Saudi Arabia

Your Arabian odyssey begins as you touch down at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. You will be greeted by our representative and chauffeured in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to the iconic Four Seasons Hotel at Kingdom Centre. After settling into your luxurious Superior Room, the remainder of the day is yours to acclimatise. Perhaps you’ll take in the panoramic city views from your room or enjoy the hotel’s exceptional facilities before your adventure truly starts tomorrow. Consequently, your journey begins with effortless comfort.

Today you will delve into the rich history of Saudi Arabia’s capital. Your private guide will escort you to Diriyah, the ancestral home of the Al Saud family and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterwards, you’ll explore the formidable Al Masmak Fortress, a pivotal location in the kingdom’s history. The tour continues to the vibrant Souq Al-Zal, where you can immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of a traditional Arabian market. This immersive experience provides a fascinating context for the modern nation you see today.

Prepare for a breathtaking afternoon as you journey out of the city in a 4×4 vehicle to Jebel Fihrayn, famously known as the ‘Edge of the World’. This dramatic escarpment offers stunning, uninterrupted views across the desert floor from its 300-metre-high cliffs. It is a truly spectacular natural wonder and provides an incredible photo opportunity, particularly as the sun begins to set over the vast landscape. You will return to your hotel in the evening, filled with awe from the day’s adventure.

After breakfast, you will be privately transferred to the airport for your flight to AlUla, a region steeped in ancient history. Upon arrival, another private transfer will take you to the magnificent Banyan Tree AlUla, an all-villa resort set amidst the stunning sandstone mountains of the Ashar Valley. You can check into your beautiful villa, which features a private pool, and spend the rest of the day relaxing in this serene and otherworldly desert sanctuary. This marks the beginning of the most historic part of your tour.

Today is dedicated to exploring Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra. This incredible archaeological site was once the southern capital of the Nabatean kingdom and features over 100 well-preserved tombs with elaborate facades carved into sandstone outcrops. Your tour also includes a visit to the ancient city of Dadan, the capital of two successive kingdoms, and Jabal Ikmah, an open-air library of fascinating rock inscriptions. This day offers a profound journey back in time.

This morning you will explore AlUla’s Old Town, a labyrinth of nearly 900 mud-brick houses that was inhabited from the 12th century until the 1980s. It offers a glimpse into a more recent, yet still historic, way of life. In the afternoon, you will visit the region’s most famous natural landmark, Jabal AlFil, or Elephant Rock. This colossal sandstone monolith resembles an elephant with its trunk to the ground and is a spectacular sight, especially in the golden light of late afternoon.

Following a final breakfast in AlUla, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to the stunning Red Sea coast. On arrival, you will be met and driven to your final hotel, the Six Senses Southern Dunes. This pioneering resort combines visionary architecture with a deep commitment to sustainability and wellness. After checking in, the remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the resort’s incredible design and absorb the tranquility of the surrounding desert and coastal landscape.

Enjoy a full day at your leisure to experience the incredible facilities at Six Senses Southern Dunes. You might choose to indulge in a treatment at the world-renowned Six Senses Spa, which offers a range of therapies in a beautifully designed ‘Oasis’. Alternatively, you can relax by the pool, participate in one of the resort’s wellness activities, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of your luxurious room. The day is yours to design as you wish, focusing entirely on relaxation and rejuvenation.

Savour your final full day in this remarkable desert paradise. Perhaps you’ll venture out to explore the pristine landscape of the Red Sea project area, known for its untouched natural beauty and ambitious conservation goals. You could also take part in a cooking class focusing on local ingredients or enjoy an unforgettable dining experience under the stars. It is your last chance to soak in the serene atmosphere of this unique and forward-thinking luxury destination before your journey home.

After a final breakfast, you will be met for your private transfer to the airport for your international flight back to the UK. You will depart with a wealth of unforgettable memories from your comprehensive journey through the cultural, historical, and natural wonders of Saudi Arabia, having experienced the pinnacle of luxury hospitality along the way. This concludes your incredible adventure.