19-Day Ultimate Luxury Escapes Route in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of the world's most compelling luxury destinations, offering a unique blend of ancient history and futuristic vision. This 19-day journey is designed for the discerning traveler who seeks deep cultural immersion without sacrificing the comforts of world-class hospitality, private transport, and Michelin-starred dining.
Throughout this epic journey, you will travel via first-class domestic flights and private luxury SUVs, staying in iconic properties ranging from the palatial Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh to the sustainable luxury of Banyan Tree AlUla. Prepare to witness a country transforming at high speed while maintaining its timeless soul.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Arrival & Royal Welcome
VIP Arrival at King Khalid International Airport
Enjoy a seamless arrival with the private 'Ahlan' service, whisking you through customs and into a waiting luxury limousine for transfer to your hotel.
Check-in at The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh
Settle into one of the world's most opulent hotels, featuring 52 acres of landscaped gardens and stunning fountain-filled plazas.
Fine Dining at Al Orjouan
Indulge in a lavish buffet featuring a fusion of international and Middle Eastern flavors in a setting of marble and chandeliers.
Sky Bridge at Kingdom Centre
Take the high-speed lift to the 99th floor for panoramic views of Riyadh's illuminated skyline from the iconic 300-meter high bridge.
Day 2: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Heritage and High Culture
Private Tour of At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site
Explore the birthplace of the first Saudi state in Diriyah, with a private guide explaining the mud-brick Najdi architecture.
Lunch at Bujairi Terrace
Enjoy a sophisticated lunch overlooking the historic ruins at one of the world-renowned restaurants like Hakkasan or Flamingo Room.
National Museum of Saudi Arabia
Navigate through the Kingdom's history, from pre-Islamic times to the modern era, in this state-of-the-art facility.
Evening at Boulevard City
Experience the vibrant energy of Riyadh's premier entertainment zone, featuring luxury shopping and world-class performances.
Day 3: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - The Desert Edge
Souq Al-Zal Cultural Exploration
Wander through Riyadh's oldest market, where you can find high-quality incense, traditional cloaks (bisht), and antique daggers.
Private SUV Expedition to Edge of the World
Depart in a luxury 4x4 for a private guided excursion to the Tuwaiq Cliffs, offering breathtaking views over the desert floor.
Luxury Desert Sundowners
Enjoy a premium picnic setup with traditional coffee and dates as you watch the sun set over the dramatic limestone cliffs.
Dinner at Globe Restaurant
Dine inside the golden sphere of the Al Faisaliah Tower, offering sophisticated European cuisine and 360-degree city views.
Day 4: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Modern Art & Leisure
JAX District Art Galleries
Explore the contemporary art scene in Riyadh’s industrial-chic district, home to many of the country's most famous modern artists.
Leisure Lunch at Via Riyadh
Experience Riyadh’s most exclusive luxury shopping and dining destination, designed in the Salmani architectural style.
Spa Afternoon at Al Faisaliah
Indulge in a signature treatment at the world-class ladies' or men's spa, featuring luxury products and serene environments.
Dinner at Myazu
Savor contemporary Japanese cuisine at this award-winning restaurant, a favorite among Riyadh's elite.
Day 5: Riyadh to AlUla, Saudi Arabia - Journey to the Oasis
First Class Flight to AlUla
Fly with Saudia to AlUla North Airport, where you will be met by a private luxury resort transfer.
Check-in at Banyan Tree AlUla
Arrive at your tented villa nestled within the Ashar Valley, featuring a private pool and stunning rock formation views.
Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil) Sunset
Relax in a sunken lounge area near this massive natural geological wonder as the golden hour illuminates the red sandstone.
Dinner under the Stars at Saffron
Experience authentic Thai flavors in the middle of the Arabian desert at Banyan Tree's signature restaurant.
Day 6: AlUla, Saudi Arabia - The Nabataean Legacy
Private Tour of Hegra (Mada'in Salih)
Explore the southern capital of the Nabataean Kingdom in a vintage Land Rover, visiting the iconic Tomb of Lihyan son of Kuza.
Farm-to-Table Lunch at AlUla Oasis
Enjoy a fresh, organic meal under the shade of palm trees at one of the local sustainable farms.
Dadan and Jabal Ikmah
Discover the ancient history of the Lihyanite and Dadanite kingdoms, including the famous 'open-air library' of rock inscriptions.
Maraya Concert Hall Viewings
Visit the world's largest mirrored building, which reflects the surrounding desert beauty, followed by dinner at the rooftop restaurant, Maraya Social by Jason Atherton.
Day 7: AlUla, Saudi Arabia - Adventure and Wellness
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight
Soar above the desert landscape and ancient ruins for a perspective of AlUla that few ever see.
Thuraya Wellness Experience
Return to your resort for a guided meditation and holistic treatment at the Habitas AlUla wellness center.
AlUla Old Town Exploration
Walk through the labyrinth of mud-brick houses and the restored 'Incense Road' shopping area for unique local crafts.
Stargazing at AlGharameel
A private desert excursion to see the Milky Way in a zero-light-pollution environment, accompanied by a traditional dinner.
Day 8: AlUla, Saudi Arabia - Canyons and Creativity
Ashar Valley Helicopter Tour
Take a 30-minute luxury helicopter flight for a breathtaking aerial view of Elephant Rock and the Nabataean tombs.
Lunch at Tama at Habitas
Enjoy a contemporary fusion menu using ingredients sourced from the AlUla oasis in a stunning canyon setting.
Art AlUla – Outdoor Installations
Tour the permanent and seasonal large-scale art installations located throughout the desert landscape.
Farewell Dinner at Entrecôte Le Relais de l'Entrecôte
Dine at the AlUla Old Town branch of the famous Parisian bistro for a touch of European flair.
Day 9: AlUla to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia - The Great North
Private Luxury Transfer to Tabuk
Embark on a scenic drive across the northern deserts in a premium SUV, heading toward the Tabuk region.
Wadi Al Disah Expedition
Stop for a private gourmet lunch inside the stunning 'Valley of the Palm Trees,' surrounded by massive sandstone pillars.
Check-in at Grand Millennium Tabuk
Relax at the city's premier luxury hotel, which pays homage to the historic Hejaz Railway.
Traditional Tabuk Feast
Enjoy local delicacies such as Mansaf in a high-end, private dining setting arranged by your guide.
Day 10: Tabuk, Saudi Arabia - Canyons and Coasts
Maghaer Shuaib (Al-Bad') Visit
Explore these ancient carved tombs, similar to Hegra, which are steeped in the history of the Prophet Shuaib.
Picnic at the Catalina Shipwreck
Visit the famous 50-year-old aircraft wreck on the beach of Ras Al-Sheikh Hameed on the Red Sea coast.
Spring of Moses (Maqna)
Visit the legendary wells and crystal-clear waters of the Maqna valley before heading back to the city.
Dinner at the Hotel's Signature Restaurant
Enjoy a quiet evening at the Grand Millennium, preparing for your flight to the Red Sea coast.
Day 11: Tabuk to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia - The Bride of the Red Sea
Flight to Jeddah
Travel south to the cosmopolitan port city of Jeddah, a gateway for pilgrims and a hub for Red Sea trade.
Check-in at The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah
Overlooking the Red Sea and King Fahd's Fountain, this palatial hotel offers the ultimate in coastal luxury.
Sunset Walk on the New Jeddah Corniche
Stroll along the manicured waterfront, home to sculptures by Henry Moore and Joan Miró.
Seafood Dinner at Twina
Savor the catch of the day at Jeddah’s most famous upscale seafood restaurant, where you can choose your fish fresh from the ice.
Day 12: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia - UNESCO Heritage
Private Tour of Al-Balad
Explore the historic district of Jeddah, famous for its coral-stone houses with intricate wooden Roshan balconies.
Traditional Lunch at Al-Tayebat Museum
Dine near this massive museum complex that showcases four floors of Saudi culture and Islamic history.
Luxury Shopping at El Khayyat Center
Browse the flagship stores of global luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton in Jeddah's high-fashion hub.
Dinner at Nusr-Et Steakhouse
Enjoy a theatrical dining experience at the world-famous steakhouse located within the Shangri-La complex.
Day 13: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia - Red Sea Waters
Private Yacht Charter
Spend the day on a private luxury yacht, cruising the Red Sea for snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Floating Mosque (Al Rahma)
Visit this stunning mosque built over the sea, which appears to float during high tide.
King Fahd's Fountain Show
Watch the world's tallest fountain shoot water over 300 meters into the air, best viewed at sunset.
Dinner at Shang Palace
Experience award-winning Chinese cuisine with a modern twist at the Shangri-La Jeddah.
Day 14: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia - Modernity & Leisure
Art Exploration at Athr Gallery
Visit one of Saudi Arabia's leading contemporary art spaces, showcasing pioneering Saudi and international artists.
Lunch at Kuuru
Enjoy world-class Nikkei cuisine (Japanese-Peruvian fusion) in one of Jeddah's most trendy and high-end locations.
The Red Sea Mall VIP Shopping
Experience the Espace VIP lounge while personal shoppers assist you with your luxury purchases.
Farewell Red Sea Dinner at Blue Ocean
A relaxed yet premium dining experience on the edge of the Fakieh Aquarium with views of the waves.
Day 15: Jeddah to Abha, Saudi Arabia - The Misty Mountains
Flight to Abha
Fly to the capital of the Asir region, located in the Sarawat Mountains at 2,200 meters above sea level.
Check-in at Abha Palace Hotel
Stay at the city's most established luxury hotel, offering spectacular views of the lake and mountains.
Cable Car to Green Mountain (Jabal Thera)
Ride the cable car for an aerial view of the city, which turns into a glowing green beacon at night.
Traditional Asiri Dinner
Sample the unique flavors of the southern region, known for its use of local honey and spice blends.
Day 16: Abha, Saudi Arabia - Heritage of the Clouds
Private Tour of Rijal Almaa Heritage Village
Explore this 900-year-old village famous for its multi-story gingerbread-style stone houses and colorful interiors.
Mountain Peak Picnic
Enjoy a luxury picnic setup at Soudah, the highest point in Saudi Arabia, surrounded by juniper forests and wild monkeys.
Al-Muftaha Art Village
Walk through the beautiful murals and galleries of this creative hub located in the heart of old Abha.
Dinner at High Point Restaurant
Dine at one of the city's highest restaurants, offering fresh air and panoramic mountain vistas.
Day 17: Abha, Saudi Arabia - The Hanging Village
Excursion to Habala Village
Visit the 'Hanging Village' located on a cliff face, historically accessible only by rope ladders, now reachable by cable car.
Lunch at Al-Basta District
Enjoy a meal in the historic heart of Abha, where old bridges and traditional buildings have been preserved.
Shada Palace Museum
Tour this former royal residence, now a museum housing local crafts and historical artifacts of the Asir region.
Abha Dam Lake Evening
Enjoy a quiet walk by the lake followed by a premium coffee at one of the upscale lakeside cafes.
Day 18: Abha to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - The Final Return
Return Flight to Riyadh
Take your final domestic flight back to the capital for your last night in the Kingdom.
Check-in at Al Faisaliah Hotel
Experience the height of service with your personal butler at this Riyadh landmark.
Last Minute Souvenir Shopping at Tayebat City
Purchase high-end Saudi dates, luxury perfumes, and local jewelry as mementos of your journey.
Grand Farewell Dinner at LPM Restaurant & Bar
Celebrate the end of your epic journey with world-class French Mediterranean cuisine in a chic, upscale setting.
Day 19: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Farewell to the Kingdom
Lazy Breakfast at the Hotel
Enjoy a final decadent breakfast spread before preparing for your international departure.
Private Transfer to KKIA
Your luxury SUV will transfer you to the airport, ensuring you arrive in plenty of time for your flight.
First Class Lounge Relaxation
Spend your final hours in Saudi Arabia enjoying the premium amenities and hospitality of the international lounge.
Departure
Board your flight home, carrying memories of an epic journey through the heart of Arabia.
Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia
The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is during the cooler months from October to March. During this period, the weather in Riyadh and the northern deserts is pleasant for outdoor exploration, while the mountains of Abha remain refreshing. Jeddah and the Red Sea coast are ideal for water activities throughout the winter. Summer (June to August) should be avoided as temperatures can exceed 45°C (113°F), except for the high-altitude regions of Abha.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR), which is pegged to the US Dollar ($1 USD = 3.75 SAR). Credit cards are universally accepted in luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and malls. However, carrying some cash is recommended for smaller purchases in traditional souqs. Tipping is becoming more common in upscale establishments; a 10-15% tip is appreciated for excellent service but not mandatory.
Getting Around Saudi Arabia
Intercity travel is most efficient via domestic flights, with Saudia and flyadeal offering frequent connections between Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, and Abha. For a luxury experience, always book First or Business Class. Within cities, private chauffeur services or high-end car rentals like Sixt and Hertz are the preferred methods. The Haramain High-Speed Railway also connects Jeddah to Medina and Mecca in record time for those visiting the holy cities.
