# Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia is a vast desert kingdom in the Middle East, known for its oil wealth, Islamic holy sites, and rapidly modernizing cities. It's home to Mecca and Medina, Islam's two holiest cities, attracting millions of pilgrims annually. The country is undergoing significant social and economic reforms, blending traditional culture with contemporary developments. **Key facts** - Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR) - Languages: Arabic - Timezone: Arabia Standard Time (GMT+3) - Best known for: Islamic holy sites, oil production, vast deserts, modern architecture, camel racing ## Cities - [Al Ahsa](https://firstrowtravel.com/destinations/middle-east/saudi-arabia/al-ahsa.md) — 1 hotel - [Al Khobar](https://firstrowtravel.com/destinations/middle-east/saudi-arabia/al-khobar.md) — 3 hotels - [Al-ʿUla](https://firstrowtravel.com/destinations/middle-east/saudi-arabia/al-ula.md) — 1 hotel - [AlUla](https://firstrowtravel.com/destinations/middle-east/saudi-arabia/alula.md) — 1 hotel - [Ḩanak](https://firstrowtravel.com/destinations/middle-east/saudi-arabia/anak.md) — 5 hotels - [Jeddah](https://firstrowtravel.com/destinations/middle-east/saudi-arabia/jeddah.md) — 7 hotels - [Khuff](https://firstrowtravel.com/destinations/middle-east/saudi-arabia/khuff.md) — 1 hotel - [Mecca](https://firstrowtravel.com/destinations/middle-east/saudi-arabia/mecca.md) — 5 hotels - [Medina](https://firstrowtravel.com/destinations/middle-east/saudi-arabia/medina.md) — 1 hotel - [Riyadh](https://firstrowtravel.com/destinations/middle-east/saudi-arabia/riyadh.md) — 10 hotels - [Yanbu](https://firstrowtravel.com/destinations/middle-east/saudi-arabia/yanbu.md) — 1 hotel ## Hotels in Saudi Arabia - [Six Senses AlUla](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/alula/six-senses-alula.md) (5-star, AlUla, not yet open) — Six Senses AlUla is planned for a natural oasis in AlUla, where palm groves sit beneath red sandstone cliffs in a region known for Nabatean heritage and Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The resort is scheduled to open in… - [InterContinental Durrat Al Riyadh Resort & Spa by IHG](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/riyadh/intercontinental-durrat-al-riyadh-resort-spa-by-ihg.md) (1-star, Riyadh) — A sprawling green resort in Riyadh with 162 rooms, suites, and private pool villas, plus six dining venues, a full spa, and multiple pools across 154,000 sqm. - [Kimpton KAFD Riyadh by IHG](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/riyadh/kimpton-kafd-riyadh-by-ihg.md) (5-star, Riyadh) — Stylish hotel in Riyadh's KAFD district with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and a restaurant serving American and Middle Eastern cuisine, plus free WiFi and easy access to Riyadh Park. - [InterContinental Jeddah by IHG](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/jeddah/intercontinental-jeddah-by-ihg.md) (1-star, Jeddah) — On Jeddah's Corniche road, this hotel offers pool, spa, fitness center, and dining options including Annafora Café — just 5 minutes from the city's commercial center. - [Miraval the Red Sea](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/hanak/the-st-regis-red-sea-resort.md) (5-star, Ḩanak) — Beachfront 5-star resort on the Red Sea with a private beach, outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, and bar — plus kids' club and evening entertainment for a complete stay. - [Four Seasons Resort and Residences Red Sea at Shura Island](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/hanak/the-red-sea-edition.md) (5-star, Ḩanak) — Beachfront hotel on the Red Sea with a private beach, outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, and bar. Rooms have sea views, terraces, and coffee machines. Airport shuttle available. Red Sea International Airport is 13 miles away. - [SLS The Red Sea](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/hanak/sls-the-red-sea.md) (5-star, Ḩanak) — A beachfront 5-star resort on the Red Sea with an outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, kids' club, and multiple restaurant options including Italian, Japanese, and Portuguese cuisine. - [Jumeirah Jabal Omar Makkah](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/mecca/jumeirah-jabal-omar-makkah.md) (5-star, Mecca) — The 5-star Jumeirah Jabal Omar Makkah offers luxurious rooms steps from Masjid Al Haram in Mecca. Guests enjoy city views, diverse dining options, and modern amenities in this centrally located sanctuary. - [Shangri-La Jeddah](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/jeddah/shangri-la-jeddah.md) (5-star, Jeddah) — The 5-star Shangri-La Jeddah offers luxurious rooms with sea views, a rooftop pool, and spa facilities, all just steps from Jeddah's Corniche and a short drive from the airport. - [Rosewood Jeddah](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/jeddah/rosewood-jeddah.md) (5-star, Jeddah) — This sleek 5-star Jeddah hotel offers panoramic Red Sea views, a rooftop pool, and upscale dining, blending luxury amenities with easy access to the city's business and shopping districts. - [The St. Regis Red Sea Resort](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/anak/the-st-regis-red-sea-resort.md) (5-star, Ḩanak) — The St. Regis Red Sea Resort in Ḩanak offers a luxurious 5-star beachfront escape with stunning sea views, exceptional dining, and world-class amenities including a spa, pools, and private beach access. - [Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/anak/nujuma-a-ritz-carlton-reserve.md) (5-star, Ḩanak) — Luxurious 5-star Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Ḩanak, offering beachfront serenity with private pools, spa facilities, and sea views. Indulge in gourmet dining and personalized service at this exclusive coastal retreat. - [The St. Regis Riyadh](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/riyadh/the-st-regis-riyadh.md) (5-star, Riyadh) — The St. Regis Riyadh offers 5-star luxury in the heart of Saudi Arabia's capital, featuring an outdoor pool, diverse dining options, and elegant rooms with modern amenities, just minutes from key attractions. - [The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/riyadh/the-ritz-carlton-riyadh.md) (5-star, Riyadh) — This opulent 5-star Riyadh hotel offers marble halls, 6 restaurants, an indoor pool, and luxurious rooms near King Abdulaziz Convention Center, blending Arabian elegance with modern amenities. - [Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jeddah](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/jeddah/assila-a-luxury-collection-hotel-jeddah.md) (5-star, Jeddah) — Assila, a 5-star luxury hotel in Jeddah, offers a rooftop pool, spa, and city views, blending modern amenities with Arabian hospitality just minutes from popular malls and King Abdulaziz International Airport. - [The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/jeddah/the-ritz-carlton-jeddah.md) (5-star, Jeddah) — The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah, a 5-star beachfront hotel, offers luxurious rooms with sea views, a spa, and international dining. Located near Jeddah Corniche, it's ideal for both relaxation and exploring the city. - [JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/riyadh/jw-marriott-hotel-riyadh.md) (5-star, Riyadh) — The 5-star JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh offers sleek, modern rooms with city views, two pools, and a spa in the heart of Saudi Arabia's capital, just minutes from King Abdullah Financial District. - [Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/riyadh/mandarin-oriental-al-faisaliah-riyadh.md) (5-star, Riyadh) — Luxurious 5-star hotel in Riyadh, offering elegant rooms, 24-hour butler service, six restaurants, and a high-end spa. The Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah blends Arabian charm with modern sophistication. - [Kempinski Hotel & Resort Sariya Yanbu](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/yanbu/kempinski-hotel-resort-sariya-yanbu.md) (5-star, Yanbu) — This 5-star Yanbu retreat boasts a private beach, marina, and infinity pool overlooking the Red Sea, offering luxurious rooms, diverse dining options, and a serene spa just 12 miles from the city center. - [Kempinski Hotel Al Othman-Al Khobar](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/al-khobar/kempinski-hotel-al-othman-al-khobar.md) (5-star, Al Khobar) — This luxurious 5-star hotel in Al Khobar offers spacious rooms, diverse dining options, a spa, and an indoor pool, with easy access to the business district and shopping malls. - [Six Senses Southern Dunes, the Red Sea](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/khuff/six-senses-southern-dunes-the-red-sea.md) (Khuff) — Six Senses Southern Dunes in Khuff offers a luxurious desert retreat with spa facilities, outdoor pool, and diverse dining options. Enjoy yoga, cycling, and stunning views while experiencing Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. - [InterContinental Al Ahsa](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/al-ahsa/intercontinental-al-ahsa.md) (5-star, Al Ahsa) — This 5-star InterContinental in Al Ahsa blends 16th-century castle design with modern luxury, offering spacious rooms, diverse dining, and a spa overlooking the Palm Tree Oasis. - [Park Hyatt Jeddah – Marina, Club And Spa](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/jeddah/park-hyatt-jeddah-marina-club-and-spa.md) (5-star, Jeddah) — Luxurious 5-star Park Hyatt Jeddah offers a seafront escape with an infinity pool overlooking the Red Sea, blending contemporary design with Arab-Andalusian influences, exquisite dining, and exclusive spa facilities. - [Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel & Residences](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/al-khobar/grand-hyatt-al-khobar-hotel-residences.md) (5-star, Al Khobar) — Experience luxury at the 5-star Grand Hyatt Al Khobar, offering a spa, indoor pool, and diverse dining options, all within walking distance of Al Rashid Mall in the heart of Al Khobar. - [Hyatt Regency Riyadh-Olaya](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/riyadh/hyatt-regency-riyadh-olaya.md) (5-star, Riyadh) — Luxurious 5-star retreat in central Riyadh, Hyatt Regency Olaya boasts panoramic city views, diverse dining options, and extensive event spaces, all just 22 miles from King Khalid International Airport. - [Waldorf Astoria Jeddah - Qasr Al Sharq](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/jeddah/waldorf-astoria-jeddah-qasr-al-sharq.md) (5-star, Jeddah) — Waldorf Astoria Jeddah - Qasr Al Sharq, a 5-star oasis on North Corniche Road, offers opulent suites, a ladies-only spa, and exquisite dining with Red Sea views, just minutes from Jeddah International Airport. - [Conrad Makkah](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/mecca/conrad-makkah.md) (5-star, Mecca) — Just steps from the Kaaba, the 5-star Conrad Jabal Omar Makkah offers luxurious rooms with Haram views, fine dining, and exclusive butler service, providing a sophisticated sanctuary in the heart of Mecca. - [Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/riyadh/four-seasons-hotel-riyadh-at-kingdom-centre.md) (5-star, Riyadh) — Perched atop Riyadh's iconic Kingdom Tower, this 5-star Four Seasons oasis offers panoramic city views, luxurious rooms, a rooftop pool, and world-class dining, all within minutes of key attractions. - [Raffles Jeddah](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/mecca/raffles-jeddah.md) (5-star, Mecca) — Nestled in Mecca's Abraj Al-Bait complex, the 5-star Raffles Makkah Palace offers luxurious suites with panoramic views of the Grand Mosque, personal butler service, and exquisite dining options just steps from the Kaaba. - [Sofitel Al Khobar The Corniche](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/al-khobar/sofitel-al-khobar-the-corniche.md) (5-star, Al Khobar) — Luxurious 5-star retreat on Al Khobar's Corniche, offering panoramic Gulf views, gourmet dining, and a serene spa, just minutes from the city center and business district. - [Raffles Makkah Palace](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/mecca/raffles-makkah-palace.md) (5-star, Mecca) — Raffles Makkah Palace: A 5-star sanctuary overlooking the Grand Mosque, offering spacious suites with panoramic views, personal butler service, and exclusive dining experiences just steps from the Kaaba. - [Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/medina/sofitel-shahd-al-madinah.md) (5-star, Medina) — Luxurious 5-star Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah, steps from Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, offers stunning Haram views, gourmet dining, and wheelchair accessibility in the heart of Medina's pedestrian area. - [Fairmont Ramla Serviced Residences](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/riyadh/fairmont-ramla-serviced-residences.md) (5-star, Riyadh) — Luxurious 5-star serviced residences in Riyadh, featuring rooftop infinity pool, city views, and gourmet kitchenettes, offering a sophisticated urban retreat with exceptional amenities and personalized service. - [Fairmont Riyadh](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/riyadh/fairmont-riyadh.md) (5-star, Riyadh) — Nestled in Riyadh's Business Gate, the 5-star Fairmont Riyadh offers luxurious rooms, an indoor pool, and fitness center, blending sophisticated comfort with prime location just 15 minutes from King Khalid Airport. - [Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/mecca/fairmont-makkah-clock-royal-tower.md) (5-star, Mecca) — Towering over Mecca, this 5-star Fairmont hotel offers unparalleled luxury and spiritual proximity, with direct access to Al Masjid Al Haram, breathtaking Kaaba views, and world-class amenities for an unforgettable pilgrimage experience. - [Banyan Tree AlUla](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/saudi-arabia/al-ula/banyan-tree-alula.md) (5-star, Al-ʿUla) — Nestled in Al-ʿUla, this 5-star oasis offers luxurious rooms, an infinity pool, and spa, blending Middle Eastern charm with Thai influences. Enjoy stunning views and easy access to Hegra Archaeological Site. ## Common questions **What is the capital of Saudi Arabia?** The capital of Saudi Arabia is Riyadh. **Do I need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia?** Most visitors need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. However, the country has recently introduced e-visas for tourism purposes, making the process easier for many nationalities. **What is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia?** The best time to visit is from November to February when temperatures are cooler. Avoid summer months (June to August) when temperatures can be extremely high. **Is it safe to travel to Saudi Arabia?** Saudi Arabia is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, visitors should respect local laws and customs, which are based on strict Islamic principles. **Can women drive in Saudi Arabia?** Yes, women have been legally allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia since June 2018. **What are some must-visit places in Saudi Arabia?** Popular attractions include the holy cities of Mecca and Medina (for Muslims only), the historic Diriyah, futuristic NEOM project, and the rock-carved tombs of Madain Saleh. **Is alcohol allowed in Saudi Arabia?** No, the production, importation, and consumption of alcohol are strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia. **What should I wear when visiting Saudi Arabia?** Both men and women should dress modestly. Women are expected to wear loose-fitting, long clothing that covers their arms and legs, but non-Muslim women are not required to wear a headscarf in most public places. ## How to book - WhatsApp: https://wa.me/19453939299 - Email: advisor@firstrowtravel.com - Include the hotel page URL and your travel dates; booking through First Row Travel costs the same as booking direct — no booking fees.