Calling all Malaysian adventurers, history enthusiasts, and sun lovers! Dive into an unforgettable journey with the Saudi Tourism Authority and discover a captivating year-round destination. Explore beyond the spiritual hub Saudi is known for and uncover hidden gems: thrilling adventures, luxurious desert escapes, and a rich cultural tapestry. Join us as we unveil the diverse experiences waiting for you in this fascinating land.

• Dive into Rich Cultural Heritage Beyond Spiritual Journeys:
  • Explore the UNESCO-listed wonders like the Al Ahsa Oasis and Hegra and unearth centuries-old traditions at the Himā Cultural Area and Al Balad, Jeddah. Witness the captivating blend of tradition and modernity as you discover the rock art of Hail, the historic district of Turaif, and the stunning Uruq Bani Ma'arid Reserve.
  • Discover the historical sites of Ghār Thawr and Ghār Hira, where Prophet Muhammad sought solitude and revelation, offering a profound insight into Islamic history.
  • Marvel at Jeddah's Floating Mosque, a testament to Islamic architecture and traditional construction. Across the land, other traditional mosques dazzle with their intricate designs, showcasing timeless artistry.
    
    
• Luxury in the Sands-Desert Escapes Like No Other: Move beyond the typical luxury hotels and delve into the epitome of desert luxury amidst the rolling dunes of Saudi. Experience the pinnacle of opulence at the St. Regis Red Sea or the Six Senses Southern Dunes, where lavish accommodations and world-class amenities await.
  
  Gear up for a desert safari at Nofa Wildlife Park with Arabian Adventures, traversing the mesmerising landscape in a luxury 4x4 vehicle and a scrumptious dinner under the starlit sky at a traditional Bedouin camp.
  
  Experience the redefined luxury of Saudi where adventures, ancient heritage and culture seamlessly blend to create unforgettable memories.
  
  
• Adrenaline-Pumping Adventures:
  • Buckle up, thrill seekers! Saudi offers a plethora of adrenaline-pumping adventures amidst beautiful landscapes.
  • Challenge yourself with rock climbing expeditions in the granite cliffs of the Al-Hada mountain range near Taif.
  • Paraglide over the spectacular Red Sea coastline for the ultimate sightseeing experience.
  • Immerse yourself in the Red Sea's underwater paradise, renowned for its pristine waters, exceptional visibility, and encounters with rare fish and vibrant coral reefs.
    
    
• Tailored Travel Solutions: Saudi ensures seamless travel experiences for Malaysians with flexible visa schemes, including options for Umrah, removal of male guardianship for female visitors, and specialized Umrah+ packages, catering to every traveller's needs.
  
  
• Flexible Visa Schemes: Umrah? Check! Sightseeing adventure? Check! Whether you're on a spiritual journey or a cultural exploration, Saudi Arabia has got you covered with flexible visa options tailored to each traveller's needs.
  
  
• Solo Female Adventures: Female solo travellers will find Saudi a welcoming haven for exploration and well-being.  Since the removal of male guardianship requirements, independent women can enjoy greater freedom and confidence as they explore the country's rich culture, attractions, and stunning landscapes. Diverse settings, from untouched islands to majestic mountains, provide the perfect backdrop for activities like yoga, meditation, spa treatments, and more. Whether you seek introspection in serene landscapes or connection with other travellers through shared wellness experiences, Saudi offers exceptional opportunities for both adventure and self-discovery.
  
  
• Reinforcing this safety aspect, a study by InsureMyTrip even highlights Medina in Saudi Arabia as the safest city for solo female travellers, scoring a perfect 10 in both "safety walking alone at night" and "absence of worry about attacks based on gender."
  
  
• Umrah+ Packages: Specialized Umrah+ packages provide comprehensive travel solutions that cater to every aspect of the pilgrimage experience. From accommodation and transportation to guided tours and religious services, these packages offer convenience and peace of mind, allowing Malaysian travellers to focus on their spiritual journey without any logistical worries.
  
  
• Cultural Festival: Saudi is throwing a year-round party, and you are invited! Riyadh Season is your chance to witness a city-wide extravaganza, featuring live concerts, theatrical performances, and culinary delights that showcase the best of Saudi entertainment and hospitality. Other notable festivals include the Jeddah Season, the Al Janadriyah Festival celebrating Saudi heritage, and the Taif Season, known for its colourful flower festival.
  
  
• Regenerative Tourism at The Red Sea: Calling all nature lovers! Embrace regenerative tourism with a transformative journey to The Red Sea destination. Spanning a vast expanse of pristine waters, untouched islands, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life like spinner dolphins, dugongs, turtles, mantas, and sharks, The Red Sea offers an oasis of natural beauty waiting to be explored. Experience awe-inspiring landscapes while contributing to the preservation and sustainable development of this precious ecosystem.
  
  
• Untouched Islands: Discover the untouched beauty of the Farasan Islands, a captivating archipelago in the Red Sea. Lush vegetation and vibrant wildlife, including Ospreys and soaring Pink-Backed Pelicans, create a sanctuary for nature lovers. Explore hidden coves, hike scenic trails, and unwind in secluded retreats, embracing the serenity of these remote island paradises.
  
  
• Vibrant Coral Reefs: The Red Sea, surrounded by the world's fourth-largest barrier reef system, unfolds as a 28,000-square-kilometer paradise. This vibrant region boasts pristine beaches, 90 untouched islands, dormant volcanoes, sweeping desert dunes, and historical sites. Dive into the heart of its vibrant underwater world, where coral reefs teem with colourful fish, majestic sea turtles, and awe-inspiring marine life, offering a breathtaking experience for snorkelers and divers alike.
  
  
• Historical Wonders: Uncover the historical treasures of the Red Sea, from ancient ports and fortresses to underwater remnants like the "Cable Wreck" off Abu Tair Island. This sunken Greek ship, once carrying cables and beams, now peacefully shares its watery realm with whitetip sharks, goatfish, and blue-spotted rays, a testament to the Red Sea's diverse ecosystem and rich maritime history.

Experience the beauty of nature at The Red Sea destination while playing a vital role in its preservation and sustainable development. By practising responsible tourism and supporting initiatives that promote conservation and community engagement, you can help ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of this remarkable ecosystem.

Embark on a journey like no other this summer, as Saudi welcomes all Malaysian travellers to uncover the treasures of its rich heritage and vibrant culture. From spiritual enlightenment to thrilling adventures, there's always something for everyone in Saudi.

Visiting Saudi Arabia has never been easier! Their new tourist visa program welcomes visitors with open arms, offering a variety of options to simplify your arrival:

• eVisa: The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Tourism is offering a fast and convenient e-visa application process for anyone holding a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa, or for permanent residents of any European country.
• GCC Resident Visa: Residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries benefit from a simplified visa upon arrival.
• Stopover Visa: Travelers transiting through Saudi Arabia can enjoy a complimentary 96-hour stay, with the option for a free one-night stay with Saudia, the national carrier. This visa can also be used for Umrah pilgrimage.
  
  

Beyond the visa options, Saudi Arabia boasts strong connections with Malaysia. Three airlines, including Malaysia Airlines and Saudia, offer a combined capacity of over 740,000 seats, making travel from Malaysia a breeze. With these streamlined procedures, diverse experiences, and improved air connectivity, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a top travel destination for Malaysians and global explorers alike.

To learn more and plan your Saudi adventure, visit https://www.visitsaudi.com/ and unlock a world of possibilities!

To know more, join us for an unforgettable expedition to Saudi at the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, happening from March 5th to 10th, 2024!