The Silk Route of Saudi

Historical Diriyah, situated in the Northwest of Riyadh, 20 km away, is a remarkable site with a rich history. It is in the middle of an Arab desert on the banks of Wadi Hanifa, amidst a green oasis filled with orchards, farms, and fruitful palms. This is where Imam Muhammad bin Saud established the foundations of the first Saudi state, resulting in an unprecedented period of prosperity for the region that lasted for centuries. At-Turaif District is an essential part of Diriyah, and it is one of the five UNESCO World Heritage sites in Saudi Arabia. This district includes Salwa Palace, which was the center of governance of the first Saudi state. Other districts such as Al-Bujairi, Al-Suraiha, and Ghasiba are also worth exploring. Visiting Historical Diriyah is a unique opportunity to travel back in time and experience the rich history of the region. Continue to visit the Masmak museum, Enjoy and step back in time and explore Saudi Arabia’s roots. A short documentary also re-enacts the capture of the fortress by King Abdul Aziz, whose spearhead you can still see embedded in its wooden gate. Dira Souq is famous for its variety of old copper and brass objects including silver daggers, silver Bedouins Jewelry, and dresses. While entering from main access, visitors always smell sandal wood fragrance. Dira Souq is worth
buying antique carpets and other useful Saudi heritage antiques. Rajhi Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in Riyadh. The magnificent landmark is a complete Islamic Centre that offers numerous services to the community. This experience into Rajhi Grand Mosque, introduces Islam for Non- Muslim visitors, takes visitors inside the Grand Mosque at the real praying time to explore its different internal sections and learn about the important role it performs for the community at large. You will be briefed about Islam and the cultural aspect of it and how it blends into the daily life interactions of people in Saudi Arabia Overnight Riyadh hotel.
Meals Plan: “Breakfast & Dinner”

“Optional Tour 4WD”
The name of the cliff that towers at a height of 1130 meters and is situated approximately 100 kilometers away from Riyadh, marks the end of the Tuwaiq Mountain range that stretches for 800 kilometers. The Edge of the World offers an awe-inspiring view of the surrounding landscape, with an endless horizon that stretches as far as the eye can see. The dry, soil-free surface of the Tuwaiq Mountain cliffs provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the arid desert environment, where Samar and Acacia trees dot the valley, and Ghodi trees and Pole plants cover the high sand dunes.These mountains bear witness to their long- standing resistance to erosion and the test of time.

As you explore the area, you may stumble upon snails and marine fossils, evidence of the region's past as a marine habitat.

“Optional Tour BUS”
The Saudi National Museum & Muraba Palace: A Journey Through Time and Space, which opened its doors in 1998. The museum showcases 3,700 artifacts, including statues, scripts, and unique sculptures that chronicle earth's history to the moon and beyond. The museum features eight galleries filled with fascinating history. Begin at the Man and the Universe section, where you can learn about universe origins,the solar system, and the natural forces that have shaped it for millions of years. Next, step into the Ancient Arab Kingdoms and immerse yourself in the
civilizations that thrived from the 4th millennium BC to the 2nd century AD. In the Pre-Islamic Era room, explore the religious and social aspects of life prior to the advent of Islam. The Prophet's Mission Gallery provides insights into the life of the Prophet PBUH, from the moment of revelation to his hijrah to Madinah. Lastly, the Hajj and Two Holy Mosques Gallery exhibits the urban development of Medina and Mecca holy mosques, offering a glimpse into the evolution of these sacred sites.
"The Inaugural Monarch's Residence, Muraba Palace" A two-story, square-shaped structure consisting of 32 rooms. The walls of Muraba Historical Palace act as a portal to Riyadh's rich past and a glimpse into its ancient memories. Constructed in 1939 by King Abdulaziz Al Saud, the founder of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the palace served as both the official residence and government headquarters. Upon visiting the palace, one can't help but notice the distinctive design of the central foyer, encircled by all the rooms, showcasing its exceptional architecture to contemporary visitors. Over time, the natural environment has left an imprint on the palace's various elements. The rooms feature tamarisk trunks extending to the ceilings and are
embellished with palm leaves and branches. The palace's foundations are composed of stone, while its walls are made from mud bricks combined with straw. Intricate inscriptions and patterns on plaster adorn the walls. Despite the architectural simplicity, the palace's beauty is highlighted by the meandering pillars that support the rooms and
corridors.

“Optional Tour BUS”
Nestled in the core of Najd, a region speckled with oases 200km to the northwest of Riyadh, lies Ushaiqer. Bedouins first inhabited this area 1,500 years ago, and it swiftly turned into a
favored resting spot for pilgrims en route to Mecca, due to its springs and abundant olive and palm groves. Ushaiqer, which curiously translates to 'little blonde' in reference to the red
mountain nearby that overlooks the yellow mud houses, is far from a forsaken, dusty relic. A small community still resides here, utilizing its schools, shops, and mosques. Wandering its
narrow streets feels like stepping into a living museum, adorned with remnants of an ancient lifestyle. Surrounded by thick walls, Ushaiqer is a maze of twisting alleys, dappled passageways, and timber-supported walkways that connect hundreds of mud houses. These homes showcase the unique Najdi architectural style, featuring triangular windows and rooftops as well as intricately carved wooden doors. Some of them still display the names of the families who once resided there. Be sure to visit the Al Salem Museum, established by the village's own inhabitants. It houses an extensive array of artifacts such as intricately embroidered garments, jewelry, ceramics, weapons, and cooking utensils.

“Optional Tour BUS”

The Arabian horse holds a significant historical legacy in the Arabian Peninsula since ancient times. All ancient and historical manuscripts confirm that the Arabian Peninsula is recognized as the birthplace of these majestic creatures. The historical records pay great tribute to the Arabian horses, acknowledging their multifaceted importance to the Kingdom. In the annals of modern history, it is noteworthy that King Abdul Aziz, the Founder of the Kingdom, was the final knight who united the country while mounted on the backs of Arabian horses.
The King Abdulaziz Racetrack serves as the venue for the most financially rewarding horse race ever held, boasting a prize of $20 million. Spanning an impressive area of one million square meters, the center is home to an estimated 236 horses. Visiting this center provides a rare and remarkable opportunity to witness the Arabian Horse firsthand and delve deeper into its origins. It allows individuals to grasp why these majestic creatures hold immense significance in Arabian history and culture.

“Optional Tour BUS”

KINGDOM TOWER SKY PRIDGE, FAISALIYAH TOWER & KING FAHAD NATIONAL LIBRARY
Experience the glamour of Riyadh through the Sky Bridge at Kingdom Center, where you can take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the city from a height of 300 meters. The Sky Bridge boasts highly secure glass panels that allow you to marvel at the starry nights and admire the yellow lights reflecting off the streets and buildings of Riyadh. Capture the moment by taking
selfies with the city's stunning backdrop on clear days. Once you've enjoyed the view, head to the 77th floor to visit King Abdullah Mosque, the highest mosque in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. And don't forget to indulge in some world-class and local shopping at the Kingdom Center. Al Faisaliyah Centre, situated in Riyadh's business district, is a mixed-use complex and commercial skyscraper. Designed by Foster + Partners, this development features a prominent 267-meter-high office tower, making it the pioneering skyscraper in Saudi Arabia. One of its standout features is the awe-inspiring stained-glass wall in the lobby, a collaborative creation by architectural artist Brian Clarke and Norman Foster. Construction of the complex commenced in 1997. Alongside the central office tower, the compound includes a luxurious five-star hotel, a three-story retail mall, and a banqueting and conference hall. The office tower itself consists of 30 floors of office space, topped by an observation deck 200 meters above ground level, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Riyadh. In May 2000, the extensive 240,000-square-meter Centre was fully completed. Dubbed as the Star Dome, this skyscraper is home to "The Globe," one of Saudi Arabia's premier restaurants. Located in the sphere above the observation deck, it offers diners a remarkable 360-degree view of the city.
The King Fahd National Library "KFNL", serves as Saudi Arabia's official repository for legal deposit and copyright materials. It was established in 1983 following an initiative by the people of Riyadh during King Fahd's ascension to the throne.
"KFNL" holds great cultural significance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Its design not only acts as a central force driving urban development and reorganization but also harmoniously blends with Arabian culture while working within the existing building framework.
Interior Design : The expansive roof of the building now serves as a well-lit reading landscape, creating a unique atmosphere that promotes the exchange of knowledge. Inside, like a hidden treasure chest, lies a repository of knowledge in the form of book stacks. Accessible via bridges from the reading area, the open-access sections are situated on the third floor
of the building. A roof covers everything, adorned with skylights that delicately disperse light throughout the interior, creating a harmonious environment.
Façade
The façade of the building showcases a distinctive feature specifically designed for this purpose. It consists of rhomboid textile awnings that skillfully alternate between revealing and concealing. Supported by a three- dimensional, tensile-stressed steel cable structure, white membranes are integrated as sunshades, offering a modern interpretation of the traditional Arabian tent structure. This interplay between old and new elements contributes to an elegant and prestigious architectural appearance. At night, the façade emits a gentle white glow, transforming
into a beacon of culture for the city.
Overnight Riyadh hotel.
Meals Plan: “Breakfast”

Jeddah, which means grandmother, is a name that owes the city to the belief that Eve would be buried there. Jeddah is the commercial heart of Saudi Arabia and traditionally the port where pilgrims from all over the Islamic world arrive on their way to Mecca and Medina.

Upon arrival to Jeddah Airport, we move to our hotel for check and then we continue to Red Sea Mall for Shopping experience.
Overnight Jeddah hotel.
Meals Plan: “Breakfast & Dinner”

A visit to this urban vibrant city offers the chance to witness a rich cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO, from the historical district to the intricate designs of balconies and ancient
sidewalks that have inspired artists, writers, and visitors for centuries. The destination also boasts unforgettable sunsets over the Red Sea shores and magical diving experiences featuring colorful coral reefs, making it a year- round destination for nature lovers. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the corniche, where you can admire various statues of famous artists such as Miró, Baldaccini, and Moore along the boulevard. Enjoy the countless splendors that you won't soon forget, both on land and under the sea. Historic Jeddah, Mecca Royal Seaport. It gathered people from all cultures and walks of life throughout the ages. This part of the world unveils a human heritage whose walls challenged different historical factors with eight gates which used to get closed at night as a form of security and protection. With several ancient houses praised for their distinctive designs and the names of their ancient families. UNESCO World Heritage site. Whenever you look up, you see the wooden Rawashins hanging overhead as an example of authentic architecture that oversees the modern life that passes beneath it. Start your journey through history inside the ancient houses of Al Balad with Baeshen house took the lead as a social and cultural center as it was the gathering place of the notables of Jeddah in the past. Nassif house, you stand on the grounds of the first orientally designed Arabic house in Jeddah. It has been used throughout the years as a temporary residence for kings and scholars. With 40 wide rooms with high ceilings. Let your walking journey take you next to the well-preserved architectural beauty of Matbouli house. The experience of walking around here resembles walking into a heritage museum, where every turn has an art painting. This marvelous historic masterpiece dates to 420 years ago. Al Shafei mosque was built during the reign of The Caliphate Omar Bin Khatab. Its marble pillars and Al Mangabi Stones date back to 1400 years. However, its minaret goes back 850 years as a recent addition because old mosques
are built without minarets. You walk further through the old town and visit the Al Alawi Souq, the market that winds through the old neighborhoods and where products such as incense, jewelry, coffee, and clothing are sold. Once in Jeddah, guest cannot miss the liveliest Fish Market, at Red Sea to enjoy the daily and fresh catch with 1000s of different colors among the market making a colorful paint art.
Overnight Jeddah Hotel.
Meals Plan: “Breakfast & Dinner”

“Optional Tour Boat”
Cruise into the Blue
Enjoy the experience of cruise tours in the Red Sea, starting your trip at the shores of Obhur bay, which is best known for its great cruises. You can think of the lunch or dinner you're going to have on your joyful journey or gaining a wonderful tanning experience if you like direct sun exposure.

“Optional Tour BUS”
Fakieh Aquarium is Saudi Arabia's premier marine exhibition, featuring over 200 species primarily from Jeddah's coral reefs. Visitors can explore the vibrant Red Sea ecosystem without scuba gear, learning about unique creatures like the Napoleon wrasse and sohal surgeonfish. The aquarium also houses endangered marine life, sharks, and penguins. An immersive acrylic tunnel offers exceptional views of various marine species, and the tour concludes with a captivating display of illuminated jellyfish.

“Optional Tour BUS”
KAEC, or King Abdullah Economic City, located 100 kilometers north of Jeddah along the beautiful Red Sea coastline, is a bustling modern metropolis that has become increasingly popular as a tourist destination. Originally created in 2005 to attract international business, KAEC has also become a hub for leisure activities. The Royal Greens Golf & Country Club, one of the most renowned golf clubs in the entire Middle East, hosts international tournaments, while the Lagoona leisure area, which has recently been developed, is home to a new motorsports park. The waterfront is another major attraction, with its expansive beaches and warm desert climate that averages 28 degrees C year- round. Visitors can enjoy the bike-friendly Beach Walk or take part in a variety of watersports at the soft-sand Yam Beach.

“Optional Tour BUS”
Al Shuaiba beach, located on the Red Sea shores in the Tihama area, south of Mecca. It was Mecca's main port before the caliph Othman bin Affan turned the port to Jeddah.
The beach host many sunken ships due to the large number of scattered coral reefs. It’s known that ships entering this region cannot easily exit because of their immanent collision with
coral reefs, making it known as the "ships’ graveyard". Among those sunken ships is the Al Fahad ship, which used to transport passengers before colliding with coral reefs. It has been around for 30 years and has become the ideal destination for divers and fishermen alongside with photographers and tourists.

“Optional Tour BUS”
Silver Sands Beach, a popular beach located in a long and sandy stretch of Jeddah. Plenty of sun beds and lots of water sports are available at this beach. This is a hidden paradise located in Jeddah. The ambience of the beach is really good and once you visit it, you will be highly attracted. Silver Sands Beach has different types of small restaurants that serve good seafood. Take a stroll along the beach with your loved ones.

“Optional Tour Train”
A majestic and historic destination. Medina is one of Islam’s two holiest cities, making it a key destination for millions of pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah. The city is centered
around Al Masjid an Nabawi, also known as the Prophet’s Mosque, which was constructed by the Prophet himself and is also where he is buried. Medina is where the Prophet Muhammad lived and taught after the migration from Makkah "Mecca" in English back in 622 AD, called Hijrah. This year is so important in the history of Islam that it marks the start of the Islamic calendar. Although the city’s name is usually written as "Medina" in English, its full name is Al Medina Al Munawwarah, meaning “the Enlightened City.” Because of the city’s pivotal role in the Prophet Muhammad’s life, making a trip to Medina is a lifelong dream for many Muslims.

“Optional Tour Bus”
Taif, a mountainous city nestled amidst clouds, boasts of a serene atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty. The city, situated on the eastern slopes of the Sarawat Mountains and towering at an altitude of about 1,700 meters above sea level, enjoys cool weather and is fondly known as the "friend of the clouds." The southern rural areas of Taif, which rise to a height of 2,400 meters, are home to lush farms and vibrant traditions. Our guide highlights some of the most spectacular events that can be organized within the city's mountains and fields and showcases its most popular and picturesque locations. Taif is renowned for its delectable citrus fruits, including grapes, berries, pomegranates, and figs, and is also famous for its fragrant roses, grown in over 700 farms. The city is replete with historical landmarks, bustling markets, charming squares, unique gardens, and cultural attractions, making it a must-
visit destination.

Overnight Jeddah Hotel.
Meals Plan: “Breakfast”

Transfer to Jeddah Airport for Departure.
Meals Plan: “Breakfast”