Saudi Arabia is a country located in Western Asia, bordered by Jordan and Iraq to the north, Kuwait to the northeast, Bahrain and Qatar to the east, the United Arab Emirates to the southeast, Oman to the southeast, and Yemen to the south. It is also connected to Egypt by the Isthmus of Suez. The Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba are located to the west, and the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman are located to the east.
The population of Saudi Arabia is approximately 34 million people. The majority of the population is Arab, with a significant minority of other ethnic groups including South Asian, African, and Filipino. The official language is Arabic, but English is also widely spoken. The country is primarily Muslim, with a small minority of Christians and other religious groups.
The climate in Saudi Arabia is mostly desert, with extremely hot temperatures and low precipitation. The country has two main seasons: a hot season from May to September, and a mild season from October to April. The average temperature in the summer can reach above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in the day, while in winter it can drop to around 10 degree Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) in the night. Precipitation is rare, with most of the country receiving less than 100 mm of rainfall per year. The coastal areas along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba have a more moderate climate with higher humidity and cooler temperatures.
Saudi Arabia is known for its vast deserts and unique landscapes, including sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and wadis (dry riverbeds). The country also has a rich cultural heritage, including ancient ruins and historical sites, as well as traditional markets and souks.
The economy of Saudi Arabia is heavily dependent on its oil exports, which account for the majority of government revenue and export earnings. The country is also investing in the development of other industries, such as tourism, to diversify its economy.
The government of Saudi Arabia is an absolute monarchy, with the King as the head of state and government. The country has a legal system based on Islamic law (sharia), and citizens are subject to strict laws and regulations. The government has been criticized for human rights abuses and lack of political freedoms.
Overall, Saudi Arabia is a country with a rich history and culture, but also a complex political and social landscape. Visitors should be aware of the laws and customs of the country, and be prepared for the extreme heat and desert climate.
Saudi Arabia is a country full of history, culture, and natural beauty. A 7-day itinerary can provide a great introduction to the country, allowing you to see some of the most important sights and experience some of the local customs and traditions.
7 days Saudi Arabia itinerary informations
Day 1: Arrival in Riyadh
- Arrive in Riyadh and check into your hotel.
- Visit the Masmak Fortress, a traditional mud-brick fortress that played a crucial role in the country’s history.
- Take a stroll through the historic Deira neighborhood, where you can see traditional architecture and shop at local markets.
- In the evening, dine at a traditional Saudi Arabian restaurant and try some local cuisine.
Day 2: Riyadh to Jeddah
- Take a morning flight from Riyadh to Jeddah.
- Upon arrival, visit the historic city of Jeddah, known for its traditional architecture and rich history.
- Visit the Jeddah Regional Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, which showcases the history and culture of the region.
- In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner and performance of Saudi Arabian music and dance.
Day 3: Jeddah to Mecca
- Take a morning train from Jeddah to Mecca.
- Upon arrival, visit the Great Mosque of Mecca, one of the most important religious sites in the Muslim world.
- Take a tour of the city, visiting important religious and historical sites such as the Kaaba and the Prophet’s Mosque.
- In the evening, attend the evening prayer at the Great Mosque.
Day 4: Mecca to Medina
- Take a morning train from Mecca to Medina.
- Upon arrival, visit the Prophet’s Mosque, the second holiest site in Islam.
- Take a tour of the city, visiting important religious and historical sites such as the Quba Mosque and the Baqi Cemetery.
- In the evening, attend the evening prayer at the Prophet’s Mosque.
Day 5: Medina to Yanbu
- Take a morning train from Medina to Yanbu.
- Yanbu is a port city on the Red Sea and is famous for its beaches and water sports.
- Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving in the Red Sea.
- In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner and watch a performance of Saudi Arabian music and dance.
Day 6: Yanbu to Al-Ula
- Take a morning flight from Yanbu to Al-Ula.
- Al-Ula is a historic city known for its well-preserved rock-cut tombs and ancient ruins.
- Take a tour of the city, visiting important historical and archaeological sites such as the Hegra archaeological site, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- In the evening, attend a traditional Bedouin camp and enjoy a traditional dinner and cultural activities.
Day 7: Departure
- Take a morning flight back home or to next destination.
Please note that these are just general suggestions and that the actual itinerary may vary depending on the individual traveler’s preferences and the availability of certain sites and activities. Also, some of the places may have limited or restricted access for foreigners, it’s best to check before planning a trip.