Tour of Saudi Arabia and Oman

Day 1 | Arrival in Riyadh

An Arabian welcome awaits you upon your arrival in Riyadh. You will be taken to the hotel by private transfer, where you can spend the rest of the day as you please.

Day 2 | Riyadh's highlights

After a hearty breakfast, your day in Riyadh begins with a visit to the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, where you’ll discover the country’s rich history through archaeological finds and interactive exhibits. Next, you’ll visit the iconic Masmak Fort, a symbol of the modern kingdom, and the Murabba Palace, which offers a glimpse into Riyadh’s royal past.

Next, you’ll explore the traditional Souq al-Zal and the Bisht Market, where you’ll find authentic crafts and souvenirs. After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll return to your hotel to relax. The day ends with a special dinner hosted by a Saudi family, where you’ll experience warm Arabian hospitality (“hafawah”) and local cuisine.

Day 3 | KAFD, Edge of the World, and Diriyah

The day begins in Riyadh with a visit to the impressive King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the ultimate symbol of Saudi Arabia’s modern ambitions. This futuristic district, with its iconic skyscrapers and innovative architecture, is one of Riyadh’s most striking highlights and reveals a completely different side of the kingdom.

Next up is one of the absolute highlights of any tour of Saudi Arabia: the spectacular Edge of the World. This breathtaking natural wonder is known for its dramatic cliffs, endless vistas, and pristine desert landscape. Here, enjoy traditional Arabic coffee, tea, and dates while taking in the impressive silence and beauty of this unique location.

In the evening, you’ll visit Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historic birthplace of Saudi Arabia. You’ll explore the charming streets, visit the Diriyah Museum, and admire the impressive 3D light show projected onto the walls of Salwa Palace. The day concludes in style with dinner at one of Diriyah’s excellent restaurants, where history and gastronomy come together.

Day 4 | The Harrat viewpoint, Elephant Rock and AlUla city

In the morning, you’ll fly from Riyadh to AlUla, one of Saudi Arabia’s most spectacular destinations, famous for its breathtaking landscapes and ancient culture. You’ll start with a visit to the Harrat viewpoint, considered to offer the most beautiful panorama in AlUla. Here, you’ll stand literally on the edge of a vast lava field, looking out over deep ravines, a green oasis, and endless desert landscapes—a breathtaking setting that ranks among the absolute highlights of any tour of Saudi Arabia.

Next, you’ll visit the iconic Elephant Rock, an imposing natural sandstone formation shaped by centuries of erosion. At sunset, this 50-meter-high rock comes spectacularly to life in warm, golden hues—an unforgettable photo opportunity in AlUla.

Next, you’ll explore the historic Old Town of AlUla, where you’ll wander through a maze of narrow streets and centuries-old mud-brick houses. This authentic place is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into traditional life of the past. Round off the day with a delightful dinner in AlUla, after which you’ll return to your hotel for a relaxing evening and a comfortable night’s rest.

Day 5 | Hegra, the AlUla Oasis and the Maraya Concert Hall

Today, you’ll discover the archaeological highlights of AlUla, one of Saudi Arabia’s most extraordinary destinations. You’ll visit Hegra (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the impressive Nabatean city where ancient tombs, inscriptions, and rock formations bring its rich history to life—an absolute must-see on any tour of Saudi Arabia.

Next, you’ll explore the lush AlUla Oasis, where palm groves, botanical gardens, and traditional mud-brick houses create a haven of tranquility. You’ll walk along historic qanats (irrigation channels) and discover how local agriculture has flourished here for centuries. For lunch, you’ll enjoy fresh, locally inspired dishes at a charming restaurant in the oasis, overlooking the lush fields.

The day concludes at the iconic Maraya Concert Hall, an architectural masterpiece with a fully mirrored facade that reflects the desert landscape. Afterward, you’ll dine in the beautifully restored old town of AlUla, where fine dining and history come together.

Day 6 | Hot-air balloon ride in AlUla (optional)

Start your day early with a unique hot-air balloon ride over AlUla. Soar to an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the spectacular canyons, green oases, and ancient rock tombs of Hegra—one of Saudi Arabia’s absolute highlights. From the air, you’ll experience AlUla’s impressive landscapes and more than 200,000 years of history in an unforgettable way.

After this unique experience, you’ll have the rest of the day to yourself, so you can continue exploring AlUla at your own pace or relax at your hotel.

Day 7 | Medina, the heart of Islam

In the morning, you’ll travel by comfortable transfer (approx. 4 hours) from AlUla to Medina, one of the two holy cities in Saudi Arabia and visited by millions of pilgrims every year. The absolute highlight is the imposing Mosque of the Prophet, the spiritual heart of the city. During lunch, you’ll enjoy a stunning view of this iconic complex, where—with a bit of luck—you’ll see thousands of worshippers gathering. Afterward, you’ll visit a modern museum and admire the mosque from the outside.

You will then continue your journey in comfort by high-speed train to Jeddah, where you will arrive in the early evening. You’ll end the day on a relaxing note with a stroll along the charming Corniche, the Red Sea’s premier gathering spot, featuring beautiful promenades, views of the famous fountain, and a vibrant local atmosphere. The evening concludes with dinner at one of the excellent restaurants along the coast.

Day 8 | The Red Sea and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al-Balad

Start your day with a snorkeling excursion in the Red Sea, one of the most beautiful diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. You’ll be picked up from your hotel at 9:00 AM for a boat trip to a stunning snorkeling spot, where you’ll discover Saudi Arabia’s impressive underwater world. Swim among colorful coral reefs, spot exotic fish, and experience the exceptional biodiversity of the Red Sea. Lunch will be served on board, after which you’ll return to the hotel around 1:00 PM. The afternoon is free to spend as you wish.

In the early evening, you’ll explore the historic Al-Balad district in Jeddah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most authentic places in Saudi Arabia. Wander through charming alleyways, lively souks, and traditional houses, and experience the unique atmosphere of this ancient neighborhood. The day concludes with dinner at an excellent seafood restaurant on the waterfront.

Day 9 | Flight to Muscat and self-drive to Tiwi (165 km – 1.5 hours)

You’ll fly from Jeddah to Muscat in the morning, the starting point of your visit to Oman. Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be personally escorted to the Primeclass Lounge, where all entry formalities will be efficiently handled for you while you relax after your flight. As soon as you have collected your luggage, you will be escorted to your rental car, and your self-drive adventure along Oman’s spectacular coastline begins.

You’ll follow the scenic coastal road along the eastern Hajar Mountains, one of the country’s most beautiful routes. Your first stop is the Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm Park), an impressive limestone crater with clear turquoise water—perfect for a refreshing dip. Next, you’ll discover two of Oman’s most beautiful wadis: Wadi Tiwi and Wadi Shab. Wadi Tiwi surprises with green oases and crystal-clear pools, while Wadi Shab is known for its spectacular gorges, hiking trails, and swimming spots.

At the end of the day, you’ll arrive in the authentic coastal village of Tiwi, where you’ll check into your hotel and have plenty of time to reflect on your first impressions of Oman.

Day 10 | Hike through Wadi Mibam and self-drive to Wahiba (160 km – 2 hours 10 minutes)

After a traditional breakfast at your nature lodge, you’ll start the day with a private excursion through Oman’s impressive canyon. During this guided hike, you’ll discover the hidden terraced fields of the mountain village, after which you’ll descend to the spectacular turquoise waterfalls of Wadi Mibam. Here, you’ll enjoy a refreshing swim and explore the unique vertical oases of this remote gorge—one of the most beautiful nature experiences in Oman.

Please note that spending more time in the wadis may mean you have less time left to visit Sur.

After this nature experience, you’ll leave the lush coastal region and continue your journey inland. If you’d like, you can stop along the way in Qalhat, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mausoleum of Bibi Maryam. You will then continue your journey to Sur, a historic port city that was once an important trading hub on routes between Africa, India, and Asia. Here, for example, you can visit a traditional dhow shipyard, where authentic Omani wooden ships are still built using centuries-old techniques without nails or glue.

From Sur, you’ll continue inland and, after about 200 kilometers, reach Bidiyah, the gateway to the Wahiba Sands Desert. Here, you’ll need to lower your tire pressure before driving into the dunes. Along the route, there are several tire service stations and gas stations where you can have this done.

Day 11 | Self-drive from the desert into the mountains (250 km – 4.5 hours)

After a magical night in the Omani desert, where the silence of the Wahiba Sands and the breathtaking starry sky make for an unforgettable experience, you’ll bid farewell to the desert landscape in the morning and continue your journey toward Jabal Akhdar.

Along the way, you’ll make a special stop at Al Jarda, home to Abood’s farm—an authentic farmstead that offers a unique glimpse into traditional rural life in Oman. Abood, whose real name is Abdullah, is both the farm’s founder and a passionate guide who proudly shows visitors around his native region. When he is traveling, the farm is managed with the same dedication by his family and close friends, who welcome guests with characteristic Omani hospitality.

During your visit to Abood’s farm, you’ll discover daily life in the Omani countryside. You’ll stroll past vast mango and date palm plantations, fruit orchards, and farmland where everything is cultivated with care and respect for tradition. Animals also play an important role in farm life, with goats, cows, turkeys, rabbits, and pigeons contributing to the lively and authentic atmosphere.

In the farm’s traditional majlis, you’ll enjoy a simple yet flavorful lunch, prepared with fresh produce straight from the land. This culinary experience offers a unique introduction to the warmth, hospitality, and simplicity of Omani cuisine.

Next, the climb to Jabal Akhdar begins. Please have your identification documents ready for a brief checkpoint along the way. You will then enjoy a spectacular panoramic drive through the Hajar Mountains, one of Oman’s most beautiful mountain regions. At an altitude of over 2,000 meters, you will arrive at your hotel, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views and a unique overnight stay in the mountains.

Day 12 | Day off in Jabal Akhdar

Today is yours to spend as you wish. Jabal Akhdar is the perfect place for hiking, mountain biking, and/or relaxing by the pool.

Day 13 | Self-drive from Nizwa to Muscat (2.5 hours)

After a relaxing stay at Jabal Akhdar, you’ll begin the drive back to Muscat, once again passing through Oman’s impressive landscapes. You’ll pass through the charming mountain village of Birkat Al Mawz. Here, you can stop at your leisure and soak up the authentic atmosphere, surrounded by date plantations, traditional goat farms, and the famous aflaj irrigation systems, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oman.

You’ll also stop in Nizwa, the historic capital of Oman and one of the country’s most important cultural highlights. You’ll explore the lively Nizwa Souk, known for its handmade silverware, Bahla pottery, and iconic khanjars. Afterward, you’ll visit the imposing Nizwa Fort, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding Hajar Mountains from the tower.

After these cultural discoveries, you’ll continue your tour of Oman toward Muscat. Along the way, enjoy the varied landscape of mountains and desert plains, and you’ll arrive in the capital in the afternoon or evening. Here, you’ll check in at your hotel and wind down the day in relaxation.

Day 14 | The Magic of Muscat (60 km – 1 hour 20 minutes)

You will be picked up at your hotel at 9:00 a.m., and the half-day tour of Muscat will begin. You’ll start with a visit to the impressive Sultan Qaboos Mosque, one of Muscat’s most iconic landmarks and an absolute highlight of any tour of Oman.

You’ll then drive through the city, passing through the diplomatic quarter and the Royal Opera House, and visit the lively fish market, the National Museum, or the Bait Al Zubair Museum, as well as the charming Muttrah Souk—one of Oman’s oldest markets. The tour ends along the picturesque Corniche in the historic heart of Muscat, where you’ll have a view of Al Alam Palace, beautifully situated between two imposing Portuguese forts.

Day 15 | A memory to last a lifetime

Unfortunately, it’s already time to say goodbye to enchanting Saudi Arabia and Oman. With a suitcase full of memories, you’ll head back home. A private transfer will take you to the airport for your return flight.

Tour of Saudi Arabia and Oman

Introduction to the Saudi Arabia and Oman Tour

What makes this tour of Saudi Arabia and Oman unique?

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