Sea, Sand & Skyline: A Family Escape Across Saudi Arabia

Fly to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Welcome to Saudi Arabia!

Jeddah is a commercial hub sitting to the west along the Red Sea with the second busiest seaport in the Middle East. It’s the principal gateway to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, and sees over a million pilgrims a year on their way to perform the Hajj. Despite this, Jeddah is perceived to be the most liberal city in Saudi Arabia and is a popular tourist destination, offering the beauty of ancient architecture mixed with the latest luxuries.

Enjoy a seamless transfer to Rixos Obhur Jeddah for the next 3 nights.

Head to the distinctive Al Rahmah Mosque, a landmark of Jeddah. Contributed in 1985, the site is commonly referred to as the Floating Mosque, as it rests on the water's surface, with its bases anchored beneath the sea. Continuing with a leisurely stroll around the west end of Jeddah Yacht Club & Marina, is & Marina, is an active area of restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy a walk on the seafront Especially on the weekends from sunset this place gets very lively with local families. Enjoy your welcome dinner at an upscale restaurant, offering breathtaking views of the sea, sky and the luxurious boats docked in the marina.

Return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Today is dedicated towards discovering the sparkling blue of the Red Sea both on and under the surface. Hop on a private boat trip to enjoy the sea and sun! Snorkeling gear is packed to discover the wealth of underwater life the region is famous for.

The Red Sea near Jeddah boasts a splendid variety of marine species. Different types of colorful coral, old sorts of exotic fish; snorkeling along the coral sites will impress. These shallow waters make it fun for all levels. The temperatures of the water are at least 21C and the high salinity is beneficial for your health. Top off the trip with a seafood barbecue, skillfully prepared by your skipper.

Spend the afternoon exploring Al Balad, Jeddah’s atmospheric old town. The UNESCO World Heritage site is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, with merchant houses and other buildings constructed of coral-stone and featuring roshan, traditional wooden window shades. As you walk through the winding streets, your guide will take you back in time with stories of Al Balad’s past, when it was a bustling trading centre.

Enjoy a seafood dinner featuring fresh, locally sourced flavours.

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Today is at leisure, with time to enjoy the hotel or take a self guided stroll around the city.

Optional experience: Enjoy an authentic dining experience with a local family in Jeddah, offering a glimpse into Saudi Arabian hospitality and culture. Traditional Saudi coffee and dates welcome guests on arrival, setting a warm, inviting tone. The host family shares stories about their lives, work, and traditions, encouraging meaningful conversations and cultural exchange. A home-cooked meal follows, showcasing seasonal ingredients and cherished family recipes, making each experience unique. After the meal, immerse further into the culture by trying on traditional Saudi attire, creating a memorable and interactive conclusion. End the visit with heartfelt goodbyes, taking home not just flavours but lasting impressions of Saudi traditions.

The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

Enjoy breakfast and time at leisure before transferring to the airport for The Red Sea!

Round out your Saudi Arabian adventure with a luxurious seven-night stay in the Red Sea. Upon arrival at the Red Sea International Airport, meet with the local representative and transfer by electric car to Turtle Bay and continue by a VIP Business catamaran to the amazing resort in the Red Sea. Experience the perfect blend of luxury and nature on islands surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, dedicated to preserving a diverse ecosystem.

Check-in to The St. Regis Red Sea Resort for the ultimate luxurious stay Savour the days at leisure at your hotel.

These days unfold at your pace, perhaps opting to lounge by the infinity pool, indulge in spa treatment or your own discovery of Red Sea, situated along the west coast of Saudi Arabia, this expansive 28,000 square kilometre paradise boasts an archipelago of over 90 untouched islands, stunning beaches, and a range of natural wonders, including dormant volcanoes, desert dunes, and mountain canyons. The Red Sea is also home to the world’s fourth biggest barrier reef, where marine life and coral thrive like nowhere else.

Optional activity: to name a few; snorkelling and scuba diving to wonder the spectacular reef system and an impressive 18th century shipwreck or mangrove kayaking through the Red Sea’s crystal clear tributaries or enjoy the thrill of sailing or other watersports such as stand-up paddle and kitesurfing are also available.  

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Soak up your last morning in The Red Sea with breakfast and morning at leisure before depart the island by a VIP Business catamaran to Turtle Bay, followed by a smooth transfer to the Red Sea airport for the onward flight to Riyadh, the Kingdom’s modern capital. Check-in to Fairmont Riyadh for the next two nights.

Arrival in Riyadh reveals a dynamic cityscape defined by soaring skyscrapers, wide boulevards, modern shopping centres, grand mosques, and luxury hotels, an evolving metropolis that blends tradition with rapid modernisation. Put things in perspective by exploring the city from above with a visit to the iconic Al Faisaliah Tower. Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view from the tower offering sweeping city vista views.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Let’s begin with some pointers toward Saudi’s charismatic past. Find Al Masmak Fortress in the heart of the old town. A large clay and mud-brick citadel that witnessed the birth of a kingdom, the 150-year-old edifice stands as a reminder of Saudi’s storied past. Justice Square is another reminder of the past. Modern Saudi shop in supermarkets but a few old market areas remain, like Souq al Zel and Souq Bisht, two of the most characteristic traditional marketplaces in town. Learn more about Saudi history at beautiful Murabba palace (can visit from outside only) and at the modern National Museum of Saudi Arabia.

After lunch at a traditional restaurant, across town and pointing high into the sky as a symbol for power is KAFD, or King Abdullah Financial District, the strikingly modern heart of business of the Kingdom and more and more the wider Gulf region. Explore the mosque's striking design, followed by a coffee break in the financial district.

It is time to explore Ad Diriyah, the birthplace of the first Saudi state called At-Turaif which ruled between 1744 and 1818. The UNESCO World Heritage site has just been restored to its former glory and is poised to become a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s tourism offerings. Discover more about the architecture and heritage at the site. Find out how the mud-brick houses were built; how homes were cooled during the hot summer days; and how people lived without electricity and creature comforts.

Enjoy a great farewell dinner at one of the top quality restaurants of the Bujairi Terrace!

Depart Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Your Saudi Arabia journey comes to an end today.

After a relaxing morning at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight back home.