3 Weeks in Saudi Arabia: Complete 2026 Travel Guide

Planning 3 weeks in Saudi Arabia gives you the rare chance to explore the Kingdom beyond the typical highlights. With a country this geographically diverse—towering mountains, ancient archaeological sites, coral reefs, deserts, and modern mega-cities—three weeks allows you to slow down, connect with locals, and truly understand Saudi culture. This updated 2025 guide helps you craft the perfect itinerary covering history, nature, food, and adventure.

3 Weeks in Saudi Arabia
3 Weeks in Saudi Arabia

Travel Logistics for 2026

Visas & Entry Requirements

Saudi Arabia continues to offer an eVisa for citizens of over 50 countries. The tourist eVisa is valid for one year, allows multiple entries, and permits stays of up to 90 days per visit. Apply on the official portal or at airport kiosks.
Tip: Always check for updates before traveling, as visa agreements expand regularly.

Budgeting

Saudi Arabia can be budget-friendly or luxurious depending on your choices:

  • Budget hotels: USD 40–70 per night

  • Mid-range hotels: USD 80–150

  • Luxury hotels: USD 200–600+

  • Car rental: USD 50–65 per day

  • Domestic flights: USD 40–150 depending on region

A car gives the most flexibility, while domestic flights help save time across long distances.

Health & Safety

Saudi Arabia is very safe for travelers in 2025. Petty theft is rare but still possible in busy Souqs. Drink plenty of water, especially in coastal and desert regions. Hospitals in major cities are excellent; rural regions have limited facilities. Travel insurance is recommended.

Stunning architectural design of the Riyadh Metro Station with intricate ceiling patterns and modern interiors.

Week 1: Central & Eastern Regions

Riyadh – The Capital of Contrasts (3 Days)

Begin your 3 weeks in Saudi Arabia in Riyadh, where ancient heritage and futuristic design meet. Don’t miss:

  • National Museum – comprehensive Saudi history

  • Masmak Fortress – birthplace of modern Saudi identity

  • Diriyah (UNESCO) – the restored mud-brick capital of the first Saudi state

  • Misk Art Institute – contemporary art and cultural exhibitions

  • King Abdullah Financial District – modern architecture, cafés, and events
    If schedules align, attend a football match or cultural festival.

Al-Ahsa Oasis – UNESCO Wonder (2 Days)

Travel east to Al-Ahsa, one of the world’s largest natural oases with over 2.5 million palm trees. Explore:

  • Traditional souqs, pottery workshops

  • Jawatha Mosque, among the oldest in Arabia

  • Ibrahim Palace and historical forts
    Al-Ahsa is known for hospitality, dates, and handcraft traditions.

Ha’il & Jubbah – Rock Art & Desert Landscapes (1 Day)

Drive north to Ha’il for heritage and Bedouin traditions. Visit:

  • Jubbah (UNESCO), home to 10,000-year-old petroglyphs

  • Majestic red sand dunes
    Camp in the desert under a sky full of stars.

Dammam & Half Moon Bay – Eastern Coast (1 Day)

Relax in Dammam and enjoy:

  • Half Moon Bay beaches

  • Heritage Village cultural displays

  • Fresh seafood on the Corniche
    Optional: Day trip to Bahrain via the King Fahd Causeway.

Week 2: Red Sea Coast & Mountain Regions

Jeddah – Historic & Modern Hejaz (4 Days)

Fly or drive to Jeddah, the gateway to Mecca and the hub of Red Sea culture. Must-see experiences include:

  • Al-Balad (UNESCO) – coral-stone houses and traditional alleys

  • Floating Mosque – serene and photogenic

  • Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum – quirky and historic

  • Jeddah Corniche – bike, walk, or dine along the coast

  • Obhur Creek – snorkeling and private beaches
    Jeddah’s food scene is unmatched. Try:

  • Saleeg (creamy rice with chicken)

  • Mantu dumplings

  • Fresh Red Sea seafood

Taif – The City of Roses (1 Day)

Drive up the mountains to Taif, known for its cool climate and rose farms. Explore:

  • Shubra Palace

  • Rose distilleries

  • Cable cars & mountain viewpoints

Abha & Asir Mountains – Culture & Nature (3 Days)

Continue south to Abha, the capital of the Asir region. Highlights include:

  • Art Street

  • Rijal Almaa Village (UNESCO) – multi-story stone houses with museums

  • Jabal Soudah – Saudi’s highest peak with hiking trails

  • Traditional Asiri cuisine

  • Evening cultural performances

Temperatures here are cooler year-round, making it one of the best outdoor destinations.

taif festival

Week 1: Central & Eastern Regions

Stunning underwater view of a coral reef with sunlight filtering through in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia.

Week 3: Southern Coast & Northern Wonders

Jazan & Farasan Islands (2–3 Days)

Fly to Jazan for a subtropical change of scenery.

  • Visit Farasan Islands for pristine beaches, dolphins, coral reefs, and WWII-era relics

  • Tour coffee farms in Faifa mountains

  • Taste local sidr honey, considered the best in Saudi Arabia

Tabuk – Red Sea Adventure & Desert Valleys (3 Days)

Head north to Tabuk, a gateway to some of Saudi Arabia’s most impressive natural wonders.

  • Dive the Georgios G shipwreck

  • Snorkel vibrant reefs

  • Explore Tabuk Castle, once a caravan stop

  • Drive to Maqna valley to see the Springs of Moses

  • Hike Wadi Al Disah, a canyon with soaring sandstone cliffs and palm oases

Al-Jawf & Sakaka – Ancient Civilizations (1–2 Days)

Travel inland to see:

  • Al-Rajajil Standing Stones – ancient monoliths over 6,000 years old

  • Marid Castle – mud-brick fortress overlooking the region

Return Through Ha’il or Dumat Al Jandal

End your journey exploring more rock art, lakeside views, and quiet desert towns before heading back to Riyadh.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

To make your 3 weeks in Saudi Arabia feel immersive:

  • Attend a camel race

  • Join a women’s cooperative in Abha to learn Al-Qatt Al-Asiri painting

  • Wander spice markets in Khamis Mushait

  • Follow the old Hejaz Railway for unique photography

  • Join a stargazing group in the desert

Accommodation Recommendations

Mixing styles allows you to experience authentic Saudi hospitality:

  • Date farm stays in Al-Ahsa

  • Coral-stone heritage houses in Jeddah

  • Mountain lodges in Abha

  • Diving camps in Tabuk

  • Eco-lodges in deserts and oases

Dining Guide

Saudi cuisine varies dramatically by region:

  • Riyadh: Kabsa, Mutabbaq

  • Jeddah: Mantu, Bukhari rice

  • Asir: Haneeth, Areeka

  • Najran: Mandi, Margoog

  • Coasts: Seafood stews, grilled fish
    Vegetarians can enjoy lentil stews, grilled eggplants, hummus, salads, and breads.

Transportation Planning

For an efficient 3-week itinerary:

  • Use domestic flights for long distances

  • Rent a car for exploring mountains, deserts, and national parks

  • Use the Haramain High-Speed Railway between Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina

  • Consider private drivers for remote routes like Wadi Al Disah

Cultural Etiquette & Language

Saudi Arabia has diverse dialects and tribal customs. Key tips:

  • Dress modestly in traditional towns

  • Avoid photographing people without permission

  • Learn basic Arabic greetings

  • During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public
    Respect for local culture brings rewarding interactions.

F.A.Q.

Yes. Three weeks is an excellent amount of time to explore Saudi Arabia’s major regions—including Riyadh, Jeddah, Abha, Tabuk, Al-Ahsa, and Jazan. You’ll be able to combine cities, desert landscapes, mountains, oases, and Red Sea activities without rushing.

Most travelers can apply for a Saudi eVisa, which is valid for multiple entries and allows stays of up to 90 days. The eVisa process is done online and usually takes only a few minutes. Be sure your passport is valid for at least six months.

Saudi Arabia is considered very safe for travelers. Major cities have strong security, and crime rates are low. Travelers should follow normal precautions: avoid isolated areas at night, keep valuables secure, and follow local laws and cultural guidelines.

The best time to visit is November to March, when temperatures are comfortable in the desert, coastal, and mountain regions. Summer can be extremely hot, especially inland, but high-altitude destinations like Abha and Taif remain cooler.

Yes. Saudi Arabia has modern highways, good domestic flights, and reliable trains. Renting a car is the best option for flexibility, especially for visiting mountains, canyons, and rural villages. Domestic flights save time when traveling long distances between regions.

Spending 3 weeks in Saudi Arabia allows you to experience everything from prehistoric rock art to futuristic cities, from cool mountain retreats to red-sand deserts and bustling coastal hubs. This itinerary gives you time to wander, explore, and connect with Saudis across different regions, experiencing a country undergoing rapid transformation while still holding strong to its traditions.