Saudi Arabia - Saudi Arabia
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is a country in West Asia and the Middle East. It covers the bulk of the Arabian Peninsula and has a land area of about 2150000 km2, making it the fifth-largest country in Asia and the largest in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia is the only country with a coastline along both the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf, and most of its terrain consists of arid desert, lowland, steppe and mountains. The capital and largest city is Riyadh. The kingdom also hosts Islam's two holiest cities Mecca and Medina.
Tourism in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is the second biggest tourist destination in the Middle East, its tourism strategy is closely aligned with the 2030 Vision, seeking to significantly enhance the sector's role in the domestic economy. The plan targets a contribution of over 10% to the growth of domestic product (GDP), the creation of one million new job opportunities, and the attraction of 100 million annual visits by 2030. This ambitious agenda reflects a comprehensive effort to position the Kingdom as a prominent player in the global tourism landscape.
To further promote the country as a tourist destination and to attract 100 million annual visits by 2030, the initiatives in the areas of archaeology, culture, education, and the arts are being undertaken to preserve the Kingdom's rich heritage and natural beauty, while opening it up to the world.
Popular places to visit in Saudi Arabia are Riyadh City-Masmak Palace, Diriyah, Makkah City-The Grand Mosque, Okaz Souq, Madina City-The Prophet Mosque, Jeddah City-Waterfront, Mersal Village, The floating Mosque, Abha City-Al Soudah Mountain, Al Ula, Umluj, Dammam City-The old village, Energy Exhibition in Dhahran, Jubail and Yanbu industrial area, Tabuk.
Hospitality
Saudi Arabia is famous for its rich culture and friendly people who love to host guests with open arms. Hospitality has been a crucial part of Saudi Arabian culture for centuries. Sharing a cup of traditional Arabian coffee along with premium dates considered a symbol of hospitality, generosity, heritage and cuisine.
Famous Food In Saudi Arabia
The flavors of Saudi cuisine and delectable taste are robust and aromatic. Few famous iconic dishes that offer a comprehensive taste of Saudi Arabia's culinary landscape are:
Kabsa, Jareesh, Mutabbaq, Mandi, Harees, Saleeg, Shawarma, Kunafa, Samboosa, Tamees.
Transportation
Public bus network provides affordable transport both within and between the Kingdom’s cities.
Hiring a car is an efficient and cost-effective way to explore Saudi Arabia and visit the country’s many tourist attractions. Cars can be rented at airports, or in most cities.
Taxis are easy to find, particularly around busy locations such as shopping malls, hypermarkets and public parks.
Saudi Arabia currently has one metro system, in Mecca. The Riyadh Metro is expected to start soon.