Wow, can you believe it? Saudi Arabia has finally opened its doors to tourism, and boy, is it a sight to behold! Did you know that in 2019, the Kingdom welcomed a staggering 16.5 million visitors? That's right, and now it's your turn to join the adventure! Buckle up as we take you on a whirlwind tour of this fascinating country in just three action-packed days. From the bustling streets of Riyadh to the ancient rock-cut tombs of AlUla, we've got the perfect itinerary to make every second count. Let's dive in and discover the wonders of Saudi Arabia together!
Day 1: Exploring the Capital City of Riyadh
As I stepped out of my hotel on that first morning in Riyadh, the city's energy was palpable. The sun was already high in the sky, and I knew I had an action-packed day ahead of me. My first stop? The iconic Kingdom Centre Tower.
Standing at a staggering 302 meters tall, the Kingdom Centre Tower is a modern architectural marvel that dominates Riyadh's skyline. As I approached, its unique inverted parabolic arch at the top caught my eye. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation as I entered the building. The tower houses a high-end shopping mall, offices, and the Four Seasons Hotel, but I was here for one thing – the Sky Bridge.
However, I decided to save the Sky Bridge experience for later in the day and instead headed to my next destination: the National Museum of Saudi Arabia. As someone who's always been fascinated by history, I was excited to delve into the rich past of this intriguing country.
The museum didn't disappoint. With eight galleries spread over two floors, it offers a comprehensive journey through Saudi Arabia's history, from prehistoric times to the modern era. I found myself particularly captivated by the exhibits on the pre-Islamic Arabian kingdoms and the birth of Islam. The artifacts on display, from ancient rock art to intricate Islamic calligraphy, painted a vivid picture of the country's cultural evolution.
After a few hours in the museum, I was ready to step back in time even further. My next stop was the Al-Masmak Fortress, a clay and mud-brick fort that played a crucial role in the country's formation. As I walked through its thick walls and explored its various rooms and towers, I could almost hear the echoes of history. The fortress, with its distinctive features like the triangular windows and thick wooden doors studded with metal spikes, offered a tangible connection to Saudi Arabia's past.
By this time, my stomach was reminding me that I hadn't eaten since breakfast. Luckily, my next destination promised not only cultural immersion but also a chance to sample some local flavors. I made my way to Deerah Souq, one of Riyadh's traditional markets.
The moment I stepped into the souq, my senses were overwhelmed. The aroma of spices filled the air, colorful textiles caught my eye at every turn, and the sound of vendors and customers haggling created a lively atmosphere. I wandered through the narrow alleys, stopping to admire intricate carpets, sample dates (which I learned are a staple in Saudi cuisine), and purchase some traditional Arabic coffee as a souvenir.
As the day began to wind down, I knew it was time for the highlight I'd been waiting for – watching the sunset from the Sky Bridge at Kingdom Centre. I made my way back to the tower, my anticipation growing with each step. The elevator ride to the 99th floor was an experience in itself, and as I stepped onto the Sky Bridge, I was immediately struck by the panoramic views of Riyadh stretching out in every direction.
As the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, I reflected on my first day in Saudi Arabia. From ancient fortresses to modern skyscrapers, traditional markets to world-class museums, Riyadh had offered me a perfect blend of old and new. As darkness fell and the city lights began to twinkle below, I couldn't help but feel excited for what the next two days would bring.
Day 2: Unveiling the Ancient Wonders of AlUla
The second day of my whirlwind tour of Saudi Arabia started early. Very early. But as I boarded the plane for the short flight to AlUla, I knew the early wake-up call would be worth it. AlUla, an area in northwest Saudi Arabia, is home to some of the country's most spectacular and least-known historical sites.
As we descended into AlUla, I was immediately struck by the landscape. The red-gold sand, punctuated by towering sandstone formations, looked like something out of a sci-fi movie. It was hard to believe that this harsh desert environment once supported thriving civilizations.
My first stop was Hegra, also known as Mada'in Saleh. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the southern capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, the same civilization that built the more famous Petra in Jordan. As I approached the site, I was awestruck by the massive rock-cut tombs rising from the desert floor.
Walking among these ancient monuments, I felt like I had stepped back in time. The intricate facades, with their detailed carvings and inscriptions, spoke of a sophisticated culture that flourished here over 2,000 years ago. I learned that Hegra was a crucial stop on the incense trade route, which explained its prosperity and the grandeur of its tombs.
One of the most impressive structures at Hegra is the Qasr al-Farid, or "Lonely Castle." Despite its name, it's not actually a castle but a tomb, left unfinished and standing alone in the desert. Its isolation only adds to its mystique, and I found myself captivated by its weathered beauty.
After spending a few hours exploring Hegra, it was time to move on to another of AlUla's natural wonders: Elephant Rock. As we approached, I could see why it got its name. The massive sandstone formation, weathered by millennia of wind and sand, truly does resemble an elephant with its trunk touching the ground.
Standing in the shadow of Elephant Rock, I was reminded of the power of nature to create art on a grand scale. The rock formation is particularly stunning at sunset, when the changing light brings out the warm hues of the sandstone. I made sure to take plenty of photos, but I knew they could never fully capture the majesty of the scene.
As the day progressed, I made my way to the Old Town of AlUla. This ancient city, with its mud-brick houses and narrow alleyways, offers a glimpse into traditional Arabian urban planning and architecture. Walking through the labyrinthine streets, I could almost imagine what life was like here centuries ago.
Many of the houses in the Old Town are in various states of ruin, but efforts are underway to restore and preserve this important piece of Saudi heritage. I was particularly impressed by the restored mosque, its simple yet elegant design a testament to the enduring beauty of Islamic architecture.
As night fell, I prepared for what promised to be one of the highlights of my trip: a stargazing experience in the desert. AlUla, with its clear skies and minimal light pollution, is an ideal spot for astronomy enthusiasts.
We drove out into the desert, away from any signs of civilization. As the last traces of sunlight faded, the sky came alive with stars. I've seen starry skies before, but nothing prepared me for this. The Milky Way stretched across the sky like a river of light, and I could make out constellations I'd only ever seen in books.
Our guide, an expert astronomer, pointed out various celestial objects and shared fascinating stories about how ancient cultures, including the Nabataeans, used the stars for navigation and timekeeping. As I lay back on a comfortable cushion, sipping traditional Arabic coffee and gazing at the infinite expanse above, I felt a profound sense of peace and connection to the universe.
As the night wore on and it was time to return to my hotel, I found myself reluctant to leave. AlUla had shown me a side of Saudi Arabia I never knew existed – a place of ancient wonders, natural beauty, and cosmic marvels. It was hard to believe that just 24 hours ago, I had been in the bustling metropolis of Riyadh. The contrast was stark, but it only added to the richness of my Saudi Arabian experience.
Day 3: Modern Marvels and Cultural Delights in Jeddah
The final day of my whirlwind tour of Saudi Arabia began with another early morning flight, this time to Jeddah. As the plane descended, I caught my first glimpse of the Red Sea, its azure waters a stark contrast to the desert landscapes I'd become accustomed to over the past two days.
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia's second-largest city, is a place where old meets new in fascinating ways. My first stop was the historic district of Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 7th century. As I stepped into the narrow streets, the hustle and bustle of modern Jeddah seemed to fade away, replaced by the timeless charm of traditional Arabian architecture.
The buildings in Al-Balad are a architectural marvel. Many of the houses are built from coral stone and feature intricate wooden lattice balconies known as roshan. These served a dual purpose: allowing cool air to circulate while also providing privacy for the women of the house who could observe street life without being seen.
As I wandered through the winding alleys, I came across small shops selling everything from spices to traditional textiles. The scent of Arabic coffee and cardamom filled the air, and I couldn't resist stopping for a cup. Sipping the strong, aromatic brew, I chatted with the shop owner who shared stories about Al-Balad's history and the efforts to preserve this unique piece of Saudi heritage.
One of the most impressive buildings in Al-Balad is the Nassif House, a restored mansion that once hosted King Abdulaziz, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. Its grand architecture and beautiful interiors offer a glimpse into the lives of Jeddah's wealthy merchants in the 19th century.
From the ancient streets of Al-Balad, I made my way to a more modern marvel: the Al-Rahma Mosque, also known as the Floating Mosque. Built on pillars over the Red Sea, this stunning white structure seems to hover over the water, especially during high tide. As I approached, I was struck by its elegant design, a perfect blend of traditional Islamic architecture and modern aesthetics.
The mosque's location, right on the edge of the sea, creates a serene atmosphere that's perfect for quiet contemplation. Even as a non-Muslim visitor, I was welcomed to admire the mosque's beautiful exterior and peaceful surroundings. The contrast between the brilliant white of the mosque and the deep blue of the sea was truly breathtaking.
After the tranquility of the Floating Mosque, I was ready to experience the vibrant energy of the Jeddah Corniche. This 30-kilometer waterfront promenade is the beating heart of the city, especially in the evenings when locals and tourists alike come out to enjoy the cool sea breeze.
As I strolled along the Corniche, I was impressed by the variety of attractions. There were beautifully landscaped parks, children's playgrounds, and numerous sculptures and public art installations. The most famous of these is the King Fahd Fountain, which at over 300 meters high, is the tallest fountain in the world. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to see it in action (it only operates in the evening), but even during the day, it's an impressive sight.
One of the highlights of my walk along the Corniche was watching the sunset over the Red Sea. As the sky turned a brilliant orange and red, I joined locals and tourists alike in taking photos and simply enjoying the beautiful moment.
As evening approached, I decided it was time for some retail therapy. Tahlia Street, Jeddah's premier shopping district, was my next destination. This bustling thoroughfare is lined with high-end boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. While I'm not usually one for luxury shopping, I enjoyed window shopping and people-watching. The street has a cosmopolitan vibe that feels quite different from other parts of Saudi Arabia I'd experienced.
For those interested in more traditional souvenirs, I discovered that there are several shops selling local handicrafts, including intricate metalwork, colorful textiles, and aromatic oils and perfumes. I picked up a few small gifts for friends back home, including some locally produced honey that the shopkeeper assured me was the best in Saudi Arabia.
As my three-day whirlwind tour of Saudi Arabia drew to a close, I knew I needed to end it on a high note. What better way than with a traditional Saudi dinner? On the recommendation of a local I'd met earlier in the day, I made my way to a restaurant known for its authentic Saudi cuisine.
The meal was a feast for the senses. I started with a refreshing laban, a yogurt-based drink that's perfect for beating the heat. For the main course, I tried kabsa, a fragrant rice dish cooked with meat and a blend of spices. The rich flavors and generous portions were a fitting end to my Saudi Arabian adventure.
As I sat there, savoring the last bites of my meal and reflecting on the past three days, I was struck by how much I'd experienced in such a short time. From the modern skyline of Riyadh to the ancient wonders of AlUla, from the historic streets of Al-Balad to the cosmopolitan vibe of Jeddah's Corniche, Saudi Arabia had surprised and delighted me at every turn.
I left the restaurant with a full stomach and a head full of memories. Three days is barely enough to scratch the surface of what Saudi Arabia has to offer, but it was enough to make me certain of one thing: I would be back. There's so much more to explore in this fascinating country, and I can't wait for my next visit.
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks! An incredible journey through Saudi Arabia in just three action-packed days. From the modern skyline of Riyadh to the ancient wonders of AlUla and the coastal charm of Jeddah, you’ve experienced the best of what this fascinating country has to offer. But trust me, this is just the tip of the iceberg! Saudi Arabia has so much more to explore, and I bet you’re already planning your next trip. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia!