Best of Saudi Arabia

Best of Saudi Arabia

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9 Days From

$3464

Best of Saudi Arabia

9 Days Starting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and ending in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Visiting: Riyadh, Hail, Al Ula, Al-Ula, Medina, Jeddah

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 20

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $3464

NB: Prices correct on 22-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Discover the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Saudi Arabia on this immersive tour. Begin your journey in Riyadh, exploring the National Museum, Murabba Palace, and Masmak Fort. Travel by train to Hail to visit AArif Fort and the traditional market, then marvel at Jubbah's ancient petroglyphs. In Al-Ula, uncover the historic city of Dedan and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra. Experience the spiritual ambiance of Medina, visiting Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and Mount Uhud. Conclude your adventure in Jeddah, strolling through Al-Balad, visiting the Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum, and enjoying the scenic Jeddah Corniche. Enjoy superior accommodations, daily breakfast, and guided tours throughout this unforgettable journey.

Highlights

  • Tour of Riyadh including the National Museum, Murabba Palace, and Masmak Fort

  • Visit to AArif Fort and the traditional market in Hail

  • Exploration of Jubbah's ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions

  • Tour of Al-Ula, including Dedan and the historic city

  • Visit to Hegra (Madain Saleh), a UNESCO World Heritage site

  • Tour of the holy city of Medina, including Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and Mount Uhud

  • Walk through old Jeddah (Al-Balad) and visit to Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum

  • Stroll along Jeddah Corniche and view King Fahd's Fountain

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Riyadh Arrival (-/-/-)

Location: Riyadh

Accommodation Name: hotel

Welcome to Saudi Arabia! Upon arrival at the Riyadh International Airport, prepare for a meet and greet followed by a transfer to your hotel.


Overnight in Riyadh

Day 2: Riyadh (B/L/-)

Location: Riyadh

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Your day will begin with a wonderful tour of Riyadh. Start your day with the tour to mystic Riyadh by visiting the National museum which is the primary custodian of the Saudi national heritage and culture. The Museum is a place of learning and discovery, it offers an overview to the history of Arabian civilization from Prehistory to our modern era. Continue thereafter to the nearby Murabba Palace (outside visit as in renovation) which is one of the historic buildings of the city. The palace was named after its square with the form of 400 by 400 meters. We will stop then for lunch in a typical local Saudi restaurant. Afternoon we will continue our tour of mystic Riyadh by visiting the Masmak Fort and its museum that depicts the history of the history of the conquest of Arabia by the Al-Saud family. The palace was built during the reign of Abdullah bin Rashid in the year 1895 A.D. to serve as military garrison for the Abdullah bin Rashid army. His Majesty King Abdulaziz, the father of the nation today, captured the fort in 1902 making of this fort the birthplace of the 3rd Saudi Kingdom, the modern one we live in. At the end of the afternoon, you will pass the kingdom tower & the Faisaliah, back to your hotel.




Overnight in Riyadh

Day 3: Riyadh – Ha’Il (By Train) (B/-/D)

Location: Hail

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you will depart for Riyadhs railway station and board the fast-new train for Hail. The railway link was constructed very recently and allows us to reach Hail in just under 5 hours. The city of Hail lies at the foot of the imposing Shammar mountain range whose is name also the one of a large northern Arabian tribe. Renowned for its hospitable people, Hail is traditionally the home of Saudi Arabias poets and writers. An interesting fact about Hail is that most of the early European explorers passed by this city during the 19th century (Charles Doughty, Lady Blunt, Charles Huber, Julius Euting…). Lunch on your own . Upon arrival, we will transfer to our hotel. As it will be early in Hail in the early afternoon, we will visit the AArif Fort and the nearby heritage museum. Then we will have a walk at the traditional market where we will find the local delicacies. We will pass also by the Hail Regional Museum, and if it is open, we will drop there to admire its collections. Dinner and
Overnight in Hail




Overnight in Hail

Day 4: Ha’Il – Jubbah – Al Ula (B/-/D)

Location: Al Ula

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today you will travel to Jubbah, an oasis believed to be a remnant of an ancient lake. Several archaeological sites of human settlement from the Middle Paleolithic period were found around the margin of the paleolake. Jubbah is surrounded by large sandstone outcrops that are filled with ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions. Jubbah benefited from past humid phases that turned the arid Arabian Peninsula into a savannah similar to what is found today in Africa. During the last humid period that took place from the 10th to the 6th millennium BCE the African monsoon rains filled rivers and lakes where wildlife thrived. If the animals that used to live there became dinstinct because of the desertification that started during the 6th millennium BCE, some men fixed forever their presence in Jubbah thanks to carvings of aurochs, cheetahs, lions. Those drawings are still visible today on several sandstone outcrops like the Jebel Umm Sanman. Jubbah and Shuwaymis, the other major carving site of Hail Province, where listed as UNESCO World Heritage in 2015 for their numerous petroglyph panels and rich inscriptions. The region between Hail and Al-Ula offers some of the best desert experiences in the world. On your way, you will pass through the famous desert of Nefud Al Kabir which literally means the “great extent of sand dunes”. It is 290 kilometers long and 225 kilometers wide, with an area of 103,600 square kilometer. Lunch on your own. You will continue your route to the famous Al Ula area. Early evening, you will arrive and check-in at the beautifully located hotel & enjoy your delicious dinner.




Overnight in Al-Ula

Day 5: Al Ula (B/-/D)

Location: Al-Ula

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the resort before you set out to explore Al-Ula, an ancient oasis that is believed to have been inhabited for the past 7000 years. Owing to its strategic position on the frankincense trade road, Dedan developed as one of the oldest Arabian Kingdoms that ruled most of todays Tabuk and Medinah Provinces. Around the 1st century BE, the Nabatean people from Petra settled 30 kilometers north of Dedan in Al Hijr and built roughly 94 monumental tombs – very similar to the one in Petra. Todays adventure will start with a trip to the two ancient carving sites in Al-Ula. Later, you will drive past the ancient city of Dedan and continue to explore the historic city of Al-Ula, which, during the Islamic era, developed as an important stopover along the pilgrimage route to Mecca. Enjoy lunch en route as you set out to see the ancient sites of Ekma and Abu Aoud, known for their ancient scripts which were written by the people of Oasis. Climb up to the top of Harrat Al-Uwayrid, where you will uncover a mesmerizing view of the oasis of Al-Ula. Later in the afternoon, you will drive back to the hotel for a delightful evening at your camp. The Bedouin tents conjure images of Arabian nights. Lay back and relax on the comfortable low cushions, get your hands painted with intricate henna designs, set off on a short camel ride, or simply enjoy the aromatic shisha. A feast of grilled meats, fresh salads, and delectable Arabic sweets will be served under the galaxy of stars, as you watch the bewitching belly dancer swaying to the sounds of Arabian music. You won't want this enchanting evening to end!




Overnight in Al-Ula

Day 6: Al Ula – Mada’In Saleh – Medina (B/-/D)

Location: Medina

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After having your breakfast, will start your journey with a visit of the famous Hegra (Madain Saleh) which is the first site of Saudi Arabia that was listed as UNESCO World Heritage site. Madain Saleh, whose original name was Al-Hijr or Hegra in Greek, is the southernmost important city of the Nabatean Kingdom that flourished thanks to the caravan trade between the 2nd century BCE until the Roman conquest in 106 CE. It is the second richest Nabatean city in terms of monumental tombs with 94 decorated funeral monuments including some of the most vibrant and well conserved architectural prowess of the Nabateans builders.  Lead through this fascinating site and reveal the secrets of its tombs, ancient inscriptions, stone structures, and many others. Your visit will be followed by a lunch on your own before you continue to explore many sites around AL-ULA as Leopard trail and many others. Later you will visit Jebel Al-Fil for a relaxing time next to the “Elephant rock”. By the afternoon , you will be taken towards the city of MEDINA passing the old HIJAZ route railway. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel & enjoy your dinner.




Overnight in Medina

Day 7: Medina – Jeddah (B/-/D)

Location: Medina

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning you will visit the holy city of Medina. In the city center, the vast Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (Prophet's Mosque) is a major Islamic pilgrimage site. Its striking Green Dome rises above the tombs of the Prophet Muhammad and early Islamic leaders Abu Bakr and Umar. The Masjid al-Qiblatain (Qiblatain Mosque) is known as the site where the Prophet Muhammad received the command to change the direction of prayer to Mecca. You will visit the outskirts of the city only, except the holy pilgrimage areas, and conclude your day with a short walk near Mount Uhud to enjoy the sunset over the city. You will also visit the DAR AL MADINA museum which will relate the story of Islam and the prophets biography. Then you will depart towards Jeddah which you will reach after a 4 hours ride. Upon arrival check in to your hotel & enjoy your dinner.




Overnight in Jeddah

Day 8: Jeddah (B/-/D)

Location: Jeddah

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you will start your tour with a visit of Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum which presents the local and Arabian heritage. You will then hit old Jeddah & enjoy a wonderful walk in Al-Balad, the old part of the city. This walk tour of the old Town will take you along all the less known must-see local spots: Old Market hidden gems, Old Jeddah hidden galleries, local Jeddah food only for locals. While visiting Al-Balad, visitors will be taken to see Beit Nassif (from outside), one of the prominent renovated structures in the old city, which dates back to the mid 1800's. The five-story building provides a rare opportunity for visitors to experience the blend of traditional architecture with modernity. Lunch on your own. You will pass by the Al Rahmah Mosque. After that, you will see The Floating Mosque, this single domed architectural marvel that sits literally on the sea, symbolizes Jeddahs bold storm into the modern age. Sitting in an enviable location, the mosques courtyard offers unencumbered views of the Red Sea. Tour will end with the Jeddah Corniche which is the 30 km coastal resort area of the city of Jeddah. Located along the Red Sea, the corniche features a coastal road, recreation areas, pavilions, and large-scale civic sculptures as well as King Fahd's Fountain, the highest fountain in the world. Later you will head to a traditional Saudi restaurant to enjoy your dinner.




Overnight in Jeddah

Day 9: Jeddah — (B/-/-)

Location: Jeddah

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will be transferred back to the Jeddah International Airport, where you will board your return flight home.

What's Included

  • 08 Nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at Superior hotels or similar

    Stay for 8 nights in superior hotels or similar accommodations on a twin sharing basis.

  • Daily breakfast

    Enjoy daily breakfast throughout the tour.

  • 06 Dinners

    Six dinners are included in the tour package.

  • 01 Lunch

    One lunch is included in the tour package.

  • Arrival and departure transfers to and from the local airport

    Transfers from and to the local airport upon arrival and departure are included.

  • All transportation in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle

    Travel in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle for all transportation needs during the tour.

  • Train Tickets from Riyadh to Hail

    Train tickets for travel from Riyadh to Hail are included.

  • Sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary

    All sightseeing activities mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • All Entrance fees as included in the itinerary

    Entrance fees for all sites mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • Services of English-speaking guides

    English-speaking guides will be available throughout the tour.

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What's Not Included

  • Items of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities

    Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities are not included.

  • Visa fees, if applicable

    Visa fees, if required, are not included.

  • Items not mentioned as being included

    Any items not specifically mentioned as included in the tour package are excluded.

Mode of Transport

All transportation is provided in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, including arrival and departure transfers, and train tickets from Riyadh to Hail.

Accommodation

Enjoy 08 nights of accommodation on a twin sharing basis at superior hotels or similar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your stay.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    All transportation is provided in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, including arrival and departure transfers, and train tickets from Riyadh to Hail.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will enjoy 8 nights of accommodation on a twin sharing basis at superior hotels or similar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your stay.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour package includes daily breakfast, six dinners, and one lunch.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour package?

    Yes, all entrance fees for sites mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour package.

  • Will there be a guide during the tour?

    Yes, the services of English-speaking guides are included throughout the tour.

  • Is luggage handling provided at the hotels?

    Yes, luggage handling services at the hotels are included in the tour package.

  • Are international flights included in the tour package?

    Yes, roundtrip international flights from New York are included in the tour package.

  • What is not included in the tour package?

    Items of a personal nature, tips, gratuities, and visa fees (if applicable) are not included. Additionally, any items not specifically mentioned as included in the tour package are excluded.

  • What activities are planned for the visit to Al-Ula?

    In Al-Ula, you will explore ancient carving sites, drive past the ancient city of Dedan, and visit the historic city of Al-Ula. You will also see the ancient sites of Ekma and Abu Aoud, and enjoy a mesmerizing view of the oasis of Al-Ula from the top of Harrat Al-Uwayrid. The day will end with a delightful evening at your camp, featuring a feast of grilled meats, fresh salads, and delectable Arabic sweets under the stars.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Medina?

    In Medina, you will visit the outskirts of the city, including the vast Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (Prophet's Mosque) and the Masjid al-Qiblatain (Qiblatain Mosque). You will also take a short walk near Mount Uhud to enjoy the sunset over the city and visit the DAR AL MADINA museum, which relates the story of Islam and the prophet's biography.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.