The Ultimate Saudi Arabia Tourism Guide 2025: From Visa to a 15-Day Itinerary with Complete Costs

Introduction: Saudi Arabia Opens Its Doors to the World

Saudi Arabia is no longer just a destination for pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah; it has become one of the world's fastest-growing tourist destinations. In 2024 alone, the Kingdom welcomed over 116 million visitors, with tourism spending reaching 284 billion riyals. This tremendous transformation is the fruit of the ambitious Vision 2030, which has turned the desert kingdom into an open-air museum combining ancient history, stunning nature, and modern vibrancy.

This comprehensive guide takes you step by step, from the moment you consider visiting until you return home loaded with beautiful memories. We will guide you through obtaining your visa, the best ways to arrive, the most prominent cities and attractions not to miss, and suggest detailed trip itineraries with complete costs, whether you are a budget traveler or seeking an unforgettable luxury experience.

Chapter One: Tourist Visa - Your Gateway to the Kingdom

Who Needs a Visa?

The Kingdom launched the electronic tourist visa system to open its doors to citizens of 66-68 countries worldwide. These countries include most European nations, the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, China, and others. GCC citizens do not need a visa and only need to present their passports or national ID cards at entry points.

Residents of Gulf countries can apply for the electronic visa provided their residency is valid for at least 3 months and their profession is among the eligible occupations. For those not from eligible countries, they can apply through the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate.

Types of Tourist Visas

The electronic tourist visa comes in two main types. The first is a multiple-entry visa valid for one full year, allowing holders to stay up to 90 days consecutively or intermittently. The second is a single-entry visa valid for 90 days, allowing a stay of up to 30 days.

The tourist visa permits performing Umrah rituals, but it is not valid for Hajj pilgrimage or for work or study purposes. Those wishing to perform Hajj need a dedicated Hajj visa issued through different channels.

Visa Fees and Requirements

The electronic tourist visa fee is approximately 535 Saudi Riyals (about $140 USD), which includes mandatory health insurance. Requirements are simple: a passport valid for at least 6 months, a recent personal photo with a white background, an active email address to receive the visa, and a credit card for payment.

The application process is done through the official portal visa.visitsaudi.com in simple steps taking no more than 10 minutes. After completing the application and payment, the visa arrives in your email within 24 hours in most cases, sometimes within minutes.

Chapter Two: Arriving in the Kingdom

Major International Airports

The Kingdom has several major international airports receiving flights from around the world. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh is the largest and most modern, serving the capital and central region. King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah is the main gateway for pilgrims and the western region. King Fahd International Airport in Dammam serves the Eastern Province, while Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Airport in Madinah welcomes religious visitors.

To reach AlUla, you can use AlUla International Airport, which receives direct flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dubai. Abha is served by Abha Regional Airport, connecting it to major cities.

Domestic Flights

The domestic flight network in Saudi Arabia is well-developed with competitive prices. Major carriers include Saudia, Flynas, and Flyadeal. Prices vary by booking time and season, but generally, reasonable fares can be obtained when booking early.

A flight from Riyadh to Jeddah takes about 1 hour 45 minutes with prices ranging from 150-300 riyals one way. From Jeddah to Abha is about an hour starting from 200 riyals. From Jeddah to AlUla is about 1 hour 15 minutes starting from 250 riyals.

Ground Transportation

For adventurers who prefer exploring the country by land, multiple options are available. SAR trains connect Riyadh to Dammam and the north, with tickets starting from 140 riyals for economy class. SAPTCO buses cover most major cities at economical prices. Car rental is an excellent option for those wanting freedom of movement, with international and local companies available at all airports.

Chapter Three: Top Tourist Destinations

Riyadh: The Vibrant Capital

Riyadh is not just an administrative capital; it is a city that amazingly combines heritage and modernity. Historic Diriyah, birthplace of the First Saudi State and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a deep dive into history through its narrow alleys and carefully restored mud-brick buildings. At-Turaif District tells the story of the state's founding, while Al-Bujairi Quarter buzzes with modern restaurants and cafes.

Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn) is an unforgettable experience for adventure lovers, where you stand on the edge of vertical cliffs extending hundreds of meters above endless plains. It is about 90 km from Riyadh and requires a 4x4 vehicle to reach. The National Museum offers a journey through Arabian Peninsula history from prehistoric times. Kingdom Tower and Al Faisaliah Tower offer panoramic city views. Riyadh Boulevard and Boulevard World are world-class entertainment destinations.

Jeddah: Bride of the Red Sea

Jeddah is a unique city combining the authentic Hijazi spirit with openness to the sea and the world. Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad) is a neighborhood over 500 years old, with its unique wooden mashrabiya buildings, ancient alleys, and traditional markets. This neighborhood is a UNESCO site and is considered an open-air museum of authentic Hijazi architecture.

Jeddah Corniche extends over 30 km along the Red Sea coast, featuring recreational areas, gardens, and restaurants. King Fahd Fountain is the tallest in the world, with water reaching 312 meters high. For diving and water activities, Red Sea beaches are rich with coral reefs and colorful marine life.

AlUla: Desert Jewel and Civilization Museum

AlUla is not just a tourist destination; it is a journey through 200,000 years of human history. It earned the title of Best Cultural Tourism Project in the World for 2025, and it deserves this title. Hegra (Mada'in Saleh) is the first Saudi site on the UNESCO list, containing over 100 Nabatean tombs carved into rock with amazing precision.

Elephant Rock is a natural geological formation resembling an elephant, 50 meters high. Maraya Hall is the largest mirror-covered building in the world, hosting world-class concerts and events. The Old Town is a maze of alleys and mud houses. Hegra entry fees are about 95 riyals, with various tours starting from 150 riyals up to 700 riyals for classic Land Rover tours.

Abha: Lady of the Fog and Bride of the Mountain

Abha is a green oasis in the heart of the Sarawat Mountains, rising over 2,200 meters above sea level. Its weather is moderate in summer when the rest of the Kingdom is scorching, making it the preferred destination for escaping the heat. Jabal Sawda is the highest peak in Saudi Arabia at over 3,000 meters, covered with dense juniper forests and wrapped in fog in a legendary scene.

Abha Cable Car is an exceptional experience, with suspended cars taking you on a panoramic journey over mountains and valleys. Abu Kheyal Cable Car is the world's only route suspended between just two poles, extending one kilometer at 300 meters height. Cable car prices range from 35-70 riyals depending on the station and age group. Rijal Almaa Heritage Village is a centuries-old stone village reflecting unique Asiri architecture with its vibrant colors.

Makkah and Madinah

For Muslims, a visit to Saudi Arabia is incomplete without performing Umrah and visiting the Prophet's Mosque. Makkah houses the Holy Kaaba, the qibla of Muslims, and the Grand Mosque, the largest in the world. Madinah houses the Prophet's Mosque and the tomb of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Important note: Entry to Makkah is restricted to Muslims only, and proof of religion is required at checkpoints.

Chapter Four: Saudi Culture and Customs

Legendary Saudi Hospitality

Generosity is a deeply rooted value in Saudi culture for thousands of years. Arabic coffee symbolizes hospitality, prepared with cardamom and saffron and served with dates in small cups. Coffee etiquette includes drinking with the right hand and shaking the cup when you've had enough. Mint or herbal tea is also served on various occasions.

Saudi cuisine is rich and diverse. Kabsa is the most famous national dish: long rice with meat or chicken and aromatic spices. Jareesh, Marqouq, and Matazeez are traditional dishes worth trying. Maftouh is a whole lamb slowly cooked and served at major occasions.

Dress and Public Etiquette

Saudi Arabia is a conservative country that respects its Islamic values. For visitors, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is preferred. Women are not required to wear abayas or head coverings (except when entering religious places), but modesty is required. Men should avoid very short shorts in public places.

Important etiquette includes: respecting prayer times as some shops temporarily close, using the right hand for eating and greeting, avoiding photographing people without permission, and maintaining quiet and respect in public places. Saudis are friendly and welcoming to guests, and you won't have difficulty asking for help.

Best Times to Visit

The ideal season to visit most of the Kingdom is winter from November to March, when weather is moderate and suitable for outdoor activities. This time is ideal for Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, and the Eastern Province. AlUla's winter season (December-March) features exceptional cultural and artistic events.

Summer (June-August) is very hot in most areas, but it's the ideal time to visit southern highlands like Abha, Taif, and Baha, where weather is moderate and sometimes cool. Spring and autumn are suitable for road trips and various festivals.

Chapter Five: 10-Day Itinerary

Days 1-3: Riyadh

Day 1: Arrive at King Khalid Airport, transfer to hotel and rest, evening tour of Riyadh Boulevard. Day 2: Morning visit to the National Museum and Masmak Fort, lunch at a traditional Dira restaurant, afternoon to Historic Diriyah and At-Turaif District, dinner at Al-Bujairi Quarter. Day 3: Full-day trip to Edge of the World (requires booking a 4x4 tour), depart in the morning and return in the afternoon, evening shopping at Riyadh Park Mall or Nakheel.

Days 4-5: AlUla

Day 4: Morning flight from Riyadh to AlUla (1 hour 20 minutes), arrival and transfer to accommodation, afternoon tour of the Old Town, evening sunset viewing at Elephant Rock and dinner at a local restaurant. Day 5: Morning guided tour of Hegra (3 hours), lunch and rest, afternoon visit to Jabal Ikmah or rock formations, evening event at Maraya Hall if available.

Days 6-8: Jeddah and Makkah (for Muslims)

Day 6: Flight from AlUla to Jeddah, arrival and hotel transfer, afternoon tour of Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad), evening at Jeddah Corniche watching King Fahd Fountain. Day 7 (for Muslims): Head to Makkah for Umrah (80 km away), spend the day at the Holy Mosque. Day 8: Morning visit to Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum or Athr Gallery, lunch at a seafood restaurant, afternoon diving or water activities at Obhur, evening shopping at Red Sea Mall.

Days 9-10: Abha

Day 9: Flight from Jeddah to Abha (1 hour), arrival and hotel transfer, lunch then Green Mountain and Abu Kheyal cable car tour, dinner with city views from the mountaintop. Day 10: Morning trip to Jabal Sawda and Rijal Almaa Village, lunch in the village tasting Asiri dishes, afternoon return to Abha, evening flight to Riyadh or Jeddah for departure.

Chapter Six: 15-Day Itinerary

Days 1-4: Riyadh and Central Region

Same program as the first three days, adding a fourth day to visit Al-Dilam and Al-Kharj to see palm oases and traditional farms, or visit the Diplomatic Quarter and King Abdullah Financial Center and NEOM projects in Riyadh.

Days 5-7: AlUla and Northern Region

Two additional days in AlUla allow experiencing hot air balloon rides at dawn over Hegra, bicycle tours in the Hegra site, a trip to Wadi Al-Disah with its natural springs and amazing rock formations, and camping under the stars in AlUla's desert.

Days 8-10: Jeddah and Red Sea

Three full days in Jeddah allow deeper exploration of the city. In addition to the previous program, you can spend a full day on a boat trip to Farasan Islands or diving in Red Sea coral reefs, and visiting King Abdullah Economic City north of Jeddah.

Days 11-13: Makkah and Madinah (for Muslims)

Two days in Makkah for leisurely Umrah and visiting Islamic landmarks, and one day in Madinah to visit the Prophet's Mosque, the Rawdah, Al-Baqi Cemetery, and Mount Uhud. For non-Muslims, these days can be replaced with visiting Taif (City of Roses and summer resorts) or extending stays in Jeddah and AlUla.

Days 14-15: Abha and Asir

Two days in Abha to enjoy the stunning mountain nature. Asir National Park deserves a full day of exploration. Al-Muftaha Cultural Village showcases Asiri arts and crafts. Abha Dam Lake is perfect for relaxation and walks. On the final day, fly back from Abha to your departure point.

Chapter Seven: Detailed Costs

Budget Option (250-400 SAR daily)

Accommodation in 2-3 star hotels or simple furnished apartments: 150-250 riyals per night. Food from local restaurants and fast food: 50-80 riyals daily. Transportation by public transport and buses: 20-50 riyals daily. Free or low-cost activities: visiting traditional markets, public beaches, and walking in historic neighborhoods.

Cost of a 10-day trip on budget: 2,500-4,000 riyals ($670-1,070) excluding international flights. Add domestic flights: approximately 800-1,200 riyals for all flights.

Mid-Range Option (500-800 SAR daily)

Accommodation in 4-star hotels: 350-500 riyals per night. Food at various restaurants between local and modern: 100-150 riyals daily. Car rental or using Uber and Careem: 100-150 riyals daily. Activities and organized tours: Museums (10-25 riyals), Hegra tours (95-150 riyals), Cable cars (35-70 riyals).

Cost of a 10-day trip mid-range: 5,000-8,000 riyals ($1,330-2,130) excluding international flights. Add domestic flights: approximately 1,000-1,500 riyals.

Luxury Option (1,000+ SAR daily)

Accommodation in 5-star hotels and luxury resorts: 800-2,000+ riyals per night (AlUla luxury hotels may exceed 5,000 riyals). Food at upscale restaurants: 200-400 riyals daily. Private car with driver or luxury car rental: 400-800 riyals daily. Exclusive experiences: Hot air balloon ride in AlUla (1,200+ riyals), Classic Land Rover tour (700 riyals), Professional diving in the Red Sea (500+ riyals).

Cost of a 10-day luxury trip: 15,000-30,000+ riyals ($4,000-8,000+) excluding international flights. Business class domestic flights: 3,000-5,000 riyals.

Chapter Eight: Golden Tips for Travelers

Before Travel

Book your visa at least two weeks in advance to avoid delays. Book domestic flights and hotels early, especially during tourist seasons (winter and AlUla season). Download useful apps: Spirit of Saudi tourism app, transport apps (Uber, Careem), and Google Maps for navigation. Ensure you have appropriate clothing for weather and culture.

During the Trip

Carry sufficient cash as some traditional places don't accept cards. Drink plenty of water, especially in hot areas. Respect prayer times and don't be surprised when shops temporarily close. Try local food and don't hesitate to ask locals for recommendations. Take photos but ask permission before photographing people.

Safety and Security

Saudi Arabia is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are very low and police are present and helpful. In emergencies, the unified number 911 connects you to all services. Keep copies of your passport and visa. Health insurance is included in the visa, but additional coverage for adventure activities is recommended.

Conclusion: Saudi Arabia Awaits You

Saudi Arabia today is not the old stereotype; it is a country rediscovering itself and opening its arms to the world. From Nabatean ruins in AlUla to Riyadh's skyscrapers, from Red Sea beaches to Asir mountain peaks, the Kingdom offers amazing diversity worth exploring.

Whether you seek a spiritual journey, desert adventure, beach relaxation, or cultural immersion, you'll find what fulfills your ambition in Saudi Arabia. Ongoing transformations make every visit a new experience; what you see today may be completely different in a few years. The opportunity is now to be among the first discoverers of this rising destination. Pack your bags, book your ticket, and let the Kingdom surprise you with its hidden treasures.

Quick Cost Summary

Tourist Visa: 535 SAR (including insurance). Domestic Flights (3-4 flights): 800-1,500 SAR. Accommodation 10 nights: 1,500-5,000+ SAR depending on level. Food and Transport 10 days: 700-2,000 SAR. Activities and Attractions: 500-2,000 SAR. Approximate Total for 10-day trip: 4,000-15,000 SAR ($1,070-4,000) excluding international flights.