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Middle East: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia reveals itself as a land of striking contrasts: ancient religious centers stand alongside modern megacities, while vast deserts give way to oases and scenic coastlines. The capital of the kingdom is Riyadh. Traveling across the country allows visitors to discover historic cities, the diverse natural landscapes of the Arabian Peninsula, the shores of the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea, as well as experience local culture and a high level of modern service.
Territory of the Kingdom and Natural Diversity
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia occupies a large part of the Arabian Peninsula. It is washed by the waters of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf and shares borders with Iraq, Jordan, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Yemen, and the UAE.
In the north of the country, along the border with Jordan, stretches the rocky Al-Hamad Desert. The northern and central regions are dominated by the largest sand deserts — the Great and Lesser Nafud (Dahna), known for their red sands. The southern and southeastern regions are covered by Rub’ al Khali, the Empty Quarter, where dunes and sand ridges in the north rise to heights of up to 200 meters. Despite the harsh conditions, nature here impresses with its contrasts: in spring, wild grasses and flowering trees bloom in the mountains, while oases are filled with date palm groves and citrus gardens.
AlUla: An Ancient Oasis
One of the most impressive places in the country is the ancient city of AlUla. It is a true open-air museum where traces of ancient civilizations have been preserved among sandstone cliffs. This is where Hegra (Madain Salih) is located — Saudi Arabia’s first site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The rocks of AlUla are covered with ancient inscriptions and symbols left more than two thousand years ago. Each archaeological season reveals new discoveries, shedding light on the lives of peoples who inhabited this land long before our era. Today, AlUla combines history and modernity: cultural and music festivals take place here, open-air exhibitions are held, and restaurants offer fine dining with views of majestic rock formations.
Outdoor enthusiasts can go hiking, try rock climbing, or watch the sunrise over the desert sands beneath a star-filled sky — an experience that is impossible to forget.
Jeddah: A Vibrant Metropolis
Jeddah is a dynamic coastal city where East meets West. Its history began as a port for pilgrims traveling to Mecca, and today it is a cultural capital and the main resort city on the Red Sea.
The historic district of Jeddah is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with narrow streets, traditional houses featuring wooden balconies, and fragrant spice aromas that transport visitors back in time. The authentic spirit of an Arab city, full of life and energy, has been carefully preserved here.
Modern Jeddah captivates with its art scene, museums, and gastronomy. The city is known as a center of international cuisine — from street food to fine dining restaurants. At sunset, the Red Sea coastline glows in golden and purple hues, creating one of the most breathtaking views on the Arabian Peninsula. Diving enthusiasts will find unique coral reefs and underwater landscapes with no regional equivalents.
Riyadh — The Heart and Soul of the Kingdom
Riyadh is a city where history and the future coexist in harmony. As the capital of Saudi Arabia, it continues to grow and transform while maintaining deep respect for its roots. Among historic palaces and museums, the story of the nation’s foundation comes to life — every building and street reflects the Kingdom’s journey toward modernity.
The city is also renowned for its gastronomy. Numerous restaurants serve both international cuisine and traditional Saudi dishes infused with aromatic eastern spices. Every dinner here becomes an introduction to local culture and hospitality.
Shopping
Shopping is one of the most popular leisure activities in Saudi Arabia. In Riyadh, visitors can explore luxury boutiques and international brands, while in Jeddah travelers will find traditional markets offering national costumes, perfumes, and a wide variety of goods. Bargaining is common here, and language is rarely a barrier — many people in Saudi Arabia speak English.
Al-Qaisariya Market
A special mention goes to the vast Al-Qaisariya Market, located in the Al-Ahsa oasis and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the oldest markets in the country, with records dating back to the 16th century. In addition to spices and fragrant incense, its stalls offer truly unique antiques, from vintage gramophones to even 50-year-old Coca-Cola bottles.
Dagger Market
Jambiyas and daggers are an important part of men’s cultural heritage, especially in the southern regions of the country. Specialized markets offer a wide selection of daggers and swords, as well as handcrafted accessories — belts, sheaths, and silver and gold ornaments created by skilled artisans.
Al Orjouan Restaurant
Al Orjouan restaurant, known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere and all-day dining format, has long established itself as one of the most popular venues among both hotel guests and residents of Riyadh. Particular attention is drawn to its Friday brunch buffet, featuring an extensive selection of Middle Eastern and international dishes — one of the longest and most impressive brunch experiences in the city.
The Groves
The Groves opens for the third time in a new permanent format. The project combines gastronomy, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences, offering a Village promenade with shops and cafés, Italian cuisine at Pizzeria, and open-air spaces for relaxation. The General Access format allows visitors to explore the concept through leisurely walks, culinary discoveries, and time spent outdoors.
Twisted Labs
The ultra-modern entertainment center Twisted Labs is located in the Studio Zone of Boulevard City and offers an immersive world of high-tech gaming experiences. The venue features console gaming zones, interactive skill-based spaces, a racing track, escape rooms, and areas for watching esports broadcasts. The experience is complemented by a branded merchandise store and a café for relaxation.
Saudi Arabia today presents itself as a country undergoing an active phase of transformation. While preserving religious traditions and historical heritage, the Kingdom is simultaneously investing in projects that shape its vision of the future. One of the most discussed examples is The Line — a linear city in the Tabuk province on the Red Sea coast, conceived as an alternative model of urban living. The project envisions a compact, car-free structure, a pedestrian-friendly environment, high-speed transportation, and full integration of renewable energy sources.
Alongside ancient cities such as AlUla, sacred Islamic centers, dynamic megacities, and Red Sea resorts, these initiatives highlight the scale of change taking place. This destination is for those who seek to experience the Middle East in all its diversity — from its deep-rooted past to a bold future that goes far beyond conventional expectations.
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