Saudi Arabia holidays & tours from Dubai and the UAE

Saudi Arabia is one of the most compelling new travel destinations in the world, and for UAE residents, it’s closer than you might think. Ancient Nabataean cities, dramatic desert landscapes, UNESCO-listed heritage sites and a pristine Red Sea coastline, holidays to Saudi Arabia offer genuine variety to visitors of all ages.

With flights from Dubai to Riyadh or Jeddah taking under two hours, a trip to Saudi Arabia works equally well as a short weekend break or a longer, multi-destination tour. At DW Travel, our specialists design bespoke Saudi Arabia holiday packages from Dubai to suit every travel style, handling every detail from flights and private transfers to hotels and guided experiences.

Top destinations in Saudi Arabia 

Riyadh 

The Kingdom’s capital balances heritage and ambition in equal measure. Explore the restored mud-brick district of Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of the Saudi state, then contrast it with the gleaming towers of the modern city centre. The National Museum is an excellent starting point for understanding the Kingdom’s history, while Riyadh’s dining scene has developed rapidly into one of the region’s most diverse. 

Families will find plenty to fill a long weekend, with the new Six Flags Qiddiya theme park among the city’s most exciting recent additions. 

Jeddah 

Jeddah is Saudi Arabia’s most cosmopolitan city, with the UNESCO-listed old town of Al-Balad at its heart. The coral-stone architecture, carved wooden screens, and layered souks of the historic quarter are distinct within the region. Beyond Al-Balad, the Corniche waterfront and a vibrant restaurant scene make Jeddah a rewarding destination in its own right and a natural gateway to the Red Sea for snorkelling and diving. 

AlUla 

AlUla is Saudi Arabia’s most extraordinary destination. Set in a vast sandstone valley in the northwest of the Kingdom, it is home to Hegra, the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, where rock-cut Nabataean tombs rise directly from the desert floor. The scale and preservation of the site are remarkable. 

Alongside the archaeology, AlUla offers luxury desert camps, dramatic canyon landscapes, and a growing programme of international arts and cultural events. It rewards dedicated time and is best explored as part of a longer itinerary. 

The Red Sea Coast 

Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline stretches for over 1,800 kilometres and remains one of the world’s least-explored marine environments. The coral reefs here are in exceptional condition, making it a compelling destination for divers and snorkellers. Coastal towns including Yanbu offer accessible beach stays, while the ambitious Red Sea Project is developing a new generation of ultra-luxury island resorts. 

Abha & the Asir Mountains 

For a very different experience, the Asir highlands in the southwest offer mountain scenery, cooler temperatures, and traditional hilltop villages. Abha, at over 2,200 metres above sea level, is an increasingly interesting stop for international travellers seeking something beyond the main city circuit and works particularly well as an extension to a longer tour of the Kingdom. 

Considering Umrah as part of your Saudi Arabia trip?

For many UAE travellers, a visit to Saudi Arabia is also an opportunity to perform Umrah. Whether you are planning a dedicated pilgrimage or looking to combine Umrah with time in destinations such as Jeddah or AlUla, DW Travel offers carefully arranged Umrah packages with flights, accommodation and ground services tailored to your needs. You can explore our dedicated Umrah packages or read our guides for practical travel advice and tips before you go. 

Planning your Saudi Arabia holiday with DW Travel 

DW Travel’s specialists stay closely aligned with Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving tourism landscape, new hotel openings, updated visa requirements, emerging destinations, and seasonal events, so your trip reflects the best currently on offer. 

Our Saudi Arabia holidays from Dubai can be built around your interests and pace, from a focused weekend break to a comprehensive multi-city journey taking in Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla. We handle flights, accommodation, private transfers, guided experiences, and visa assistance as required. Speak to our specialists to start planning your journey.

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia?

October to April offers the most comfortable temperatures for sightseeing, desert excursions, and exploring AlUla. The Red Sea coast is enjoyable year-round, and Abha in the mountains offers a cooler alternative during the summer months.

Do UAE residents need a visa for Saudi Arabia?

UAE nationals with a valid Emirati passport do not require a visa. Residents of other nationalities will need a Saudi tourist visa, typically available via the eVisa platform. Our team can advise on requirements and assist with applications.

How long is the flight from Dubai to Saudi Arabia?

Dubai to Riyadh is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes; Dubai to Jeddah around 2 hours 15 minutes. Multiple airlines operate frequent daily services, making the Kingdom one of the most accessible international destinations from the UAE.

Is Saudi Arabia good for a weekend break?

Yes. The short flight times from Dubai make a weekend in Saudi Arabia very straightforward. Riyadh and Jeddah both lend themselves well to two- or three-night city breaks, with enough culture, dining, and sightseeing to fill a short trip comfortably. AlUla also works as a focused long-weekend escape for those looking for something more immersive.

Is Saudi Arabia suitable for families?

Yes. Riyadh has invested significantly in family-oriented entertainment, including Six Flags Qiddiya, interactive museums, and resort hotels with excellent facilities. Jeddah’s waterfront and AlUla’s landscapes also offer memorable experiences for families travelling with children of all ages.

What should I know before travelling to Saudi Arabia?

Modest dress is expected in public spaces and at heritage sites. All restaurants and hospitality venues are halal as standard, making the Kingdom a comfortable and welcoming destination for Muslim travellers. Visitors should be aware of local customs around prayer times, and dress codes at religious sites are observed strictly.

What’s included in DW Travel’s Saudi Arabia holiday packages?

Packages are fully tailored and can include return flights, private transfers, handpicked hotels, guided tours, curated experiences, and visa assistance. Every itinerary is built around your preferences — speak to our specialists to discuss yours.