What I Learned Traveling to Saudi Arabia

In December 2022, I was afforded the unique opportunity to visit Saudi Arabia along with 19 other Travel Advisors. The Saudi Tourism Authority hosted the experience.

I began the first leg of my journey in Charlotte and traveled to Washington Dulles Airport to continue my trip to Riyadh. The Saudi flight was smooth in boarding, with great food and excellent cabin service. I quickly settled in for my nonstop flight and was fortunate to have a row to myself. Having done my research, I was excited to see this destination open up its borders to tourism.

The mocktails were terrific, and I never really noticed they did not contain alcohol. We arrived in the early afternoon at the King Khalid International Airport, where we were greeted by lovely young ladies presenting us with roses. Let me just pause and say that our transportation throughout was flawless, with comfortable buses and on-time departures and arrivals.

We were asked to dress modestly, covering our shoulders and knees and not wearing tight-fitting clothing. Contrary to popular belief, most women are not covered from head to toe, and some also wear Western clothing. 

On our ride to the hotel, I was struck by how clean the streets and buildings were and how friendly and fascinated people were with our arrival. Once we checked into our hotel, rested, and changed, we were on our way to the Boulevard Riyadh City for dinner. If you are a foodie, then Saudi Arabia is somewhere you definitely want to visit. The meals were so fresh and healthy.

The call to prayer was observed five times a day, and some shops closed during that time. The sound can be heard throughout the city. It was a reminder that I needed to be more consistent in my own prayer life. 

The Boulevard in Riyadh City is full of restaurants, activities, and events geared toward visitors. We learned that a ritual is associated with pouring coffee, and Arabic coffee is delicious. 

December 7 is my birthday, and I was blessed to celebrate it in Saudi. We woke up to a fantastic breakfast at the hotel and continued to see the Masmak Fortress and Souq Alzal. We got a taste of Saudi Arabia for lunch when we were invited to a local family home for dinner. The family was so welcoming, and we were curious about each other. The lunch was delicious, and we had an opportunity to chat and realize how much we had in common.

The family gave us gifts as we were leaving. That evening, we visited Diriyah, which has a lively nightlife. We had dinner at a Lebanese restaurant where, once again, the food and service were amazing. The staff surprised me with a birthday cake and a screen with Happy Birthday wishes on it. This area stayed open very late, and I felt very safe with everyone just seeking to enjoy the beautiful evening. And yes, the weather was amazing during our entire stay.

Elephant Rock is located in AlUla. (Photo Credit: Brenda O'Neale)

The following day, we got up, did a site inspection at the Four Seasons Resort and headed back to the airport for the flight to AlULa, my favorite destination. We checked into the Shaden Resort and headed to Elephant Rock. The rock formations here are breathtaking, and many concerts are held here. I struggled with the idea that these vast formations were, at one point, underwater. We had an opportunity to visit Old Town and do some shopping. Dinner was at a beautiful rooftop restaurant called Suhail, known for some of the best Saudi food. 

The next day, we visited the Banyan Hotel AlUla and the Resort at Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia. The resort is home to the Blue Lady and a getaway for many high-profile individuals. 

That evening, we headed back to the airport to leave for Jeddah.

In Jeddah, we were able to sail on the Red Sea onboard a beautiful yacht and visit Al Balad, the historical city. Again, we were treated to amazing food and hospitality. 

And as quickly as it began, it was time to board our flight home. 

Here are my takeaways.

1. Saudi Arabia is very safe. I can't tell you how many people asked me why I was taking this trip. When I returned and went through customs in New York, the customs officer asked where I was coming from, and I told him. He said he was glad you made it out alive. Wait, I just landed in New York, right?
2. The country was spotless, and everyone was so hospitable.
3. Saudi Arabia plans to become a significant tourism destination. It is building and firming up its position in the tourism sector.
4. I found that quite a few people were from African nations.
5. There is so much rich history and culture here. I was fascinated by the rock formations in AlUla.
6. It is a foodie paradise. There are foods from all nations.
7. The residents are as curious about us as we were about them. I enjoyed spending time in the local homes.
8. Family is very important as you see many generations together. Elders are very respected.
9. I love coffee and dates.
10. The men tend to wear the traditional garb. Some women are covered head to toe, but everyone is covered shoulder to knee.
11. Faith is very important. The call to prayer is five times a day and there is no alcohol served. Even on the aircraft, the screens show the direction of Mecca, and Arabic prayers are offered before takeoff.

Arabic coffee and dates are served everywhere. (Photo Credit: Brenda O'Neale)

Here are my hopes.

As Saudi Arabia opens to tourism, I hope that visitors will respect the religion and culture. Be open-minded and have no preconceived ideas. The way Saudis are portrayed in the media differs from what you will find here.

I hope Saudis do not feel pressured to change for the sake of tourism. The mocktails were amazing.  

Remember, we are all members of the Human Race. A trip to Saudi will change your mind and open your heart. 

I look forward to returning to this fantastic destination.

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