Saudi Arabia: How a Once-Closed Country Became a Top Global Destination?

Today, Saudi Arabia offers a premium travel experience, impressing even the most experienced travellers with its unique historical landmarks, luxurious resorts, futuristic cities, and breathtaking natural landscapes. How did the country achieve such success, and what does it have to offer its guests?

A hidden gem unveiled

For a long time, Saudi Arabia remained a mystery to tourists. A country with a rich cultural heritage, unique natural scenery, and ambitious mega-projects, it was largely inaccessible to most international travellers until 2019.

The turning point came with the launch of Vision 2030, a programme aimed at developing tourism and diversifying the economy. In 2019, Saudi Arabia introduced electronic visas for tourists from 49 countries, marking a significant step towards becoming a global tourism hub. This was followed by rapid infrastructure growth, the opening of luxury resorts, investments in festivals, and the creation of world-class attractions.

What to see and do in Saudi Arabia?

AlUla is a living museum of ancient history. Home to the Nabataeans, an ancient pre-Islamic Arab civilisation, AlUla boasts the breathtaking rock-hewn city of Hegra — the Nabataeans’ second capital after Jordan’s Petra. Visitors can explore the Jabal Ikmah rock inscriptions, the Old Town of AlUla with its labyrinth of stone alleys and houses, and the Maraya Concert Hall, the world’s largest mirrored building.

The Red Sea and the Red Sea Project. Saudi Arabia is developing the Red Sea Project, a luxury resort complex that will become the world’s most ambitious by 2030. This project spans 200 kilometres of coastline in Tabuk Province and promises unparalleled beachfront experiences. In the meantime, travellers can already enjoy the existing Red Sea resorts and dive among some of the world’s most stunning coral reefs, teeming with marine life.

Riyadh – the capital of contrasts. The heart of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, blends modern skyscrapers with historic palaces and boasts some of the finest fine-dining restaurants in the region.

Futuristic Mega-Projects. Neom – a futuristic desert metropolis featuring a 170-kilometre-long mirrored skyscraper and even a ski resort, seamlessly blending technology, luxury, and nature. Shebara is a state-of-the-art island resort designed to the highest eco-tourism standards, featuring capsule-style villas over the water.

The Rub' al Khali Desert. The Empty Quarter, the world’s largest sand desert, offers awe-inspiring sunset photography spots and unparalleled stargazing experiences.

Gastronomic Delights. Savour traditional Kabsa, a fragrant rice dish with spices, vegetables, and meat. Indulge in fresh seafood along the Red Sea coast or enjoy exquisite meals from world-class chefs in high-end restaurants.

A film set like no other

Saudi Arabia’s surreal landscapes have captured the attention of filmmakers worldwide. AlUla’s dramatic desert scenery served as the backdrop for: Dune: Part Two (2024), Kandahar (2023) starring Gerard Butler, Cherry (2021) by Anthony and Joe Russo.

Exploring Saudi Arabia with Scenario Travel

In 2024, we curated an exclusive journey for a young couple eager to discover this emerging destination. They explored the country’s key attractions, immersed themselves in cultural traditions, and later relaxed at the futuristic Shebara resort on the Red Sea.

Located on a private island 500km north of Jeddah, Shebara is a resort of the future. It features mirror-like spherical water villas and a private coral reef nearby, which offers exceptional diving experiences. The resort boasts 73 ultra-luxurious villas, both overwater and beachfront, inspired by space capsules. Guests can enjoy fitness facilities, a spa retreat, and gourmet dining experiences crafted by world-renowned chefs.

A journey like this can be tailor-made for you! Let us craft an exclusive itinerary personalised to your every wish.

Are you ready to explore Saudi Arabia?

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