Saudi Arabia might not be the first destination that springs to mind when thinking of a summer escape, but stretching from the Arabian Gulf to the Red Sea – comprising deserts, beaches and mountains – it’s a wonderful place to visit this season. Whether you’re backpacking, or hotel-hopping, on a solo trip, after a short-haul beach escape with family, an adventure trip or couples’ retreat, then there’s lots to do in Saudi this summer. Due to its vast size, many of Saudi Arabia’s regions also experience cooler temperatures than the rest of the Gulf, meaning morning hikes, ocean swims and al fresco dinners are in fact possible. Discover the best ways to spend summer in Saudi Arabia.
Cool off in Aseer
Aseer province lies in the western reaches of Saudi, encompassing mountain destinations and lovely towns and cities. Begin your adventure in Abha, the charming capital of Aseer, and enjoy the exciting Abha city tour with your family. Starting with scenic views in Jabal Soudah, the tour will first take you on a majestic 30-minute long cable car ride in the clouds, over the lush green hill. Next, visit the Al Sahab Park and fall in love with the scenery of cloud covered mountains as you stop by for lunch to indulge in local culinary delights.
The tour also includes a visit to the famous mud-walled Shada castle, showcasing local culture through its architecture, handicrafts and household items. Next, head to Al Muftaha Village, dating back 260 years, to experience Aseer’s heritage and traditional mud-and-stone architecture, and finally marvel at Jabal Al Akhdar (Green Mountain), an entire mountain illuminated with green lights, before returning to your hotel. Immerse yourselves in a timeless shopping experience at Souq Al Thulatha, one of Aseer’s oldest and most cherished markets. Offering an exceptional blend of traditional and contemporary items, find yourself a unique souvenir to take back.
Continue your adventure and explore the biodiversity hotspot of Aseer National Park, the UNESCO cultural heritage site of Rijal Almaa, another site famous for its unique mud-brick houses and historical significance. Conclude your Aseer escapade by taking a trip to The Art Street, where you and your family can enjoy local artwork, colourful lights, theatres, and upbeat restaurants and cafes, all against the beautiful landscape of Aseer. Throughout your trip, make sure to try the flavours of Saudi cuisine at local hotspots like Jorry Elite Cafe or Al Areesh Restaurant.
Packages mentioned above start from SAR 350 per person.
Disconnect in Taif
Characterised by its year-long cool weather and known as ‘the friend of the clouds,’ Taif is the perfect destination if you and your family are looking to beat the heat this summer. Check-in to any of HiHome’s family resorts or farms before you head out to Alruddaf Park for a family picnic as you soak in the greenery and natural beauty of the park. Next, explore the city’s rich history at the Al-Shareef Museum, where exhibits and artifacts offer insights into Taif’s cultural heritage. Experience the authentic scents of Taif’s roses at the Taif Rose Factory, where you can discover the process of rose oil extraction or take your kids to the Strawberry Farm, where they can feed ducks and parrots, learn about how strawberries are farmed, and take home a bunch of strawberry-flavoured items home. Stop by and sip some coffee at Al Safy Restaurant & Café, a trendy venue serving both local and international eats.
If you and your family like to shop, then stop by at brand-new Taif City Walk, one of the best family entertainment experiences in Taif offering an incredible selection of stores, dining options and cinemas. Choose from one of the high-end restaurants at Taif City Walk, or go back to your family resort and pick up some vegetables from the farm and request an authentic homemade meal.
Whether you spend your time enjoying scenic views, exploring Taif’s culture, or indulging in culinary delights, Taif promises an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.
Packages mentioned above start from SAR 35 per person.
Explore Al Baha
Sitting in the southwestern region of Saudi, Al Baha surprises families with its charming blend of rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and delectable cuisine, promising an unforgettable visit. Start with a tour of the Thee Ain Village, an ancient village famous for its agricultural crops such as bananas, lemon, basil, and palm trees, and a scenic river. Wander into the abandoned houses and marvel at the stunning architecture characterized by polished stones.
For a glimpse into local agriculture, visit Al-Zaytouna Farm and learn about traditional farming practices and sample fresh produce. Experience picking agricultural crops, taking in scenic views, and tasting delicious dishes prepared on-site by skilled chefs. Visit Al Baha’s famous Raghadan Forest Park and soak in its breathtaking green landscape and cascading waterfalls as you enjoy a family picnic in one of its many gathering areas. You can also enjoy a series of local cafes or indulge in adventure activities like ziplining across the forest in breezy weather, or just rejuvenate yourself by connecting with nature.
Unwind at local restaurants like Fifth Season, The Pan, and 8oz Coffee, offering delicious fares to suit every palate. Whether you’re admiring natural wonders, delving into cultural gems, or enjoying delicious cuisine, Al Baha promises an enriching and memorable family vacation.
Packages mentioned above start from SAR 300 per person.
Best Saudi destinations for solo travel
Immerse yourself in Jeddah
The coastal city of Jeddah, a vibrant cosmopolitan hub, is the ultimate solo traveller destination due to its rich culture, thriving art scene, and refreshing waters. Dive right into Jeddah’s waters by booking a four-hour snorkelling experience in the Red Sea and explore the breathtaking untouched coral reefs teeming with colourful fish and encounter a diverse array of marine life.
Next, experience the charm of Jeddah’s heritage as you wander through the historic streets of Al Balad and enjoy the architecture of houses made of coral, antique designs of balconies, stone walkways and ancient sidewalks. If you’re a foodie, then indulge in the Walking Food Tour of Al Balad and experience authentic Hijazi cuisine while you wander through ancient shops and stores.
To catch the perfect sunset, head to the Jeddah Yacht Club and capture the beauty of the sun as it disappears into the Red Sea. While you’re there, explore Jeddah’s food scene that offers a combination of high-end restaurants and cafes. Stroll down to Jeddah Promenade, and spend your evening in local shops where you can buy funky socks, jewellery, and pop art inspired clothing as you munch on local snacks against a lively backdrop.
Packages mentioned above start from SAR 100 per person.
Hike across Taif, Aseer and Al Baha
As a solo traveller looking for adventure, Taif, Aseer and Al Baha promise to give you the most beautiful and breezy hikes. Despite summer, temperatures in these destinations are cool year-round, making them the perfect spot for physically demanding activities.
Explore Taif’s Al Hada mountain to enjoy panoramic natural views, beautiful rose fields and baboons through ancient zig-zagging camel trails. When you reach the top, indulge in a cable car experience all the way down to the valley of the Al Hada mountain. With a variety of wildlife scattered across these mountains, try to spot Arabian tigers while you get your hands on delicious local fruits and dry fruits like apricots, peaches, figs and more from local sellers.
If you’re up for an adventure, embark on an 8km hike 3,000m above sea level on the Soudah mountains in Abha, Aseer region’s capital city. This 250 year-old trail goes to the bottom of the mountain and is surrounded by perennial juniper trees. Don’t forget to take your camera to capture the stunning sunset and panoramic lush green views. Stop by at Al Areesh Restaurant to enjoy Middle Eastern cuisine, or sip on some hot coffee to complement the cool weather at Jorry Elite Café.
For a lighter hike of 2km, visit Al Baha’s Ain Al Jamal Waterfall – a unique hiking trail amidst mountains surrounded with forests boasting a variety of flora that lead up to a stunning waterfall. Immerse yourself in the beauty of it all as you sip in your tea from a local stand and let yourself relax listening to the trickling waterfall, rustling trees and chirping birds. Once you get back, grab a bite at Orfa, a Levant cuisine restaurant, or go to The Pan for burgers and fries.
Packages mentioned above start from SAR 300 per person.
Romantic Saudi destinations
Rejuvenate by the Red Sea
Located on a private island, immerse yourself in an luxurious couples’ escape at the St. Regis Red Sea Resort to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with your partner. Enjoy the resort’s overwater or beachfront villas and go for a swim in your own private pool or sign up for exhilarating water activities such as sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. Or you can simply unwind with a couple’s massage or spa treatments overlooking the crystal waters.
If you are looking to reconnect in the desert, then Six Senses Southern Dunes is the perfect luxury getaway, bringing together nature, wildlife, and culture. Located along the historic incense trade route against the backdrop of desert plains and the Hijaz Mountains, Six Senses Southern Dunes offers a multitude of activities you and your partner can engage in. Reconnect through their fun and quirky Cooking Class and learn specific recipes or sample regional cuisines, or e-bike together through diverse natural trails. At night, you can book a private screening and enjoy Cinema Under the Stars.
Set amid the soft white sand or perched above the azure sea, escape to the brand-new Nujuma, a Ritz Carlton Reserve, with your partner for an idyllic getaway where every moment you spend with each other will be magical. Explore this one-of-a-kind, diverse and culturally rich region through a sunrise hike amidst mountains and canyons, followed by an appetizing lunch on a secluded island. Reconnect with your partner through a series of personalised relaxing spa treatments. At night, unwind under magnificent dark skies and soak in the pristine natural beauty of the sea.
Packages mentioned above start from SAR 550 per person – excluding hotel stay.
Escape to AlUla
AlUla, Saudi’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Kingdom’s northwest desert is home to stunning rock formations against a scenic backdrop, making it a picture-perfect getaway for couples. Whether you stay at Our Habitas, a bohemian, international-feeling desert resort, or at Banyan Tree AlUla, a luxurious desert retreat with tented private pool villas, you are bound to experience the magnificent landscapes AlUla offers. Take a romantic stroll through AlUla’s Old Town and shop from unique stores selling jewellery and accessories inspired by AlUla’s culture and heritage, or funky concept stores showcasing products made by local designers.
At night, make your way to Gharameel and enjoy an open-air dining experience accompanied by Gharameel’s mystical rock formations. Before heading back, make sure you spare some time to soak in the enchantment of the desert and enjoy the magical stargazing experience.
Packages mentioned above start from SAR 400 per person – excluding hotel stay.
Summer in Saudi playlists
Visit Saudi has partnered with Anghami, the largest music-sharing app in the MENA region, to curate four exclusive summer playlists as part of Saudi’s Summer Program. The Red Sea Beach Vibes, Mountain Disconnect, AlUla Wellness, and City Summer Weekends playlists capture the essence of Saudi’s summer destinations to enhance your weekend getaways and trips to disconnect in Saudi. Discover the perfect soundtrack for your summer by searching “Saudi Summer Sounds” on Anghami.
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