When the climate becomes a reason to travel
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Saudi Arabia is no longer associated only with scorching heat and endless deserts. Different regions have different climates throughout the year, which means that you can always find comfortable conditions for recreation here. It’s great in the south in winter, and in the north in summer, where there is no sweltering heat. In a country where traditions and innovations are intertwined, everyone will find something to their liking: beach lovers can relax on the coast, connoisseurs of history can explore ancient cities, and adventurers can conquer mountain peaks. |
This is an ideal place for those who are tired of monotonous resorts and crave new experiences. Saudi Arabia opens the doors to a world where history and modernity are intertwined at every turn. The sincere hospitality of the locals is staggering. The unique traditions that have developed over the centuries create a special atmosphere that will forever remain in the memory of all who have visited the country of luxury, original architecture and the harmonious sound of the muezzin.
When the climate becomes a reason to travel
Many people think they know everything about the climate of Saudi Arabia. However, even in this hot country, there are places with surprisingly comfortable temperatures. In summer, a cool temperate climate prevails in the mountains and along the coast of the Red Sea: on the coast the temperature stays at 27 ° C, and in the mountains it drops to 24 °C.
Here you can relax under the summer sea breeze and admire the beautiful sunsets, as well as explore the picturesque national parks with lush vegetation.
Asir Mountains: a paradise for romantics and adventurers
In the heart of Saudi Arabia, among the majestic Sarawat mountain ranges, hides the real pearl of the country — the Asir Mountains. The main peak of Al-Souda rises 3,000 meters. The average temperature in the season is about 24°C, and for those who appreciate the beauty of the Alps or the Pyrenees, Asir will be a real discovery.
The Asir Mountains are a real paradise for adventure lovers. Here you can go kayaking, paragliding, hiking or riding an electric bike. A walk along the picturesque hiking trails stretching over 6,500 km from the coast of the Red Sea to the peaks of the mountains will allow you to get acquainted with the diverse flora and fauna, as well as admire the views. There are plenty of hotels, apartments and private houses in Asir, especially in the Abha area, ranging from classic hotels to modern chalets or authentic wooden huts. Barbecue under the stars and the fabulous atmosphere of the evening mountains will not leave even the most pragmatic traveler indifferent.
3-day Asir tour
Day 1.Start your journey with the cable car in Abha at an altitude of about 1600 m. The length of the route is approximately 3 km. The trailers offer stunning views of the mountains, valleys and traditional villages of Asira.
Day 2. Visit the Asir National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its juniper forests and wildlife. For an exciting adventure, you can choose one of the many hiking trails.
Day 3. Rijal Almaa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique architecture. His visit is scheduled for the first half of the day. And in the second, you can go to Wadi Lajab is a valley with high rock formations.
Taif: the city of roses in the clouds
Another place worth visiting this summer is the city of Taif. This city on the eastern slopes of the Sarawat Mountains is located at an altitude of about 1,700 meters above sea level. It is always comfortable, cool and has a special atmosphere.
Taif is known for its fresh fruits and berries: grapes, pomegranates and figs. But the main pride of the city is the Taif rose. Its persistent and captivating fragrance wins the hearts of all the guests of the region.
Taif is not only a beautiful nature, but also a rich culture. There are many historical monuments, lively markets and unique gardens. The city is famous for the annual Taifa Rose Festival, an event that attracts many tourists.
The most interesting thing in 3 days in Taife
Day 1. Taif’s rose gardens are a must for any guest. The breathtaking beauty of the gardens with vast expanses of bright blooming roses is a sight worth seeing. And then at one of the local rose factories to see how the famous Taifa roses turn into perfume.
Day 2. Taif is home to the Shubra Palace, the former summer residence of the royal family, built in 1905, an example of a mix of Islamic, Roman and Hejazi architecture. Now it is a museum with an extensive collection of exhibits and one of the most famous monuments of the city. The Sharif Al Museum is one of the largest private storages of history in the country. Its special feature is weekly auctions of artifacts.
Day 3.Mount Al-Hada is a picturesque mountainous area with winding roads, panoramic views and a cool climate. There is a cable car leading to the top, which offers impressive views of the valleys and the surrounding area. Al Hada is also known for its wildlife park and the opportunity to watch the sunsets of incredible beauty.
Al-Baha province is an ideal place to relax from the hustle and bustle of the city
Al-Baha is a picturesque region in the south of Saudi Arabia, where nature and history create a harmonious union. Juniper, acacia and olive trees grow here, dense forests stretch and bright flowers are fragrant. The temperate climate makes these places ideal for relaxing and immersing yourself in the local culture. This region is reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands: dense forests, majestic mountains and stunning waterfalls delight the eye, while historic villages, museums and markets open a window into the past.
3 days in Al-Baha
Day 1. Visit to the Museum of Antiquities and Heritage of Al-Baha. It tells the rich history of the region through artifacts and exhibits that tell about the life and traditions of the ancestors. It’s definitely worth checking out the local craft shops, which sell unique handmade items.
Day 2. A trip to Mount Shada, where hiking trails are available and stunning views of the surrounding area are available. You can take a ride on the cable car, and end the day with a walk to the waterfalls or in Khaira Forest Park, where there are equipped recreation areas.
Day 3. Marble Village of Zee Located on a hill overlooking the valley, Ain is famous for its ancient history, unique architecture and a source of fresh water. It is famous for its white stone houses. It is included in the UNESCO list.
Summer on the Red Sea coast
Jeddah is a city on The Red Sea, a modern cosmopolitan center where traditions and innovations are intertwined. Art and gastronomy flourish here, and various cultural events and activities are organized. Jeddah has always been open to merchants, artists and pilgrims from all over the world, due to its advantageous geographical location.
The ancient city of Al-Balad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its narrow streets, unique architecture and bustling oriental bazaars create a special atmosphere. Al Balad is also known for its scuba diving opportunities, diverse underwater life, coral reefs, and water sports.
The Red Sea — one of the treasures of the world. It is surrounded by the world’s fourth largest coral reef system, covers an area of more than 28,000 square kilometers and includes an archipelago of more than 90 pristine islands. There are wild beaches, dormant volcanoes, wide sand dunes, mountain canyons and historical cultural sites.
The Red Sea is home to 175 species of coral, 195 species of fish, and endangered rare animals such as the bissa sea turtle. In order to avoid harmful effects on the environment, the annual number of visitors to the region is limited to one million people.
Full immersion into the atmosphere of the region in 3 days
Day 1. The morning begins with a visit to the Al-Rahma Mosque, known as the Floating Mosque. Then tourists go to the historic district of Al-Balad, where they walk along its narrow streets with traditional coral stone houses.
Day 2. Exploring the Jeddah waterfront: a scenic walk along the route, extending over 30 kilometers. And in the evening, a tasting of fresh seafood at the Corniche restaurant. Jeddah Yacht Club is one of the most spectacular places on the Red Sea. Luxury yachts, modern restaurants and stunning views. The tower in the shape of a sailing mast is a real symbol of the club and an ideal background for vivid photos.
Day 3.The third day can be spent on the Red Sea coast in the suburbs of Jeddah — fishing, kayaking, jet skiing or just relaxing on the beach will be an excellent way to complete the route. There are both private resort areas with white sand and infrastructure, as well as beaches at hotels where you can spend time in comfort.
Saudi Arabia: The land of opportunity
Saudi Arabia is not only rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, but also a modern region with a well—developed recreation and entertainment infrastructure. There is something interesting for everyone here, from historical excursions to beach holidays. Initiatives to simplify the visa regime make visiting the country even more convenient.
Music that will set you up for a harmonious summer vacation
Back in 2023, Visit Saudi and Anghami, the leading music app in the MENA region, created four unique summer playlists for traveling around Saudi Arabia. And today they will help create the perfect atmosphere for a holiday in this country.:
- ● The Red Sea Beach Vibes — for relaxing on the Red Sea beach.
- ● Mountain Disconnect — for privacy in the mountains.
- ● AlUla Wellness — for harmony and relaxation.
- ● City Summer Weekends — for vivid impressions in urban everyday life.
Even now, these compositions will be an excellent addition to the summer acquaintance with the Kingdom.
Visa formalities have become easier
Visiting Saudi Arabia is now easier than ever. Visa initiatives are constantly being improved. The e-visa program covers 66 countries, including Russia, the United Kingdom, and The EU and special administrative regions.
Russian citizens traveling as tourists can obtain a visa for a maximum stay of 90 days. They are allowed to stay for a total of 180 days during the year. The validity period of the passport for obtaining a visa and entry into Saudi Arabia must be at least 6 months old. The visa is multiple-entry and is valid for 1 year from the date of issue.
How can Visit Saudi help travel agents and tourists?
Visit Saudi strives to introduce Saudi Arabia to the whole world and invite travelers to discover the diversity of this amazing country. The agency actively promotes the tourist opportunities of the destination by organizing information and advertising campaigns and providing a variety of travel planning resources. On the visitsaudi portal, you can always find special offers from tour operator partners in Russia and a whole collection of unforgettable trips.
Saudi Arabia, as one of the fastest growing tourist destinations, is becoming a magnet for tourists. With its spectacular sights and unique experiences, it offers everything you need for an exciting journey.
Contacts:
Olga Demina — odemina-c@sta.gov.sa
Country Manager, Russia for Saudi Tourism Authority
Alsu Orazova — aorazova-c@sta.gov.sa
Head of Trade, Russia for Saudi Tourism Authority
Diana Sarkisyan — dsarkisyan-c@sta.gov.sa
PR & Marketing Manager, Russia for Saudi Tourism Authority
www.visitsaudi.com