saudi arabia

The Last Great Frontier of Travel is Now Open!

Be Among the First to Discover the Astonishing Beauty and Ancient Mysteries of a Kingdom Reborn.

Forget everything you think you know. For generations, Saudi Arabia was a land shrouded in mystery, its breathtaking landscapes and ancient treasures hidden from the eyes of the world. Now, in a monumental shift, the Kingdom has thrown open its doors, inviting adventurous travellers from places like Bournemouth and beyond to witness a nation in the midst of an extraordinary transformation. This is your chance to be a true pioneer, to explore a destination untouched by mass tourism, where millennia-old Nabataean tombs are carved into desert canyons and futuristic cities rise from the sands. It is a land of dramatic contrasts, from the vibrant, underwater coral reefs of the Red Sea to the cool, verdant mountains of Asir.


This is not just a holiday; it's an expedition into the heart of Arabia, a journey that promises to challenge perceptions and reward the curious. Imagine exploring the ancient incense trade routes, wandering through the labyrinthine alleys of a traditional souq, and then marvelling at cutting-edge modern architecture, all in one trip. Saudi Arabia offers a unique opportunity to experience legendary Arabian hospitality in its most authentic form, to connect with a rich and deeply-rooted culture, and to create travel stories that none of your friends have. For the UK traveller with a taste for the extraordinary, the last great frontier of global travel is waiting.

Latest Offers

Black airplane taking off.

Getting There From the UK

Reaching the Kingdom from the UK is straightforward. Saudia, the national carrier, and British Airways operate direct daily flights from London Heathrow to major cities like Riyadh (RUH) and Jeddah (JED), with a flight time of approximately 6 to 7 hours. Other airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines offer convenient one-stop options from various UK airports, including Manchester and Birmingham, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

White pound symbol within a black circle.

Visa and Currency

As of September 2025, obtaining a tourist visa for Saudi Arabia as a UK citizen is a simple online process. You can apply for an e-Visa through the official "Visit Saudi" portal. The multiple-entry visa is typically valid for one year and allows for stays of up to 90 days. Always check the official portal for the most current requirements before you book. The currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger shops. However, it is highly recommended to carry some cash, especially for smaller eateries, souqs, or when travelling to more remote areas. ATMs are plentiful in all towns and cities.

Black speech bubble with three white dots.

Language and Local Lingo

The official language is Arabic. While English is increasingly spoken, especially by younger people and in the business and tourism sectors in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, it is not as universally prevalent as in neighbouring countries like the UAE. Your travel experience will be greatly enriched by learning a few basic Arabic phrases, and the effort will be immensely appreciated.


  • Hello: Marhaba (mar-ha-ba) / As-salamu alaykum (a-sa-la-mu a-lai-kum) - more formal
  • Thank you: Shukran (shook-ran)
  • Yes: Na'am (na-am)
  • No: La'a (la-ah)

Your Saudi Hit List: 4 Unforgettable Experiences

From Ancient Tombs to Modern Marvels, Your Must-Do List!

Mosque at sunset with numerous minarets and city skyline in the background.

Step into Another World at AlUla and Hegra

This is Saudi's crown jewel. Hegra (also known as Mada'in Saleh) is the Kingdom's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, a breathtaking necropolis of more than 100 monumental tombs carved into sandstone outcrops by the Nabataeans (the same civilisation that built Petra). Explore these ancient wonders, then marvel at the mirrored Maraya concert hall, the world's largest mirrored building, shimmering illusion-like in the middle of the desert canyon.

Wander Through Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad)

Discover the soulful heart of Saudi Arabia in Al-Balad, the old town of Jeddah. This UNESCO-listed district is a magical labyrinth of narrow alleyways, bustling souqs, and beautifully preserved old merchant houses built from coral stone, adorned with intricate wooden latticework known as 'roshan'. It’s a photographer's dream and a feast for the senses.

Experience "The Edge of the World" (Jebel Fihrayn)

Just a 90-minute drive from Riyadh lies one of Saudi's most spectacular natural wonders. Standing on the edge of these dramatic 300-metre-high cliffs, you'll gaze out over an uninterrupted view of the barren valley floor below, which was once the bottom of an ancient ocean. The sheer scale and silence are awe-inspiring, especially at sunset.

Dive the Unspoiled Red Sea

The Saudi Red Sea coast is one of the world's final frontiers for diving. The waters here are pristine and teeming with vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and an incredible diversity of marine life, including dugongs, dolphins, and sharks. With new sustainable tourism projects like Red Sea Global opening up access, it's a unique chance to dive in a virtually untouched underwater paradise.

Master the Art of Coffee and Dates

You will be offered Arabic coffee (qahwa) and dates everywhere - it's the ultimate symbol of hospitality. The coffee is lightly roasted, spiced with cardamom, and served in a small, handleless cup (finjan). Always accept it with your right hand. Your host will keep refilling your cup until you politely signal you're finished by gently shaking the cup from side to side.

Understand the Weekend

The weekend in Saudi Arabia is Friday and Saturday. This is when you'll find attractions, malls, and restaurants at their busiest. Plan your timings accordingly, especially for Friday midday, which is the most important prayer time of the week when many things will be closed.

Dress Smart.

The dress code has relaxed significantly for tourists, but modesty is still key and a sign of respect. For women, an abaya is not required, but loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is recommended. For men, shorts are generally fine in resorts, but long trousers are better for cities and religious sites. Think "respectful summer chic."

Embrace the Journey

Getting around is an adventure. Renting a car is a great way to explore the vast landscapes (women are legally able to drive). For a more local experience, try the modern and comfortable SAPTCO buses between cities, or even the new high-speed train connecting Jeddah and Medina.

A New Chapter for Arabia: A Final Farewell (For Now!)

Be a Pioneer, Not Just a Tourist


Saudi Arabia is a destination that will leave an indelible mark on you. It's the taste of that first welcoming cup of qahwa, the sound of the call to prayer echoing across a timeless landscape, the sight of a camel train silhouetted against a desert dune, and the genuine warmth of a people proud to share their home with the world for the first time. It is a country in fast-forward, where the future is being built before your eyes, while its ancient past remains deeply cherished.


This is your invitation to look beyond the headlines and discover the reality for yourself. A journey to Saudi Arabia is more than a holiday; it is a bridge between cultures and a front-row seat to history in the making. Pack your sense of wonder and get ready to explore one of the most fascinating and rapidly changing destinations on Earth.