5-Day Saudi Arabia Itinerary For Aussies (Plus Safety Tips)
We went on a 4-day trip to Saudi Arabia in November, and let me tell you – it made our top 3 destinations! We didn’t see that coming, either.
Our Saudi Arabia itinerary was the very definition of jam-packed, with 2 days in Jeddah and the other 2 in AlUla. It was incredible but SO exhausting, and we left so much on the table.
That’s why we’d recommend spending at least 5 days in the country, excluding the time travelling to and back. 7 to 10 days would be better if you want to visit Riyadh as well.
This openness to tourists is thanks to their “Vision 2030” project. They’ve been renovating ancient buildings (like the Old Town of Jeddah, beautiful btw) to bring more tourism to the country.
Which also means they’re being much more flexible regarding non-Muslim visitors! For example, tourist women are not expected to wear hijabs.
We’re glad this happened, Saudi truly surprised us! The people are so warm and friendly, the food is to die for and there’s so much to do! Plus a bit of things to know before going to make sure you are welcomed by the locals.
That’s where this guide comes in.
We’ll take you through our itinerary, packed with must-see spots like Jeddah’s Floating Mosque, the iconic Elephant Rock, and even a detour to Riyadh if you’ve got extra time.
Plus, we’ll share tips on where to stay, what to pack, and how to make your trip smooth and stress-free!
Table of Contents
But first… travel essentials for Saudi Arabia
🎉 Activities: These are some of the best tours of Saudi Arabia
❤️🩹Insurance: Protect yourself and your loved ones with the best travel insurance for Australians
📞 eSIM: Grab a local eSIM and stay connected at all times!
💰 Payments: This is the bank we use when we travel overseas, it has the best exchange fees to SAR, plus a FREE debit card!
🛏️ Accommodation: Book your stay here
✈️ Flights: Great deals on flight tickets here
🚗 Car Rentals: Compare these two rental companies to find the best deal for you: Rental Cars and Discover Cars
Day 1-2: Jeddah itinerary
Jeddah is the beating heart of Saudi Arabia’s tourism scene, sitting right on the edge of the Red Sea. It’s the perfect mix of old-world charm and modern flair, with plenty to keep you busy for two days!
Here are some things to do in Jeddah during your stay:
Old Town (Al-Balad)
Start your visit with a stroll through Al-Balad, Jeddah’s historic district and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The area is known for its beautifully restored mud houses, which have intricate timber windows and little shops out of them!
It’s easy to get lost (in the best way) as you explore the winding streets. You’ll find heaps of opportunities to shop for trinkets, spices, and handmade stuff.
🤩 Visit Al-Balad’s historic sites on this guided tour, including traditional merchant houses, bustling souks, and an old café serving local beverages: Historical & Heritage Tour in Jeddah Al Balad
Floating Mosque
Make your way to Jeddah’s waterfront to visit the Floating Mosque, officially known as Al Rahma Mosque.
It’s built on stilts over the water, so the mosque seems to hover above the Red Sea. It’s particularly beautiful during sunrise or sunset when the colours of the sky reflect off the water!
From there, you can take a walk along the Jeddah Corniche to enjoy the seaside atmosphere.
Non-Muslims aren’t allowed inside during prayers, but the exterior is worth the trip for its unique design.
TeamLab Museum
For something totally different, head to the TeamLab Museum! It’s an immersive light museum.
The museum’s interactive installations react to your movement and touch, making each visit feel unique. Plan to spend at least an hour exploring the exhibits.
Book tickets in advance, as it can get busy! You can get them here.
Snorkelling Bayadah Islands
The Bayadah Islands are just off the coast of Jeddah, and have some of the best snorkelling in the region!
Although we didn’t get the chance to visit this time, it’s high on our list for the next trip.
To get there, you can book a boat tour through local operators. It’s worth reserving in advance, especially during peak seasons.
🤩 Head out from Jeddah on a boat trip to Bayadah Island, where you can snorkel among coral reefs, sunbathe, or simply relax on the water: Jeddah: Bayadah Island Boat Trip with Snorkeling Option
Hike Moon Valley
Moon Valley is a must for those who love a nice hike. It’s a desert landscape just outside Jeddah that has unusual rock formations, making it feel as if you were walking on the Moon!
We couldn’t fit it into our itinerary this time, but lots of people recommended doing this! They told us to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat.
🤩 Trek through Moon Valley’s rugged terrain and take in the sweeping desert views before unwinding with Arabic coffee at sunset: 4 Hours Charming Moon Valley Hike Experience in Jeddah
Where to stay in Jeddah?
As a tourist hub, Jeddah has a wide variety of places to stay at! You can take your pick. Here are some recommendations:
Best budget-friendly stay: Ibis Jeddah City Center. Great location and is very luxe for the price! Has a pool, terrace, a fitness centre… Great for couples.
Best mid-range stay: Andalus Habitat Hotel. This is a 4-star hotel with an excellent location, too. It’s great for families and groups, as there are rooms for up to 7!
Best luxury: Jeddah Hilton. It’s the Hilton so it’s hard to get more luxurious than that! Guests rave about the comfy beds.
Click here for more accommodation options in Jeddah!
Where to eat in Jeddah
These are some epic places to choose from:
- Nafoura ($$$) Located in the luxurious Park Hyatt Jeddah, this restaurant serves a variety of Arabic, Italian, Lebanese, Mediterranean, and seafood dishes, plus an impressive selection of desserts.
- The Bay Restaurant ($$) A favorite for authentic Indian fine dining in Jeddah, offering everything from street food classics like samosas to flavorful gravies and kababs. Don’t miss the complimentary Rose Halwa to cap off the warm hospitality and delicious meal!
- Sarmad Restaurant ($$) serves a variety of Middle Eastern dishes in a spacious setting with traditional decor. It’s a top choice for authentic regional flavors in a cozy and welcoming ambiance.
- Ghazal Restaurant ($$) blends Lebanese, Italian, and international flavors in a spacious and inviting setting. With a play area for kids, live music, and shisha, it’s perfect for a laid-back dining experience.
- Khayal Restaurant ($$) Known for its delicious grilled meats, fresh bread, and mezze, this popular Turkish spot in Jeddah offers a true taste of Turkey in a vibrant setting.
Day 3: Travel to AlUla
Today, take a short 1.5-hour flight from Jeddah to AlUla, an ancient oasis city and the heart of Saudi Arabia’s desert landscapes.
The journey is quick and easy, giving you plenty of time to settle in and start exploring!
If you’re not too wiped out from travelling, head to AlUla Old Town after checking into your accommodation:
AlUla Old Town
Much like Jeddah’s, AlUla Old Town has gorgeous mud-brick buildings that are now home to shops, cafes, and artisan stalls.
Take your time wandering through the narrow alleyways, browsing local crafts, and maybe grabbing a bite to eat.
The evening atmosphere there is especially magical, with soft lights illuminating the ancient walls.
🤩 Walk through the narrow alleyways of AlUla Old Town with a guide and explore its 900 houses, 500 shops, and historic town squares: AlUla Old Town Experience
Where to stay in AlUla?
We stayed at The House Hotel and boy, it was one of the most amazing hotels we’ve EVER stayed at.
They light 1,700 candles every single night! It makes the whole place look like the Arabian Nights song, with the clearest night sky you’ll ever see.
It’s a luxury stay so it’s on the expensive side, but it’s epic and worth staying for at least one night. Check it out here!
Here are more options:
Best budget-friendly stay: Hotel AlUla. It’s an excellent option if you’re travelling in a group of up to 7! The rooms have kitchen included.
Best mid-range stay: Beitk Al-ula Apartments. These are fully equipped apartment units in an excellent location. Sleeps up to 4!
Luxury: Cloud 7 Residence AlUla. If you want a luxe experience without breaking the bank, this is an excellent option! Perfect for couples.
Click here for more accommodation options in AlUla!
Where to eat in AlUla
AlUla has many great dining spots, such as:
- Somewhere Restaurant AlUla ($$) Nestled in an oasis of palms, this spot serves beetroot rice, wagyu baos, and kale tabouli, with a relaxing terrace and friendly service.
- Trwaga AlUla ($$) This spot takes sandwiches to the next level with creative options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Don’t miss their Saudi-style liver pastry for breakfast or the egg Trwaga and chicken shawarma Trwaga—fresh, flavorful, and absolutely worth trying!
- OKTO At Harrat Viewpoint ($$) Perched atop a mountain, this spot offers breathtaking views and a superb menu that highlights local flavors with beautifully presented dishes. The drive may be tricky, but the fresh, delicious food and serene atmosphere make it well worth the effort!
- Shrimp Nation ($$ ) Serving fresh shrimp and lobster, this welcoming AlUla restaurant is a top choice for seafood lovers.
- Zalata ($$ ) Serving high-quality food in a friendly setting, this spot is best known for its spicy tameez. The cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality will keep you coming back.
Day 4-5: AlUla itinerary
Two full days in AlUla are just right to take it all in, and trust us—you’ll remember every moment! Here are the top things to do there:
Hegra (UNESCO Heritage Site)
Hegra is home to over 100 massive and intricately carved tombs, many of which are remarkably well-preserved despite being over 2,000 years old!
It was once a bustling city along the Incense Route, which served as a vital trading hub for the Nabataean kingdom, the same civilization that built Petra in Jordan.
Nowadays, it’s Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site!
We explored Hegra on a vintage Land Cruiser tour, 100% recommend doing it this way as it really adds to the experience.
The guide drove us through the sites, sharing info about them, the Nabataeans, and some of the symbolism behind the tomb designs.
Regardless of how you visit, plan to spend a few hours there to truly take it all in!
🤩 Ride through the ancient city of Hegra in a vintage Land Rover, visiting rock-carved Nabataean tombs and key archaeological sites with a guide: Fancy Tour of Hegra in a Vintage Land Rover
Maraya Building
This was the BEST part of our visit!
Picture this:
You’re in the middle of the Arabian desert, feeling like you’re in Arrakis (Dune reference) and then you see this massive 7-story building… made out of MIRRORS.
It’s hard to explain how mindblowing this thing is. It’s a bucket-list item to see it, honestly we would go back to Saudi just to see it again.
Inside it’s just as impressive, hosting concerts, art installations, and cultural events!
Elephant Rock
This one’s exactly what it sounds like—a massive rock formation that looks just like an elephant!
The iconic Elephant Rock is a popular spot to relax and take in the desert views. The area is set up with bean bags and seating (all free) where you can chill and watch the changing colours of the rock as the sun sets.
🤩 See AlUla’s Elephant Rock up close, capture unique photos of this natural landmark, and discover the surrounding desert scenery on a guided visit: AlUla: Tour of Elephant Rock with Transportation
Hot Air Balloon Over Hegra
Few things compare to seeing AlUla and Hegra from the air! We took a hot air balloon ride above this and it was one of the highlights of our trip.
Floating above the desert at sunrise, you’ll get unbeatable views of the ancient tombs and rugged landscape below. It’s peaceful, breathtaking, and absolutely bucket-list material.
Make sure to book this experience in advance—it’s incredibly popular and spots fill up fast!
🤩 Take off at dawn for a hot air balloon ride over AlUla, where you’ll drift above Hegra’s ancient landmarks and enjoy uninterrupted desert views: Hegra Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride in AlUla
More days? Visit Riyadh!
If you’ve got extra time on your hands, a trip to Riyadh is well worth it! As the capital city, this place is the political and cultural heart of the country and a showcase of modern Saudi Arabia.
Getting there is simple, as there are frequent flights there from the main airports of the country. Once you arrive, here are some epic things to do in Riyadh:
National Museum: This museum showcases the rich history of the country, with exhibits covering everything from prehistoric artefacts to the story of the Saudi royal family.
Visit Al Masmak Fortress: Step back in time at this historic mudbrick fortress. This is a key site in Saudi history, as it’s where the unification of the kingdom began. The museum inside offers detailed exhibits on this pivotal event.
Al Bujairi Heritage Park: This beautifully designed park blends traditional architecture with modern amenities. It’s a great spot to relax, enjoy local food, and soak in some culture.
Edge of the World: A short drive from Riyadh, this dramatic cliff offers breathtaking views of the vast desert below. It’s one of the most famous hiking spots in the region!
Red Sand Dunes: For adventure seekers, the Red Sand Dunes just outside Riyadh are ideal for sandboarding, quad biking, or simply exploring the dramatic desert scenery.
4 Things to know before going to Saudi Arabia
Before heading to Saudi Arabia, it’s essential to understand local customs and practical details to make your trip smooth and respectful. Here are five key things to keep in mind:
1) Dresscode in Saudi Arabia
Women tourists are not required or expected to wear an abaya (a long, loose robe) or a hijab, but loose-fitting clothes are still expected.
Carrying a scarf to cover your hair and shoulders is useful, more so if you’re visiting more traditional areas or religious sites.
Men tourists are also expected to dress modestly, avoiding shorts above the knee and sleeveless tops in public.
Jeans and T-shirts are acceptable for everyone as long as they’re not too tight or ripped.
Tattoos don’t need to be explicitly covered by law, but it’s best to keep them hidden in more conservative areas to avoid unwanted attention.
2) Cultural etiquette in Saudi Arabia
As a tourist, please be very respectful of local customs. Items related to religions other than Islam should not be displayed openly, they’re prohibited by law.
You won’t go to jail if you wear a crucifix, but it can draw unwanted attention from the locals.
Alcohol is strictly banned, and possession or consumption can lead to severe penalties.
The right hand is traditionally used for eating, greeting, and passing items, as the left hand is considered unclean. Keep this in mind during social interactions!
Also, sadly Saudi Arabia has strict laws regarding LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex relationships are not allowed, and public displays of affection (LGBTQ+ or not) are strongly discouraged.
3) Work hours
Businesses often close briefly during the five daily prayers, each lasting about 20–30 minutes.
These prayers typically happen at dawn, midday, mid-afternoon, sunset, and evening, though the exact timing varies daily.
During Ramadan, working hours are reduced, and restaurants are typically closed during daylight hours to accommodate this.
Tourists can of course eat during Ramadan, but please do so in private to respect the locals.
4) Can you visit the Mecca and Madinah?
You can visit both cities, but non-Muslims are not allowed to enter Mecca – it is reserved for Muslim pilgrims only.
There’s a line a few metres from Mecca which is the closest non-Muslims can stand from it.
Please be a respectful tourist and do not enter if you’re not Muslim, it’s extremely disrespectful to do so!
This is a very important place for them, so their rules must be respected at all times – it’s their country after all.
As for Madinah, non-Muslims can visit it although there’s limited access to places like the Prophet’s Mosque.
How to travel to Saudi Arabia from Australia?
We travelled from Perth with a 12-hour layover in Singapore (Jewel Changi Airport). The whole trip took us around a day and a half.
We did this on purpose because we wanted to check out the Jewel Airport, and it was SO worth it! We didn’t get bored and still missed a lot, check it out:
There are flights there from all the major airports in Aussie, with 1 or 2 stops depending on where you’re travelling from. We like to book our flights from here for the best deals!
Moving around Saudi Arabia
You can rent a car in Saudi to help you move around, but keep in mind that the distances to the major cities are quite long – we’re talking 7 to 10-hour drives.
It’s much better to hop on a plane to move from one city to the other. You can rent a car at the airport to move around in the city, but keep in mind:
They drive on the left side.
The tours you want to do, some of them include pick up and drop off.
Might be cheaper to hire a cab or call an Uber if it’s available, depending on how long you’re staying.
If you decide to rent a car, compare these two car rental companies to find the best deal for you: Rental Cars and Discover Cars!
Do Australians need a visa for Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Australian citizens need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia.
Obtaining it is quite straightforward, as you can apply online for an electronic visa (eVisa). It’s typically valid for one year, allowing multiple entries, with each stay up to 90 days.
Before applying, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date.
For the most current information, consult the Saudi eVisa portal and the Australian Government’s Smartraveller website before your trip!
When is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia?
The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is during the cooler months, from November to February. The temperatures are milder during this time (14 °C-25°C), perfect for exploring.
The worst time to visit would definitely be the summer months, particularly from June to September – temperatures often exceed 43°C.
We went in mid-November and the weather was excellent!
Here’s our full guide on the best and worst times to visit Saudi, check it out.
What to pack for Saudi Arabia?
Packing thoughtfully for Saudi Arabia ensures a comfortable and respectful experience. Here’s a guide to help you prepare:
Clothing Essentials:
Modest Attire: Both men and women should wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs. Women are advised to carry a scarf to cover their hair, especially when visiting religious sites.
Seasonal Wear: Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton are ideal for the hot climate. However, evenings, especially in desert areas, can be cooler, so pack a light jacket or sweater.
Medications: Some over-the-counter medicines may not be readily available, so consider packing a basic first-aid kit.
Adapters and Chargers: Saudi Arabia uses Type G electrical outlets (230V, 60Hz). Get an adapter before getting there!
Also, avoid bringing items that can be considered offensive (like bibles, crucifixes, etc), or strictly prohibited (like alcohol).
How many days to stay in Saudi Arabia?
The bare minimum is 5 days, as it will allow you to visit 2 main cities. We stayed 4 and it was ROUGH, excluding the time flying to Saudi from Perth and back.
If you have the time, it would be great to stay 7-10 days, as you can cover Jeddah, AlUla, and Riyadh.
Top Tips
Avoid taking photos of government buildings, military installations, and certain public areas. And ALWAYS ask for permission before photographing locals, especially women, to respect privacy and cultural norms.
At the time of writing, avoid areas near the Yemen border due to potential missile and drone attacks. Stay informed about regional tensions and check SmartTraveller for more info.
As for crime, the rates are very low but petty theft is still a thing (like everywhere else), especially in crowded areas. Stay vigilant and secure your belongings.
Did you know?
In 1932, Abdulaziz Ibn Saud unified disparate tribal regions into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
This was the first time the Arabian Peninsula was politically united under one government in modern history. His efforts established the Saud family as the ruling dynasty, and the country’s current name reflects this legacy.
Saudi Arabia is also the cradle of Islam, hosting its two holiest cities – Mecca and Medina.
The annual Hajj pilgrimage, which draws millions of Muslims from around the world, is a cornerstone of Islamic practice.
The Kaaba in Mecca is the spiritual centre of Islam and the focal point for the daily prayers of Muslims.
FAQs
Is it safe to visit Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Saudi Arabia is generally safe to visit, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on security. But travellers should stay informed about regional tensions, avoid areas near the Yemen border, and respect local laws and customs.
The bottom line
Saudi Arabia is one of those places that truly surprises you. It’s got everything—from ancient history and jaw-dropping natural wonders to modern cities and cultural depth that keeps you wanting more.
Sure, there are a few things to keep in mind, like respecting local customs and being mindful of prayer times. But honestly, that’s all part of the charm of exploring a country that’s so different from what we’re used to!
So if you’re considering a trip, our advice is simple: go for it!
Pack your sunscreen, leave your shorts at home, and get ready to discover a side of Saudi Arabia that’s just as adventurous, warm, and welcoming as its people.
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