Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is experiencing a tourism boom, making 2026 an ideal time to explore this historically rich destination. For first-time visitors, a 10-day itinerary hits the sweet spot, allowing you to experience the country's highlights without feeling rushed. Start in Jeddah on the Red Sea coast, where you can wander through the UNESCO-listed Al Balad district with its stunning carved wooden balconies (rawasheen) and bustling medieval souks. Then head northwest to AlUla to explore ancient Nabataean ruins, before finishing in Riyadh, the capital, where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside historic neighborhoods like Diriyah.

When booking, aim for about two months in advance to secure your preferred dates and accommodations. Winter (November–February) offers ideal temperatures for desert exploration and sightseeing, while spring brings blooming rose farms around Ta'if. If you're traveling in summer, plan indoor cultural experiences and evening activities to beat the midday heat. Use the Hello app's trip planning feature to organize your itinerary across these diverse regions, and track your spending in the local currency as you move between cities.

Saudi Arabia's cities are well-connected, with domestic flights being the quickest option between major destinations. A flight from Jeddah to AlUla takes about 1.5 hours, while driving offers a more immersive experience—though be prepared for longer journeys, like the 8-hour drive to AlUla or 11+ hours to Riyadh. Within cities, taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available and affordable.

Staying connected is essential for navigation and sharing your journey. An eSIM is your best bet for avoiding roaming charges while keeping your existing number—you'll stay connected across cities without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards. Once you've sorted connectivity, use Hello's budget tracking to monitor your transportation costs in Saudi Riyals (SAR), especially if you're splitting shared rides or car rentals with travel companions. The app's expense-splitting feature makes it easy to settle costs fairly when traveling with others, whether you're sharing a private driver for a day trip or splitting accommodation in boutique hotels like those in AlUla's charming old town.

Saudi Arabia's cultural richness extends far beyond monuments. Visit the Masmak Fortress in Riyadh to understand where modern Saudi history began, or explore Diriyah's museums dedicated to Arabian horses and regional heritage. In smaller towns like Buraydah, you can witness the world's largest camel market—a centuries-old trading tradition that's genuinely unforgettable.

Food is central to Saudi hospitality. Enjoy traditional Arabic dinners at spots like Bujairi Terrace near Diriyah's historic At-Turaif neighborhood, or share meals with local families in heritage villages. Don't miss dates fresh from autumn harvests or the fragrant rose water produced in Ta'if's centuries-old farms. When dining out, meals are reasonably priced—a hearty dinner rarely exceeds 50–80 SAR ($13–21 USD). Use Hello's expense-splitting feature to divide group meals fairly, and track your food budget across different regions. The warmth of Saudi people—known for their friendliness and respect—means you'll often find yourself invited to share authentic experiences that no guidebook can predict. Embrace these moments; they're the heart of traveling in Saudi Arabia.

For the ultimate Saudi experience, venture into the desert. The Empty Quarter (Rub' al Khali) is one of the world's largest deserts and offers otherworldly camping under impossibly clear night skies—perfect for stargazing. Near AlUla, Elephant Rock is a stunning natural formation worth the trek, while Edge of the World near Riyadh offers dramatic cliff views and excellent hiking during cooler months.

Other hidden gems include Khaybar, a lush oasis rising from volcanic terrain, and Tayma, home to 10,000-year-old rock inscriptions. For something more accessible, Moon Valley near Jeddah provides excellent camping and hiking without requiring a multi-day desert expedition. Desert camps typically include traditional dinners and expert guides—budget around 210–300 SAR per day ($56–80 USD) for guided experiences. When planning multi-day adventures, use Hello's trip planning to organize logistics and budget tracking to monitor daily expenses across different camps and regions. Pack layers for temperature swings between scorching days and cool desert nights, and always book activities through reputable tour operators who understand the terrain.