12 Day Saudi Arabia Uncovered Premium Small Group Tour

Welcome to Riyadh and the start of your Saudi Arabian adventure. After collecting your luggage, you will be met in the arrivals hall by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Riyadh is the birthplace of modern Saudi Arabia, where traditional charm harmoniously coexists with contemporary vision. Riyadh Province, also known as Al-Wosta, is home to the nation's capital, a dynamic metropolis that serves as a thriving financial and business hub, along with an increasingly vibrant cultural scene. The city is steeped in history, featuring a wealth of forts, palaces, and museums, as well as some of the most colorful souks in the country. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Special Information The standard check in is 2pm. Should you be arriving earlier in the day, the hotel can hold your luggage until your room is ready. Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

After breakfast, meet your guide for a tour of Riyadh. Begin your day at Diriyah (At-Turaif District), the birthplace of the first Saudi state and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through historic mud-brick palaces, mosques, and fortifications that reflect traditional Najdi architecture and tell the story of Saudi Arabia's early foundations. Continue to the Saudi National Museum, located near King Abdulaziz Palace. Explore eight immersive galleries that trace the Kingdom's history from prehistoric times and ancient Arabian civilizations through the rise of Islam, the Hajj, and the unification of modern Saudi Arabia. Pause for a delicious lunch and savour authentic regional cuisine at a local restaurant. Next, visit Al Masmak Fortress, the iconic 19th-century stronghold where King Abdulaziz recaptured Riyadh in 1902. View historical exhibits, photographs, and traditional interiors that bring this pivotal moment in Saudi history to life. Conclude the tour at Souk Al-Zal, one of Riyadh's oldest traditional markets. Wander through its historic alleys filled with antiques, handicrafts, old coins, and local treasures, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this living heritage marketplace. This evening enjoy a Welcome Dinner and reflect on your day with your fellow travellers. Inspiring Highlights Diriyah Al Masmak Fortress Souk Al-Zal

After breakfast, check out and begin your journey across Saudi Arabia. Today we head north to Buraidah. Enroute to Buraidah, stop at the historic Ushaiger Heritage Village, one of Najd's most evocative traditional settlements. Located about 200 km northwest of Riyadh, this oasis village was first settled over 1,500 years ago and became an important resting point for pilgrims traveling to Makkah, thanks to its natural springs and palm groves. Surrounded by thick defensive walls, Ushaiger is a maze of narrow lanes, shaded walkways, and mud-brick houses connected by timber bridges. The village showcases classic Najdi architecture, with triangular windows, flat roofs, and beautifully carved wooden doors—many still marked with the names of the families who once lived there. Unlike a static museum, Ushaiger remains a living village, with local residents, mosques, and small shops, offering a rare glimpse into Saudi Arabia's traditional way of life. Inspiring Highlights Ushaiger Heritage Village Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 ½ hours.

Today, enjoy a morning visit to the Buraidah Camel Market, the world's largest of its kind. Experience the lively auctions, meet local traders, and witness an age-old tradition that remains central to Saudi culture. Continue your journey to Hail, stopping along the way to explore Faid. Faid is an important historic settlement in central Saudi Arabia. The site flourished during the early Islamic period as a key stopping point for pilgrims, traders, and caravans crossing the Arabian Peninsula. Today, visitors can explore the remains of stone houses, wells, reservoirs, and defensive walls, offering insight into daily life along this vital pilgrimage road. Faid is especially noted for its sophisticated water-management system, designed to collect and store rainwater for travelers and residents. The ruins stand as a powerful reminder of Saudi Arabia's role in supporting pilgrimage, trade, and settlement across centuries. Continue on to Hail and check into your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Worlds largest Camel Market Faid Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

After breakfast we journey northwest of Hail to Jubbah, one of Saudi Arabia's most important prehistoric sites. At Jabal Umm Sinman, you will explore extensive rock inscriptions and petroglyphs dating back 7,000–9,000 years to the Pottery Neolithic period. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its exceptional concentration of rock art, illustrating early human life through detailed depictions of hunting scenes, animals, tools, weapons, clothing, and social activities. Set within an ancient desert landscape that was once rich in lakes and vegetation, the carvings offer rare insight into how early communities adapted to changing climates and environments. The site stands as powerful evidence of long-standing human settlement and cultural expression in the Arabian Peninsula. Inspiring Highlights Jubbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

After breakfast depart Hail for AlUla. AlUla, in northwest Saudi Arabia, is a breathtaking region of ancient cities, dramatic sandstone cliffs, and lush oases. Known as the heart of the Dadan and Lihyan civilizations, it is home to archaeological treasures including rock tombs, petroglyphs, and monumental structures carved into cliffs. AlUla's most famous site, Hegra (Madain Salih), is Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing remarkably preserved Nabatean tombs. Rich in history and natural beauty, AlUla offers a unique journey through the Kingdom's past and landscapes that feel almost otherworldly. On arrival, check into your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Prepare for an incredible day of sight seeing with an early breakfast. Commencing at approximately 7am, your tour will explore Hegra (Madain Salih), Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander among over 100 well-preserved Nabataean tombs carved into sandstone cliffs, dating from the 1st century BCE to the 1st century AD. The intricate facades and serene desert landscapes offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient trade routes and the rich cultural heritage of the Nabatean civilization, making it a truly mesmerizing destination. Next, visit Maraya, AlUla's architectural masterpiece. Covered in 9,740 mirrored panels, the building reflects the surrounding cliffs and desert, creating an almost magical illusion of disappearing and reappearing within the landscape. Recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest mirrored building in the world, Maraya hosts concerts, cultural events, and offers a striking example of modern innovation harmonizing with the natural beauty of AlUla. Pause for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor regional flavors and enjoy a relaxing break before continuing your journey through history. After lunch, explore the Old Town of AlUla, a centuries-old settlement inhabited from before the 12th century until the 1980s. With the guidance of a Rawi, or traditional storyteller, wander through narrow alleys, mudbrick houses, and historic squares, and hear stories of pilgrims, traders, and settlers. Admire the 10th-century AlUla Fort and gain insight into the town's rich cultural heritage, preserved in its architecture and living history. The day concludes at the iconic Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil), a natural sandstone formation rising 52 meters into the sky. Sculpted over millions of years by wind and water, the rock is especially breathtaking at sunset, when it glows in deep crimson hues. Relax in the unique sunken seating and enjoy the magical desert atmosphere, a fitting finale to a day full of history, culture, and natural wonder. Return to your hotel for dinner and a well earned rest. Inspiring Highlights Nabatean ruins of Hegra AlUla's old town Elephant Rock Special Information Exploring the sites of AlUla will be conducted on shared services so there may be other travellers joining you for this sightseeing. It is a local requirement that a specialist local guide of the region conduct all guiding services. Your tour leader will not accompany you on the AlUla day tours. Please note that visiting Maraya is subject to availability and may be affected if there is an event or concert scheduled in Maraya Hall.

Today, enjoy a guided journey through the beauty and natural wonders of AlUla's Oasis. This 3 km walk along the Oasis Heritage Trail is the perfect way to experience the lush landscapes while learning about the oasis's vital role in AlUla's history. Your tour begins with a warm welcome, featuring dates, dried fruits, and traditional Arabic coffee, followed by an introduction to the oasis by your expert guide. Wander along shaded pathways beneath towering date palms, then step into sunlit clearings to take in the stunning, verdant panoramas that make this oasis so extraordinary. Next, explore the ancient capital of Dadan, where extensive excavations reveal fortified cities, tombs, and thousands of early Arabic inscriptions. About one kilometer south of the main site stand two remarkable tombs perched 50 meters above the wadi, each adorned with carved lions—a rare Mesopotamian-inspired feature that marks the tombs of governors or influential figures. Nearby, Jabal Ikmah, often described as a vast open-air library, offers the highest concentration of inscriptions in AlUla. Here, the walls are covered with thousands of early texts, showcasing the unique language, alphabet, and culture of the Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms, as well as influences from surrounding empires. This journey through the oasis, ancient city, and mountain inscriptions provides a breathtaking glimpse into AlUla's rich heritage and vibrant history. Following your tour you will be returned to your hotel where the remainder of the day is at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Oasis Heritage Trail Ancient capital of Dadan Jabal Ikmah Special Information Exploring the sites of AlUla will be conducted on shared services so there may be other travellers joining you for this sightseeing. It is a local requirement that a specialist local guide of the region conduct all guiding services. Your tour leader will not accompany you on the AlUla day tours.

A more leisurely start this morning before checking out and transferring to the holy city of Madinah.Madinah, the “City of the Prophet,” is Islam's second holiest city and home to the Prophet's Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi). Steeped in history, it features Quba Mosque, the first mosque in Islam, Mount Uhud, and historic cemeteries. Surrounded by lush date palms and desert landscapes, Madinah blends spiritual significance with rich culture and welcoming local life. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. Please note, when visiting Madinah, women are required to wear an abaya. If you do not already have one, your guide can assist with purchasing one locally for approximately USD 25–35. Men must wear long pants and regular T-shirts or shirts. Shorts and sleeveless tops are not permitted.

Today explore the holy city of Madinah on a comprehensive tour. Begin with a visit to the Prophet's Mosque, the second holiest site in Islam after Masjid al-Haram. Built by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) after his migration to Madinah in 622 CE, it is one of the largest mosques in the world. This sacred mosque attracts visitors from around the world seeking to connect with Islamic history and spirituality. Next, discover the International Fairs and Museums, a modern educational center dedicated to the life, teachings, and noble character of Prophet Muhammad. Using cutting-edge technologies and creative exhibits, the museum offers a research-based, immersive experience highlighting the Prophet's moral guidance and lasting influence on the world. Finally, step into Quba Mosque, the first mosque in Islamic history, founded by Prophet Muhammad with his own hands and built by the early emigrants and helpers. Mentioned in the Qur'an for its virtues, Quba Mosque remains a central place of worship and spiritual reflection. Today, it is linked to the Prophet's Mosque by a scenic 3 km walking trail and continues to draw residents and visitors following the Sunnah. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant during today's tour. Following our tour, transfer to Madinah Train Station and board the bullet train to Jeddah. On arrival in Jeddah you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Inspiring Highlights The Prophet's Mosque International Fairs and Museums Quba Mosque Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours by bullet train. A luggage limit of 25kg (55 pounds) applies to the train journey.

After breakfast, set out on a full day tour of Jeddah. Begin at the Floating Mosque (Al-Rahmah Mosque), built in 1985 on a platform over the water. Its bright white structure and turquoise dome create a stunning reflection in the Red Sea, blending Islamic architecture with traditional design. Inside, advanced sound and lighting systems enhance the serene and striking atmosphere, making it a unique landmark of Jeddah's coastline. Next, explore the Jeddah Corniche, a 30 km waterfront lined with recreation areas, pavilions, and large-scale sculptures. Visit the Jeddah fish market, filled with the lively sounds of fishermen calling out their catches, buyers haggling for the best prices, and the aroma of the sea in the air. It's a sensory experience that showcases Jeddah's long-standing connection to the Red Sea, offering visitors the chance to witness traditional fishing practices and the daily rhythm of one of Saudi Arabia's busiest seafood markets. Explore Al-Balad, the historic heart of Jeddah, founded in the 7th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through narrow streets lined with preserved coral stone and seashell buildings, admire traditional window and door designs, and step inside historic homes to see original furniture and interiors. Learn how merchants once traded goods and how pilgrims stocked up for their journey to Makkah through the historic Makkah Gate. Al-Balad is also home to centuries-old mosques, some still active today, reflecting the city's rich religious and cultural heritage. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant during your tour. This evening enjoy a final night dinner with your fellow travellers as you reflect on your incredible journey. Inspiring Highlights Floating Mosque Al-Balad

Your Saudi Arabia journey comes to an end after breakfast. At the appropriate time you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special Information Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.