A dry holiday to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

[HSB44]

Great update

Did you ever find out the reasons for the mysterious notices posted in the hotel?

Seems creepy!

 

[elanshin]

So, would I return to Saudi Arabia? Yes, I probably would. I found it safe, quite interesting and am keen to see how it changes and develops its tourism industry over the coming decades. It has some unique natural features, great food and the people were friendly.

However, if I did this trip again, there is one thing that I would change. Next time, I would fly into Jeddah and out of Riyadh. That way, it's less likely that I'd be sharing a long-haul flight out of the country with so many obviously sick passengers. (Alternatively, if flying from Jeddah, I'd make sure I was on a plane with a bit more privacy/spacing between the seats.)

I do think that going in January was a good idea as the weather was good. I wouldn't want to be outside during the day in the summer.

As for the complaints in the Traveller letter that I linked in post #1, these are my thoughts having now been to the country:

• Yes, some tourist attractions in Riyadh are closed during the day. In the Middle East, I usually prefer to go out in the evening anyway (as do many people) as it's less hot, so that really doesn't bother me at all
• My Australian SIM card did work in Saudi Arabia (I just use Aldi Mobile), and my eSIM worked fine once I was able to activate it
• I also did not find alcohol anywhere, but I knew that would be the case and didn't really mind. If you want a refreshing drink, there's a wide array of fresh juices, iced coffees, teas, soft drinks and good old water available. I just treated my time there as a welcome opportunity to detox!
• Instead of trying to hail a taxi, you can use the Careem app which worked fine (even Uber worked OK as well) - and you can use an eSIM or hotel wifi to order your rideshare.
• It's true that some hotels have "women only" pool and gym times. Just something to be aware of.

Perhaps the next trip is on RX reviewing them that way you're going to Riyadh and on their latest project.

 

[Mattg]

Great update

Did you ever find out the reasons for the mysterious notices posted in the hotel?

No, I didn't find out and as far as I can tell, the hotel still seems to be operating. Very strange indeed!