Geography
Geography
Stretching from the Persian Gulf to the Red Sea, most part of Saudi Arabia is uninhabited arid desert and scorched mountains. This country encompasses 80% of Arabian Peninsula, being the largest sovereign state in the Middle East and the fifth one in Asia.
Population
Population
33.8 million, dominated by Muslims. The ethnics living in Saudi Arabia are 90% Arab and 10% Afro-Asian.
Religion
Religion
Islam
Who should I travel with?
Who should I travel with?
Couple , Friends , Family , Group
History
History
Over the centuries, Saudi Arabia has played an important role in the history of the world. During ancient civilization, Saudi Arabia once became the crossroad and trade center between Egypt, Syria, and Iraq and the Roman and Byzantine empires. In the seventh century, it became the birthplace of Islam as well as the capital of Rashidun Caliphate. Today, Saudi Arabia is rapidly growing to be the largest oil producer as well a key economic and geopolitical role in the world.
Culture
Culture
Religious and conservative are the highlights of Saudi Arabian society. The culture and tradition in this country are derived from the deep influence of Islamic teaching and the centuries-old Arab customs and civilization. Daily Islamic observance can be expected during a trip to this oil-producer country.
Language
Language
The official language in Saudi Arabia is Arabic, one of the oldest language in the world. Najdi Arabic, Hejazi Arabic, and Gulf Arabic are regional variants spoken across the country.
What to do there?
What to do there?
Expect to do a lot of things with a guide taking you to many amazing places in this country. Take a chance to ride a camel and explore the borderless sands and dunes on a vast desert as this is the most recommended activity while you are in Saudi Arabia. For water junkie, snorkeling and scuba diving in the Red Sea are perfect for you since Red Sea is home to amazing reefs with a teeming marine life. Also, make sure you take time to discover historical heritages in Al-‘Ula as well as explore the Persian Gulf in the Eastern Region, which will make you realize that Saudi Arabia is filled with many landmarks waiting to be explored.
Middle East is well known for its herbs and spices and Saudi Arabia being the largest country also offers a long list of culinary rich in calorie, herbs, and spices. Indulge yourself in the delicacy of local food, such as Kabsa, Shawarma, Saleeg, and Falafel. Don’t forget to join a coffee ceremony and sip the excellent Arabic coffee.
In addition, if you are a Muslim, performing Hajj to Mecca and visiting Al Masjid An Nabawi in Medina are the top-listed things that you must want to do when coming to this country.
In addition, if you are a Muslim, performing Hajj to Mecca and visiting Al Masjid An Nabawi in Medina are the top-listed things that you must want to do when coming to this country.
What to see there?
What to see there?
Start your journey to the Kingdom Centre where you will see the iconic symbol of Saudi Arabia’s capital along with shopping malls and residential complex. While you are in Riyadh, also visit the National Museum or King Abdulaziz Historical Center to learn about Arabian history and architectural designs chronically and Dir’iyah to discover the capital of the first Saudi State.
If you perform the hajj, you will see Kaaba, which is considered to be “House of God” by Muslims. This square stone building is located in the center of Islam’s most important and largest mosque, Al Masjid Al Haram in Mecca. This is where millions of Muslim from all over the world gather to circle the building. In the second holiest city in Islam, you will find Al Masjid An Nabawi, the second largest mosque which once served as a community center and religious school, as well as the resting place of Prophet Muhammad SAW. A little bit outside Medina, Quba Mosque, the first mosque in the history of Islam, was built when Prophet Muhammad and his companions made a short stop during their emigration. In the Eastern Region, you will be captivated by the beauty of Dammam City, home to breathtaking beaches and a vast sea of Persian Gulf. Going to the northwest part of the country, you will find Al-‘Ula City with its numerous archeological sites and ruins of the largest settlement of ancient civilization.
In this heritage town, not only will you find many majestic ruins of the lost city known as Mada’in Saleh, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia, but also many unique rock mountains, such as Mount Athlab, believed as Nabataeans center, and Elephant Mountain, a 50-meter giant rock resembling an elephant.
If you perform the hajj, you will see Kaaba, which is considered to be “House of God” by Muslims. This square stone building is located in the center of Islam’s most important and largest mosque, Al Masjid Al Haram in Mecca. This is where millions of Muslim from all over the world gather to circle the building. In the second holiest city in Islam, you will find Al Masjid An Nabawi, the second largest mosque which once served as a community center and religious school, as well as the resting place of Prophet Muhammad SAW. A little bit outside Medina, Quba Mosque, the first mosque in the history of Islam, was built when Prophet Muhammad and his companions made a short stop during their emigration. In the Eastern Region, you will be captivated by the beauty of Dammam City, home to breathtaking beaches and a vast sea of Persian Gulf. Going to the northwest part of the country, you will find Al-‘Ula City with its numerous archeological sites and ruins of the largest settlement of ancient civilization.
In this heritage town, not only will you find many majestic ruins of the lost city known as Mada’in Saleh, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia, but also many unique rock mountains, such as Mount Athlab, believed as Nabataeans center, and Elephant Mountain, a 50-meter giant rock resembling an elephant.
What is it known for?
What is it known for?
- Nature
- Food
- Shopping
- Culture
- Religion
- History
- Architecture
- Mountains
Useful local terms
Useful local terms
- Assalam alaikum: Hello (literally “Peace be upon you”)
- Waalaikum assalam: Hello (to response)
- Syukron: Thank you
- Afwan: You are welcome
- Afwan: Sorry / Excuse me
- Insya Allah: God willing
- Shobahul khoir: Good morning
- Mesh mooshkilah: No problem!
- Ahlan wa sahlan: Welcome
- Kaifa halok?: How are you?
- Ana bikhoir: I am fine
- Na’am: Yes
- La: No
- Ain alhamam?: Where is the toilet?
Insiders’ tips
Insiders’ tips
- Please be mindful that non-Muslim visitors are strictly prohibited from entering Central Medina and Mecca.
- Women travelling alone are not allowed to enter the country, unless they will be met by husband, sponsors, or male relatives.
- Males and females, unless family, are not allowed to mingle in public places.
- Women are required to dress modesty, ankle-length dresses with long sleeves and not pants, mostly covering body and hair.
- Saudi Arabia follows hot desert climate, except for the southwest part which follows a semi-arid climate. The temperature is high during the day and cold at night.
- Cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in patients from Saudi Arabia continue to be reported to the World Health Organization. Please pay attention to the latest information and consult with your general practitioner about vaccinations and health issues before coming to Saudi Arabia.
- Public demonstrations are illegal in Saudi Arabia but do take time to time. Follow local media and be alert to local and regional developments which may trigger public disturbances. You should avoid public gatherings and demonstrations.
- Although the crime rate in Saudi Arabia is low, there have been some isolated incidents of more serious crimes. Take a particular care when traveling outside cities or towns. Petty crime does also occur.
Come to Saudi Arabia and enjoy its modernity, nature, and unique cultural heritage! From desert to sea, mountain, and plains and from skyscraper building to kaaba and ancient ruins, this country has everything for you to explore.
Come to Saudi Arabia and enjoy its modernity, nature, and unique cultural heritage! From desert to sea, mountain, and plains and from skyscraper building to kaaba and ancient ruins, this country has everything for you to explore.
Geography
Geography
Stretching from the Persian Gulf to the Red Sea, most part of Saudi Arabia is uninhabited arid desert and scorched mountains. This country encompasses 80% of Arabian Peninsula, being the largest sovereign state in the Middle East and the fifth one in Asia.
Population
Population
33.8 million, dominated by Muslims. The ethnics living in Saudi Arabia are 90% Arab and 10% Afro-Asian.
Religion
Religion
Islam
Who should I travel with?
Who should I travel with?
Couple , Friends , Family , Group
History
History
Over the centuries, Saudi Arabia has played an important role in the history of the world. During ancient civilization, Saudi Arabia once became the crossroad and trade center between Egypt, Syria, and Iraq and the Roman and Byzantine empires. In the seventh century, it became the birthplace of Islam as well as the capital of Rashidun Caliphate. Today, Saudi Arabia is rapidly growing to be the largest oil producer as well a key economic and geopolitical role in the world.
Culture
Culture
Religious and conservative are the highlights of Saudi Arabian society. The culture and tradition in this country are derived from the deep influence of Islamic teaching and the centuries-old Arab customs and civilization. Daily Islamic observance can be expected during a trip to this oil-producer country.
Language
Language
The official language in Saudi Arabia is Arabic, one of the oldest language in the world. Najdi Arabic, Hejazi Arabic, and Gulf Arabic are regional variants spoken across the country.
What to do there?
What to do there?
Expect to do a lot of things with a guide taking you to many amazing places in this country. Take a chance to ride a camel and explore the borderless sands and dunes on a vast desert as this is the most recommended activity while you are in Saudi Arabia. For water junkie, snorkeling and scuba diving in the Red Sea are perfect for you since Red Sea is home to amazing reefs with a teeming marine life. Also, make sure you take time to discover historical heritages in Al-‘Ula as well as explore the Persian Gulf in the Eastern Region, which will make you realize that Saudi Arabia is filled with many landmarks waiting to be explored.
Middle East is well known for its herbs and spices and Saudi Arabia being the largest country also offers a long list of culinary rich in calorie, herbs, and spices. Indulge yourself in the delicacy of local food, such as Kabsa, Shawarma, Saleeg, and Falafel. Don’t forget to join a coffee ceremony and sip the excellent Arabic coffee.
In addition, if you are a Muslim, performing Hajj to Mecca and visiting Al Masjid An Nabawi in Medina are the top-listed things that you must want to do when coming to this country.
In addition, if you are a Muslim, performing Hajj to Mecca and visiting Al Masjid An Nabawi in Medina are the top-listed things that you must want to do when coming to this country.
What to see there?
What to see there?
Start your journey to the Kingdom Centre where you will see the iconic symbol of Saudi Arabia’s capital along with shopping malls and residential complex. While you are in Riyadh, also visit the National Museum or King Abdulaziz Historical Center to learn about Arabian history and architectural designs chronically and Dir’iyah to discover the capital of the first Saudi State.
If you perform the hajj, you will see Kaaba, which is considered to be “House of God” by Muslims. This square stone building is located in the center of Islam’s most important and largest mosque, Al Masjid Al Haram in Mecca. This is where millions of Muslim from all over the world gather to circle the building. In the second holiest city in Islam, you will find Al Masjid An Nabawi, the second largest mosque which once served as a community center and religious school, as well as the resting place of Prophet Muhammad SAW. A little bit outside Medina, Quba Mosque, the first mosque in the history of Islam, was built when Prophet Muhammad and his companions made a short stop during their emigration. In the Eastern Region, you will be captivated by the beauty of Dammam City, home to breathtaking beaches and a vast sea of Persian Gulf. Going to the northwest part of the country, you will find Al-‘Ula City with its numerous archeological sites and ruins of the largest settlement of ancient civilization.
In this heritage town, not only will you find many majestic ruins of the lost city known as Mada’in Saleh, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia, but also many unique rock mountains, such as Mount Athlab, believed as Nabataeans center, and Elephant Mountain, a 50-meter giant rock resembling an elephant.
If you perform the hajj, you will see Kaaba, which is considered to be “House of God” by Muslims. This square stone building is located in the center of Islam’s most important and largest mosque, Al Masjid Al Haram in Mecca. This is where millions of Muslim from all over the world gather to circle the building. In the second holiest city in Islam, you will find Al Masjid An Nabawi, the second largest mosque which once served as a community center and religious school, as well as the resting place of Prophet Muhammad SAW. A little bit outside Medina, Quba Mosque, the first mosque in the history of Islam, was built when Prophet Muhammad and his companions made a short stop during their emigration. In the Eastern Region, you will be captivated by the beauty of Dammam City, home to breathtaking beaches and a vast sea of Persian Gulf. Going to the northwest part of the country, you will find Al-‘Ula City with its numerous archeological sites and ruins of the largest settlement of ancient civilization.
In this heritage town, not only will you find many majestic ruins of the lost city known as Mada’in Saleh, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia, but also many unique rock mountains, such as Mount Athlab, believed as Nabataeans center, and Elephant Mountain, a 50-meter giant rock resembling an elephant.
What is it known for?
What is it known for?
- Nature
- Food
- Shopping
- Culture
- Religion
- History
- Architecture
- Mountains
Useful local terms
Useful local terms
- Assalam alaikum: Hello (literally “Peace be upon you”)
- Waalaikum assalam: Hello (to response)
- Syukron: Thank you
- Afwan: You are welcome
- Afwan: Sorry / Excuse me
- Insya Allah: God willing
- Shobahul khoir: Good morning
- Mesh mooshkilah: No problem!
- Ahlan wa sahlan: Welcome
- Kaifa halok?: How are you?
- Ana bikhoir: I am fine
- Na’am: Yes
- La: No
- Ain alhamam?: Where is the toilet?
Insiders’ tips
Insiders’ tips
- Please be mindful that non-Muslim visitors are strictly prohibited from entering Central Medina and Mecca.
- Women travelling alone are not allowed to enter the country, unless they will be met by husband, sponsors, or male relatives.
- Males and females, unless family, are not allowed to mingle in public places.
- Women are required to dress modesty, ankle-length dresses with long sleeves and not pants, mostly covering body and hair.
- Saudi Arabia follows hot desert climate, except for the southwest part which follows a semi-arid climate. The temperature is high during the day and cold at night.
- Cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in patients from Saudi Arabia continue to be reported to the World Health Organization. Please pay attention to the latest information and consult with your general practitioner about vaccinations and health issues before coming to Saudi Arabia.
- Public demonstrations are illegal in Saudi Arabia but do take time to time. Follow local media and be alert to local and regional developments which may trigger public disturbances. You should avoid public gatherings and demonstrations.
- Although the crime rate in Saudi Arabia is low, there have been some isolated incidents of more serious crimes. Take a particular care when traveling outside cities or towns. Petty crime does also occur.
