17-Day Ultimate Luxury Escapes Route in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is the world's newest frontier for luxury travelers, offering a seamless blend of ancient Nabataean history and ultra-modern hospitality. This 17-day journey is meticulously crafted for those seeking an epic journey across the Kingdom, prioritizing first-class comfort, private transfers, and stays at some of the world's most prestigious hotel brands.
From the high-altitude peaks of Asir to the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, you will experience the diverse landscapes of the Arabian Peninsula. Expect private guides for historical sites like Hegra and At-Turaif, alongside exclusive dining experiences overlooking the shimmering lights of Riyadh and the historic alleys of Jeddah.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Arrival & Royal Welcome
Arrival at King Khalid International Airport
Complete your arrival with a dedicated VIP meet-and-greet service that bypasses the standard queues. Your private chauffeur will transfer you to the city center in a luxury sedan.
Check-in at The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh
Step into one of the most opulent hotels in the world, set within 52 acres of lush gardens. Enjoy the palatial architecture and high-end amenities.
Fine Dining at Bujairi Terrace
Head to the historic district of Diriyah for a world-class dinner at Hakkasan or Flamingo Room, overlooking the illuminated ruins of At-Turaif.
Evening Coffee at Tahlia Street
Experience Riyadh's vibrant nightlife and café culture on this upscale boulevard, perfect for people-watching and enjoying gourmet Arabic coffee.
Day 2: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - The Birthplace of a Kingdom
Private Tour of At-Turaif World Heritage Site
Explore the ancestral home of the Saudi Royal family. This UNESCO site is a masterpiece of Najdi architecture and historical significance.
Lunch at Najd Village
Enjoy a traditional Saudi feast in a high-end setting that replicates authentic desert hospitality, featuring Mandi and Kabsa dishes.
National Museum of Saudi Arabia
Walk through the Kingdom's history, from pre-Islamic eras to the modern unification, in a stunningly designed architectural space.
Al Masmak Fortress
Visit the iconic mud-brick fortress that played a pivotal role in the founding of the modern Saudi state, now a beautifully preserved museum.
Day 3: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Modern Horizons
Sky Bridge at Kingdom Centre
Ascend to the 99th floor for a panoramic view of Riyadh's sprawling skyline from the iconic bottle-opener shaped tower.
Luxury Shopping at Via Riyadh
Explore Riyadh's most exclusive shopping destination, featuring high-fashion boutiques and artisan shops in a Salmani architectural setting.
Jebel Fihrayn (Edge of the World)
A private 4x4 excursion to the dramatic cliffs 90 minutes outside the city. Enjoy a luxury desert setup for sunset tea with endless horizon views.
Dinner at Myazu
Indulge in contemporary Japanese cuisine at this award-winning restaurant, a favorite among Riyadh's elite and food critics.
Day 4: AlUla, Saudi Arabia - Entering the Living Museum
Domestic Flight to AlUla
Transfer to the airport for a short flight to the ancient oasis of AlUla. Your private transport will meet you at the small, boutique airport.
Check-in at Banyan Tree AlUla
Settle into a luxury tented villa nestled within the dramatic rock formations of the Ashar Valley, featuring a private pool and fire pit.
Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil)
Visit this massive natural sandstone arch at sunset. Relax in the sunken seating area of the nearby café as the rock glows orange.
Star-Gazing Dinner
Enjoy a private dinner under the vast, unpolluted desert sky, orchestrated by your resort’s culinary team.
Day 5: AlUla, Saudi Arabia - Nabataean Wonders
Private Tour of Hegra (Mada'in Salih)
Explore the UNESCO-listed tombs carved into the rock by the Nabataeans. Travel between sites in a vintage Land Rover with a personal Rawi (guide).
Lunch at Tama at Habitas
Dine at this sustainably-led restaurant offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients with breathtaking views of the valley.
Maraya Social
Visit Maraya, the world's largest mirrored building. Take photos of the structure reflecting the desert before heading to the rooftop for coffee.
Old Town AlUla Walk
Stroll through the renovated mud-brick village, browsing artisan shops selling local incense, textiles, and jewelry.
Day 6: AlUla, Saudi Arabia - Canyons & Culture
Helicopter Tour over AlUla
Get a bird's-eye view of the stunning geological formations, hidden canyons, and the vast scale of the ancient tombs.
Dadan & Jabal Ikmah
Explore the ancient capital of the Dadanite kingdom and the 'open-air library' of rock inscriptions at Jabal Ikmah.
Oasis Heritage Trail Walk
Take a guided walk through the lush date palm groves, learning about the ancient qanat irrigation system still in use today.
Dinner at Saffron
Enjoy authentic Thai flavors in the middle of the Arabian desert at this signature Banyan Tree restaurant.
Day 7: AlUla, Saudi Arabia - Wellness & Reflection
Thuraya Wellness Experience
Spend a morning indulging in spa treatments inspired by local ingredients like Moringa and dates at your resort's wellness center.
Leisure Afternoon
Relax by your private villa pool or explore the art installations scattered throughout the Ashar Valley.
Harrat Viewpoint
Drive to the top of the black volcanic plateau for a sunset view over the entire AlUla valley, looking down onto the mirrored Maraya.
Dinner at Entrecôte Café de Paris
Experience the famous Swiss steakhouse concept in the unique setting of AlUla’s Old Town.
Day 8: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia - Arrival at the Red Sea Gateway
Flight to Jeddah
Depart AlUla for the cosmopolitan port city of Jeddah. Known as the 'Bride of the Red Sea', Jeddah offers a more relaxed, maritime atmosphere.
Check-in at Shangri-La Jeddah
Stay at the city's newest landmark hotel, offering floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of the Red Sea and the Formula 1 track.
Jeddah Corniche Stroll
Walk along the modern waterfront, viewing world-class outdoor sculptures by artists like Henry Moore and Joan Miró.
Dinner at Shang High
Enjoy sophisticated Chinese cuisine with a modern twist while watching the waves of the Red Sea.
Day 9: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia - Historic Al-Balad
Private Tour of Al-Balad
Explore the UNESCO-listed old town. Marvel at the intricate Roshan woodwork (wooden balconies) and visit the historic Nassif House.
Lunch at a Local Hidden Gem
Eat traditional Hijazi food in a restored merchant's house, trying local favorites like Sayadieh (fish and rice).
Souq Al Alawi
Wander through the Kingdom's oldest market, where the scent of spices and oud fills the narrow alleyways.
King Fahd’s Fountain
Watch the world's tallest fountain shoot water over 300 meters into the air, illuminated against the night sky.
Day 10: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia - Maritime Elegance
Tayebat Museum
Visit this massive privately-owned museum complex that showcases four floors of Saudi history, crafts, and Islamic art.
Lunch at Marina Yacht Club
Dine among the luxury yachts at the Jeddah Yacht Club, enjoying Mediterranean-inspired seafood.
The Floating Mosque
Visit the Al-Rahma Mosque, built on pillars over the sea. It is particularly beautiful during high tide when it appears to float.
Dinner at Nobu Jeddah
End your stay in Jeddah with a world-class meal at Nobu, located in a striking waterfront building.
Day 11: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia - Private Sea Adventure
Private Yacht Charter
Spend the day on a private yacht exploring the reefs of the Red Sea. Enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters away from the crowds.
Gourmet Lunch on Board
Your private chef will prepare a fresh seafood lunch while you anchored near a secluded sandbar.
Sunbathing & Water Sports
Enjoy jet-skiing or simply relax on the deck as you cruise back toward the Jeddah skyline.
Evening at Leisure
A free evening to explore the luxury boutiques of Red Sea Mall or enjoy the spa at your hotel.
Day 12: Red Sea, Saudi Arabia - The New Frontier
Flight to Red Sea International (RSI)
Fly from Jeddah to the Kingdom’s newest luxury destination. This carbon-neutral airport is an architectural marvel in itself.
Boat Transfer to Ummahat Island
Board a luxury speedboat or seaplane for a short transfer to your private island resort.
Check-in at The St. Regis Red Sea Resort
Settle into your overwater villa, featuring 24-hour butler service and direct access to the pristine reef.
Sunset Cocktails & Dinner
Enjoy curated mocktails at the beach bar followed by a Mediterranean dinner at Gishiki 45.
Day 13: Red Sea, Saudi Arabia - Marine Wonders
Guided Scuba Diving
Explore the fourth-largest barrier reef system in the world, home to untouched coral gardens and diverse marine life.
Beachside Picnic Lunch
Relax on a private stretch of white sand with a gourmet picnic basket prepared by the resort.
Kayaking through Mangroves
Take a guided eco-tour through the mangrove forests, learning about the local ecosystem conservation efforts.
Private Beach BBQ
Celebrate your journey with a private bonfire and barbecue dinner on the sand under the stars.
Day 14: Red Sea, Saudi Arabia - Sustainable Luxury
Morning Yoga & Meditation
Join a sunrise wellness session on the deck overlooking the turquoise waters.
Coral Restoration Workshop
Visit the resort's marine lab to learn how they are growing coral to protect the Red Sea's future.
Sunset Sailing
Board a traditional dhow for a sunset cruise, a peaceful way to end your time on the islands.
Tasting Menu at Tilina
Dine at the resort's signature overwater restaurant, offering a multi-course menu inspired by the flavors of the Arabian Peninsula.
Day 15: Abha, Saudi Arabia - Mountains of Asir
Flight to Abha
Fly from the coast to the high-altitude city of Abha, known for its cool climate and green mountains.
Check-in at Blue Inn Boutique
Stay at the city's premier high-end hotel with views over the foggy peaks of the Sarawat Mountains.
Al Muftaha Art Village
Explore the colorful galleries and murals of this cultural hub, where local artists showcase traditional Asiri 'Qatt' painting.
High Point Viewpoint
Take the cable car up to the Green Mountain for a stunning view of the city lights as the evening fog rolls in.
Day 16: Abha, Saudi Arabia - Heritage & Clouds
Rijal Almaa Village
Take a private drive to this breathtaking gingerbread-like stone village. Explore the multi-story buildings and the local museum.
Traditional Lunch in the Valley
Enjoy a rustic but premium meal in the valley below Rijal Almaa, featuring honey and local grains.
Soudah Peaks
Visit the highest point in Saudi Arabia. Enjoy the cool air and the sight of wild juniper trees and Arabian baboons.
Dinner at a Mountain Lodge
Dine at a luxury lodge overlooking the clouds, focusing on farm-to-table ingredients from the Asir region.
Day 17: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Final Farewells
Return Flight to Riyadh
Fly back to the capital for your final day. Store your luggage at the airport or book a day room for comfort.
Last Minute Souvenirs at Souq Al Zal
Purchase high-quality carpets, incense, or traditional cloaks (Bisht) as a memento of your journey.
High Tea at the Globe
Enjoy a final luxury experience with high tea inside the golden sphere of the Al Faisaliah Tower.
International Departure
Your private chauffeur will ensure you arrive at King Khalid International Airport three hours before your flight home.
Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia
The best time to embark on this luxury journey is between October and March. During these months, the weather is pleasantly cool across most of the country, making it ideal for exploring the desert sites of AlUla and the mountains of Abha. Riyadh and Jeddah are also much more comfortable for walking during this period. Avoid the peak summer months (June to August) as temperatures can exceed 45°C (113°F), making outdoor activities difficult.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Saudi Arabia is a highly modernized economy, and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and American Express) are accepted almost everywhere, from high-end malls to small boutique shops in AlUla. However, it is useful to carry a small amount of cash for tips and traditional markets. Tipping is not mandatory but is increasingly appreciated in luxury settings; 10-15% is standard for excellent service.
Getting Around Saudi Arabia
For a 17-day luxury itinerary, domestic flights are the most efficient way to travel between major regions like Riyadh, AlUla, Jeddah, and Abha. Saudia Airlines offers a premium business class service on these routes. Within cities, private chauffeured cars or high-end ride-sharing apps like 'Careem' (specifically the 'Limo' or 'Executive' categories) are the preferred methods. For the Jeddah-Medina route, the Haramain High-Speed Railway offers a world-class first-class cabin experience.
