What to see, what to do Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is a country that is still not very popular with tourists. You will have most of the sites to yourself or almost, even the important sites listed in the Unesco World Heritage such as Hegra, Jubbah or the old city of Jeddah. On the other hand, you will encounter many sites that are closed for renovation or for some unknown reason. Despite the often extended opening hours, some places are closed. Hours may be adjusted in the summer or during the hottest part of the day. Most points of interest open early in the morning, close mid-day and reopen shortly before sunset. Some museums close late in the evening. For Saudi government-run venues, they are usually open every day of the week, with a big break on Fridays or an afternoon opening only.

All activities and tours in the AlUla oasis are managed by the Royal Commission of AlUla and can be booked on their website www.experiencealula.com. It is also possible to try your luck at the Winter Park at the last minute. Due to a limited number of departures to the ancient Nabatean capital of Hegra, it is highly recommended to book in advance, especially if you are visiting during the Winter Festival.

Some sites are free, such as the archaeological site of Jubbah or the old city of Jeddah. Entrance to museums is charged, between SAR 10 and SAR 20 for public institutions and around SAR 20 for private museums. The Tayebat Museum in Jeddah is an exception, with an entrance fee of 80 SAR.

Entrance fees to the sites in AlUla range from SAR 70 to SAR 95 depending on the site. All tours are guided and depart from the Winter Park. Activities in the vicinity of AlUla are more expensive and depend on the nature of the activity.

In winter, the festivals intended to animate the various destinations multiply. There is not a large city that does not have its own festival. The most important and exciting is the Winter Festival in AlUla. During 3 months, concerts, contemporary art exhibitions and happenings follow one another in the enchanting setting of the oasis. But beware, due to a limited number of accommodations, the prices are skyrocketing, especially on weekends. Book well in advance.

In March-April, Taif lives to the rhythm of the rose petal harvest, an event that attracts many tourists. Summer is the season for camel festivals, but it is very, very hot.

All tours of sites around AlUla (Hegra, Dadan, Jabal Ikhma, Old AlUla...) are guided and organized by the Royal Commission of AlUla. Tours can be booked at www.experiencealula.com or at the Winter Park visitor centers or at the entrance of the old souk.

Nature tours in the deserts and mountains of the country are to be considered with a specialized agency, as well as diving in the Farasan Islands on the Red Sea or in Jubail in the Persian Gulf.

Smoking is not permitted in enclosed public spaces in Saudi Arabia. You may smoke outdoors. If you are a smoker and are planning an expedition into the wilderness, bring a pocket ashtray so you don't leave your cigarette butts in pristine spaces.

Saudi Arabia is a very safe country and tourism development is only very recent. Therefore, there is no need to be particularly vigilant against possible frauds or scams.

Due to the high temperatures and the sun hitting hard, always carry a hat and covering clothes to avoid sunstroke. Women should have their arms covered and their legs covered up to the knee and should not show any cleavage under any circumstances. Bermuda shorts or shorts for men are frowned upon.