Holiday destination

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is home to Islam's two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina, the focus of Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. The capital, Riyadh, combines modern architecture with the historic Diriyah district. The country has recently opened up more widely to visitors.

Region: Middle East

Trip types on sale: Cultural, City Break.

Places

Mecca (Makkah)
Islam's holiest city and the focus of Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
View 7 holidays featuring Mecca
Medina (Madinah)
The city of the Prophet's Mosque, often combined with Umrah.
View 5 holidays featuring Medina
Riyadh
Saudi Arabia's capital, with the historic Diriyah district nearby.
View 3 holidays featuring Riyadh

Best time to go

November to February, when temperatures are most comfortable. Pilgrimage dates follow the Islamic calendar.

Who it suits

Muslim pilgrims, families travelling for Umrah and curious culture lovers.

Getting there

Flights from London to Jeddah (JED), the usual gateway for Mecca, Medina (MED) and Riyadh (RUH) take about 6 to 7 hours.

Practical

Time: 3 hours ahead of the UK in winter and 2 hours ahead in summer.
Currency: Saudi riyal
Language: Arabic.

Typical daytime highs

Winter (December to February). Typical daytime highs around 23 to 30°C in winter (December to February).
Summer (June to August). Typical daytime highs around 40 to 44°C in summer (June to August).

These are typical ranges, not a forecast.

Things to do

Perform Umrah in Mecca
Visit the Prophet's Mosque in Medina
Explore historic Diriyah near Riyadh
Visit Riyadh's museums and souks
Take a desert trip

Questions

How long is the flight to Saudi Arabia?

About 6 hours 30 minutes to Jeddah or Riyadh, approximately.

When is it cooler in Saudi Arabia?

From November to February.

UK passport holders should check the latest entry requirements on GOV.UK foreign travel advice before booking.