Flight+Hotel deals to Mecca

Discover upcoming Saudi experiences

The Red Sea is the world’s most ambitious luxury tourism development. It will be an exquisite sanctuary offering indulgent experiences, seamlessly customized to the unique needs of each visitor. Meanwhile, AMAALA will be an ultraluxury resort destination spanning three sites. It will be a place of self-transformation, inspired by the arts, wellness and the purity of the Red Sea. Both wonders will be open to the public from 2022.

On the other hand, Qiddiya will be the capital of Entertainment, Sports and the Arts in Saudi. It is being built around five cornerstones: Parks & Attractions, Sports & Wellness, Motion & Mobility, Arts & Culture and Nature & Environment. And NEOM will become the world’s most ambitious futuristic and sustainable ecosystem for living and working, over 33 times the size of New York. These two wonders are scheduled to be open to the public from 2023 and 2030, respectively.

Saudi culture

Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and traditions have been shaped by its position as a historic trade hub and the birthplace of Islam. In recent years, the Kingdom has undergone a significant cultural transformation, adapting centuries-old customs to fit the contemporary world. For example, while modest dress is still encouraged for both men and women — tourists are advised to avoid tightfitting clothing, and women must cover their shoulders and knees — female visitors no longer need to wear an abaya and hijab (robe and head covering). Unmarried guests to the country may now stay together in hotels, and female tourists (as well as locals) may also drive.

The official language

Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia and the first language of all native Saudi people. It is the primary language used in all public transactions and is a language spoken by Muslims all over the world. However, English, which is a compulsory second language in schools, is widely spoken in the Kingdom. And most road signs are bilingual, showing information in both Arabic and English.

Time zone

The standard time zone of Saudi is Arabia Standard Time (AST). The time zone is 3 hours ahead of GMT (GMT3+) with no daylight savings.

Getting to Saudi

With 13 international airports, served by global carriers, getting to and around the Kingdom couldn’t be easier.

1. King Khalid International Airport (RUH) – Riyadh

2. King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) – Jeddah

3. King Fahd International Airport (DMM) – Dammam

4. Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) – Medina

5. Taif International Airport (TIF) – Taif

6. Abha International Airport (AHB) – Abha

7. Hail International Airport (HAS) – Hail

8. King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (GIZ) – Gazan

9. Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ) – Qassim

10. Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (TUU) – Tabuk

11. Prince Abdulmohsin Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (YNB) –Yanbu

12. Al Jouf International Airport (AJF) – Jouf

13. Al Ahsa International Airport (HOF) – Al Ahsa

Saudi Arabia also operates 15 domestic airports, for short hops between regions. For further information, visit the General Authority for Civil Aviation.

Getting around Saudi

A first-rate transportation system connects Saudi Arabia’s provinces and cities, some of the modes of transport include car rentals, taxis, ride-hailing apps, trains and buses.

Weather in Saudi

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always hot in Saudi Arabia. The kingdom experiences four distinct seasons —from chilly winter breezes in January to peak desert heat in August —and a climate that varies between regions. Read on for a seasonal overview of the kingdom’s weather.

Spring in Saudi Mid-March to Mid-June

Spring in Saudi Arabia can be brisk, particularly in the north, where the temperature at night can drop below 15 degrees C. The central and southern regions are warmer, averaging around 20 degrees after nightfall. Rainfall is at its highest during spring, particularly in the central region and in the southwest over the Asir Mountains.

Summer in Saudi Mid-June to Mid-September

With the exception of the comparatively mild highlands in the southwest, summer signals the start of rising temperatures across most of the country, with the average hovering around 45 degrees C. The early mornings and long evenings are more temperate, so take advantage of the warm seas to explore Saudi’s world-class scuba diving sites, or try sailing and snorkeling.

Autumn in Saudi Mid-September to Mid-December

Autumn brings gentler weather and cool breezes in both Saudi Arabia’s northern regions and the southwestern highlands. While daytime temperatures remain warm and can reach the 30s in early fall, evenings are milder and fit for outdoor strolling, especially along Jeddah’s waterfront, indulging in alfresco dining or visiting Al Ahsa’s cool desert springs.

Winter in Saudi Mid-December to Mid-March

Take advantage of Saudi Arabia’s beautiful winter weather to explore the kingdom. The balmy days and cool nights are ideal for camping, rock climbing or exploring Saudi Arabia’s verdant highlands and bustling cities, from Riyadh to Jeddah. Average winter temperatures are in the teens, but visitors might be lucky enough to see snowfall in the mountains of the northern regions blanketing the slopes and desert sands.

If I book Flight + Hotel, when will I receive my travel documents?

Once the booking is confirmed you will receive a confirmation e-mail. The voucher for the hotel will be also sent by email plus the vouchers for any other services (car hire, transfer, travel insurance) if booked.

Please note that no flight tickets are sent due to most airlines using e-tickets. You only need to print our confirmation email where the Airline`s booking reference appears and take it with you to the airport with your ID/Passport documents.

Important: Some Low Cost Airlines (Ryanair, Easyjet, Wizzair, Blueair and others) now request all passengers to check-in online and print the Boarding Cards before departure through their corresponding websites. Failure to do so, these airlines will charge you a supplement at the airport.

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