SAUDI ARABIA INDIVIDUALLY
from Riyadh to Red Sea Airport (Hanak)
11 days (10 nights)
private trip
English-speaking
German language available upon request/for an additional fee
11-day luxury private tour through Saudi Arabia from Riyadh to Red Sea Airport in Hanak with varied transfers by high-speed train, domestic flight, and comfortable jeeps to highlights such as Riyadh, AlUla, Wadi Disah, and Medina.
Welcome to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a country that combines contrasts in a truly fascinating way. Here, millennia-old cultures merge with forward-looking modernity, ancient caravan routes run alongside futuristic skylines, and tranquil oases in endless desert landscapes stand in stark contrast to vibrant markets and narrow alleys echoing with the call of the muezzin.
Here you will encounter deeply rooted culture and warm hospitality that turns every visit into an encounter. Saudi Arabia invites you not only to see, but to experience: let the sheer vastness of the desert and the Red Sea work its magic on you. Breathe in the scent of incense and coffee in the souks and soak up the tranquility of sacred places.
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In Wadi Disah, you will feel like you are in an oriental fairy tale: palm groves, fresh spring water, mighty sandstone formations, and the mysterious traces of the Nabataeans. At night, the landscape lies under a sea of stars. Your camp then becomes an exclusive retreat where you can experience Bedouin traditions over freshly brewed coffee and listen to ancient stories from the desert.
Intensive tour through a kingdom in transition
The journey continues to AlUla, the cultural heart of the kingdom. The monumental tombs of Hegra, the majestic Elephant Rock Formation, and a lively oasis take you on a journey back in time to ancient times. Whether on a balloon ride in the morning light, lunch in a private Arab household, or a gourmet dinner in the futuristic mirror building Maraya, this private tour of Saudi Arabia combines luxury with authentic, up-close experiences. You will discover with all your senses how apparent contrasts such as the past and the modern day turn out to be a mirage, and how Saudi Arabia brings together different facets to form a harmonious whole.
On the way to Medina, immerse yourself in spiritual dimensions before reaching the Red Sea coast by high-speed train. In Jeddah, experience Saudi Arabia at its most cosmopolitan – between the coral stone houses of Al-Balad, the atmospheric sunsets on the Corniche, and the culinary diversity in elegant restaurants.
Finally, enjoy soothing days of rest and relaxation at the luxurious Six Senses Southern Dunes. Nestled in the tranquility of the desert, this hideaway combines a modern feel-good ambience with Arabian hospitality to create an atmosphere that is good for the body and soul.
This private tour is an invitation to discover the soul of Arabia—full of contrasts, full of stories, and full of authentic moments that will linger in your memory for a long time to come.
Stephanie Gräf
Owner & Founder
Since 2002, I have been personally advising clients on unique expeditions and private trips, small-ship cruises, and journeys to remote regions of the world.
We'd be happy to discuss your trip with you in person.
Why not contact me right now at Phone: +49 201 85890960 or email welcome@inventia.de.
Or schedule a free, no-obligation one-on-one phone call (also via WhatsApp or Wi-Fi), a Teams or Zoom meeting here—even in the evenings or on weekends:
Good to know
Arrival and departure: We offer a variety of customized travel packages including flights, hotels, transfers, and activities. We are also happy to suggest pre- and post-programs to extend your trip.
Entry and safety information: German citizens require a passport that is valid for at least six months at the time of entry, as well as a visa. The Federal Foreign Office provides the following information for travel to Saudi Arabia.
Insurance: We strongly recommend that you take out international health insurance that covers medical repatriation.
Medical questionnaire:You are required to completea medical questionnaire before departure.
The trip is not recommended for people with limited mobility.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Intensive exploration of the capital city of Riyadh, between old and new, with a local guide
- Off-road tour in Wadi Disah to palm oases and striking rock formations with overnight stay in a desert camp
- Balloon ride over AlUla at sunrise
- Spectacular view at the Edge of the World (optional, additional charge)
- The monumental rock tombs of the Nabataeans in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra
- Gourmet dinner in the spectacular Maraya Mirror Building
- On the old pilgrimage route toMedina
- The coastal city of Jeddah on the Red Sea with the historic Al-Balad district and modern Corniche
- King Fahd Fountain in Jeddah – at 312 meters, the tallest fountain in the world
- Luxurious tranquility at the Six Senses Southern Dunes desert resort
route
itinerary
advance information
Your journey to Riyadh and your departure from Red Sea Airport are not included in your travel price.
Since our customers all have individual wishes for their trip, we are happy to book flights separately. Of course, the flights then become part of a secure package tour. We recommend an overnight stay in Riyadh to cushion any irregularities with your flight or lost luggage. We are happy to organize everything for you on request. Please contact us.
Day 1: Start of the trip in Riyadh – Welcome to Saudi Arabia
Your private tour of Saudi Arabia begins in Riyadh, a showcase of modern Saudi Arabia. Once a walled mud-brick station on central desert trade routes, the capital is now a state-of-the-art metropolis with world-class restaurants, luxury hotels, traditional souks, and public parks.
The Four Seasons is ideally located in the Kingdom Center. The modern 99-story skyscraper was long the tallest building in Saudi Arabia. The luxurious hotel spans ten floors and combines modern amenities with classic Saudi design in its spacious rooms.
After a relaxed arrival, take the high-speed elevator to the 99th floor and the Sky Bridge. 300 meters above the city, the covered walkway offers spectacular views of the Riyadh skyline and far beyond.
Optional: If you arrived early or have already spent a night in Riyadh, we recommend the optional excursion to the Edge of the World, a breathtaking cliff on the outskirts of Riyadh.
Accommodation: 5-star Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh
Distances and travel times: Riyadh Airport – Riyadh city center (35 km): approx. 45 min
Excursion option to the Edge of the World
You leave the city center and make your way to Jebel Fihrayn. The place owes its nickname "Edge of the World" to the unobstructed view of the horizon that you have from the 300-meter-high cliffs. Stroll along the precipice high above the plain below before settling down on your takwa, the traditional Saudi Arabian picnic seat, to continue enjoying the spectacular view: here, the sky and the barren earth seem to merge into one another. Enjoy freshly brewed Arabic coffee and tea as well as picnic snacks before returning to your hotel in Riyadh.
This excursion is scheduled from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The 100-kilometer journey between Riyadh and Jebel Fihrayn takes approximately 1.5 hours each way. Please note the additional charge for this optional offer.
Day 2: Exploration tours through Riyadh, between the past and the modern era
Today, you will spend the entire day discovering the highlights of Riyadh with your local guide. You will gain deep insights into the culture and history of this remarkable city.
The day begins at Al-Masmak Fort in the heart of the old town with a glimpse into Riyadh's past. The large citadel made of mud and mud bricks, which witnessed the birth of a kingdom, has been an impressive symbol of Saudi history for over 150 years.
Next, visit Souq al-Zel and Souq Bisht. These two traditional markets offer handmade carpets, antiques, perfumes, and much more. These lively markets are also the ideal place to purchase an abaya—if you would like to wear the traditional Saudi Arabian garment during your trip.
Your journey of discovery continues to the historic Murabba Palace and the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, where the kingdom's past and present come to life in a variety of engaging exhibitions.
After lunch in a traditional restaurant, we will travel across the city to the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) – the modern economic center of Saudi Arabia and the entire Gulf region. Nestled between the skyscrapers and office buildings is the KAFD Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece made of intricately interlocking stones. Marvel at the mosque's impressive architecture and then enjoy a coffee break in the financial district.
To conclude this intense day, you will visit Ad Diriyah, the birthplace of the first Saudi state. This UNESCO World Heritage Siteimpresses with its well-preserved buildings dating back to 1744 and provides unique insights into the traditional construction techniques that were developed to withstand the desert heat.
End the day in a relaxed and stylish manner with an exquisite dinner at one of the top restaurants on Bujairi Terrace.
Accommodation: 5-star Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh
Meals included: breakfast/lunch/dinner
Day 3: Flight from Riyadh to Tabuk and onward by 4×4 jeep to Wadi Disah
Say goodbye to the capital today and continue your journey through Saudi Arabia with a domestic flight to Tabuk. The city is considered the gateway to the northwest of the kingdom and was once an important resting place for pilgrims from Jordan and Egypt on their way to Mecca and Medina.
From here, the journey continues to Wadi Disah, which literally translates as "Valley of Palms . " This spectacular natural landscape in Saudi Arabia is characterized by imposing mountain formations, tall rock pillars in a wide variety of colors, and bubbling freshwater springs that create a true oasis atmosphere. Thanks to the water, the valley has been inhabited for centuries and is now particularly known for its dates and mangoes.
The 4×4 jeep takes you on an adventurous journey through lush vegetation and along a clear stream that winds its way between steep rock faces. Along the way, you will discover archaeological sites such as the facades of Nabataean tombs and wall remains with Nabataean and Arabic inscriptions in Kufic script. If you feel like it, you can walk a little way and listen to the birds singing before the jeep picks you up again. A stop at a mango and date farm gives you exciting insights into agriculture in this dry climate.
A short transfer will then take you to a remote part of the valley, where a private desert camp has been set up exclusively for you. Make yourself comfortable on takwas and carpets while the campfire creates a warm atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional BBQ dinner under the starry sky. Meanwhile, your guide will explain how the stars once served as a guide for the desert nomads and perhaps tell you a story or two over freshly brewed Arabic coffee.
When it's time to sleep, cozy Bedouin tents await you for an unforgettable night in the middle of the desert. Bedouins traditionally lived in tents so they could follow their herds to where the sparse rain produced grazing land. Your tent has a proper bed and all the amenities you need for a restful night. The sanitary facilities are shared.
Optional: The exclusive desert camping is dependent on weather, availability, and number of participants. If it is not possible, you will be accommodated in a Bedouin glamping tent on the mango farm—with real beds and shared bathrooms.
Accommodation: 3-star Bedouin glamping in Wadi Disah
Distances and travel time: Tabuk – Wadi Disah (260 km): approx. 3 hours, including off-road section
Meals included: breakfast/lunch/dinner
Day 4: From Wadi Disah to the AlUla World Heritage Site
When the sun rises behind the mountains, greet the day while a fresh local breakfast is prepared over the fire. Then, just like the Bedouins, break camp and move on.
Today's destination is AlUla, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located deep in the desert, AlUla impresses with its spectacular rock formations and canyons,pre-Arabic rock art, and astonishingly well-preserved tombs that the Nabataeans carved into the rock over 2,000 years ago. For most travelers, AlUla is the undisputed highlight of their Saudi Arabia experience. After all, the vast area offers an incredible variety of opportunities for discovery.
Upon arrival in AlUla, check into your hotel and enjoy lunch before taking some time to relax. In the afternoon, the route first takes you to Harrat Viewpoint. The road winds steeply upward—away from the red rocks and up onto a seemingly endless black plateau. From the viewpoint high above the old town, a spectacular view opens up, which your guide will bring to life with exciting stories.
As the sun slowly sets, it's the perfect moment to visit the majestic Elephant Rock (Jabal Alfil). This rock rises up into the deep blue sky in the middle of the golden desert sand. A geological wonder, it is one of AlUla's most impressive landmarks.
Today you will stay at the charming Dar Tantora – The House Hotel, not far from the old town. This boutique hotel combines the traditional character of mud brick architecture with modern comforts, creating an authentic atmosphere. Enjoy dinner at the hotel to round off a relaxing day.
Accommodation: 5-star Dar Tantora The House Hotel in AlUla
Distances and travel time: Wadi Disah – AlUla (270 km): approx. 3 hours 30 minutes
Meals included: breakfast/lunch/dinner
Day 5: Time for even more highlights in AlUla and the surrounding area
Spend today exploring the many sights in and around AlUla with your local guide.
The day begins with a visit to the Nabataean site of Hegra in a private Land Rover. Hegra was the southern capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, and the city's history dates back to the 1st century BC. Discover some of the more than 100 well-preserved monumental tombs, most of which feature ornate facades that were once carved directly from the desert rock formations.
The trail then leads you to the green oasis of AlUla. Enjoy your lunch among idyllic date farms and under tall palm trees, whose leaves rustle gently in the wind, while the scent of citrus fruits fills the air. Stroll along the Oasis Heritage Trail through orange groves and along shady paths, accompanied by birdsong. Imagine how nomads once found water here and sought shelter from the desert heat.
At the exit of the oasis, you will reach AlJadeeda. Also known as "Art City, " the place exudes a lively flair with colorful street art and exhibitions along the pedestrian zones. The journey continues to the old town of AlUla. This charismatic district was once an important hub on the Silk Road and Incense Route. Today, the old town invites you to relax and stroll through its historic alleys, trendy restaurants, and stylish souvenir shops. Later, round off the day with a delicious dinner in one of the charming restaurants in the old town.
Accommodation: 5-star Dar Tantora The House Hotel in AlUla
Distances and travel times: AlUla – Hegra (20 km): approx. 20 min. / Hegra – Historic Old Town of AlUla (20 km): approx. 25 min.
Meals included: breakfast/lunch/dinner
Day 6: Balloon ride at sunrise, jeep safari to Sharaan Nature Reserve & dinner at Maraya
Start your day today with an unforgettable hot air balloon ride at sunrise over AlUla.
Enjoy spectacular bird's-eye views as the first warming rays of sunshine glide over Hegra, Elephant Rock, and the region's monumental rock formations. From the quiet moments before takeoff to the gentle landing, this experience will give you many humble, goosebump-inducing moments.
Afterwards, you will continue your journey in a luxurious Land Rover Defender 130 to the Sharaan Nature Reserve. Together with an experienced conservation guide, you will discover dramatic canyons, ancient rock formations, and blooming landscapes full of fragrant plants. A short hike will take you to a breathtaking viewpoint with panoramic views over the vast valleys. There, you will also enjoy an exquisite four-course lunch surrounded by magnificent natural scenery.
The afternoon is yours to spend at your leisure. Relax at the hotel or take a dip in the pool.
In the evening, another highlight of your trip awaits with a farewell dinner at Maraya, the surreal mirrored marvel in Ashar Valley. The building, whose façade consists of 9,740 glass panels, is considered an architectural masterpiece that combines art, technology, and nature in a fascinating way. After a tour and a photo break at sunset, enjoy an unforgettable dinner at Maraya Social on the roof of the building. The restaurant, run by Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton, is one of the best in the kingdom.
Accommodation: 5-star Dar Tantora The House Hotel in AlUla
Meals included: breakfast/lunch/dinner
Day 7: From AlUla to Medina and then by high-speed train to Jeddah
Say goodbye to AlUla this morning and travel through the desert and mountains along an ancient pilgrimage route to Medina, one of Islam's two holiest cities. Contrary to what you might expect, today's route does not take you through sand dunes, but through a volcanic landscape with black lava rock and impressive mountain panoramas.
The heart of Medina is Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, also known as the Prophet's Mosque. This monumental mosque with ten minarets can accommodate up to one million worshippers. Enjoy the view of this impressive place of worship while having lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, you will board a state-of-the-art high-speed trainand arrive in Jeddah after around two hours. This city on the Red Sea is an important trading center with the second-largest port in the Middle East. It is considered one of the most liberal cities in the kingdom and is a popular travel destination with its diverse mix of centuries-old architecture and modern luxury. Jeddah is also the most important gateway to the holy city of Mecca and welcomes over a million pilgrims annually during the Hajj.
Toast your arrival in Jeddah with sundowner drinks on the Corniche. Make yourself comfortable on carpets and cozy takwa and watch the hustle and bustle along the waterfront promenade. As the sun sets, the call to prayer rings out and the King Fahd Fountain —at 312 meters, the tallest fountain in the world—comes to life. Take time to enjoy this spectacular sight before continuing on to your hotel to check in.
During your stay in Jeddah, you will stay at the elegant Shangri-La Hotel, located directly on the Corniche. The hotel offers what are arguably the best views in the city. Each room has panoramic windows, and excellent service, innovative cuisine, and a luxurious spa ensure an all-round pleasant stay.
Accommodation: 5-star Shangri-La Hotel in Jeddah
Distances and travel times: AlUla – Medina (330 km): approx. 3 hours 45 minutes / Medina – Jeddah (420 km): approx. 2 hours by high-speed train / Jeddah train station – Jeddah city center (20 km): approx. 25 minutes
Meals included: breakfast/lunch/dinner
Day 8: Visiting locals & sightseeing in the old town of Jeddah
Today, you will immerse yourself in authentic Saudi culture with a private visit and dinner in Jeddah.
Look forward to a warm culinary experience with a local family and gain an authentic insight into the legendary hospitality and culture of Saudi Arabia.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with traditional Saudi coffee and dates. In a warm atmosphere, your host family will tell you about their everyday life, their work, and their traditions, inviting you to engage in exciting conversations and enriching cultural encounters. Afterwards, you can look forward to a home-cooked meal prepared with seasonal ingredients according to traditional family recipes.
After lunch, you will also have the opportunity to try on traditional Saudi clothing. The encounter ends with a warm farewell, leaving you not only with an introduction to exotic flavors, but also with lasting impressions of the Saudi way of life.
In the afternoon, explore Al Balad, the atmospheric old town of Jeddah. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an architectural treasure trove of old trading houses and many other coral stone buildings, many of which are decorated with traditional wooden windows called roshan. As you stroll through the winding alleys, your guide will bring long-gone times to life, when Al Balad was a bustling trading center.
In the evening, indulge in another delicious menu of Saudi specialties and fresh seafood at a modern, trendy restaurant.
Accommodation: 5-star Shangri-La Hotel in Jeddah
Meals included: breakfast/lunch/dinner
Day 9: Fly to your luxury desert retreat in Saudi Arabia
Round off your private trip through Saudi Arabia with a luxurious two-day stay in the middle of the desert.
After a short flight from Jeddah to Red Sea International Airport, you will continue on to the Six Senses Southern Dunes Resort.
Nestled in the tranquil desert landscape, this retreat offers a profound sense of calm that envelops you as you gaze out over the endless expanse. Six Senses Southern Dunes is a true oasis of serenity and relaxation—a place where relaxation and nature merge in perfect harmony.
Option: If you’d prefer to end this trip with a touch of luxury by the sea, you can choose from a selection of exquisite resorts on the Red Sea or on offshore islands with vibrant coral reefs. These unique retreats are nestled within a diverse ecosystem. We’d be happy to provide you with more information.
Accommodation: 5-star Six Senses Southern Dunes resort in Khuff
Distances and travel time: Red Sea International Airport – Hotel (74 km): approx. 60 min.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 10: Pure relaxation amid the endless sand dunes of Saudi Arabia
Enjoy a relaxing day at your own pace at Six Senses Southern Dunes.
The day is yours to enjoy. You may wish to relax by the infinity pool, indulge in a high-quality spa treatment, or simply enjoy the tranquility on your room's terrace.
Accommodation: 5-star Six Senses Southern Dunes resort in Khuff
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 11: Ma'a as-salama Saudi Arabia – Back home
Today marks the end of your journey through Saudi Arabia.
After a relaxing morning at Six Senses Southern Dunes, you will be transferred to Red Sea International Airport for your onward flight.
For those who wish to extend their trip, we are happy to offer tailor-made options. Whether you want to spend extra days at the Red Sea or in an exclusive island resort, or continue exploring the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, please feel free to contact us at any time!
Distances and travel time: Hotel – Red Sea International Airport (74 km): approx. 60 min.
Meals included: Breakfast
PLEASE NOTE: The itinerary is subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control. Changes to the daily programs described here may be necessary, for example, due to unfavorable weather or road conditions, the condition of the planned destinations, or changes to flight schedules.
Dates & Prices
Request your trip here!
We plan this trip individually for you. The price depends on the season and the booking date.
Information
Included services:
- 10 nights in a shared double or twin room, including daily breakfast
- Meals according to the itinerary
- All transfers and excursions in luxury vehicles such as Mercedes-Benz or similar (except on days to/from Wadi Disah)
- English-speaking local tour guides (mostly station guides: 1 guide per location)
- All entrance fees as per itinerary
- Bottled drinking water – a total of 1 liter per person/day on travel days
- Hegra tour in a private Land Rover (in a group)
- Sharaan safari in a private Land Rover (in a group)
- Exclusive Corniche experience in Jeddah with soft drinks and local snacks
- 4×4 off-road tour in Wadi Disah
- Hot air balloon ride in AlUla (shared with other guests)
- Private home visit with traditional food at a family's house in Jeddah
Not included in the price:
- International and domestic flights (unless expressly stated otherwise)
- Meals not listed in the program
- Fees for camera and video recordings
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance, tips, visa
- Surcharges for early/late airport transfers for arrivals before 6 a.m. or after 10 p.m. and for departures before 8 a.m. or after 11 p.m.
- Services that are not clearly included in the above program content
- Optional excursions/activities as per the program, such as the trip to the Edge of the World
- Baggage information: One piece of carry-on baggage (max. 5–10 kg, depending on the airline) and one piece of checked baggage (max. 20 kg) are included. We recommend light and practical luggage so that you can travel comfortably and flexibly throughout the kingdom.
Saudi Arabia_Riyadh_Exo Travel
Capital city Riyadh
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UNESCO World Heritage Site AlUla
Saudi Arabia_Hegra_Enrico Pescantini_AdobeStock_488386168
Nabataean site of Hegra
Saudi Arabia 4x4 tour Alula Exo Travel
4×4 tour around AlUla
saudi-arabia_alula-maraya_exo-travel.jpg
Mirror architecture Maraya
Saudi Arabia Medina_Noushad Akampadam_AdobeStock_439085084
Prophet's Mosque in Medina
Saudi Arabia_Jeddah-Al Balad_Exo Travel
Colorful facades in Jeddah
Saudi Arabia 4x4 tour with Exo Travel
4×4 tour through the desert
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