Saudi Arabia Guide
Saudi Arabia is home to Islam's two holiest cities, vast expanses of desert and numerous oil-rich metropolises. The country has intrigued travellers for centuries, but, following attacks on foreigners, western governments are currently warning against non-essential travel there.
Acclimatise in ancient Jeddah; with its coral-coloured Ottoman buildings, souks, designer outlets and beaches, it is the most relaxed city in Saudi. Shop until you drop in glitzy capital Riyadh and drive from cliff-top Taif down the hair-raising corniche to the coastal plain. Feel the Turkish vibe in pretty Hofuf, with its bustling camel market.
Go dune bashing in the desert and explore western Saudi's vast lava fields. Escape the harsh landscape to the southern region of Asir, where palms and evergreen bushes cover the ground. Sit tight to catch sight of baboons, gazelles and honey badgers and puzzle over the bizarre, phallic and ancient gasaba towers that dot the horizon.
Wander the narrow alleyways of Jeddah and Riyadh's souks; Aladdin's caves of treasures. Find Afghan rugs, embroidered slippers, gold jewellery, pearls, pashminas and perfumed oils. Buy hand-woven baskets from the Asir region, old silver jewellery and spices from veiled Bedouin women. If haggling is not your style, take home cheap saffron, nuts and dates from the supermarkets.
Feast on pitta bread, chickpeas, cracked wheat, kultra (meat on skewers), succulent dates and excellent coffee. The Arabian Gulf swarms with fish – try fat-fleshed hamur or king mackerel, stewed and eaten with rice. Fresh fruit and juices are abundant; accompany dinner with a glass of pomegranate juice and you won't notice the lack of alcohol – it's strictly forbidden.
Beachside resorts aimed at westerners are being developed fast in Jeddah. This is a great spot for water sports, and provides some world-class, and – as yet – unspoiled scuba diving.
