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Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
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Heritage
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Saudi Arabia

Experience the highlights of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on a luxury 7-day classic journey with exclusive private touring and stays at the most ultra-luxe hotels in the country. Begin in the capital of Riyadh, where gleaming postmodern skyscrapers juxtapose with traditional souqs, and the birthplace of the Kingdom and the Edge of the World lies just beyond the city limits. Then head to the spectacular Al Ula, a place of extraordinary human and natural heritage. Explore this living museum of preserved tombs, sandstone outcrops historic dwellings, and monuments that tell of Saudi Arabia’s deep history as a place at the crossroads of ancient civilizations. Finally arrive at the seaside city of Jeddah. Known as the principal gateway to Mecca, Jeddah is coming into its own right as an emerging modern city with a burgeoning arts scene, embracing film festivals, book fairs, and varied museums. Its proximity to the Red Sea lends a a seafaring culture and cool coastal vibe, particularly along its Corniche which is the heart of Jeddah’s social life. Soak up the culture, history, and landscape of this amazing country on a trip that is nothing less than quintessential Saudi Arabia.

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Dramatic Landscapes: From the striking rock formations across Al Ula’s desert landscape to the uninterrupted panoramas at the Edge of the World to views of the Riyadh’s gleaming metropolis atop the Sky Bridge, take in some of the kingdom’s most dramatic vistas across the land.
  • Preserved Old Towns: Though modern day has ushered in towering postmodern buildings, glittering strips, and highways across the kingdom, Saudi Arabia’s traditional mud-brick buildings of the past have stuck around and are here to stay. Today these old villages are actively preserved and protected, serving as a window to the past and can be found as the historical districts of cities and towns such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Ula. 
  • The Red Sea: Saudi Arabia is blessed with both a dynamic landscape as well as extensive coastlines on the Persian Gulf and Red Sea. While the Persian Gulf provides the Kingdom with its oil reserves, the Red Sea is a pristine leisure destination ripe for snorkeling, diving, fishing and water sports, all experienced in a day’s excursion conveniently just off of Jeddah.
  • Ancient Nabataen Civilization: While Petra is known worldwide, its little sister Hegra is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is no less interesting - and without the crowds. Left practically undisturbed for almost 2,000 years, Hegra’s ancient monumental tombs, water wells, inscriptions and cave drawings are remarkably well-preserved and offer insight to its enigmatic past. 

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Riyadh

Your introduction to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia begins in the capital, Riyadh. Upon touching down at King Khalid International Airport, meet your guide and driver for a private transfer by luxury car to your hotel. After freshening up, step back outside and begin your exploration. The first stop is Ad Diriyah Old Town located on the outskirts of the city. This historic site was the birthplace of the first Saudi state and the initial seat of the government.  Currently under renovation is At-Turaif, the town’s main quarter which was designated a UNESCO Heritage Site in 2010. Stroll the town’s other quarters and admire the distinctive mud-brick buildings decorated with geometric patterns and heavy wooden doors, and enjoy the street-side demonstrations of traditional crafts such as weaving and calligraphy.  Also visit the Al Bujairi Heritage Park, just adjacent to Ad Diriyah. This recreational area is a popular leisure destination for locals, with family-friendly attractions including different rides for children, food stalls, a market, painting and different crafts workshops. At night, the area is beautifully illuminated with scheduled projection shows shown against the walls of the palace. 

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Elegant Spaces: Aesthetic touches and nuances like steel and gilded trimmings, marble bathrooms, modern artwork, and plush bedroom furnishings are present in all accommodations.

Culinary Variety: Guests at the Four Seasons in Riyadh will find all of their fine dining desires met within the confines of the hotel, with multiple lounges, bars, and restaurants at their disposal.

An Urban Retreat: Given the hotel’s location in central Riyadh, luxury travelers will find themselves ideally positioned to take advantage of the capital’s opportunities for shopping, dining, and cultural exploration

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Four Seasons Riyadh Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Luxurious Rooms: Lavish yet tasteful, the 330 rooms and suites make for a comfortable urban oasis perched above and away from the city’s frenetic energy.

Location: A defining structure in Riyadh’s skyline, the Al Faisaliah is located on Olaya Street near King Fahad Road within a world-class retail and entertainment complex including the lavish Mode Al Faisaliah Mall.

Culinary Options: Offering some of the capital’s top gourmet restaurants, Al Faisaliah’s wealth of exceptional dining experiences make it a culinary destination for all occasions.

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Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Riyadh Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Distinguished Clientele: This esteemed hotel is known to attract distinguished guests and VIPs including foreign dignitaries, local elites, royalty, and past US presidents.

Palatial Design: Set on a sprawling 52-acre property with palm groves, manicured gardens, and fountains, the palatial hotel is every bit as luxurious inside as it is out.

Impeccable Service: The Ritz-Carlton brand’s signature service is not remiss here at the Riyadh property where staff are attentive and discreet, anticipating each guests’ needs.

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Ritz-Carlton Riyadh Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Riyadh

Your second day in Riyadh begins with a historical brief about the capital of Saudi at the National Museum where you can discover the kingdom's rich history through the various artifacts displayed. Then, visit Al Masmak Fortress, a squat fortification built of mud-brick and clay. In 1902  King Abdulaziz captured the fortress and took control of Riyadh, his ancestral home, after having lived in exile in Kuwait. It was here that he unified the different provinces and kingdoms into Saudi Arabia. Nearby, visit the Souq Al Zal, the biggest and oldest artisan market in Riyadh which specializes in traditional goods such as handmade carpets, swords, daggers, and perfumes. Get a taste of traditional Saudi cuisine for lunch before ascending the Kingdom Tower for sky-high views of the city.

Riyadh
Riyadh

Day 3

Al Ula

Continue on with your journey as you fly to Al Ula in the northwest.  Upon arrival, head to discover the ancient town of Dadan where you can see the Lion Tombs, original dwellings, and wells that trace back to the ancient Dadanite Kingdom in the 6th century BC. Nearby, visit Jabal Ikmah, a mountain that features more than 450 early Arabic inscriptions upon its cliff faces, giving it the moniker the “open library.” It is said that Dadan was a caravan way station for many travelers who left inscriptions on Jabal Ikmah enroute through Al Ula.  Then, head into the desertscape for an up-close look at the dramatic rock formations that dot the area. Here amongst the hundreds of rock monoliths, you will find the iconic Elephant Rock, a natural formation that looks like an elephant with its trunk to the ground. Spend the night at a hotel in the area.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Luxury hotel group Aman has announced its plans to open three properties in Saudi Arabia in 2023. There will be a tented camp and two resorts, all in the Al Ula region, granting guests sublime access to this extraordinary area and its UNESCO Heritage Site.

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Why We Love This Hotel

Sense of Place: Banyan Tree AlUla makes sure to remind guests of its locale within Ashar Valley, with the beauty of the desert, extraordinary rock formations, and Bedouin and Nabataean culture and heritage found ubiquitously within its designs and curated experiences.

Exclusive: There are only 47 keys at this all-villa property.

Wellbeing: A pillar of the Banyan Tree brand, wellbeing and living well is well-folded into the AlUla property from its dining menus, to yoga sessions, and outdoor treatments.

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Banyan Tree AlULa Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Eco-Friendly: The Habitas brand is founded on a sustainability-driven ethos and this resort was built with the intention of blending into the environs with as minimal lasting impact as possible.

Service: The international staff bring a wealth of experience and global flair to this remote desert setting. Attentive, discreet, and warm, the level of service here is impeccable.

Wellness: Another pillar of the Habitas ethos, wellness plays a big part at this hotel. From signature treatments utilizing local ingredients like rose, date oil and moringa oil, to sound therapy treatment, to a large deck for meditation and yoga practices, guests are invited to relax and rejuvenate at this tranquil oasis in the rugged desert.

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Habitas AlUla Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

The much-anticipated Sharaan Resort is slated to open in 2024, elevating the standard of luxury accommodation and tourism infrastructure in the Al Ula region. Designed by French star architect Jean Nouvel, the resort is envisioned to be a modern architectural masterpiece while also celebrating and drawing from the “lines and the genius of the Nabateans.

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Sharaan Resort Preferred Hotel

Day 4

Al Ula

This morning, enjoy a stroll along the scenic two-mile long Heritage Oasis Trail lined with tall palms, mud brick homes, and lush green farms. Feel free to stop at a stall selling fresh-squeezed juice and simply enjoy the beautiful scenery. For lunch today you will enjoy a home-cooked meal at a local farm. You can also walk around the farm and learn about the typical local produce from Al Ula. In the afternoon, jump into a vintage Land Rover and head to Madin Saleh, also known as Hegra. It is an ancient Nabataen city similar to its more famous sister site of Petra, a few hundred miles to the north in Jordan. Hegra, a designated UNESCO Heritage Site, was once a thriving international trade hub that had been left practically undisturbed for almost 2,000 years. Explore the remnants of this mysterious almost-forgotten ancient civilization, from its iconic tombs to its sacred places carved into the sandstone rocks. Finally, detour by Harrat Awairth Mountain and ascend to the viewpoint at the top. From here you can survey Al Ula old town and its surrounds.

Al Ula
Al Ula

Day 5

Jeddah

Leave Al Ula behind this morning for Jeddah, a quick flight away. After checking in and having lunch, begin your exploration of this seaside city at its historical core, the UNESCO-listed Al Balad (Old City). The town was formed as an ancient trading port and acted as the primary gateway to Mecca. Stroll the narrow alleyways packed with coral-stone merchant’s houses, spice-scented souqs, and traditional bakeries and coffee houses. Many buildings have been carefully restored in recent years, including the grand 106-room Nasseef House where Abdulaziz Ibn Saud stayed in 1925 before becoming king of a unified Saudi Arabia. In this quarter, you can admire the evocative architecture, see Jeddah’s oldest mosque, taste fresh bread, enjoy coffee or tea at a cafe, and soak in the buzzing atmosphere.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Opulence by Design: In grand Ritz-Carlton style, its opulence is fit for royalty: massive crystal chandeliers, impeccably polished marble floors, lush gardens, majestic arches, an impressive fountain, and all paired with genial Saudi Arabian hospitality.

Club Lounge: Exclusive to club room guests, the Club Lounge offers a secluded space for relaxation and special amenities such as in-lounge check-in/check-out, breakfast, afternoon tea, sundowners, and business center services.

Location: The centrally-located Ritz-Carlton is within a 15-minute drive of Jeddah Mall and Thalia Street, and 45-minutes from King Abdulaziz International Airport.

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Ritz-Carlton Jeddah Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Seaside Address: Where the desert meets the sea is where the striking ultra-modern Rosewood Riyadh stands at the heart of the Corniche, the capital’s most impressive and fashionable coastal resort area. Guests in select rooms can enjoy views of the Red Sea from their private balconies.

Rooftop Pool: Cool off from the day’s heat with a cooling plunge into the rooftop pool which boasts a wonderful sea breeze and outstanding sunset view.

24-Hour Personal Butler Service: A signature of its unparalleled service, the Rosewood is the first hotel in Jeddah to offer a personal butler who is on call 24 hours a day to meet every guest need no matter the time.

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Rosewood Jeddah Preferred Hotel

Day 6

Jeddah

Today you’re in for a treat: this morning you’ll take a private boat out on the Red Sea for some ocean fun, including snorkeling and fishing around the crystal clear waters. You’ll head to various snorkeling sites to admire the gorgeous coral reefs and watch colorful fish and sea creatures in their natural habitat. You will also have the opportunity to visit a ship wreckage site. Enjoy a seafood lunch onboard before returning to land. Spend the rest of the day along Jeddah’s lovely corniche which stretches just over 2.5 miles along the coast, dotted with piers, swimming bays, restaurants, landscaped walking and cycle paths, and sculptures. For many locals, this is the prime spot to enjoy the sunset and watching the impressive King Fahd’s Fountain spout a great jet of water that can been seen across the city. 

Jeddah
Jeddah

Day 7

Departure

Enjoy your final morning in Jeddah, whether with a leisurely breakfast or shopping for last-minute souvenirs at trendy boutiques or old-time souqs. When ready, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your onward journey home. 

Suggested Hotels For Days 1–2

Four Seasons Riyadh
Preferred Hotel

Four Seasons Riyadh

The Four Seasons Riyadh is an urban oasis perched within the iconic 99-floor Kingdom Centre Tower. There are 274 rooms, located between the 30th and 50th floors, all offering remarkable views of the city skyline. North-facing rooms look to the Financial District while southern-view rooms face Old Riyadh. Spacious rooms start at 46 sqm (494 sq. ft.) and are dressed in calming neutral colors with steel and leather accents. Modern smart amenities include an Espresso machine, refrigerated private bar, a Lutron Lighting system, down duvet and pillows, and complimentary WiFi, newspaper, and overnight shoe shine. The property offers four dining venues: the signature Elements all-day dining restaurant serves an array of cuisines across an open buffet with special themed nights; steaks and seafood are the focus at the elegant eatery The Grill; Middle Eastern specialties and shisha are on the menu at the al fresco Al Balcon; and light bites and afternoon tea is served in the atmospheric Lobby Lounge. The fitness and spa center, accessible to men, is the largest of its kind in the region. An exclusive women’s-only floor has its own gym and spa services. This centrally-located hotel is a 30-minute drive from King Khalid International Airport.
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Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Riyadh
Preferred Hotel

Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Riyadh

Coming under the Mandarin Oriental brand as of 2022, the centrally-located Al Faisaliah Hotel has been one Riyadh’s top hotels since its opening. Guestroom and public area renovations were undertaken upon the switchover, giving the property a modernized facelift that aligns it with the brand’s signature style and service, including its 24-hour butler service. There are a total of 330 smartly appointed rooms and suites, each with plush furnishings, Arabesque details, and modern amenities. Spacious rooms start at 45 sqm and feature a king or twin beds, round-the-clock butler service, separate lounge area, and a spacious bathroom with walk-in shower. For dining, guests have a wealth of choice between nine venues that collectively serve an array of cuisines such as French, Mediterranean, Greek, and Chinese in both casual and fine-dining spaces that are befitting of any occasion. Al Faisaliah’s health club is especially for men and features a 20m indoor pool, fitness center with isotonic weight machines, and a relaxation space. There is also a ladies-only spa center which offers vibrant lounges, private spa suites, Hammam, a 16m indoor pool, and scented Finnish-style saunas and steam baths. Guests can also enjoy the luxury shopping and entertainment areas of the adjoining Al Faisaliah Mall.
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Ritz-Carlton Riyadh
Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Riyadh

The palatial Ritz-Carlton Riyadh sits on a 52-acre retreat of manicured gardens and has been the premier hotel in the capital for discerning guests and VIPs including foreign dignitaries, local elites, and royalty. Past the spectacular fountains and inside its ochre facade are arched doorways, marble hallways, grand chandeliers, and curved staircases with gilded filigree balusters - an opulent vision of Saudi Arabian grandeur. All guestrooms and suites are dressed in ethnic textures of the region and elegant neutral colors, and feature plush luxury textiles, modern amenities, and large windows that open to the gardens and city. Club-level rooms offer access to the Club lounge and exclusive services such as dedicated Concierge and complimentary culinary treats. The Ritz-Carlton offers a variety of dining venues for all occasions. Al Orjouan is the signature all-day dining restaurant that serves a sumptuous spread of Middle Eastern and international dishes at its dinner buffet, with select themed nights highlighting meats and seafood in addition to an impressive Friday brunch affair. Chorisa Lounge is a more casual venue for all-day dining with seating in the elegant saloon with floor-to-ceiling windows or al fresco on the terrace. For lunch and dinner, try Italian fare at Azzurro or Hong for modern Chinese in a fine dining setting. Sweets of Arabia is a petite cafe that offers traditional hand-crafted Arabian sweets, while the sophisticated Turquoise Cigar Lounge is ideal for unwinding at the end of the day with a selection of premium cigars and drinks. The family-friendly Strike Bowling Alley features six bowling lanes, a large TV broadcasting major sporting events, a number of billiards tables, and its own kitchen that serves American bar-inspired fare. The gentleman’s spa facilities include treatment rooms, steam and sauna, a fitness center, and indoor pool. The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh is a quick 30-minute drive from King Khalid International Airport.
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Suggested Hotels For Days 3–4

Aman Al Ula
Preferred Hotel

Aman Al Ula

Luxury hotel group Aman has announced its plans to open three properties in Saudi Arabia in 2023. There will be a tented camp and two resorts, all in the Al Ula region, granting guests sublime access to this extraordinary area and its UNESCO Heritage Site.
See Hotel
Banyan Tree AlULa
Preferred Hotel

Banyan Tree AlULa

A retreat nestled in AlUla’s serene Ashar Valley, the Banyan Tree welcomes guests to 47 tented villas that blend luxury and sophistication with its mesmerizing desert landscape. The accommodation ranges from spacious one to three bedroom villas, dressed in terracotta walls, muted desert tones, Nabataean-inspired designs, and locally sourced handicrafts. Most villas feature a private pool and fire pit. Covered with sand-colored canvas, the villas fit seamlessly into its landscape of sand dunes and red stone mountains. Leaving a light footprint, the boutique resort’s other facilities include a secluded Rock Pool, a Health Center, and two dining venues offering Thai and local cuisine. Immersing guests in the locale, the property offers exclusive outdoor treatments, nomadic chef’s tables, active adventures, and private events staged in spectacular settings. The Banyan Tree AlUla is located approximately 30-minutes’ drive from Al Ula airport.
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Habitas AlUla
Preferred Hotel

Habitas AlUla

The Habitas Al Ula is an upscale adults-only hotel that brings luxury living to Al Ula in an eco-friendly manner. The property sits within the desert canyons of the Ashar Valley, surrounded by sandstone cliffs and palm groves. Scattered across a vawst swath of sand are 96 villas, each with well-appointed terraces, across three tiers: premium Celestial villas, Alcove villas, and Canyon villas. Each villa is sustainably-designed to embrace the natural surroundings and take advantage of the scenic canyon views. Complimentary e-bikes are parked by each suite, inviting guests to explore the property and beyond. The restaurant, Tama, practices sustainable agricultural methods and brings eco-consciousness into its local dishes. Other facilities include a yoga deck, wellness and fitness centers, and a swimming pool. In addition, the hotel facilitates programs for guests such as canyon trekking, meditation, and a weekly outdoor cinema screening featuring regional cultural films and documentaries.
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Sharaan Resort
Preferred Hotel

Sharaan Resort

The much-anticipated Sharaan Resort is slated to open in 2024, elevating the standard of luxury accommodation and tourism infrastructure in the Al Ula region. Designed by French star architect Jean Nouvel, the resort is envisioned to be a modern architectural masterpiece while also celebrating and drawing from the “lines and the genius of the Nabateans.” The architecture aims to showcase and preserve the beautiful and unique natural setting and the area’s cultural heritage. The resort will feature 40 suites, pavilions, and villas, and will be located in a valley deep inside the Sharaan Nature Reserve, especially chosen for its dramatic landscape of high cliffs, rocky plateaus, and spectacular sand dunes.
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Suggested Hotels For Days 5–6

Ritz-Carlton Jeddah
Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Jeddah

Since its grand opening in 2017, the Ritz-Carlton Jeddah has been the premier ultra-luxe destination in Jeddah for international travelers, businessmen, honeymooners, pilgrims to Mecca, and families alike. In grand Ritz-Carlton style, its opulence is fit for royalty: massive crystal chandeliers, impeccably polished marble floors, lush gardens, majestic arches, an impressive fountain, and all paired with genial Saudi Arabian hospitality. The property has 224 rooms and suites, each offering a King or two double beds with premium pillowtop, high speed WiFi and modern tech features, and marble baths with luxury bath toiletries and separate bathtub and walk-in rainfall shower. Club rooms have exclusive access to the Club Lounge and amenities including culinary offerings and a dedicated concierge. Other facilities include a health club with designated times for men and women, which includes a gymnasium, soaking tub, sauna, and steam room. Guests can choose amongst three dining venues including Reyhana which specializes in Arabian and Mediterranean dishes and holds monthly cuisine-themed nights, Saltz which offers classical and innovative dishes that are elevated by the use of eight different salts from around the world, and Karamel Lounge where guests can enjoy high afternoon tea and other sweets made fresh by in-house pastry chefs. The centrally-located Ritz-Carlton is within a 15-minute drive of Jeddah Mall and Thalia Street, and 45-minutes from King Abdulaziz International Airport.
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Rosewood Jeddah
Preferred Hotel

Rosewood Jeddah

The Rosewood Jeddah is a modern ultra-luxe hotel located at the heart of the Corniche, the capital’s most impressive and fashionable coastal resort area. Each of the hotel's spacious 101 guestrooms and 26 suites spread across the 19-story hotel feature imported European furniture, plush carpeted floors, marble bathrooms with LED television, private balconies with views of the Red Sea or Jeddah city. Thoughtful modern amenities include personal espresso coffee machines, daily shoe valet, high-speed WiFi, and smart touch-screen control for lighting, curtains, temperature and butler service. There are four dining options including a rooftop lounge where guests can savor drinks with panoramic views of the Red Sea. The hotel also features the city’s only rooftop health club with outdoor rooftop pool. The King Abdulaziz International Airport is 20 minutes away by car.
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Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

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