Saudi Arabia: A fascinating country full of contrasts
Saudi Arabia, the largest country on the Arabian Peninsula, is opening up more and more to tourism, offering a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Endless deserts, vibrant cities, historical sites, and a breathtaking underwater world are waiting to be discovered.
Your advantages when you visit Saudi Arabia with us:
✔️ Diving Expertise: We've worked as dive guides in Saudi Arabia ourselves and know the best dive spots. 🐠🦈
✔️ Insider Knowledge: We've been extensively exploring Saudi Arabia since March 2023 – both on land and underwater – and know the most beautiful corners of the country. 🇸🇦
✔️ Authenticity and Passion: We love to travel, create authentic experiences, and share our passion with you. We'll ensure you have an unforgettable time and discover the true essence of this captivating country. ❤️
✔️ Perfect Network: Through our many trips to Saudi Arabia, we've built a strong network and know exactly which highlights on land should not be missed. 🏜️🐪
Check out our Saudi Arabia travel blogs:
click here - travel blog 2024
click here - travel blog 2023
Join our Saudi Arabia group tours in 2025:
find out more - click here
Getting to Saudi Arabia
Traveling to Saudi Arabia from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland is straightforward. Direct flights from major cities like Vienna, Frankfurt, Munich, or Geneva to Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport) are offered by several airlines and take about 4 1/2 - 6 hours.
Important airports in Saudi Arabia:
- King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED): The largest and most important airport in Saudi Arabia is located in Jeddah. It serves as a hub for many international airlines and offers connections to numerous destinations worldwide.
- King Khalid International Airport (RUH): The airport in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is another important hub for international air traffic.
- King Fahd International Airport (DMM): This airport is located in Dammam in eastern Saudi Arabia and is mainly important for business travelers and regional traffic.
Airlines with connections to Saudi Arabia:
- Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines): The national airline of Saudi Arabia offers an extensive route network with connections from Europe to various cities in the Kingdom.
- Other airlines: In addition to Saudia, international airlines such as Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, British Airways, and KLM also fly to Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia Visa:
Traveling to Saudi Arabia is straightforward. Direct flights from various European cities to Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport) are offered by several airlines. The flight time is approximately 5-6 hours.
To enter Saudi Arabia, you will need a tourist visa, which you can apply for online in advance. We are happy to assist you with the visa application process.
Typical Schedule for a Diving Safari in Saudi Arabia:
Liveaboard diving safaris in Saudi Arabia generally run from Saturday to Saturday.
- Saturday: Arrive at the ship, check-in, receive a safety briefing, and enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow divers.
- Sunday - Thursday: Dive at various dive sites, with up to four dives per day. Explore the incredible underwater world and encounter diverse marine life.
- Friday: Enjoy two dives in the morning before heading back to the harbor.
- Saturday: Transfer to the airport for your departure or to your hotel for an optional land stay in Saudi Arabia.
This schedule allows for a full week of diving, maximizing your time exploring the beautiful Red Sea.
Women in Saudi Arabia
Women can travel to Saudi Arabia without hesitation, even on their own. I (Nina) have been traveling to Saudi Arabia alone repeatedly since the end of 2022 and have never felt unsafe at any point.
Out of respect, it is recommended to cover your shoulders and knees and avoid wearing very tight clothing. If you would like to visit a mosque, please cover your hair. Otherwise, you are NOT required to wear a headscarf.
There is no dress code on the liveaboard dive boat. As in Egypt, for example, you can wear a bikini and shorts.
Land Stay: Highlights of Saudi Arabia
Jeddah: This vibrant port city on the Red Sea offers a blend of historical charm and modern flair. Visit the Al-Balad historic district with its traditional houses, stroll through the lively fish market, and enjoy the sea views from the Corniche.
AlUla: This desert oasis is home to impressive historical sites like the Nabataean city of Hegra (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Madâin Sâlih tombs. Experience the magic of the desert on a jeep tour or camel ride.
Riyadh: The capital of Saudi Arabia is a modern center with impressive skyscrapers, luxurious shopping malls, and historical attractions like the Masmak Fortress and the National Museum.
Discover the Cultural Treasures and Historical Sites of Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, a country with a rich history and fascinating culture, offers a multitude of impressive sights that will amaze visitors from all over the world. From ancient cities and holy sites to breathtaking natural wonders, there is much to discover in Saudi Arabia.
Holy Sites:
- Mecca and Medina: The two holiest cities in Islam attract millions of pilgrims every year. Mecca is home to the Kaaba, the central sanctuary of Islam, and the Grand Mosque (Al-Masjid al-Haram). Medina is the city where the Prophet Mohammed is buried and houses the Prophet's Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi).
Cultural Highlights:
- Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad): The historic old town of Jeddah, with its traditional houses, souks, and mosques, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Diriyah: The former capital of the first Saudi state is now an archaeological site with restored mud-brick buildings.
Historical Sites:
- Al-Ula: This ancient oasis city in northwestern Saudi Arabia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to impressive rock-cut tombs, rock formations, and the Nabataean city of Hegra.
- Jubbah and Shuwaymis: In the Hail region of northern Saudi Arabia, there are prehistoric rock carvings that are up to 10,000 years old and offer fascinating insights into the past.
- Masmak Fortress in Riyadh: This historic fortress in the capital Riyadh played an important role in the history of Saudi Arabia and is now a museum.
Natural Wonders:
- Asir National Park: In southwestern Saudi Arabia, this national park stretches with spectacular mountain scenery, green valleys, and traditional villages.
- Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn): This impressive rock formation northwest of Riyadh offers breathtaking views of the endless desert.
- Al-Wahba Crater: This huge volcanic crater near Taif is an impressive natural phenomenon.
Other Attractions:
- Kingdom Centre Tower in Riyadh: One of the tallest skyscrapers in the world with an observation deck.
- National Museum in Riyadh: The museum presents the history and culture of Saudi Arabia from its earliest history to the present day.
- Farasan Islands: An archipelago in the Red Sea with pristine beaches, coral reefs, and a variety of bird species.
Culinary Adventures in Saudi Arabia: A Flavor Explosion!
Saudi Arabia offers a taste explosion that will tantalize your senses! Be surprised by the diversity of the traditional cuisine and experience culinary adventures that you won't soon forget.
Aromatic Journey Through 1001 Nights:
Imagine: Aromatic rice, tender lamb, exotic spices like cardamom and saffron... 🤤 Saudi cuisine is a wonderful blend of Arabic, African, and Indian influences. Every dish tells a story and takes you on a journey through the oriental world of flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Kabsa: The star of Saudi cuisine! Juicy chicken or lamb on fragrant rice, refined with a secret spice blend. Addictive! 😋
- Machboos: Kabsa's cool brother with fish or seafood. Perfect for seafood lovers! 🐟
- Saleeg: Creamy rice pudding with tender meat. Comfort food at its best! 😌
- Jareesh: A hearty wheat dish with meat that simmers for hours. Ideal for cold desert nights. 🔥
- Murtabak: Filled pancake that will blow you away. Perfect as a snack for in between. 🤤
- And of course: Falafel, hummus, fresh salads, and irresistible dates in all variations. 🤤
Sweet Temptations:
- Dates: The "queen of fruits" in Saudi Arabia. Enjoy them pure, filled, or in delicious desserts. 🌴
- Luqaimat: Sweet dumplings with date syrup. A dream! ✨
- Knafeh: Crispy filo pastry with cheese and sugar syrup. Heavenly! 😍
Thirst Quenchers:
- Coffee: Strong, sweet, and essential in Saudi culture. ☕
- Tea: Aromatic with cardamom and mint. Refreshing and invigorating. 🫖
- Laban: Yogurt drink with a hint of mint. Perfect for cooling down. 😋
- Fruit juices: Freshly squeezed juices from exotic fruits. A vitamin boost! 🍹
Dining Culture:
Eat together with your hands from large platters and experience the warm hospitality of the Saudis. Sharing and laughter are key! 😄
Good to know: Alcohol is prohibited in Saudi Arabia, so there is no beer on board the dive boat either. 😉 But don't let that put you off, the breathtaking diving experiences and the beauty of the country will more than make up for it!