Classic Saudi Arabia

8 days from $9370 per person

Special Offer: Internal Air included in the price PRIVATE TOUR

Navigate between ancient and modern wonders on this privately guided journey taking in the highlights of Saudi Arabia. Your exploration of the desert kingdom begins in the capital, Riyadh, where you dine atop the iconic Kingdom Tower – one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers. Then it’s on to Al-Ula, a trove of archaeological treasures including striking rock-carved tombs comparable to Petra. Jeddah’s famous Red Sea waterfront rolls out before you like a red carpet, as you visit the floating mosque, UNESCO-listed old town and myriad fascinating museums. Depart with a deeper insight into Saudi Arabia’s unique culture and history.

DAYS 1 – 2 : Arrive in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Fly overnight from the UK to Riyadh – the capital of Saudi Arabia – via Dubai. On arrival, you are met and transferred by private car to your hotel in time for breakfast. The rest of the day is yours to relax and recuperate ahead of tomorrow’s adventures.

DAY 3: Riyadh

This morning, journey to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Diriyah, the original home of the Saudi royal family. Visit Masmak Fort, a 19th-century mud-brick fortress that played a vital role in Saudi Arabia’s unification; and Dira Souq, famous for its Bedouin jewellery, dresses and old copper and brass objects. For lunch, dine at a local village. This afternoon, browse exhibits at the National Museum, and enjoy panoramic views of Riyadh with dinner at the iconic Kingdom Tower Sky Bridge.

DAY4: Al-Ula

Ahead of your flight to the archaeologically rich region of Al-Ula, visit the King Faisal Centre for Research and Islamic Studies, home to fascinating artefacts of Saudi and Islamic art and history. After lunch at a local restaurant, you head to the airport for your evening flight to Al-Ula, after which you are met and transferred to your hotel.

DAY 5: Al-Ula

Today, explore the archaeological wonders in and around Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra (also known as Madain Saleh). This was the second largest city of the Nabataean Kingdom after Petra, and is brimming with rock-cut tombs, such as Qasr al Farid – dubbed the ‘lonely castle’. Next, a four-wheel drive delivers you to Dadan, home of the 2,500-year-old Lion Tombs. Finish at the striking monolith of Elephant Rock in time for a scenic sunset. Return to your hotel for dinner.

DAY 6: Al-Ula & Jeddah

Visit the Old City of Al-Ula, a labyrinthine citadel of long-abandoned mud-and-stone buildings, overlooked by Musa Bin Nusayr castle – which dates back to the sixth century BCE. Next, fly to the Red Sea city of Jeddah, arriving in time for lunch at your hotel. Head to the Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum to learn about Saudi Arabian heritage. Your day is rounded off with an evening meal on Jeddah’s celebrated Corniche, with views of King Fahd’s Fountain – the tallest in the world.

DAY 7: Jeddah

Today is your chance to explore more of Jeddah. Visit the open-air Sculpture Museum, and the famed ‘floating’ Al Rahma mosque – which is suspended over the Red Sea and connected to the shore by a walkway. After lunch and a rest, spend your afternoon exploring Jeddah’s UNESCO-listed old town, Al Balad, home to many historic buildings. There is time to browse Alawi Market – the largest souk in the country – before your final evening meal in this desert kingdom.

DAY 8: Depart Jeddah

Transfer to the airport for your overnight flight to the UK via Dubai.

Tour inclusions:

All accommodations as detailed on a double-occupancy basis with private facilities; meals as specified; bottled water during transfers and touring; airport welcome; assistance with luggage and transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle; services of English-speaking Tour Director; economy flights, all entrance fees, planning, handling, operational and communication charges; and all tipping.

Tour exclusions:

International flights not specified as included; visas; insurance coverage of personal loss, injury, illness, or damages incurred during your trip; items of a purely personal nature such as drinks, laundry, dry cleaning, Internet, fax or phone charges; transfers, sightseeing or meals not specified in itinerary; and excess baggage charges.