Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the largest country on the Arabian Peninsula. Saudi Arabia is a unique and captivating destination for those seeking an authentic cultural experience. The country is home to some of the most important Islamic sites in the world, including the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, which are only open to Muslims. However, there are plenty of other fascinating destinations open to tourists, such as the ancient city of Al-Ula, with its impressive archaeological sites and stunning landscapes. The Red Sea coast is another must-visit, with world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities, as well as luxury resorts and beautiful beaches. Despite its reputation as a conservative society, Saudi Arabia is rapidly developing its tourism infrastructure, making it an exciting destination for travelers looking to explore a different side of the Middle East.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MBS, has implemented significant changes in Saudi Arabia since taking power in 2015, such as diversifying the economy, allowing women to drive, and limiting the influence of religious leaders. He also introduced Vision 2030, which aims to make Saudi Arabia a leading investment hub that connects three continents.

Useful Links

• IP Cam: Qatar Saudi road border crossing at Salwa: https://www.ipcamlive.com/6343ed0b7e602

Visa

• Go to https://ksavisa.sa/
• Click "Visit", Select "Tourism" as Purpose and choose your Nationality and choose "Valid residency in the GCC" and clcik "Show Eligible Visas"
• Click "Apply Now" under "Electronic Visa" and proceed by filling in the all the details.
• You will need details from Passport and National ID, Passport size photo in jpeg format (less than 5 Mb), mobile, email, profession, Passport copy in jpeg (both pages together), National ID copy in jpeg (front and back together).
• After filling in all details and uploading all files, there will be an option to review and then proceed by choosing a medical insurance plan. Choose the lowest cost one.
• Complete the application by paying through the credit card. Total fee was $107. Once the payment is complete, visa will be immediately approved and sent to the email.

My Trips

• 2000 January 01 to April 30 (4 Months): Landed in Jeddah for my first job aborad. Resigned and returned to India after 4 months.
• 2008 July 17 to 28 (12 Days): Went to Saudi with my wife and stayed with my brother in Makkah. Visited Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah, Al Ula, Al Kar and Al Hada.
• 2012 April 26 to May 03 (8 Days): Visited Saudi again with family and stayed with my brother and faimly in Makkah. Visited many friends and relatives and places like Taif, Obhor and Jeddah.
• 2023 February 17 (1 Day): One day road trip from Doha, Qatar to the Saudi border city of Al Hofuf with family and cousins. Visited all major attractions in the city.
• 2023 April 19 to 28 (10 Days): Road trip from Doha, Qatar to Saudi covering major tourist attractions through Asir region with family and cousins.

Visited Places/Attractions

• Makkah (Holy places like Masjid al-Ḥarām (with Kaaba, Black Stone, the Zamzam Well, Maqam Ibrahim, and the hills of Safa and Marwa), Mina, Muzdalifah, Mount Arafat, etc.)
• Madinah (Holy places like Masjid al-Nabawi, Shuhada of Uhud, etc.)
• Jeddah (Corniche, King Fahad's Fountain, Bicycle Roundabout, Old Jeddah, etc.)
• Al Hada (Al Kar)
• Al Ula (Madain Saleh/Hegra: UNESCO World Heritage Site of 1st century AD Nabatean kingdom)
• Taif (Al Hada mountain pass)
• Obhor (Red Sea side beach)
• Al-Hofuf (Al-Ahsa Oasis, Al Majassa Palace ruins, Ibrahim Palace, Al Qarah Mountain/Land of Civilization/Hofuf Caves, Floating Rock, Mount Abu Hsas Altoithir, Qaisariya Al-Ahsa Souq)
• Riyadh (Riyadh Boulevard, Neom The Line Experience, Diriya Heritage area, Riyadh edge of the world off road trip )
• Doos (Arya view point, Mysaan view point , Wadi Dama Dam, Rock formations, Thaqif Canal Duck Lake, Al-Qurai Bani Malik Garden, Bani Malik view point )
• Al Bahah (Makhwah mountain pass view point, Thee Ain Heritage Marble Village, Bani Amr sun set viewpoint )
• Al Namas (Al Meger Tourist Village)
• Abaha (Al Habala Old Village)
• Khamis Mushait
• Rijal Alma (Heritage village )