Walking Holidays in Saudi Arabia

Is Saudi Arabia safe for female travellers?

Yes. Saudi Arabia is considered safe for female travellers, including those travelling solo or as part of a group. Tourism is a growing focus, and visitors are welcomed with warm hospitality. We also offer a women-only guided tour, where females can explore the destination and connect with local women. 

When is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia? 

The best time to visit is between October and March, when temperatures are milder and ideal for walking, sightseeing and desert exploration. Our tours depart in January, February, November, and December to ensure optimal conditions. Summer months can be extremely hot, particularly in desert regions. 

Do I need a visa to visit Saudi Arabia? 

UK passport holders do not need a visa, they just need an electronic visa waiver, which can be organised online before travel. We’re happy to advise you on the correct visa requirements as part of your booking process.

What should I wear in Saudi Arabia? 

Modest dress is recommended for both men and women. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees is ideal, especially in public places. Women are no longer required to wear an abaya, though carrying a lightweight scarf is useful for visiting mosques or traditional areas. 

Are there any local laws or customs I should be aware of in Saudi Arabia? 

Yes, there are a few local laws and customs to be mindful of when visiting Saudi Arabia. Public behaviour should be respectful: public displays of affection are discouraged, alcohol is prohibited, and photography of people should only be done with permission. During prayer times, some shops may close briefly, and visitors are expected to dress and act modestly in public spaces. 

What kind of walking terrain can I expect on a Saudi Arabia walking holiday? 

You'll experience a wide variety of walking terrain during Saudi Arabia trips, and it totally depends on your preference and ability. All of our guided walking tours at Ramble Worldwide are graded from gentle through to challenging, allowing you to ascertain which tour route is most suitable for you. Terrain ranges from rocky mountain trails and juniper forests in the Aseer Highlands to sandy plateaus, red dunes, and basalt formations in the desert regions. 

How physically demanding are the walks in Saudi Arabia? 

Each of our tours vary in difficulty, following our grading system from 1 to 8. The Mountains of Saudi Arabia tour is leisurely, with walks of 2.5 to 3 hours. The Highlights tour is moderate, suitable for those comfortable with a few hours on varied terrain. The Deserts of Saudi Arabia tour is challenging (Grade 6), featuring full-day treks of up to 13 kilometres over 6 to 7 hours. What walking conditions should I expect in the desert? Our Deserts of Saudi Arabia tour is rated Grade 6, making it challenging. You can expect a more demanding terrain in the desert, with average walk lengths approximately 6 miles (however this can vary from 3 to 10 miles on a sightseeing day). Weather conditions will be very hot at times, so please ensure you maintain adequate hydration throughout the tour. 

Is camping under the stars included in a trip to Saudi Arabia? 

Yes! A beautiful way to round off the day, a few of our Saudi Arabia tours offer desert camping as part of the itinerary. Enjoy a Bedouin-style evening where you get to experience sleeping under the stars amid a remote desert landscape. 

What accommodation is included on Saudi Arabia walking holidays? 

Our Saudi Arabia walking holidays include carefully selected accommodation ranging from three-star hotels in cities like Jeddah, Riyadh, and AlUla to unique experiences such as desert camps under the stars and traditional mountain homestays. In the Aseer Highlands, you may enjoy an authentic village homestay with meals served on the floor and mattresses laid out in traditional style. All hotel rooms are en suite, and full board is included as standard.