. Just make sure to agree on the fare beforehand to avoid surprises.
Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber and Careem):
For a more convenient and reliable option, apps like Uber and Careem are very popular in Saudi Arabia. Both offer clean, comfortable rides, and you can book them right from your phone. These apps are available in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, and they let you track your ride, pay online, and even schedule pickups in advance. They’re also great if you’re not fluent in Arabic, as everything is handled through the app.
Car Rentals:
If you prefer to move around at your own pace, renting a car is a good option. Rental cars are available at major airports and in cities, with a range of options from budget-friendly vehicles to luxury models.
- Keep in mind: You’ll need a valid driver’s license, and if you’re a visitor, an international driving permit (IDP) is often required.
- Be prepared for some unruly driving styles in Saudi, especially in busy areas like Riyadh.
Public Transport (Limited):
While Saudi Arabia is developing its public transport systems, options like buses and the metro are mostly available in larger cities like Riyadh and Mecca. However, they might not be as convenient for tourists compared to taxis or ride-hailing apps.