Saudi
THE LAND OF PROSPECTIVE FUTURE
ABOUT SAUDI
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Arabian Peninsula with a total area of around 2,000,000 square kilometers. It is bordered by the Arabian Gulf, United Arab Emirates and Qatar in the east; Red Sea in the west; Kuwait, Iraq and Jordan in the north; Yemen and Oman in the south. Saudi Arabia’s population is 35 million as of 2018, more than a third of which are foreign residents.
GENERAL INFORMATION
CAPITAL
Riyadh
FLAG
-
OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
Arabic
POPULATION
38,401,000
TIME ZONE
UTC+3 (AST)
AREA
2,149,690 km2
CALLING CODE
+966
CURRENCY
Saudi Riyal (SAR)
DISCOVER SAUDI
ARABIAN ROOTS
Riyadh
Riyadh’s blend of medieval and millennial makes for a beguiling cultural union — one where Arabia’s first roots can be traced, and one where its bold future can be envisioned. The city’s fascinating, centuries-old history can be found within its atmospheric souqs, compelling museums, and ancient architecture, but it’s also a modern metropolis, with glittering high-rises and a burgeoning contemporary art scene. The winter months are an ideal time to visit Riyadh. Although average high temperatures in the summer can reach 44 degrees C, the top temps in December and January are in the low 20s.
Jeddah
FOR THE OLD AND MODERN
The all-year-round warm city of Jeddah, the captivating hub, invites you to be part of the millions of worldwide visitors from traders and explorers since ancient times.
Jeddah is the birthplace of worldwide arts and music, and a gathering spot for multi-vibrant cultures, a unique blend that left its mark on Jeddah’s exquisite cuisine of many fine dishes with global tastes.
When you visit Jeddah, you will have the opportunity to witness a global heritage celebrated by UNESCO, from “Historical Jeddah” to exploring the antique designs of balconies, stone walkways and ancient sidewalks, as this destination unearths secrets that have inspired both artists and writers.
Here, you will have a chance to see the best view out there of the colorful sunset shades shimmering off the divine Red Sea shores. Underwater, you won’t cease to be amazed by a magical diving experience that lets you gaze at the one-of-a-kind coral reefs, which have attracted many journeys to discover its magnificence. With that, the vibrant city continues to grant its visitors endless memorable experiences.
Makkah
THE CENTER OF THE WORLD
For many Muslims around the world, an opportunity to visit Makkah is the ultimate blessing. This is the holiest city in Islam: the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the city where the Quran was first revealed to him. It’s also a fixture in observant Muslims’ daily lives, as they orient themselves toward Makkah to pray five times a day. The annual Hajj pilgrimage to the city is one of the five pillars of the faith, but millions of people journey to the city year-round to perform the shorter Umrah pilgrimage as well.
The vast majority of the visitors are pilgrims who spend as much time as possible within the opulent complex of the Sacred Mosque, which is a lively hive of activity at all hours of the day. But if you have time to spare once you’ve completed the required steps of the Umrah, the historic city has much to offer to complement your understanding of the region and the faith itself, from museums to landmarks that were backdrops to some of the most pivotal moments of Islam’s earliest days.
Madinah
THE HOLY CITY
Medina is one of Islam’s two holiest cities, making it a key destination for millions of pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah. The city is centered around Al Masjid an Nabawi, also known as the Prophet’s Mosque, which was constructed by the Prophet himself (PBUH) and is also where he is buried. Medina is where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) lived and taught after the migration from Makkah in 622 A.D., called Hijrah. This year is so important in the history of Islam since it marks the start of the Islamic calendar. Although the city’s name is usually written as Medina in English, its full name is Al Madinah Al Munawwarah, meaning “the Enlightened City.” Because of the city’s pivotal role in the Prophet Muhammad’s life (PBUH), making a trip to Medina is a lifelong dream for many Muslims.
Dammam
THE GREEN COAST
Boasting endless views of the tranquil Arabian Gulf, Dammam is a modern metropolis that thrives on its coastal location. Although it is known for its lush green parks, airy waterfronts and sandy beaches, it is highly enjoyable in the winter, too, with daytime temperatures averaging in the low 20s Celsius during the day and around 10 degrees at night. The region also has a growing reputation as an arts, sports and entertainment destination. It is home to the kingdom’s first street-art exhibition, in Al Khobar’s Bayoonya district, and offers a range of cultural hubs and museums as well. Dip into science and innovation at SCITECH, or get your fill of pop culture at the quirky Taybeen and Alfelwah and Aljowharah museums. As evening falls, wander the walkways of Dammam's Share Al Hob souq, where you may encounter traders, performers and street musicians.
GALLERY
