On this 7-day Saudi vacation package, travelers will see highlights from three esteemed Saudi destinations: the exciting capital city of Riyadh, the ancient oasis city of AlUIa, and the historic coastal city of Jeddah. With Riyadh as your base, you will explore the old city of Diriyah, the stunning cliffs at the Edge of the World, the National Museum, and the Al Masmak Fortress. In AlUla, you will visit ancient carving sites and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mada&#8217;in Saleh, known for its monumental tombs. On your final day in Jeddah, you will visit the UNESCO site of Old Jeddah, with its town, market, and mosque. At the Jeddah Corniche, you will see the Al Rahma mosque, also known as the &#8220;floating mosque&#8221; for its appearance of &#8220;hovering&#8221; on the Red Sea at high tide.&#10;&#10; During your six nights, you will stay two nights at fine hotels in each city. Many meals will be included at hotels and restaurants, but a definite highlight will be a dinner under the stars prepared by local Bedouins who will share their culture with you. You will travel in comfort in deluxe, air-conditioned motor coaches.&#160;

Travel to Saudi. Upon arrival at King Khalid International Airport and after visa and immigration formalities, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel by deluxe, air-conditioned motorcoach. Overnight in Riyadh.

Rise and shine with breakfast at your hotel before departing of the old city of Diriyah. In the 19th century this was the capital of the high plateau of central Arabia called the Najd. Diriyah, which today is located in the outskirts of Riyadh, was built in the 15th century on the banks of Wadi Hanifa, a valley set in the eastern part of the Najd. It is one of the most important historical sites of Saudi Arabia as it is there that the history of the conquest of the Arabian Peninsula by the Al Saud family began. Savor an included lunch in the city before heading out to the Edge of The World, located along the 1000km long Tuwaiq escarpment. Here, you will enjoy dramatic views from the top of the 300-meter-high cliffs. Once at Edge of the World hike along the majestic cliffs and take in the breathtaking vistas. A traditional meal under the stars sheltered by traditional Arabian tent will be exquisitely prepared for us by local Bedouins who will share the secrets of their culture around coffee and tea. After dinner, head back to your hotel for your overnight stay in Riyadh. (B, L, D)&#160;&#160;

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading out on a tour of enchanting Riyadh. We will first visit the National Museum and become acquainted firsthand with Saudi national heritage and culture. The Museum is a place of learning and discovery, offering an overview of Arabian civilization from prehistory to the modern era. Next, we will continue on to Murabba Palace one the city's most historic structures. Savor lunch in a typical local Saudi restaurant.  Then, our tour continues with a visit of Masmak Fort and its museum that shares the history of the conquest of Arabia by the Al-Saud family. The palace was built during the reign of Abdullah bin Rashid in the year 1895 A.D. to serve as a military garrison for the Abdullah bin Rashid army. His Majesty King Abdulaziz, the father of the nation today, captured the fort in 1902, making this fort the birthplace of the 3rd Saudi Kingdom. Next, visit the Dira Souq where the sweet fragrance of sandalwood fills the air.  Here you can shop for antique carpets and other Saudi heritage mementos. Later in the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to AlUla or Tabuk. After your one-hour flight, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. This evening, enjoy an included dinner and overnight stay AlUla. (B, L, D)&#160;<div><br></div><div>Optional: Access to Skybridge on Kingdom Tower</div><div><b>*Flight Not Included</b></div>

Power up with breakfast at your hotel and get ready for a day of exploring AlUla, an ancient oasis that has been inhabited for the last 7000 years as evidenced by ancient carvings in and around the site. During the 1st millennium BCE, the city of Dedan developed thanks to its strategic location on the frankincense trade road. Dedan grew to become one of the oldest Arabian kingdoms that ruled over most of what today is known as the provinces of Tabuk and Madinah. During the 1st century BCE the Nabatean people coming from Petra settled 30 kilometers north of Dedan in Al-Hijr where they built 94 monumental tombs similar to the ones they dug in Petra. We will start our exciting day with the visit of two ancient carving sites in AlUla, then we will pass by the ancient city of Dedan. Your tour continues on to the Old city of AlUla that became was once an important staging post along the pilgrimage route to Mecca. On the way, enjoy lunch and then visit the ancient sites of Ekma and Abu &#8216;Aoud. Here, we will decipher some of the ancient scripts written by the people of the oasis. We will finish this special day on at the top of the elevated Harrat Al-Uwayrid lookout point for an amazing view of the oasis of AlUla. This afternoon you will be head back to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay in AlUla. (B, L, D)&#160;&#160;

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before visiting famous Hegra (Madain Saleh), the first designated UNESCO World Heritage site of Saudi Arabia. Madain Saleh, whose original name was Al-Hijr or Hegra in Greek, is the southernmost important city of the Nabatean Kingdom that flourished thanks to the caravan trade between the 2nd century BCE until the Roman conquest in 106 CE. It is the second richest Nabatean city in terms of monumental tombs with 94 decorated funeral monuments, including some of the most vibrant and well conserved structures that showcase the architectural prowess of the Nabateans builders. We will lead you through this fascinating site and share secrets of its tombs, ancient inscriptions, stone structures, and more. Our tour will be followed by an included lunch before we head towards Jibal Al-Rukkab and Leopard trail. We will then visit Jebel Al-Fil for a relaxing time next to the &#8220;Elephant rock.&#8221; At the end of the day, drive to the AlUla or Tabuk airport to catch your flight to Jeddah. After your one-hour flight, you will arrive at the coastal city, situated along the Red Sea. Savor an included dinner this evening and overnight in Jeddah. (B, L, D)<div><br></div><div><b>*Flight Not Included</b></div>

Have breakfast at your hotel and get ready to discover Jeddah. In the 7th century CE, Jeddah was established as a major port for Indian Ocean trade routes, channeling goods to Mecca. It was also the gateway for pilgrims to Mecca who arrived by sea. On arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy an included lunch. This afternoon, we will start our tour by visiting Old Jeddah called Al-Balad that was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. This walking tour of the old town will take you along the narrow streets whose shade is provided by elegant tower houses made with coral stone and decorated by large wooden structures called Roshan. While most of the houses were built in the late 19th century, but some of them are more than 400 years old. There, we will visit the Bait Nassif &#8211; a house built for a prominent family dating back to the mid 1800's, the old Market, and the old Mosque. We will end our tour driving towards the Jeddah Corniche, the 30 km coastal resort area of the city of Jeddah. At the edge of the Corniche Road you will see the Al Rahmah Mosque, also known as the floating mosque, since it is built on stilts and appears to hover on the Red Sea during high tide. The Corniche features a coastal road overlooking the Red Sea, recreation areas, pavilions, and large-scale civic sculptures as well as King Fahd's Fountain &#8211; the highest fountain in the world. Delight in a farewell dinner tonight and overnight in Jeddah. (B, L, D)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and then transfer to King Abdulaziz International Airport airport for your flight home. (B)

THE SAUDI EXPRESS

Alulah

Saudi cities and their historic treasures are the focus of this illuminating 11-day tour. Begin at the outskirts of Riyad in the old city of Diriyah, one of Saudi&#8217;s most important historical sites. Take in views from the soaring cliffs at the Edge of the World. Visit Riyadh&#8217;s National Museum, Murabba Palace, and the Al Masmak Fortress, all imbued with Saudi history. Explore the oasis of AlUla, viewing ancient carvings as well as the monumental tombs of Mada&#8217;in Saleh&#8212;a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit magical Hisma, home to hundreds of ancient inscriptions and rock art.  In Old Jeddah, see Al Balad, yet another fascinating UNESCO site. At the Jeddah Corniche, witness how the Al Rahmah Mosque &#8220;floats&#8221; on the Red Sea. We finish the tour in the mountain city of Taif, with its rose factory and Sharif Museum.&#10;&#10;All the while you will travel in comfort in deluxe, air-conditioned motor coaches. Many meals will be included at hotels and restaurants&#8212;there will even be a picnic lunch in Hisma. But a culinary highlight will be dinner under the stars prepared by local Bedouins who will share their culture with you. This vacation package is sure to bring Saudi history to life.

Rise and shine with breakfast at your hotel before departing of the old city of Diriyah. In the 19th century this was the capital of the high plateau of central Arabia called the Najd. Diriyah, which today is located in the outskirts of Riyadh, was built in the 15th century on the banks of Wadi Hanifa, a valley set in the eastern part of the Najd. It is one of the most important historical sites of Saudi Arabia as it is there that the history of the conquest of the Arabian Peninsula by the Al Saud family began. Savor an included lunch in the city before heading out to the Edge of The World, located along the 1000km long Tuwaiq escarpment. Here, you will enjoy dramatic views from the top of the 300-meter-high cliffs. Once at Edge of the World hike along the majestic cliffs and take in the breathtaking vistas. A traditional meal under the stars sheltered by traditional Arabian tent will be exquisitely prepared for us by local Bedouins who will share the secrets of their culture around coffee and tea. After dinner, head back to your hotel for your overnight stay in Riyadh. (B, L, D)

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading out on a tour of enchanting Riyadh. We will first visit the National Museum and become acquainted firsthand with Saudi national heritage and culture. The Museum is a place of learning and discovery, offering an overview of Arabian civilization from prehistory to the modern era. Next, we will continue on to Murabba Palace one the city's most historic structures. Savor lunch in a typical local Saudi restaurant.  Then, our tour continues with a visit of Masmak Fort and its museum that shares the history of the conquest of Arabia by the Al-Saud family. The palace was built during the reign of Abdullah bin Rashid in the year 1895 CE to serve as a military garrison for the Abdullah bin Rashid army. His Majesty King Abdulaziz, the father of the nation today, captured the fort in 1902, making this fort the birthplace of the 3rd Saudi Kingdom. Next, visit the Dira Souq where the sweet fragrance of sandalwood fills the air.  Here you can shop for antique carpets and other Saudi heritage mementos. Later in the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to AlUla or Tabuk. After your one-hour flight, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. This evening, enjoy an included dinner and overnight stay AlUla. (B, L, D)&#160;<div><br></div><div>Optional: Access to Skybridge on Kingdom Tower</div><div><b>*Flight Not Included</b></div>

Power up with breakfast at your hotel and get ready for a day of exploring AlUla, an ancient oasis that has been inhabited for the last 7000 years as evidenced by ancient carvings in and around the site. During the 1st millennium BCE, the city of Dedan developed thanks to its strategic location on the frankincense trade road. Dedan grew to become one of the oldest Arabian kingdoms that ruled over most of what today is known as the provinces of Tabuk and Madinah. During the 1st century BCE, the Nabatean people coming from Petra settled 30 kilometers north of Dedan in Al-Hijr where they built 94 monumental tombs similar to the ones they dug in Petra. We will start our exciting day with the visit of two ancient carving sites in AlUla, then we will pass by the ancient city of Dedan. Your tour continues on to the Old city of AlUla that became was once an important staging post along the pilgrimage route to Mecca. On the way, enjoy lunch and then visit the ancient sites of Ekma and Abu &#8216;Aoud. Here, we will decipher some of the ancient scripts written by the people of the oasis. We will finish this special day on at the top of the elevated Harrat Al-Uwayrid lookout point for an amazing view of the oasis of AlUla. This afternoon you will be head back to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay in AlUla. (B, L, D)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before visiting famous Hegra (Madain Saleh), the first designated UNESCO World Heritage site of Saudi. Madain Saleh, whose original name was Al-Hijr or Hegra in Greek, is the southernmost important city of the Nabatean Kingdom that flourished thanks to the caravan trade between the 2nd century BCE until the Roman conquest in 106 CE. It is the second richest Nabatean city in terms of monumental tombs with 94 decorated funeral monuments, including some of the most vibrant and well conserved structures that showcase the architectural prowess of the Nabateans builders. We will lead you through this fascinating site and share secrets of its tombs, ancient inscriptions, stone structures, and more. Our tour will be followed by an included lunch before we head towards Jibal Al-Rukkab and Leopard trail. We will then visit Jebel Al-Fil for a relaxing time next to the &#8220;Elephant rock.&#8221; At the end of the day, At the end of the day, we go back to our hotel and enjoy dinner and overnight in AlUla. (B, L, D)&#160;

Have breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a morning drive through the rugged landscapes of the lava field called Harrat Al-&#8216;Uwayrid as we head towards the Wadi Qaraqir and the ancient city of Dissah. Wadi Qaraqir is undoubtedly the most beautiful valley of Saudi Arabia with its 500 meters high sandstone cliffs on both sides of the canyon and the small river that runs through it all year long. Every inch of this canyon is simply amazing. On the other side of the valley is the oasis of Dissah where we will see remains that bear witness to the long occupation of this wonderful place. Enjoy lunch along the way and then we will drive north to our hotel in the town of Tabuk, capital of the province that bears its name. Relish and included dinner and overnight in Tabuk. (B, L, D)

Wake to the morning with breakfast at your hotel before visiting a place Hisma. Hisma is home to hundreds of ancient inscriptions and ancient rock art. Some of these are in pre-Islamic scripts dating back to the caravan trade and some are in old Arabic, dating back to the first decades of Islam. We will have a picnic during the excursion in the middle of this magical setting of Hisma. In the afternoon, we will drive up one of the highest mountains in Saudi Arabia, the Jebel Al Lawz, the mountain of almonds. People believe that this is the true site of the biblical Mount Sinai where Moses received the Tablets of Law. At the end of the day, head back to your hotel in Tabuk for dinner and overnight. (B, L, D)&#160;

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and then we will discover the ancient land of Madyan where Moses sought refuge after fleeing Egypt. Today it is where the gigantic Neom Project is being developed. Our visit will start with the archeological site of Al-Bada&#8217; that was an ancient Nabatean city as evidenced by the monumental tombs that overlook the ruins of the ancient oasis city. Next, we will drive to the coastal city of Maqna where the wells of Moses are found. A few kilometers north along the shore, explore the majestic Wadi Tayeb Ism, also known as the Valley of Moses. After this fascinating exploration of the ancient land of Madyan, transfer to the airport for your flight to Jeddah. Your one-hour flight takes you to the coastal city of Jeddah situated on the Red Sea where you will enjoy dinner and overnight. (B, L, D)<div><br></div><div><b>*Flight not included</b></div>

Have breakfast at your hotel and get ready to discover Jeddah. In the 7th century CE, Jeddah was established as a major port for Indian Ocean trade routes, channeling goods to Mecca. It was also the gateway for pilgrims to Mecca who arrived by sea. On arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy an included lunch. This afternoon, we will start our tour by visiting Old Jeddah called Al-Balad that was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. This walking tour of the old town will take you along the narrow streets whose shade is provided by elegant tower houses made with coral stone and decorated by large wooden structures called Roshan. While most of the houses were built in the late 19th century, but some of them are more than 400 years old. There, we will visit the Bait Nassif &#8211; a house built for a prominent family dating back to the mid 1800's, the old Market, and the old Mosque. We will end our tour driving towards the Jeddah Corniche, the 30 km coastal resort area of the city of Jeddah. At the edge of the Corniche Road you will see the Al Rahmah Mosque, also known as the floating mosque, since it is built on stilts and appears to hover on the Red Sea during high tide. The Corniche features a coastal road overlooking the Red Sea, recreation areas, pavilions, and large-scale civic sculptures as well as King Fahd's Fountain &#8211; the highest fountain in the world. Delight in a farewell dinner tonight and overnight in Jeddah. (B, L, D)&#160;

After breakfast at your hotel, we will start our journey to drive up the Sarawat Mountains Range that runs along the western side of the Arabian Peninsula from Yemen until Jordan. Once we have passed the crest that peaks at nearly 2000 meters high, we will drive down the eastern side towards the city of Taif. Thanks to its location 1600 meters above sea level, this city benefits from cooler weather, an especially valued benefit in summer when people travel there for its green nature, beautiful scenery, and the town&#8217;s relaxed atmosphere. Our tour will start with a picturesque drive viewing al Hada Mountain before we enjoy a traditional lunch. In the afternoon, visit a place unique to Taif that is a Rose factory where people of Taif gather the local roses to make one of the best rose perfumes in the world. Our tour will conclude with time at the Sharif Museum before heading back to Jeddah for dinner and overnight stay. (B, L, D)&#160; &#160;

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and then transfer to King Abdulaziz International Airport airport for your flight home.

CITIES & ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

Riyadh

Al Ula

This 6-day Saudi vacation package will cover the enthralling capital city of Riyadh and the delightfully diverse oasis region of Al Ahsa, finishing in the coastal metropolis of Dammam. In Riyadh, spend time absorbing Saudi heritage and culture at the National Museum; observing historic architecture at the Murabba Palace and Al Masmak Fortress; and perusing a traditional marketplace at the Deira Souq. Explore the old city of Diriyah and take in the view from the breathtaking cliffs at the Edge of the World.  Travel by train from Riyadh to Al Hofuf, the main city of the Al Ahsa region&#8212;one of the world&#8217;s biggest oases and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once there, visit the Ibraham Palace&#8212;an architectural masterpiece&#8212;as well as the history-laden Jawatha Mosque.&#10;&#10;Many meals will be included at hotels and restaurants, but a distinctive highlight will be enjoying dinner under the stars prepared by local Bedouins, who will be happy to share their culture with you. A deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach is provided to transport you in total comfort.&#10;&#10;Desert and oasis, valley and sea, cliffs and caves, markets and mosques&#8212;they all combine to give Saudi its character. Our &#8220;From the Capital to the Arabian Sea&#8221; vacation package will demonstrate this for you.

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading out on a tour of enchanting Riyadh. We will first visit the National Museum and become acquainted firsthand with Saudi national heritage and culture. The Museum is a place of learning and discovery, offering an overview of Arabian civilization from prehistory to the modern era. Next, we will continue on to Murabba Palace one the city's most historic structures. Savor lunch in a typical local Saudi restaurant.  Then, our tour continues with a visit of Masmak Fort and its museum that shares the history of the conquest of Arabia by the Al-Saud family. The palace was built during the reign of Abdullah bin Rashid in the year 1895 A.D. to serve as a military garrison for the Abdullah bin Rashid army. His Majesty King Abdulaziz, the father of the nation today, captured the fort in 1902, making this fort the birthplace of the 3rd Saudi Kingdom. Next, visit the Dira Souq famous for buying antique carpets and other Saudi heritage mementos. We will finish our tour with a stunning viewpoint from one of the famous landmarks of Riyadh, the Kingdom Tower and the Faisaliah Tower, both great architectural achievements. At the end of the afternoon, head back to your hotel. This evening, enjoy an included dinner and overnight at your hotel in Riyadh. Optional: Access to Skybridge on Kingdom tower.

Have breakfast at you at your hotel this morning and then depart for the old city of Diriyah, the capital of the high plateau of Central Arabia that was called the Najd in the 19th century.  Diriyah, was built in the 15th century on the banks of Wadi Hanifa, a valley located in the eastern part of the Najd. It is one of the most important historical sites of Saudi Arabia as it is where the conquest of the Arabian Peninsula took place by the Al Saud family whose ancestors, known as the Bani Hanifa, settled in Diriyah some five centuries ago. Savor an included lunch in the city before heading out to the Edge of The World, located along the 1000km long Tuwaiq escarpment. Here, you will enjoy dramatic views from the top of the 300-meter-high cliffs. Once at Edge of the World hike along the majestic cliffs and take in the breathtaking vistas. A traditional meal under the stars sheltered by traditional Arabian tent will be exquisitely prepared for us by local Bedouins who will share the secrets of their culture around coffee and tea. After dinner, head back to your hotel for your overnight stay in Riyadh.

After breakfast at your hotel, we will take the train to Al-Hofuf, the main city of the Al-Ahsa a region in the Eastern Province of Saudi. Al-Ahsa is the largest oasis in the world with an area of around 85.4 km2 (33.0 sq mi).  Here, more than 2.5 million palm trees are watered via a massive underground aquifer that makes year-round agriculture possible in this region that is otherwise a desert. Al-Ahsa also hosts an ancient secret: the Greek geographer Strabo described an ancient Arab kingdom whose capital Gerrha had &#34;fancy tools made out of gold and silver, such as the family gold, right triangles, and their drinking glass, let alone their large homes which have their doors, walls, roofs filled with colors, gold, silver, and holy stones.&#34; While the site Gerrha described has not yet been found, it is thought that one of the candidates is the modern city of Al-Hofuf where we will start our exploration of Al-Ahsa. There we will visit the Ibrahim Fort and its mosque, and then the Jebel Qarah, a limestone outcrop with caves and canyons that offers an overlooking viewpoint on the huge palm tree cultivations. We will finish this first day in Al-Ahsa at the historical mosque of Jawatha. This evening, delight in an included dinner and overnight stay in Al-Hofuf. (B, L, D)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and then head out to explore the desert of Al-Ahsa.  Take in the stunning view of one of the lakes located just a few kilometers east of Al-Hofuf where you can see the vast water resources of Al-Ahsa. It is called the Yellow Lake because of the color of the surrounding dunes. This landscape, made of flat grounds rich with water in between dunes is typical of the Eastern Province and is called sabkha. After Yellow Lake, we will go for a drive through those dunes and sabkhas. In the afternoon head to the Arabian Sea at the old port of Uqair, situated on beautiful Half-Moon Bay. This old port, originally built by the Ottomans in the 17th century, has recently undergone a partial renovation. Next, it&#8217;s on to Dammam, the modern capital of the Eastern Province where we will share in a special farewell dinner. Overnight in Dammam. (B, L, D)

Have breakfast at your hotel and then transfer to Dammam airport for your flight home. (B)

FROM THE CAPITAL TO THE ARABIAN SEA

On this 6-day tour, you will travel to locations that are key to understanding Saudi history and its lasting impact on the country. The first two days focus on the oasis of AlUla, which has been inhabited for the last 7,000 years. Ancient carving sites are plentiful here and you will visit some of them, including Ekma and Abu &#8216;Aoud, and will decipher ancient scripts. You will also explore one of Saudi&#8217;s six UNESCO World Heritage sights, Mada&#8217;in Saleh, featuring monumental tombs of the Nabatean people. Upon reaching Tabuk, you will visit Hisma to see its ancient Kufic Arabic inscriptions, and will journey to the archaeological site of Madyan, home to striking monumental tombs known by locals as the &#8220;Caves of the Prophet Shuaib.&#8221;&#10;&#10;Your travel will be aboard deluxe, air-conditioned motor coaches. Many meals will be included at hotels and restaurants&#8212;there will even be a picnic lunch in Hisma. Get a taste of Saudi history on this vacation package, and perhaps whet your appetite for more.

Travel to Saudi. Upon arrival at AlUla or Tabuk airport and after visa and immigration formalities, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel by deluxe, air-conditioned motorcoach. Overnight in AlUla.&#160;

Start the day with breakfast at your hotel and get ready for a day of exploring AlUla, an ancient oasis that has been inhabited for the last 7000 years as evidenced by ancient carvings in and around the site. During the 1st millennium BCE, the city of Dedan developed thanks to its strategic location on the frankincense trade road. Dedan grew to become one of the oldest Arabian kingdoms that ruled over most of what today is known as the provinces of Tabuk and Madinah. During the 1st century BCE, the Nabatean people coming from Petra settled 30 kilometers north of Dedan in Al-Hijr where they built 94 monumental tombs similar to the ones they dug in Petra. We will start our exciting day with the visit of two ancient carving sites in AlUla, then we will pass by the ancient city of Dedan. Your tour continues on to the Old city of AlUla that became was once an important staging post along the pilgrimage route to Mecca. On the way, enjoy lunch and then visit the ancient sites of Ekma and Abu &#8216;Aoud. Here, we will decipher some of the ancient scripts written by the people of the oasis. We will finish this special day on at the top of the elevated Harrat Al-Uwayrid lookout point for an amazing view of the oasis of AlUla. This afternoon you will be head back to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay in AlUla.  (B, L, D)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before visiting famous Hegra (Madain Saleh), the first designated UNESCO World Heritage site of Saudi Arabia. Madain Saleh, whose original name was Al-Hijr or Hegra in Greek, is the southernmost important city of the Nabatean Kingdom that flourished thanks to the caravan trade between the 2nd century BCE until the Roman conquest in 106 CE. It is the second richest Nabatean city in terms of monumental tombs with 94 decorated funeral monuments, including some of the most vibrant and well conserved structures that showcase the architectural prowess of the Nabateans builders. We will lead you through this fascinating site and share secrets of its tombs, ancient inscriptions, stone structures, and more. Our tour will be followed by an included lunch before we head towards Jabal Al-Rukkab and Leopard trail. We will then visit Jabal Al-Fil for a relaxing time next to the &#8220;Elephant rock.&#8221; At the end of the day, At the end of the day, we go back to our hotel and enjoy dinner and overnight in AlUla. (B, L, D)&#160; &#160;&#160;

Wake to the morning with breakfast at your hotel before visiting a place Hisma. Hisma is home to hundreds of ancient inscriptions and ancient rock art. Some of these are in pre-Islamic scripts dating back to the caravan trade and some are in old Arabic, dating back to the first decades of Islam. We will have a picnic during the excursion in the middle of this magical setting of Hisma. In the afternoon, we will drive up one of the highest mountains in Saudi Arabia, the Jabal Al Lawz, the mountain of almonds. People believe that this is the true site of the biblical Mount Sinai where Moses received the Tablets of Law. At the end of the day, head back to your hotel in Tabuk for dinner and overnight. (B, L, D)

Savor breakfast at your hotel before discovering the area where the futuristic city of Neom is being constructed. Its name stands for &#8220;New Future&#8221; in Arabic. The area of Neom that we will explore today corresponds to the west shore of Tabuk Province.  Your adventure starts at the archeological site of Madyan, an ancient city mentioned in both the Coran and the Bible. This place was by the Nabateans who built monumental tombs known by locals as the &#8220;Caves of the Prophet Shuwayb&#8221; (Mughayr Shuwayb). From there travel in the footsteps of the Prophet Moses who, according to both the Bible and the Coran, lived in Madyan for 10 years. Next, visit the Wells of Moses and the impressive Valley of Moses.  From here you will enjoy sweeping views of the Sinai Mountain on the other side of the Gulf of Aqaba. Depending on your departure time, you will be transferred to Tabuk Airport for your return flight home (or extend your stay). (B, L, D)&#160;&#160;

SAUDI HISTORY OF A CIVILIZATION

Egypt&#8212;Land of the Pharaohs, and Saudi&#8212;the birthplace of Islam. Experience them both on this 12-day vacation package. Begin your journey in Cairo, where you will see all facets of Egyptian history at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. Visit the pyramids and the Sphinx, and go for a camel ride&#8212;a thrilling treat! On your delightful 3-night cruise of the Nile, head to the temple of Horus in a horse-drawn carriage. Visit the Valley of the Kings and Deir el-Bahari, featuring the amazing temple of Queen Hatshepsut. You will, of course, see many famous ancient temples, including Karnak and Luxor&#8212;still vibrant today. Once in Saudi, transfer to Riyadh&#8212;the astounding capital city. Revel in the spectacular views at the Edge of the World, peruse Saudi culture at the National Museum, and experience Saudi history at Al Masmak Fortress. Shop for mementos at the Deira Souq and take in Saudi heritage at Mada&#8217;in Saleh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.&#10;&#10;Travel in comfort in an air-conditioned motor coach, and enjoy many included meals. A definite culinary highlight will be a meal under the stars prepared by the Bedouins, which will give you insight into their fascinating culture. The &#8220;Egypt &amp; Saudi Fusion&#8221; tour is an excellent combination of the best of two captivating countries.

Arrive in the Land of the Pharaohs. Upon completion of immigration and customs formalities at Cairo International Airport, you will be met by our representative and escorted to your hotel.

MON I CAIRO

Start your day with a guided visit of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization where you will travel back in time to understand Egyptian history, starting with the predynastic period and on into the pharaonic, followed by the Graeco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic periods, up until modern day Egypt. The museum encompasses an array of different time spans and civilizations that contributed to Egypt&#8217;s rich history. Then, drive to Old Cairo to visit Al Moallaka Church (Hanging Church). In the afternoon, visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, the enigmatic Sphinx, and experience a camel ride. (B, L)

TUE I CAIRO

After breakfast, transfer from your hotel to Cairo International Airport for your morning flight to Aswan. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your Nile cruise ship. Visit the High Dam, the Granite Alexandria Quarries with the Unfinished Obelisk, and the Temple of Isis at Philae. Sail on board a felucca, a traditional Egyptian sailboat and view Kitchener&#8217;s Island Botanical Garden and the Agha Khan Mausoleum. After lunch, sail to Kom Ombo, where you will visit the Ptolemaic Temple of Sobek and Haroeris before arriving in Edfu. (B,L,D)

WED I CAIRO I ASWAN I KOM OMBO I EDFU

Have breakfast and then travel by horse-drawn carriage to the Temple of Horus, the falcon god. Dating back to 237 B.C., it is considered the best preserved temple in Egypt and the second largest after the Temple of Karnak. Sail to Esna, passing through the Esna Lock, and continue sailing towards Luxor. (B,L,D)

THU I EDFU I LUXOR

After breakfast onboard your Nile River vessel, visit the West Bank necropolis including the Valley of the Kings, the Funerary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir El Bahari and the Colossi of Memnon. Enjoy an optional sound and light show at Karnak Temple this evening. (B,L,D)

FRI I LUXOR

Have breakfast before heading out to visit Karnak and Luxor temples, a centuries old city of pylons, hypostyle halls, colossal statues, shrines, and obelisks. Disembark and transfer to the airport for your afternoon flight to Cairo. Upon arrival in Cairo you will be met and escorted to your hotel. This evening, enjoy an optional sound and light show at the Pyramid. (B)

SAT I LUXOR I CAIRO

After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight. Arrive at King Khalid International airport and after visa and immigration formalities, you will be met by our representative and transferred via air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel. Overnight in Riyadh. (B,D)

SUN I CAIRO TO RIYADH

Rise and shine with breakfast at your hotel before departing of the old city of Diriyah. In the 19th century this was the capital of the high plateau of central Arabia called the Najd. Diriyah, which today is located in the outskirts of Riyadh, was built in the 15th century on the banks of Wadi Hanifa, a valley set in the eastern part of the Najd. It is one of the most important historical sites of Saudi Arabia as it is there that the history of the conquest of the Arabian Peninsula by the Al Saud family began. Savor an included lunch in the city before heading out to the Edge of The World, located along the 1000km long Tuwaiq escarpment. Here, you will enjoy dramatic views from the top of the 300-meter-high cliffs. Once at Edge of the World hike along the majestic cliffs and take in the breathtaking vistas. A traditional meal under the stars sheltered by traditional Arabian tent will be exquisitely prepared for us by local Bedouins who will share the secrets of their culture around coffee and tea. After dinner, head back to your hotel for your overnight stay in Riyadh. (B,L,D)

RIYADH I DIRIYAH I EDGE OF THE WORLD I RIYADH ( 80 Km )

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading out on a tour of enchanting Riyadh. We will first visit the National Museum and become acquainted firsthand with Saudi national heritage and culture. The Museum is a place of learning and discovery, offering an overview of Arabian civilization from prehistory to the modern era. Next, we will continue on to Murabba Palace one the city's most historic structures. Savor lunch in a typical local Saudi restaurant.  Then, our tour continues with a visit of Masmak Fort and its museum that shares the history of the conquest of Arabia by the Al-Saud family. The palace was built during the reign of Abdullah bin Rashid in the year 1895 A.D. to serve as a military garrison for the Abdullah bin Rashid army. His Majesty King Abdulaziz, the father of the nation today, captured the fort in 1902, making this fort the birthplace of the 3rd Saudi Kingdom. Next, visit the Dira Souq where the sweet fragrance of sandalwood fills the air.  Here you can shop for antique carpets and other Saudi heritage mementos. Later in the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to AlUla or Tabuk. After your one-hour flight, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. This evening, enjoy an included dinner and overnight stay AlUla. (B, L, D)

RIYADH I Flight To AL ULA Or TABUK ( Not Included )

Power up with breakfast at your hotel and get ready for a day of exploring AlUla, an ancient oasis that has been inhabited for the last 7000 years as evidenced by ancient carvings in and around the site. During the 1st millennium BCE, the city of Dedan developed thanks to its strategic location on the frankincense trade road. Dedan grew to become one of the oldest Arabian kingdoms that ruled over most of what today is known as the provinces of Tabuk and Madinah. During the 1st century BCE the Nabatean people coming from Petra settled 30 kilometers north of Dedan in Al-Hijr where they built 94 monumental tombs similar to the ones they dug in Petra. We will start our exciting day with the visit of two ancient carving sites in AlUla, then we will pass by the ancient city of Dedan. Your tour continues on to the Old city of AlUla that became was once an important staging post along the pilgrimage route to Mecca. On the way, enjoy lunch and then visit the ancient sites of Ekma and Abu &#8216;Aoud. Here, we will decipher some of the ancient scripts written by the people of the oasis. We will finish this special day on at the top of the elevated Harrat Al-Uwayrid lookout point for an amazing view of the oasis of AlUla. This afternoon you will be head back to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay in AlUla. (B,L,D)

AL ULA

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before visiting famous Hegra (Madain Saleh), the first designated UNESCO World Heritage site of Saudi Arabia. Madain Saleh, whose original name was Al-Hijr or Hegra in Greek, is the southernmost important city of the Nabatean Kingdom that flourished thanks to the caravan trade between the 2nd century BCE until the Roman conquest in 106 CE. It is the second richest Nabatean city in terms of monumental tombs with 94 decorated funeral monuments, including some of the most vibrant and well conserved structures that showcase the architectural prowess of the Nabateans builders. We will lead you through this fascinating site and share secrets of its tombs, ancient inscriptions, stone structures, and more. Our tour will be followed by an included lunch before we head towards Jibal Al-Rukkab and Leopard trail. We will then visit Jebel Al-Fil for a relaxing time next to the &#8220;Elephant rock.&#8221; At the end of the day, we go back to our camp and enjoy dinner. Overnight in AlUla.

AL ULA I MADA’IN SALEH I AL ULA

Have breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your departure time, you will be transferred to Al Ula or Tabuk airport for your departure flight home. (B)

AL ULA Or TABUK – DEPARTURE

EGYPT & SAUDI FUSION

The &#8220;Umrah Plus&#8221; allows holders to extend their visit beyond the confines of a typical Umrah. Central Holidays&#8217; 9-day &#8220;Umrah Plus&#8221; tour allows pilgrims to do just that. Beginning in Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, you will go to Masjid Al Haram (the Grand Mosque). There you will undertake the Umrah steps of the tawaf and sa&#8217;i, and pray in front of the Kaaba. An expert guide will also bring you to Jabal al Nour, Jabal Al Rahmah, and Mina, and elucidate some of the defining moments in Islam&#8217;s history. Transfer to Medina&#8212;Islam&#8217;s second holiest city&#8212;by high-speed train and head for Al Masjid an Nabawi (the Prophet&#8217;s Mosque). Prophet Muhammad helped build the mosque and is buried here. Tradition says that prayers said here are never rejected. You will visit Masjid Quba (the Quba Mosque) and Masjid al Qiblatayn (the mosque of the two qiblas), as well as Mount Uhud, where the battle of Uhud took place. After a flight to Riyadh, you will spend the last two days getting to know Saudi&#8217;s enchanting capital city. Visit the National Museum, Murabba Palace, the Al Masmak Fortress, and Deira Souq. Explore the heritage village of Ushaiger, and walk along its charming pathways surrounded by mud houses and mosques.&#10;&#10;Many meals will be included at hotels and restaurants, and you will travel in comfort in deluxe, air-conditioned motor coaches. Come for the Umrah and stay a while!

Arrive at King Khalid International airport. After visa and immigration formalities, our representative will meet and escort you via air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel in Makkah. Overnight in Makkah.&#160;

JEDDAH I MAKKAH

Now you are in Makkah the holiest city in Islam. This is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and the city where the Quran was first revealed to him. You will get to perform your Umrah and pray in front of the first house built and dedicated for the worship of Allah &#8211; the Ka&#8217;bah. You&#8217;ll hear the call to prayers live and enjoy this great journey of faith.(B)

MAKKAH

After breakfast you will enjoy some of the most defining moments in the history of Islam. Our expert guide will take you through the historical prophetic era by visiting Jabal al Noor, the Mountain of Light, where Prophet Muhammad first received the revelation. Learn about the persecution faced by early Muslims and how they were driven out of Makkah while holding firmly onto their faith. Learn about the migration of the Prophet and the remarkable occurrences at Jabal Thawr. Continue your visit to Jabal Ar-Rahmah, the Mount of Mercy, whereupon Prophet Muhammad delivered his famous last sermon. This site forms the pinnacle of the rites of Hajj. You will visit Mina, the city of tents, where pilgrims follow the example of the Prophet and stay for several days during the Hajj, and pelt the three Jamarat, symbolic of warding off the devil. (B)

MAKKAH I MAZARAT

Have breakfast at your hotel before transferring to the train station for a highspeed train ride from Makkah to Medinah. Upon arrival in Medinah you will be met by our representative and escorted to your hotel. Medinah, the second holiest city, will capture your heart and you will feel connected right away. The city is centered around Al Masjid an Nabawi, also known as the Prophet&#8217;s Mosque, constructed by the Prophet Muhammad himself.  This is also where he is buried. (B)

MAKKAH I MEDINAH

After breakfast, your Mendinah Mazarat (Visitation) will include time to delve into the first masjid built in Medinah &#8220;Masjid Quba&#8221; where prophet Muhammad put down its foundation stone &#8211; Masjid Qiblatain. The masjid of two qiblahs is where the companions prayed in two directions as the qiblah changed from Masjid Al Aqsa in Jerusalem to Masjid Al Haram in Makkah and Mount Uhud, where Muslim forces led by the Prophet Muhammad battled troops from Makkah in the battle of Uhud. The mountain rises 3,500 feet and it can be climbed to better observe the battlefield. Nearby is the Uhud Martyrs Cemetery where 85 of the slain Muslim soldiers are buried.  (B)

MEDINAH I MAZARAT

After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Riyadh, our representative will meet and escort you to the hotel. Overnight in Riyadh. (B,D)

MEDINAH I RIYADH

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading out on a tour of enchanting Riyadh. We will first visit the National Museum and become acquainted firsthand with Saudi national heritage and culture. The Museum is a place of learning and discovery, offering an overview of Arabian civilization from prehistory to the modern era. Next, we will continue on to Murabba Palace one the city's most historic structures. Savor lunch in a typical local Saudi restaurant.  Then, our tour continues with a visit of Masmak Fort and its museum that shares the history of the conquest of Arabia by the Al-Saud family. The palace was built during the reign of Abdullah bin Rashid in the year 1895 A.D. to serve as a military garrison for the Abdullah bin Rashid army. His Majesty King Abdulaziz, the father of the nation today, captured the fort in 1902, making this fort the birthplace of the 3rd Saudi Kingdom. Next, visit the Dira Souq famous for buying antique carpets and other Saudi heritage mementos. We will finish our tour with a stunning viewpoint from one of the famous landmarks of Riyadh, the Kingdom Tower and the Faisaliah Tower, both great architectural achievements. At the end of the afternoon, head back to your hotel. This evening, enjoy an included dinner and overnight at your hotel in Riyadh. Optional: Access to Skybridge on Kingdom tower. (B, L, D)

RIYADH

Have breakfast at your hotel. Then, head out to Ushaiger, a heritage village located 200 kilometers northwest of Riyadh in the heart of the Najd, the central plateau of the Arabian Peninsula. The village sits on the Al-Washim plain few kilometers west of a narrow range of red sand dunes called &#8216;Urayq Al-Bildan that extend towards.  Further on, it becomes the massive dunes of Zulfi that ultimately connect to the immense Nefoud Al-Kebir. Ushaiger, meaning the &#8220;Small Blonde,&#8221; was named after the color of a small hill that lays at the north of the village. Although it is made of red rock, locals say the Arabic word for red could be used also for blonde in the old days. Ushaiger is surrounded by a thick wall with massive towers and wide doors made of ithal (tamarisk) wood that visitors have to go through to enter the heart of the historical village. The village is organized into seven districts and has many palm groves and orchards that are beautifully integrated to the maze of pathways. Visiting Ushaiger heritage village offers a pleasant opportunity to walk along the shaded and charming pathways that meander between the 400 mud houses and 25 mosques the village hosts. Drive back to the Riyadh by evening. Overnight in Riyadh.&#10;&#10;(B, L, D)

RIYADH I FULL DAY USHAYGAR I RIYADH

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight back home. (B)

THU I RIYADH TO USA (OR EXTEND YOUR STAY)

UMRAH PLUS

<p>Saudi is the largest country in the Middle East. Experience a land where the past comes to life. From the labyrinthine streets of ancient cities to the intricate rock carvings of early civilizations, the country&#8217;s rich history is written large across the landscape. Saudi offers awe-inspiring natural phenomena and exciting, unique ways to explore its diverse terrain, making the kingdom worthy of a spot on any outdoor enthusiast&#8217;s bucket list, whether you are sailing the crystalline waters of the&#160;<span class="morecontent">Saudi Red Sea, exploring one the country&#8217;s many national parks or hiking through the green hills of Al Baha, Saudi will surprise and delight you with a wealth of natural treasures. From seas teeming with exotic fish, rare marine animals and thriving corals to lush oases, verdant farmlands, and even desert areas that are rich with life and raw natural beauty, Saudi is a kaleidoscope of unique natural experiences.</span></p><p>In September 2019, Saudi opened its doors to leisure tourists from around the world. This historic milestone is a key step in the implementation of Vision 2030, the destination&#8217;s economic diversification program, aiming to connect Saudi to the world, build bridges between cultures and create prosperity for the future.</p>

Visit Saudi Arabia with Central Holidays

Africa & West Asia