Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life without venturing too far? Saudi Arabia offers a treasure trove of weekend getaway destinations that blend natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern luxury. Whether you’re craving the serene landscapes of AlUla, the cool mountain air of Abha, or the vibrant coastal vibes of Jeddah, there’s something for every traveler. From desert adventures and heritage sites to luxurious resorts and seaside relaxation, a weekend in Saudi Arabia can be anything but ordinary. In this blog, we’ll guide you through some of the best spots to visit for a short but memorable break—perfect for couples, families, or solo adventurers. Discover where to go, what to do, and how to make the most of your weekend in this diverse and breathtaking kingdom. Get ready to pack your bags and hit the road!
Saudi Arabia, with its vast deserts, ancient heritage sites, modern cities, and stunning coastlines, offers a variety of weekend getaway options for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, history, or luxury, there’s something for everyone — and you don’t need to leave the Kingdom to enjoy it.
Travel Trends: Weekend Tourism in Saudi Arabia
According to the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA):
- Domestic tourism grew by 17% in 2024 compared to 2023.
- Weekend trips account for nearly 35% of all domestic travel.
- The most visited regions for weekend trips include Riyadh, AlUla, Abha, Jeddah, and Taif.
1. AlUla: A Journey Through Time
Why go?
AlUla is a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning desert landscapes and ancient ruins like Hegra (Madain Saleh).
Top Activities
✅ Explore the tombs of Hegra
✅ Visit AlUla Old Town and Elephant Rock
✅ Go hiking or zip-lining in the canyons
✅ Attend concerts or art installations at Maraya Hall
Example Weekend Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival + Hegra Tour
- Day 2: Desert Safari + Stargazing
2. Jeddah: Red Sea Escape
Why go?
A mix of coastal fun and rich culture — Jeddah is perfect for both beach lovers and city explorers.
Top Activities
✅ Scuba diving/snorkeling in the Red Sea
✅ Walk the Jeddah Corniche
✅ Visit Al-Balad (Old Jeddah) and Nassif House
✅ Try seafood at Al Nakheel or Twina
Example Weekend Itinerary
- Day 1: Al-Balad + Corniche + Dinner at the Red Sea
- Day 2: Red Sea diving + Floating Mosque visit
3. Abha: Nature and Mountains
Why go?
Cool weather, green mountains, and cultural sites make Abha ideal for a summer weekend.
Top Activities
✅ Ride the cable car at Al Soudah
✅ Explore Rijal Almaa heritage village
✅ Try local dishes like Areeka or Aseedah
✅ Walk in Fog Walkway and Al Soudah Park
Example Weekend Itinerary
- Day 1: Al Soudah mountain + Cable Car + Fog Walkway
- Day 2: Rijal Almaa Village + local food tasting
4. Riyadh: Urban Retreat with Desert Adventures
Why go?
The capital offers a mix of modern attractions, heritage sites, and desert getaways just outside the city.
Top Activities
✅ Visit Diriyah (UNESCO Site)
✅ Explore Riyadh Season events (winter)
✅ Go on a desert safari or dune bashing
✅ Dine at The Boulevard or VIA Riyadh
Example Weekend Itinerary
- Day 1: Museums + Diriyah + Dinner in VIA Riyadh
- Day 2: Morning desert trip + brunch in city
5. Taif: City of Roses
Why go?
Known for its rose farms, cool weather, and mountainous landscape, Taif is a popular summer escape.
Top Activities
✅ Tour the rose gardens (March–April)
✅ Visit Shubra Palace
✅ Ride the cable car to Al Hada
✅ Enjoy fresh fruits and mountain breeze
Example Weekend Itinerary
- Day 1: Al Hada cable car + Shubra Palace
- Day 2: Rose Farm tour + picnic in Al Shafa
Travel Tips
- Best time to travel: October to April (except for highlands like Abha/Taif, which are great in summer).
- Transportation: Domestic flights (Saudia/Flynas) are efficient; car rentals are popular for local sightseeing.
- Cultural respect: Dress modestly, especially in heritage or religious sites.
Summary Table
| Destination | Key Attraction | Best Season | Notable Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| AlUla | Hegra Tombs | Oct–Mar | Stargazing |
| Jeddah | Red Sea | Nov–Apr | Diving |
| Abha | Mountains | Jun–Sep | Cable Car Ride |
| Riyadh | Urban + Desert | All year | Dune Bashing |
| Taif | Roses + Hills | Mar–Jul | Rose Garden Tour |
Final Thoughts
Weekend getaways in Saudi Arabia are more accessible and diverse than ever before. Whether you’re after history, adventure, relaxation, or luxury, there’s a perfect short escape just a few hours away. So, next Friday, skip the malls — and explore the magic within the Kingdom!
