Explore Saudi Arabia

Introduction to Saudi Arabia
With coastlines on the Red Sea and Persian Gulf, plus swathes of desert in between, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a land of spectacular dunes and mountains. Home to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, it’s the spiritual birthplace of Islam and a deeply conservative society. IHG’s wide range of accommodations includes affordable or luxury hotels in Riyadh, Jeddah and Makkah, among other cities.

Currency
Saudi Arabian riyal (SAR)

Official language
Arabic

Climate
Mostly desert with cool winters and extremely hot summers (typically over 100°F)

Arriving from the airport
King Abdulaziz International Airport is 15 miles north of central Jeddah. King Khalid International Airport is 22 miles north of the capital, Riyadh. Travel time 30 minutes by taxi (average SAR80–90)

Getting around Saudi Arabia

• SAPTCO intercity buses – buy tickets online or at stations
• Metered taxis

Top Saudi Arabia sightseeing

• Riyadh’s 19th-century mud-brick Masmak Fortress
• National Museum’s interactive history displays
• Jeddah’s Al-Balad district, featuring ruins of coral-block merchant houses
• Ancient tombs of Madain Saleh

Top experiences

• Shopping for carpets, jewelry and spices in souks like Riyadh’s Souq al Thumairi or Jeddah’s Souq al Alawi
• Diving Red Sea coral reefs
• Touring fragrant rose farms in Ta’if