A Dive into the Shadows of Saudi Arabia
Written by: Patrizia Struchel (Product Manager)
What an unexpected surprise to be invited by Saudi Tourism for a trip to Saudi Arabia, a country that until recently was inaccessible to non-Muslims. Located on the Arabian Peninsula, Saudi Arabia offers not only a wealth of history but also shines with breathtaking natural beauty. During your journey through this land, you will be immersed in a rich and vibrant culture where tradition and modernity coexist. From the modern urban marvels of Jeddah and Riyadh, where luxurious hotels and architectural masterpieces meet local markets and exotic cuisine, to the surprising discoveries that this country has to offer, Saudi Arabia is ready to be explored.
The Many Faces of Riyadh
Upon arrival in the capital city of the country, it is already night. The Middle Eastern atmosphere is palpable, with coffeehouses open late into the night and people in traditional clothing gathering under the palm trees on benches. After a short night, the exploration of Riyadh begins. An pleasant surprise awaits us at Souq Al Zal, Riyadh’s traditional market where local products, crafts, and souvenirs can be found. It is an engaging place to experience the local culture and cuisine. We enjoy an authentic meal at Najd Village, a restaurant where we sit on beautiful rugs and cushions in the shade, while delicious dishes are served and we eat with our hands. It is fascinating to see how our Saudi travel group, dressed in long white dishdashas, eats without making a stain, while this is not entirely the case for the Western group.
The authentic district of Al Deiriyah makes the biggest impression. This historic site, the birthplace of the first Saudi state, houses beautifully preserved houses and city walls. The unique charm of Al Deiriyah, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is unmistakable. We explore the winding alleys that once buzzed with merchants and pilgrims selling their goods. The renovated pedestrian area is filled with atmospheric and excellent restaurants, making it a perfect ending to our stay in Riyadh.
The Oases and Deserts of Al Ula
On the way to Al Ula, the desert stretches out before us like an endless sea of sand. Like true locals, we make a stop at a panoramic spot, where we roll out a beautiful woven rug and enjoy a picnic with local delicacies and sweet tea, while marveling at the breathtaking view. Once we arrive in Al Ula, it feels as if we have stepped into a fairy tale, straight out of the stories of One Thousand and One Nights. We continue driving to a striking geological rock formation that resembles an elephant, a perfect place to relax with a refreshing mocktail as the sun sets, cloaked in shades of purple and orange. The next morning, we get up early for an adventurous ride in a turquoise jeep to Hegra, the crown jewel of Al Ula. Here lie the mystical tombs of the Nabataean civilization. In the desert, we feel the ancient history of the earth like never before. These mystical monuments, carved out of the desert rocks, are like gateways to a distant past, where legends and history merge. Our lunch takes place at a surprisingly modern and trendy Italian restaurant nestled amidst the green oasis of Al Ula. In the evening, we stroll through "The Old Town," a beautifully restored part of Al Ula filled with history and charm. Here, you will find atmospheric coffee bars, cozy restaurants, and picturesque souvenir shops. It is a place where the local people love to spend their evenings, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and nostalgic vibe. But the highlight of our journey awaits us the next morning: a hot air balloon ride over the stunning desert of Al Ula. Floating over mountains, Hegra, and oases, we are enchanted by the breathtaking landscape, an experience that leaves an indelible impression.
MEDINA, THE HOLY CITY
The holy city of Medina is a place filled with spiritual significance and historical grandeur. Located in the heart of Saudi Arabia, this city is a pilgrimage site for millions of Muslims from around the world. The jewel of Medina is undoubtedly the impressive mosque, which rises as an architectural masterpiece from the cityscape. With its lush domes, elegant minarets, and expansive courtyards, this mosque is not only a place of worship but also a breathtaking symbol of Islamic culture and history. Women are expected to cover their hair and wear the traditional abaya, a long, loose cloak that covers the body. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the mosque gates, but you can get a good impression from the sidelines. In a local restaurant, the most delicious Arabic dishes are served. To my delight, there is also "Kabsa," a flavorful rice dish often considered the national dish of the country. Kabsa consists of spiced rice served with tender meat, such as chicken, lamb, or beef, along with vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, and onions. The wide variety of desserts also made a strong impression, as Medina is famous for its many sweet treats.
JEDDAH, ON THE RED SEA
We board the towering and ultra-luxurious high-speed train, traveling in just 2 hours to the vibrant port city of Jeddah in complete comfort. We arrive just in time for a beautiful experience along the coastal boulevard, better known as the Corniche. As the sun slowly sets on the horizon, you see the locals bringing their mats, accompanied by teapots, delicacies, and a sense of togetherness. On the Corniche, they gather for the so-called "sunset celebration," enjoying the stunning spectacle of the setting sun while chatting. Naturally, we adapt effortlessly and quickly find a spot on a mat, where we soon strike up conversations with our neighbors. Before we know it, we are treated to delightful nuts and pastries—a warm welcome in this lively city.
One of the most striking features of Jeddah is the old district of Al Balad, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you will find beautiful old houses, traditional markets, and historic sites dating back to the 7th century. But there are also surprisingly trendy coffee shops and ice cream parlors. A wonderful place to wander around, especially after sunset when the temperature drops. Jeddah also has a thriving modern side. The city is known for its vibrant art scene, with galleries and art installations reflecting its creative energy. Additionally, Jeddah is famous for its impressive modern architecture, with skyscrapers and shopping malls dominating the skyline. And anyone leaving Jeddah without snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea has missed out. At the coral reef, we feel like we're in the Maldives, surrounded by a rainbow of colorful fish near the stunning coral. As we head back to the harbor, we are farewelled by a playful school of dolphins, making this day in Jeddah unforgettable.
In short, Saudi Arabia surprised me with its rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly people. It is a destination that certainly deserves a spot on your bucket list.
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