Saudi is a fascinating land, and is now open and awaiting your discovery. What does that mean for you as a traveler? Let us begin with some of the essential facts about the country.

Saudi is the largest Arab country in the Middle East. The population is almost 36 million and it's land area is 2,149,690 square kilometers (or 830,000 square miles). It boasts a coastline along the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, which lends itself to opportunities like scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, lounging on beaches, and other water activities. Its terrain is made up of sandy desert, lowlands, steppe, and mountains—which lends itself to sand skiing, dune bashing, camel riding, camping, hot air ballooning, rock climbing, and more. There is no shortage of exciting activities here!

The capital city is Riyadh, the home of the Saudi government and a popular destination for both business and pleasure. Riyadh started as a small desert village in the 17th century and is now a modern metropolis with a population of more than seven million people. Arabic is the official language, although English is an unofficial second language and is spoken by many Saudis. The currency is the Saudi riyal and there are currency exchange services in many places, including airports, banks, and some shopping centers. Credit cards are accepted throughout the country and ATMs are widely available. The temperature varies greatly according to season and time of day. The best time to travel to Saudi is mid-September to the start of June.

Islam emerged in Saudi and is an integral part of its heritage. Saudi is known as the “Land of the Two Holy Mosques:” Al-Masjid al-Haram, in Makkah, and Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, in Medina. Once a year, more than a million people from around the world travel to Makkah to perform the hajj, the Islamic pilgrimage. While non-Muslims are not allowed to enter Makkah, they are welcome to visit Medina.

 

Saudi Arabia is opening its doors to the world through its new tourist visa. Through the fast and easy-to-use online portal, international visitors from 49 eligible countries can apply for an eVisa and discover the warm hospitality of Saudi people, as of March 2022, visas can also be issued upon arrival for the U.S., UK, and Schengen area.

Saudi offers something for every type of traveler: From intrepid adventurers to history buffs, from cultural enthusiasts to food aficionados, from stalwart explorers to nature lovers. Central Holidays can assist you in getting the most out of your journey to Saudi. It has designed travel packages that explore all the country has to offer, and a professional staff that can help you make sure your travel experience is everything you desire.