7 days

From £13,860

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Trip Type

Tailor-made

Destinations

Saudi Arabia

Group Size

Private

Reserve Online Or Call 0208 350 6199

Private Tour

Saudi Arabia’s Historic Cities, Desert Landscapes & Red Sea Coast

Saudi Arabia Heritage Tour

Riyadh to Jeddah – 7 Days

Expedition Overview

Uncover the fascinating history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of Saudi Arabia on this immersive journey through Riyadh, Al Ula, and Jeddah. Begin in the capital, where modern skyscrapers rise alongside historic forts and lively souqs, before stepping back in time at UNESCO-listed Ad Diriyah and exploring the treasures of the National Museum. Travel to Al Ula to witness ancient kingdoms, Nabataean tombs, and dramatic desert formations, complemented by traditional hospitality and panoramic views from rugged mountain peaks.

Continue to Jeddah, the historic gateway to Mecca, where coral-stone houses, narrow alleys, and bustling markets tell the story of centuries-old trade routes. Savour fresh seafood, meet friendly locals, and take to the Red Sea for snorkelling, fishing, and encounters with vibrant marine life. This curated experience blends iconic heritage sites with natural wonders, offering a deeper understanding of Saudi Arabia’s traditions, landscapes, and welcoming spirit.


Highlights

HISTORIC RIYADH & AD DIRIYAH: Discover Riyadh’s rich past at UNESCO-listed Ad Diriyah, home to the At-Turaif district with its mud-brick architecture and royal heritage. Visit Murabba Palace, explore traditional craft workshops, and experience the city’s blend of history and modernity, framed by iconic landmarks like the Kingdom Tower.

ANCIENT WONDERS OF AL ULA: Explore Al Ula’s archaeological treasures, from the Lion Tombs of the Dadanite Kingdom to Jabal Ikmah’s ancient inscriptions. Visit the dramatic Elephant Rock and the Nabataean city of Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with intricately carved tombs, revealing Saudi Arabia’s role in historic trade and cultural exchange.

JEDDAHS OLD TOWN & MARKETS: Wander through Al Balad’s coral-stone houses, narrow alleys, and lively souqs. Visit restored heritage landmarks like Nasseef House and experience Jeddah’s warm hospitality. Enjoy authentic local flavours, traditional coffee houses, and the city’s rich atmosphere shaped by its centuries-old role as a bustling Red Sea port.

RED SEA COASTAL ADVENTURES: Sail the Red Sea on a private boat, snorkelling over coral reefs and exploring a shipwreck teeming with marine life. Enjoy fresh seafood onboard before strolling Jeddah’s scenic corniche, where King Fahd’s Fountain and sunset views provide a memorable end to your coastal experience in Saudi Arabia.

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DAY 1

Riyadh

Arrive at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, where a private car takes you to your hotel. After lunch, visit Ad Diriyah Old Town, the birthplace of Saudi Arabia, and explore the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif district with its mud-brick buildings and wooden doors. See Murabba Palace for royal heritage and traditional crafts like weaving and calligraphy. Walk through Al Bujairi Heritage Park for food stalls, cultural workshops and evening projection shows on palace walls. Modest dress is recommended, including long clothing and headscarves for women, to respect customs and enjoy full access to all sites. Overnight in Riyadh.

DAY 2

Riyadh

Start at the National Museum of Riyadh, where artefacts and exhibits bring the kingdom’s history to life. Visit Al Masmak Fortress, where King Abdulaziz reclaimed his family home and united Saudi Arabia. Wander Souq Al Zal, Riyadh’s oldest market, with carpets, perfumes and crafts. Have a traditional Saudi lunch before heading to the Kingdom Tower for city views. Throughout the day, expert guides share local history and culture. The tour team ensures comfort and assistance whenever needed, making this a seamless experience that blends historic treasures with modern sights. Free evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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Riyadh

DAY 3

Al Ula

Drive northwest to Al Ula, passing deserts, rocky plains and sand dunes. Visit the Dadanite Kingdom to see the Lion Tombs and ancient wells from the 6th century BC. At Jabal Ikmah, see over 450 inscriptions etched into cliffs, a legacy of passing traders. Explore the Elephant Rock, a natural formation shaped like an elephant’s trunk. Optional: visit Jebel Fihrayn, the ‘Edge of the World’, where cliffs overlook endless desert landscapes. Experience the stillness and scale of the Arabian wilderness. Overnight in Al Ula.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 4

Al Ula

Walk along the Heritage Oasis Trail, shaded by palm groves and lined with mud-brick homes. Stop at stalls for fresh juices before a farm lunch, where you can learn about local crops. In the afternoon, ride a vintage Land Rover to Hegra (Mada’in Saleh), a UNESCO Nabataean city with carved tombs and sacred sandstone sites. See its role as a trade hub and admire its preserved structures. End the day at Harrat Awairth Mountain for sunset views over Al Ula’s old town and valleys. Overnight in Al Ula, surrounded by history, culture and desert landscapes.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 5

Jeddah

Fly to Jeddah on the Red Sea coast and check into your hotel. Explore Al Balad, the UNESCO-listed old town with coral-stone houses, narrow alleys and busy souqs. Meet locals who share stories of Jeddah’s past. Visit Nasseef House and Jeddah’s oldest mosque for architectural highlights. Walk past bakeries, try fresh bread and smell the aroma of Arabic coffee. This historic trading port’s mix of cultures and traditions gives you a glimpse into Saudi life. Female travellers should dress modestly to respect local customs. End the day strolling through Jeddah’s historic streets before returning to your hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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Jeddah

DAY 6

Jeddah

Take a private boat for a day on the Red Sea. Swim, snorkel and fish in crystal-clear waters, explore coral reefs and even a shipwreck. See marine life beneath the surface and relax in the peaceful surroundings. Have a fresh seafood lunch onboard before returning to Jeddah. In the evening, walk along the corniche with its piers, restaurants and art installations. Watch King Fahd’s Fountain shoot water high into the sky, framed by the setting sun, one of Jeddah’s most iconic scenes. This relaxing yet adventurous day shows a different side of the city’s coastal life.

DAY 7

Jeddah

Enjoy your last morning in Jeddah with a leisurely breakfast or last-minute shopping in local boutiques and souqs. A private transfer takes you to the airport for your flight home, the end of your Saudi Arabian journey. This trip leaves you with memories of desert landscapes, historic cities, coastal beauty and warm cultural encounters.

Meals Included: Breakfast


The story

The genesis of this expedition is rooted in the captivating diversity of Saudi Arabia's terrain, its profound historical layers, and the richness of its culture. 

Aimed at those eager to delve deep into unparalleled experiences, the journey traverses from ancient ruins and bustling urban centres to tranquil desert expanses and the pristine waters of the Red Sea. 

Ideal for aficionados of history, culture, architecture, and nature, this voyage offers an all-encompassing exploration of Saudi Arabia's heritage and its contemporary allure. 
 


What To Expect

It pairs luxury with exclusivity, featuring private transfers, custom tours, and stays in premier hotels, ensuring a travel experience marked by luxury, cultural depth, and personalized attention. Our expert tour guide provides in-depth cultural and historical context at every major site, enhancing your journey. Every detail, from luxury car transfers and bespoke flights to private guides and unique cultural engagements, is meticulously crafted to satisfy the sophisticated traveller, presenting unmatched access to the kingdom’s most mesmerizing sights. Our Saudi Arabia tours are designed with detailed itineraries that cover all key highlights, allowing you to experience the best of the country within a comfortable and well-organized schedule.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itineraries and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.

TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.

Dates & Prices

Date
Double
Single

Date

1 Jun - 01 Jun, 2025 Reserve online

Prices From

£13,860 pp

Ship

N/A

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in British pounds (GBP) and are subject to change. Please refer to the terms and conditions of this trip for further details.

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