Saudi Arabia – A Guide to a Kingdom Full of Contrasts

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Saudi Arabia, officially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is one of the most fascinating and mysterious places in the world. Located on the Arabian Peninsula, it is a huge country full of contrasts – from impassable deserts, through bustling cities, to places sacred to millions of people around the world. In this guide, I will take you on a journey through this unique country, showing you its most interesting attractions, history and unusual facts that make Saudi Arabia an increasingly popular tourist destination.

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Mecca – Holy City

Every tourist who plans a trip to Saudi Arabia cannot miss Mecca – one of the most important places in the world for over a billion Muslims. This is where the Kaaba is located, a sacred building in the central part of the Grand Mosque, around which millions of pilgrims circle every year, making the Hajj pilgrimage. Although only Muslims can enter the very center of the city and participate in pilgrimage rituals, the Mecca area itself offers tourists unforgettable views of desert landscapes, traditional architecture, and hills that have thousands of years of history.

Medina – Peace and Spirituality

Slightly less known, but equally important, is Medina, the second holiest city in Islam. This is where the Prophet's Mosque is located, where Muhammad is buried. The medina is a place of exceptional peace and spirituality, and for tourists from other religions it is an important point on the sightseeing route. It is also a city that played a key role in the history of Islam, when Muhammad went here to emigrate, which symbolizes the beginning of the Islamic calendar.

Riyadh – the modern capital

The capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, is a place where tradition meets modernity. On the one hand, you can admire futuristic skyscrapers such as the Royal Tower, on the other hand, you can still find traditional souks (markets) and historical places such as the Al-Masmak Fort or the National Museum, which tell the history of the country. Riyadh is also a city full of contrasts – huge shopping malls, luxury hotels and modern restaurants coexist with places of deep religious and cultural significance. If you want to feel the spirit of modern Arabia, this is where you will find the best opportunities to get to know the country on your own skin.

Jeddah – The gateway to Mecca and the Pearl of the Red Sea Coast

Jeddah, located on the Red Sea, is one of the oldest cities in Saudi Arabia and the gateway to Mecca. For tourists, Jeddah is an ideal place to relax by the sea, among picturesque beaches and luxury resorts. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, both modern and traditional. Here you can explore historic districts such as Al-Balad, full of narrow streets, coral houses and colorful markets. Jeddah is also a paradise for diving enthusiasts. The Red Sea, with its coral reefs, provides one of the best diving destinations in the world, and tourists can explore the underwater world in one of the best resorts in the region.

Rub' al-Khali – Desert of Emptiness

Not to be forgotten is Rub' al-Khali, known as the "Desert of the Void" – one of the largest deserts in the world. These are huge expanses of sands that may seem like an unbearable landscape, but at the same time they are one of the most characteristic places in the country. For brave tourists, there are expeditions that allow you to explore desert areas – from camel riding to sleeping under the starry sky.

Camels and Bedouins – In the Footsteps of Tradition

For those who want to feel the real Arab culture, a trip to the desert, where traditional Bedouins still live – nomadic tribes that have inhabited the Arabian Peninsula for centuries. Camels, the symbol of the region, are still used as a means of transportation in this harsh desert world. During such trips, you can feel the magic of the desert, immerse yourself in the local culture and learn the secrets of the ancient art of survival.

Neom – the city of the future

Soon, Saudi Arabia is to implement one of the most futuristic projects in the world – the construction of the modern city of Neom. It is a project that is to change the face of the region. A city based on the latest technologies, automation and sustainable development, it is to become a center of innovation, combining science, art, and tourism. Although the project is still in the implementation phase, huge investments in the development of this region can already be seen.

Water and Desert – Oases and Desalination

Saudi Arabia is a country where water is at a premium. The country has no natural rivers, and most of its drinking water comes from the desalination of seawater. However, despite the harsh climatic conditions, you can find beautiful oases in Saudi Arabia, such as Al-Ula, which were once important trading posts on caravan routes. These scenic spots provide the perfect backdrop for rest and relaxation in the heart of the desert.

Culture & Cuisine – Scents of the Middle East

Saudi Arabia is also a country of extraordinary cuisine that will satisfy every gourmet. Kabsa – traditional Saudi rice with meat, spices and nuts, is a must-try dish. Additionally, there is a great culinary diversity in the country, with African and Asian influences. It is also worth trying hummus, falafel or Arabic coffee, brewed on the basis of cardamom.

Trivia

1. Size of the country: Saudi Arabia is the largest country on the Arabian Peninsula – its area is almost equal to the size of the whole of Europe!2.    Mecca and Hajj: Every year, millions of Muslims make pilgrimages to Mecca to participate in the Hajj ritual – one of the five pillars of Islam.    Camels and Bedouins: Camels are a symbol of Saudi Arabia, and the Bedouin tradition is deeply rooted in this part of the world. Practical information

Saudi Arabia Visa

To enter Saudi Arabia, citizens of many countries, including Polish, need a visa. It can be obtained in the form of a tourist visa, which is currently available to citizens from many countries. The tourist visa allows you to stay for up to 90 days and covers both tourism and business. Visa applications can be submitted online through the Saudi Visa Portal electronic platform or through Saudi consulates. It is important to check the specific visa requirements as they may change.

Transportation in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia offers tourists a wide range of transportation options that allow them to easily move around the country.1.    Aircraft: Saudi Arabia has modern airports and Saudia Airlines is the national carrier. Domestic flights connect major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Jeddah and Medina.2.    Taxis and car rental: Taxis are available in most cities, and car rentals are popular, especially among tourists who want to explore longer distances, including deserts and oases. However, remember that driving in the desert requires special experience.3.    Rail: A railway system is developing in Saudi Arabia that connects major cities. It is a very convenient way to travel, especially between Riyadh and Jeddah or Mecca.4.    Public transport: In major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah and Jeddah, buses and metros (e.g. in Riyadh) are available, making it easier to get around the cities.

Safety

Saudi Arabia is recognized as a country with a relatively high level of security. It is recommended that local customs and regulations be followed, especially those related to public behavior and dress code.

Summary

Saudi Arabia is a country that surprises at every turn. On the one hand, it offers extraordinary places of religious and spiritual significance, and on the other – modern cities that are a testimony to dynamic development. It is a country where tradition and modernity meet, and its culture and history will remain in the memory of every tourist for a long time.