20 Most Instagrammable Places in Saudi Arabia in 2025: A Photographer's Guide - Xplrverse

Introduction: My Saudi Arabia Photography Journey

The first time I visited Saudi Arabia in 2018, I packed exactly zero camera equipment. “It’s just desert and cities,” I naively told myself. Fast forward to my fifth visit last month, and I was lugging three cameras, six lenses, and a drone across the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia quietly holds some of the most jaw-dropping and photogenic landscapes I’ve ever captured – and I’ve shot in over 40 countries.

What makes Saudi Arabia so uniquely Instagrammable is the stark contrast between its ancient heritage and rapid modernization. You can photograph 7,000-year-old rock art in the morning and a futuristic skyscraper by sunset. Add in the fact that tourism only really opened up in 2019, and you’ve got a photographer’s paradise of largely uncrowded, undiscovered spots.

After spending a combined 8 months exploring Saudi Arabia with my camera, I’ve compiled this definitive guide to the most photogenic places in the Kingdom for 2025. I’ll share not just the locations, but the exact spots to stand, the perfect time of day, and the cultural considerations to keep in mind while shooting.

Whether you’re an established photographer, an Instagram enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates capturing beautiful moments, this guide will show you why Saudi Arabia deserves a prime spot on your photography bucket list.

AlUla: Ancient Landscapes Meet Modern Art

If there’s one place in Saudi Arabia that made my Instagram explode with engagement, it’s AlUla. This ancient oasis city is home to Hegra (Mada’in Saleh), Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s absolutely mesmerizing.

Hegra (Mada’in Saleh)

The first time I saw the massive tombs carved into rose-colored sandstone at Hegra, I actually gasped out loud. My guide laughed and said, “Everyone does that.” Often called “the second Petra,” I personally find Hegra even more photogenic because you’ll often have entire tombs to yourself for photos.

PHOTOGRAPHER’S TIP: Visit Hegra at sunset when the golden light turns the sandstone formations into glowing amber monuments. The Tomb of Lihyan Son of Kuza is particularly stunning in this light. Bring a wide-angle lens (16-24mm) to capture the full grandeur.

Coordinates: 26.7917° N, 37.9542° E

Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil)

This natural formation, shaped eerily like an elephant with its trunk touching the ground, is one of Saudi Arabia’s most famous Instagram spots. What the regular photos don’t tell you is how magical it is at twilight. I arrived at 4:30 PM last October and watched as the rock transformed from amber to pink to deep orange as the sun set.

In 2025, there’s a new viewing platform that gives you the perfect angle, but I recommend walking around to the eastern side for a less common perspective. During winter weekends, a small pop-up cafe serves qahwa (Saudi coffee) at the base which makes for a beautiful foreground element.

INSIDER TIP: Visit on weekdays, as weekend crowds can make it difficult to get clean shots without people. The new entrance fee of 25 SAR (~$6.60) introduced in late 2024 has helped reduce overcrowding somewhat.

Coordinates: 26.6028° N, 37.9128° E

Maraya Concert Hall

The world’s largest mirrored building isn’t just a marvel of architecture – it’s a photographer’s dream. This massive cube covered in 9,740 mirrored panels reflects the surrounding desert landscape, creating an optical illusion that seems to make the building disappear into its surroundings.

I’ve photographed Maraya in three different seasons, and each offers something unique. During winter (December-February), occasional fog creates an ethereal atmosphere as the mirrors peek through the mist. In spring, occasional wildflowers provide a colorful foreground.

For 2025, they’ve added a new rooftop viewing area that’s perfect for sunset photos – though it requires booking in advance through the Experience AlUla website.

PHOTOGRAPHY CHALLENGE: Try capturing Maraya at different times of day. The building transforms dramatically as the light changes – I spent an entire day shooting it from sunrise to sunset and got completely different images each hour.

Coordinates: 26.6214° N, 37.9158° E

Riyadh: Urban Photography Paradise

The capital city offers an intriguing mix of ultra-modern architecture and historical sites. Having spent a month in Riyadh photographing for a project in 2023, I discovered corners that most visitors miss completely.

Kingdom Centre Tower (Al-Mamlaka)

The iconic “bottle opener” building dominates Riyadh’s skyline and offers some of the best cityscape photography opportunities. The Sky Bridge on the 99th floor gives you 360-degree views of the sprawling city.

What most photographers miss is that lighting conditions at the bridge change dramatically throughout the day. I’ve found that 30-45 minutes before sunset is the magic moment when the city glows golden but you still have enough light to capture details.

Entry fee: 69 SAR (~$18) in 2025, up from 63 SAR in 2024

GEAR TIP: Bring a microfiber cloth! The viewing windows often have fingerprints that can ruin your shots. I learned this the hard way and had to edit out smudges from 30+ photos.

Coordinates: 24.7111° N, 46.6744° E

Diriyah (At-Turaif District)

The UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif is the original home of the Saudi royal family and has been beautifully restored. The mud-brick structures create a photographer’s playground of textures, shadows, and geometric patterns.

After three visits, I’ve discovered the best time to photograph Diriyah is actually in the morning (8-10 AM) when the crowds are thin and the light creates dramatic shadows across the mud-brick walls. The contrast between the traditional architecture and the modern skyline in the distance makes for compelling compositional juxtapositions.

The recently completed areas in 2024-2025 include new restaurants with rooftop terraces that offer spectacular elevated views of the historic district – my favorite is the terrace at Awna restaurant.

CULTURAL NOTE: Diriyah holds immense historical significance for Saudis. While photographing, be respectful of locals who may be visiting for cultural rather than touristic reasons. If you hear someone say “mashallah” (what God has willed), they’re expressing appreciation for the beauty you’re capturing.

Coordinates: 24.7433° N, 46.5727° E

Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn)

Just 90 minutes from Riyadh lies one of the most dramatic landscapes I’ve ever photographed. The Edge of the World features a sheer cliff that drops approximately 300 meters, creating an uninterrupted view that seems to stretch forever.

What nobody told me before my first visit: the drive requires a 4WD vehicle, and there are actually several viewpoints, not just one. The most popular spot (now marked on Google Maps) can get crowded, but hiking 20 minutes north along the ridge rewards you with equally spectacular views and far fewer people.

For truly unique photos in 2025, visit during winter when occasional morning fog fills the valley below, creating a mystical scene. I waited three days for these conditions and it was worth every minute.

SAFETY FIRST: The cliff edges have no barriers. When composing your shots, stay at least 2 meters from the edge and consider sitting down for low-angle shots rather than standing precariously. No photo is worth the risk.

Entrance fee in 2025: 50 SAR (~$13) per vehicle

Coordinates: 24.5666° N, 46.0333° E

My Edge of the World Photography Checklist:

Arrive 2 hours before sunset for the best light
Bring a wide-angle lens (my 16-35mm was perfect)
Pack extra batteries – it’s often windier and colder than expected
Use a polarizing filter to enhance the dramatic sky
Include a human element for scale (my bright blue jacket created a perfect focal point)

Jeddah: Where Tradition Meets Sea

Jeddah’s combination of historic architecture, modern sculptures, and stunning Red Sea coastline makes it a diverse photography destination. I’ve visited six times and still discover new angles and perspectives.

Al-Balad (Historic Jeddah)

The UNESCO-listed historic district of Jeddah features stunning traditional architecture with distinctive wooden rawasheen (projecting bay windows). The intricate latticework creates fascinating patterns of light and shadow, especially in late afternoon.

My favorite spot for photography is Beit Nassif, a beautifully restored traditional house that showcases the classic Hijazi architecture. The interior courtyard with its towering wooden staircases creates mesmerizing geometric compositions.

What surprised me on my latest visit (January 2025) was how much restoration work has been completed. Many buildings that were under scaffolding in previous years are now fully accessible and beautifully lit at night.

CULTURAL IMMERSION: Stop at one of the tiny cafes in Al-Balad for Saudi coffee (qahwa) and dates. Ask for “qahwa sa’adia” for coffee prepared with cardamom – the traditional way. This makes for great detail shots and gives you a chance to chat with locals who often have tips about photogenic spots nearby.

Coordinates: 21.4858° N, 39.1925° E

Jeddah Corniche and Waterfront

The 30-kilometer Corniche has been dramatically transformed in recent years. The newly expanded waterfront features several photogenic areas, including the Jeddah Fountain (King Fahd’s Fountain), which shoots water 853 feet into the air, making it the tallest water fountain in the world.

My photography secret is to head to the northern section of the Corniche near Indigo Beach around sunset. This area is less crowded and offers clean compositions of the fountain with the city skyline. The new pedestrian bridges installed in 2024 also provide elevated vantage points.

For something unique, photograph the fountain during the bi-monthly full moon when the water jets are illuminated against the moonlit sky – this technique got me my most-liked Instagram post of 2024.

Best Times to Photograph the Fountain:

Sunset: 5:30-6:30 PM (dramatic silhouettes)
Blue hour: 6:30-7:00 PM (my personal favorite)
Night: 7:00-11:00 PM (colorful lights)

MONEY-SAVING TIP: Skip the expensive fountain boat tours (starting at 250 SAR). Instead, grab a fresh juice from one of the vendors near Al-Anani Mosque (15 SAR) and walk to the public viewing area. You’ll get equally good photos without the movement of the boat ruining your long exposures.

Coordinates: 21.5433° N, 39.1417° E

Floating Mosque (Al-Rahma Mosque)

This white marble mosque appears to float on the Red Sea during high tide, creating otherworldly reflections and compositions. It’s particularly stunning during sunset and blue hour.

I discovered that most photographers shoot from the obvious frontal angle, but walking around to the northern side gives you a unique perspective with the city skyline in the background. In 2025, they’ve added evening illumination that makes the mosque glow with soft white and blue lights after sunset – perfect for long exposure shots.

My mistake on my first visit was not checking the tide schedule. For the true “floating” effect, you need to visit during high tide. I’ve created a small reference table for photographers planning their visit:

Effect	Tide Condition	Best Time	Lens Recommendation
Full floating effect	High tide	Sunset to blue hour	24-70mm or 70-200mm
Reflections in wet sand	Receding tide	1-2 hours after high tide	Wide angle (16-24mm)
Dramatic long exposures	Any tide	Blue hour	Any + ND filter

Coordinates: 21.5858° N, 39.1103° E

NEOM: Futuristic Photography Frontier

The $500 billion mega-project NEOM is gradually opening sections to visitors and photographers. While THE LINE is still under construction, several areas offer incredible photography opportunities that combine futuristic elements with pristine nature.

Sindalah Island

Opened to visitors in early 2025, Sindalah Island is the first completed component of NEOM and offers luxury against the backdrop of turquoise waters. As a photographer, what fascinated me was the contrast between the ultra-modern architecture and the untouched coral reefs visible from the viewing platforms.

The Discovery Centre provides the best vantage points of the marina and yacht club. I found that shooting through the architectural frames (windows and doorways) created compelling compositions that emphasized the futuristic meets natural aesthetic.

PHOTOGRAPHY CHALLENGE: Try capturing the “transition zones” where modern architecture meets natural elements. These boundary areas tell the most interesting visual stories about Saudi Arabia’s rapid transformation.

Note: Visiting Sindalah currently requires advance booking and approval through the NEOM website.

Trojena (Mountain Photography)

While still under development, parts of the Trojena mountain destination are becoming accessible for limited photography visits. This area in the Sarwat Mountains reaches elevations of 2,600 meters and offers completely different landscapes than most people associate with Saudi Arabia.

During my visit in winter 2025, I was stunned to find myself photographing snow-covered peaks against crystal clear blue skies – in Saudi Arabia! The contrast of white snow against the earthy tones of the mountains creates dramatic compositions, especially during golden hour.

Access is still limited, but you can apply for photography permits through the NEOM website.

Eastern Province: Where Oil Meets Art

King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra)

This architectural masterpiece in Dhahran is one of Saudi Arabia’s most photographed buildings – and for good reason. The stacked, irregular stone formations create endless compositional possibilities as light plays across their surfaces throughout the day.

I’ve photographed Ithra in every possible condition, and I can confidently say that rainy evenings (rare but magical) produce the most stunning results. The wet surfaces reflect the carefully designed lighting system, creating a doubled visual impact.

In 2025, the new Light Garden installation surrounding the building adds another photographic dimension after sunset. The installation features interactive light elements that respond to movement, allowing for creative long-exposure photography.

INSIDER TIP: The 4th floor has a little-known viewing terrace that offers excellent compositions of the building’s upper structures against the sky. Ask any staff member to point you to the “North Terrace” – it’s not advertised but is open to visitors.

Coordinates: 26.3069° N, 50.1146° E

Half Moon Bay

This crescent-shaped bay near Al Khobar offers pristine beaches and photogenic sand dunes meeting the Persian Gulf waters. Unlike the busier beaches, Half Moon Bay provides clean compositions without background distractions.

I discovered that the northern end of the bay, past the main entrance, offers the most photogenic sections where untouched dunes cascade directly into turquoise waters. Early morning (before 8 AM) provides the best light and the smoothest sand textures before visitors leave footprints everywhere.

For 2025, the new wooden walkways installed along parts of the beach actually create interesting leading lines for compositions, though I prefer to venture beyond them for more natural shots.

Coordinates: 26.1154° N, 50.2313° E

The Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali): Desert Photography Magic

The largest continuous sand desert in the world offers some of the most dramatic landscape photography opportunities you’ll ever encounter. The rippling dunes create natural compositions through their curves, textures, and the interplay of light and shadow.

My first visit to the Empty Quarter was a complete disaster – I went midday and everything was flat, harsh, and frankly boring. When I returned at sunrise the next morning, I witnessed a completely different environment: golden light skimming across perfectly formed dunes, creating mesmerizing patterns of light and shadow.

PHOTOGRAPHY MISTAKE: I underestimated how challenging sand is for equipment. My second lens became unusable after sand got into the zoom mechanism. Now I bring a protective rain cover even though there’s obviously no rain – it keeps the sand out just as effectively!

Most Photogenic Access Points:

Shaybah Wildlife Sanctuary: Requires advance permits but offers pristine dunes with protected Arabian oryx potentially in frame
The Edge (near Haradh): Where the green irrigated farmland abruptly meets the sand sea, creating striking contrast
Wadi Amaq: A smaller desert valley with more manageable dunes that’s perfect for sunrise photography

Note: Accessing the Empty Quarter requires a 4WD vehicle, adequate supplies, and preferably an experienced guide. The newly established tourism routes starting in 2025 make certain areas more accessible, but proper preparation remains essential.

Desert Photography Equipment Tips:

Bring twice as many batteries as you think you’ll need – the heat drains them quickly
Use a rocket blower to clean sensors and lenses BEFORE opening your camera bag
Consider a zip-lock bag system for lens changes
Graduated ND filters are essential for balancing bright skies with darker dunes
A lightweight tripod with wide feet attachments prevents sinking in sand

Red Sea Project: Emerging Coastal Beauty

The ambitious Red Sea Project is gradually opening sections to visitors, with several islands and coastal areas now accessible for photography. The combination of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and innovative architecture makes this area uniquely photogenic.

Ummahat Islands

This archipelago features some of the most pristine coral reefs I’ve ever photographed. The over-water villas on select islands create classic tropical paradise compositions with a distinctly Saudi character.

Split-shot photography (half underwater, half above) works particularly well here due to the exceptional water clarity. I found that early morning (7-9 AM) provides the calmest water conditions for these technically challenging shots.

Access requires booking through The Red Sea Project website or through select tour operators in Jeddah.

SUSTAINABILITY NOTE: The Red Sea Project has strict environmental protocols. Only reef-safe sunscreen is permitted, and there are designated photography areas to prevent coral damage.

Al Ahsa Oasis: The Green Heart of the Desert

This UNESCO-listed oasis in the Eastern Province is the largest natural oasis in the world and offers a completely different aesthetic from the desert and urban landscapes that dominate Saudi photography.

The date palm plantations create natural framing opportunities, while the historical buildings provide cultural context. I was struck by how the quality of light filtering through the palm fronds creates a naturally diffused effect that’s perfect for portrait photography.

Yellow Lake (Asfar Lake)

This natural lake takes on a yellowish hue due to its mineral content, creating otherworldly reflections, especially at sunrise and sunset. The contrast between the blue sky, yellow water, and surrounding greenery creates a natural color palette that pops in photographs.

I discovered that the eastern shore provides the best compositions, with unobstructed views across the water. The small wooden fishing platforms make perfect foreground elements.

MONEY-SAVING TIP: Rather than booking an expensive tour (500+ SAR), hire a local taxi for 2-3 hours (around 200 SAR) to take you between the oasis, Yellow Lake, and Al Qarah Mountain. Drivers know the best spots and can act as informal guides.

Coordinates: 25.4916° N, 49.6846° E

Abha and the Southern Highlands: Saudi’s Green Mountains

The Asir region offers Saudi Arabia’s most verdant landscapes with terraced farms, mist-covered mountains, and traditional villages that seem transported from another time. The region’s elevation (up to 3,000 meters) creates dramatic weather conditions perfect for moody photography.

Rijal Almaa Village

This 350-year-old village with its distinctive multi-story stone houses built into the mountainside is a photographer’s dream. The vertical architecture against the backdrop of green mountains creates compelling compositions, especially during the golden hours.

What makes this village particularly special for photographers is the preservation of traditional life. Local residents still wear colorful traditional clothing, adding vibrant human elements to architectural shots.

The village has seen increased tourism since winning the Prince Sultan bin Salman Award for Urban Heritage in 2024, so arriving early (before 9 AM) is essential for photography without crowds.

CULTURAL TIP: When photographing locals, the Arabic phrase “mumkin sura?” (may I take a photo?) shows respect. In my experience, offering to send them the photo via WhatsApp almost always results in enthusiastic participation.

Coordinates: 17.8481° N, 43.0651° E

Habala Village (The “Hanging Village”)

Perched precariously on a cliff edge, this village was historically accessible only by rope ladders (the name comes from the Arabic word for “rope”). Today, a cable car provides access, but the dramatic setting still makes for spectacular photography.

I found that the most compelling shots come from hiking the ridge opposite the village (a 30-minute moderate hike) which gives you a perfect vantage point showing how the village clings to the mountainside.

2025 Update: The new viewing platform constructed in late 2024 offers an additional photography angle, though I still prefer the more natural perspectives from the hiking trails.

Coordinates: 18.0658° N, 42.8767° E

Must-Know Photography Information for Saudi Arabia

Photography Permits and Restrictions

Saudi Arabia has relaxed many photography restrictions since opening to tourism, but certain sensitivities remain. Here’s my practical guide based on firsthand experience:

Generally Permitted:

Landscape photography
Urban/architectural photography
Photos of yourself and friends in public places
Food, cultural events, markets

Requires Permission:

Commercial photography (anything for advertising)
Drone photography (requires advance permit from Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation)
Photography inside mosques (ask staff first)
Photos of locals (always ask permission)

Not Permitted:

Military facilities
Government buildings
Royal palaces and compounds
Airport security areas

REAL EXPERIENCE: I once had my camera briefly confiscated near a government building in Riyadh because I was using a telephoto lens. The security personnel were polite but firm. I showed them my photos, explained I was a tourist, and they returned my camera after deleting the relevant images. The lesson: when in doubt, ask first or use a less conspicuous lens.

Cultural Sensitivity and Photography

Saudi Arabia is becoming more open to photography, but cultural sensitivity remains important. From my experience:

Always ask before photographing people, especially women
During prayer times, avoid photographing actively worshipping people
Be discreet in more conservative areas (small towns, rural regions)
Dress modestly when photographing religious or cultural sites

Best Weather Conditions for Photography

Saudi Arabia’s climate varies dramatically by region and season. Here’s my photographer’s guide to when to visit each region:

Region	Best Time for Photography	Why	Challenging Times
Riyadh & Central	November-February	Clear skies, comfortable temperatures	June-August (harsh light, extreme heat)
Jeddah & Western Coast	December-March	Lower humidity, good visibility	July-September (hazy, extremely humid)
AlUla & Northern	October-April	Dramatic light, occasional clouds	May-September (harsh light, dust storms)
Asir Highlands	March-May, August-October	Green landscapes, morning mist	December-February (can be foggy/rainy)
Empty Quarter	December-February	Crisp air, excellent visibility	June-September (extreme heat)

3 Money-Saving Photography Tips

Multi-site tickets: In AlUla, the “Experience AlUla Pass” (250 SAR) covers multiple sites and is 30% cheaper than buying individual tickets. It’s not well advertised but available on the Experience AlUla app.
Photography workshops: Local universities in Riyadh and Jeddah occasionally host free photography walks. Check the “Saudi Photography Society” on Instagram for announcements.
Transportation sharing: For remote photography locations like Edge of the World or Empty Quarter, join the “Saudi Photo Adventures” WhatsApp group to find others to share 4WD rental costs. This typically saves 200-300 SAR per person.

Sustainability in Saudi Photography

As Saudi tourism grows, responsible photography becomes increasingly important:

Stay on designated paths at heritage sites (especially at Hegra where soil erosion threatens ruins)
Avoid moving or arranging natural elements for “better” compositions
Participate in the “Capture Not Trace” initiative where photographers commit to removing any trash they find at photography locations
Support local photography guides who emphasize sustainable practices

Conclusion: Capturing Saudi Arabia’s Photographic Soul

After years of photographing Saudi Arabia’s evolving landscape, I’ve witnessed firsthand how this once-closed kingdom is transforming into one of the world’s most exciting photography destinations. The combination of ancient heritage, futuristic vision, and relatively few international photographers means you can still create truly original work here.

What makes Saudi Arabia special for photographers is precisely this juxtaposition – the 7,000-year-old rock art next to a mirrored building in the desert, the traditional mud-brick villages beneath modern skylines, the Bedouin hospitality alongside luxury resorts.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for Photography in Saudi Arabia

Apply for your eVisa early: Saudi Arabia’s electronic visa system is now efficient, but approval can still take 3-5 business days. Apply through the official Visit Saudi portal.
Plan around prayer times: Daily life still pauses five times daily for prayer, affecting site access and lighting conditions. Download the “Saudi Prayer Times” app to incorporate these breaks into your photography schedule.
Connect with local photographers: Join the Saudi Photographers Society’s monthly meetups in major cities to discover hidden gems and potentially find Arabic-speaking companions for more remote locations.
Prepare for climate extremes: Bring lightweight protective gear for your equipment – dust and heat are your biggest challenges. Microfiber cloths, sensor cleaning kits, and camera rain covers (to protect against sand) are essential.
Book accommodations near your primary photo locations: Saudi cities have significant traffic, which can derail plans to reach locations for golden hour. Prioritize proximity over luxury when selecting hotels.

There’s something profoundly rewarding about photographing a destination that’s still discovering its identity as a tourism destination. The Saudi Arabia you photograph in 2025 will look dramatically different in five years as development continues at breathtaking speed.

This photographic moment – capturing a society in such dramatic transition – is truly once-in-a-lifetime. So charge your batteries, empty your memory cards, and prepare to capture one of the world’s most visually compelling and rapidly changing kingdoms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Photographing Saudi Arabia

Is it safe to travel around Saudi Arabia with expensive camera equipment?

Yes, Saudi Arabia has very low crime rates, and I’ve never felt concerned about my equipment’s safety. That said, common-sense precautions apply – don’t leave gear unattended in public places, and use hotel safes for storage. The biggest risk to your equipment is environmental (heat, sand, dust) rather than theft.

Do I need a special photography permit as a tourist?

For personal photography, no special permits are required beyond your tourist visa. However, commercial photography, drone usage, and filming for monetary gain require additional permits from the Saudi Film Commission. If your photography equipment is particularly extensive or professional-looking, carrying a printed statement (in English and Arabic) explaining you’re a tourist can help if questioned.

Are there restrictions on photographing women in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, this remains a sensitive area. Always ask permission before photographing any local, especially women. In my experience, younger Saudis in urban areas are often open to being photographed, while more conservative areas require greater discretion. When in doubt, focus on landscape and architecture rather than people.

How accessible are the photography locations you’ve mentioned for someone with mobility limitations?

Accessibility has improved significantly since 2023. Major sites like Maraya, Kingdom Tower, Ithra, and the Jeddah Waterfront are now fully wheelchair accessible. Historical sites present more challenges – AlUla has accessible sections but not complete coverage, while Al-Balad in Jeddah has limited accessibility due to its historic nature. The good news is that Saudi tourism authorities are actively implementing accessibility improvements ahead of their 2030 tourism goals.

What’s the internet connectivity like for backing up photos?

Urban areas have excellent 5G coverage, making cloud backups feasible. Remote destinations (Empty Quarter, some parts of AlUla) have limited or no connectivity. I recommend bringing portable SSD drives for daily backups and uploading to cloud services when you return to your hotel each evening. Most hotels and coffee shops offer high-speed Wi-Fi.

Are there any photography workshops or tours specifically for Saudi Arabia?

Yes, photography tourism is growing rapidly. Saudi-based Photour offers specialized photography expeditions, while international operators like Creative Escape from UAE now run regular workshops in AlUla and Riyadh. These typically cost 3,000-7,000 SAR for 3-5 days and include location access, transportation, and sometimes accommodation.

What’s your advice for solo female photographers visiting Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is surprisingly comfortable for solo female travelers, including photographers. The main considerations are cultural rather than safety-related. While the strict dress code has relaxed considerably, dressing modestly (shoulders covered, pants/skirts below the knee) is still appreciated, especially when photographing religious or traditional sites. Female photographers might occasionally encounter older, more conservative Saudis who are uncomfortable being photographed by women, but this is increasingly rare.