Ready to discover the Arabian Peninsula’s most exciting transformation? Just a short flight from Dubai or Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia is shedding its mysterious veil and revealing treasures that will leave even the most seasoned UAE expats and travelers speechless!
Thanks to the 2025 expanded Saudi Arabia Visa for UAE Residents and newly launched direct shuttle services from major UAE cities, the Kingdom’s ancient wonders, futuristic cities, and breathtaking landscapes are more accessible than ever. Are you prepared to float in hidden desert lakes, wander through 7,000-year-old archaeological sites, and experience hospitality that elevates the concept of welcome to an art form?
Let’s explore seven unmissable Saudi adventures that are absolutely worth crossing the border for!
Getting There: Smooth Border Crossing
The Basics:
eVisa available online (processing in 24-48 hours)
Cost: SAR 440 (~$117) for multiple-entry tourist visa
Validity: One year with stays up to 90 days
New UAE-KSA Express Bus connects Dubai to Riyadh (8 hours with border assistance)
Direct flights from all UAE airports to multiple Saudi cities
Pro Tip: The new “Gulf Neighbors” visa extension allows UAE residents to visit Saudi Arabia for weekend trips without counting against their 90-day limit!
1. AlUla: Time Travel in the Desert
Imagine Petra without the crowds! This ancient Nabataean city features stunning tomb facades carved into sandstone cliffs, with 2025 bringing newly opened archaeological areas. The Winter at Tantora festival transforms the site with light shows and world-class musical performances against this dramatic backdrop.
Don’t Miss: The newly accessible Hegra by Night experience with traditional music and storytelling under the stars!
2. The Red Sea Project: Eco-Luxury at Its Finest
Saudi’s ambitious Red Sea development has delivered its promise of sustainable luxury! With coral reefs rivaling those in the Maldives and strict environmental protections, these pristine islands offer world-class diving, transparent kayaks, and overwater villas powered entirely by renewable energy.
Hidden Gem: Ummahat Island’s secluded beaches allow rare turtle sightings during nesting season!
3. Edge of the World: Nature’s Grand Canyon
Just 90km from Riyadh, this spectacular escarpment offers breathtaking views across endless desert plains. The newly completed hiking trails range from easy 1-hour walks to challenging full-day treks, with designated sunset viewing platforms that capture the desert’s magical golden hour.
4. Jeddah’s Historic Al-Balad: Cultural Immersion
Lose yourself in the UNESCO-listed old town’s labyrinthine streets lined with coral-stone buildings and ornate wooden balconies. The recently completed restoration has brought historic merchants’ houses back to life as boutique hotels, art galleries, and spice-scented cafés.
Local Experience: Join the evening gossiping sessions at traditional qahwa cafés where Jeddah locals share stories over cardamom coffee!
5. NEOM’s The Line: Tomorrow’s World Today
While the complete linear city remains under construction, visitors can now tour the completed first sector of this futuristic zero-carbon development. Experience driverless transport, vertical farms, and revolutionary architecture that blends spectacularly with desert landscapes.
6. Empty Quarter Camping: Desert Solitude
The world’s largest sand desert offers an otherworldly overnight adventure with luxury desert camps now featuring traditional Bedouin tents upgraded with proper beds and modern amenities. Witness stars without light pollution and experience dawn breaking over endless dunes.
Adventure Add-on: Try sandboarding down massive dunes with equipment available for rent at most camps!
7. Taif Rose Festivals: Aromatic Celebrations
Time your visit for April-May when the “City of Roses” celebrates its famous damask rose harvest. Tour rose farms draped in pink blooms, watch traditional distillation processes, and sample rose-infused everything from ice cream to Turkish delight!
Remember to:
Respect local customs with modest dress (even in tourist areas)
Install the Tawakkalna app for easy access to attractions
Carry some cash for smaller vendors and desert excursions
Learn basic Arabic greetings—”Shukran” (thank you) opens many doors!
Ready to discover the Kingdom beyond the headlines? Saudi’s dramatic landscapes, archaeological wonders, and legendary Arabian hospitality await just across the border!
Ma’a salama and happy adventuring!
