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Saudi Arabia used to abide by certain strict rules regarding the approval of visas for travelers. The authorities only used to allow visas to the pilgrims and business travelers. The strict rules that used to define the kingdom of Saudi Arabia has not been altered as the kingdom is trying its best to revamp the struggling tourism sector. Now is the best time to travel to the kingdom of Saudi Arabia if you have always aspired to visit the vast deserts and surprise your tastebuds with the exquisite Arabian cuisine.
The kingdom has now introduced new eVisa that allows the tourists from 49 countries tour the country. The Muslims from like UK have a huge advantage as they can book Umrah packages from UK via the trusted Islamic travel and choose the itinerary according to their own liking. Some of the unforgettable experiences that you can try on your next trip to Saudi Arabia are mentioned in the guide below.
Try the Arabic Cuisine
The Arabic cuisine is mainly made up of the Indian, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean foods. The whole array is a concoction of good foods from all the different regions. Some of the cuisines that will surely indulge your taste buds include Shawarma and Kabsa. These two foods are quite affordable as well.
Ride the Red Sand Dunes
Saudi Arabia is widely known for its deserts and the majority its area is covered by them. When tourists travel to the kingdom of Saudi Arabia they must try surfing the sand of the Saudi deserts. The Khararah National Park is known for the best sand dunes and is located only about an hour’s drive from Riyadh. Apart from walking miles on the red sand, travelers will also have a chance to quad bike, fly kites, and sandboard with their family and friends. There are unique formulations in this park which are also a sight to admire.
Trek to the Edge of the World
Edge of the World, also known as Jebel Fihrayn, is a 300-meter-high escarpment that gives the hikers one of the greatest views of Saudi’s rocky plains, coral fossils and valleys that were left behind after a sea dried up millions of years ago. When one reaches at the top of the cliff, they will witness a view that would give an illusion similar to standing on ‘the edge of the world’. In order to fully enjoy the hike, tourists must visit the kingdom of Saudi Arabia during winter months. The travelers can book UK December Umrah packages and add the hiking locations into their itinerary to make the most of their trip to the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Visit Al Masmak Fort
For someone who is a history enthusiast, a day in the mud-brick Al Masmak Fort will be nothing but a very exciting and fulfilling experience. This gem is located in the outskirts of Riyadh, which is a city recaptured with the help of the fort in the year 1902. The fort is currently utilized as a museum and has a quite ambitious architecture that will catch you off-guard.
Going for Shopping
Saudi Arabia is quiet famous for the shopping of gold ornaments and jewellery. The jewellery market in the kingdom is unbelievably huge and the quality standard is remarkable. There are malls that have high-end luxury brands along with the local souqs which are best for the shopping of spices, artifacts, utensils and various types of ethnic attire.
Saddle up on a Camel or a Horse in Thumamah
A trip to Saudi Arabia is incomplete without experiencing a camel or horse ride in the region of Thumamah. This region is located a few miles to the north of Riyadh. The Thumamah National Park is one of the best outdoor escapes in the city. There are farmers around the park who will gladly rent you their horses and other livestock at very affordable prices. Trekking around the pack on a horse through the rolling dunes will give you a lot of thrill and it truly is an experience that is worth having.
Visit the Oasis of Al-Ahsa
This oasis is filled with thousands of palm trees and has over 150 natural springs. This oasis is home to the Asfar Lake and is arguably Saudi’s most waterlogged region. The tourists can avail the chance to trek Rub’al Khali which is the largest contiguous desert in the world.
Visiting Sky Bridge at the Kingdom Center
Visiting the sky bridge at the kingdom center will give you a chance to see Riyadh from a bird-eye view. The bridge is located on the 99th floor of Riyadh’s third tallest building also known as the Kingdom Tower. You will get a spectacular view of the city from up here at any time of the day.
Tour the city of Jeddah
Explore the city of Jeddah is a pretty delightful experience. As it is home to the largest international airport in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, millions of pilgrims have been passing through this city on their way to Makkah for many years. It is a fascinating site to witness the bustling commercial activity in the city. The tall. Hijazi-style buildings in the streets of this city gives off an ancient charm which is quiet astonishing to witness.
Visit the Waters of Umluj
Umluj and Al-Wajh are family-friendly towns in the kingdom that have shallow turquoise water and coral reefs. The kids will enjoy will enjoy riding boats around the pristine islands within the Red Sea. Snorkeling and diving are some other exciting activities that the teenagers will surely enjoy. Visiting both these towns during winters will allow you to spot the dolphins. You can enjoy the local cuisine prepared by fresh fish and experience the hospitable culture of local people.
Whether you are a nature lover, an outdoor activity enthusiast, a history geek of an admirer of the modern and ancient architecture, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has got you all covered in the best way possible.