Best Places for a Family Vacation in Saudi Arabia

29931
Photo by: Visit Saudi

Organizing a getaway that delights the entire family can be challenging  especially when different generations have their own ideas of what makes for the perfect holiday.

Fortunately, Saudi Arabia offers solutions for everyone: exciting kids’ clubs that will captivate the little ones, thrilling adventures guaranteed to make teens forget about their gadgets, and state-of-the-art spas where parents can unwind, confident that their children are well-entertained.

In this destination, travelers of all ages will find something to enjoy.

Along the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, you’ll find a wide range of water sports – from sailing and kitesurfing to kayaking and diving. On land, explore deserts and oases with activities such as horseback riding for the whole family, camel treks, hot-air balloon rides, or stargazing in the mountains. And for those who love magic, Riyadh Season is home to the grand Harry Potter Experience theme park, promising an immersive journey into the wizarding world.

Adults can look forward to their own downtime: indulgent spa treatments, stand-up paddleboard yoga, leisurely poolside lunches, and romantic dinners on the beach. Parents get to relax knowing the kids are having a blast in the children’s club – because tired, happy children are the secret to a great family vacation.

The blend of exceptional comfort and unforgettable experiences for all ages that you’ll find in Saudi Arabia is sure to leave a lasting impression.

A Wonderland in King Abdullah Economic City

King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) welcomes families to embark on an adventure together. In Juman Park, younger guests can enjoy go-karting, horseback riding, and mini golf, while older generations can try out the 18-hole golf course. The Corniche Beach is a local family favorite – perfect for a stroll along the seafront, grabbing an ice cream afterward, or catching a movie at Kmax Cinema.

When it comes to accommodations, families can opt for the cozy Bay La Sun Hotel. Located on the Red Sea coast, it offers a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Even better, your stay includes access to the hotel’s diving pool, ensuring plenty of fun for everyone.

Overnight Trek in the Asir Mountains

For an unforgettable family hike and a chance to gaze up at the starry sky, head to the scenic Asir Mountains. This region lies along the Red Sea coast, within the Sarawat mountain range – the longest in Saudi Arabia. Asir is often called the Kingdom’s hidden gem, thanks to its rich heritage, unique tourist attractions, and magnificent natural landscapes. With its pleasantly cool climate – averaging around 24°C in summer – Asir is an ideal place to escape the heat.

These mountains are well-equipped for family getaways: children’s play areas, picnic spots with cooking facilities, shower cabins, and breathtaking views of towering peaks. One of the region’s most picturesque camping areas is the Hayrah Forest in the Bani Hasan province of Al-Baha. This natural haven stretches across the high summits of the Al-Sarat range, featuring a distinctive landscape. The forest is also home to Prince Mishari bin Saud Park and the Al-Shallal Theme Park.

Wake up to fresh mountain air, enjoy breakfast by the campfire, then head off to a nearby waterfall for a swim and lunch. For panoramic thrill-seekers, a cable-car ride up Al-Souda Peak is a must.

Families can rent a car to navigate the winding mountain roads on their own, or hire a guide who will arrange transportation and recommend a visit to a local coffee plantation – complete with a tasting of authentic Saudi Arabian coffee.

Yachting and Diving Lessons in Jeddah

Discover the rich cultural heritage of historic Jeddah – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – by strolling through its old town and admiring Red Sea sunsets that paint the water in brilliant hues. Dive into the magical underwater world as a family, where pristine coral reefs shimmer in vibrant rainbow colors. Jeddah’s seafront offers activities for every generation: from the Cyan waterpark to an exclusive yacht marina with restaurants and shops. At the Jeddah Edition Yacht Club, kids can learn the basics of sailing. Families can take lessons together or rent a yacht for the day, reveling in luxury and comfort.

Meanwhile, adults can explore traditional souks and market stalls in the old city in search of gold jewelry, carpets, or authentic Saudi souvenirs. Wandering the twisting alleyways feels like stepping into Aladdin’s treasure cave. For your stay, consider the Jeddah Edition Hotel overlooking the marina – ideal for taking sailing lessons or simply enjoying the sea breeze. Those who love waterparks and high-energy fun might opt for Cyan Park Hotel, which boasts thrilling slides and aquatic activities.

Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline is an exciting new travel destination that merges natural beauty and cultural richness with luxury and adventure, reflecting the true spirit of Saudi Arabia while setting a new global standard for tourism excellence.

Safari Near Riyadh

Families who love spending time outdoors can plan a day trip from Riyadh to the Nofa Wildlife Park, just 80 km away from the capital. Here, you can observe 18 species of herbivores, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, pygmy hippos, and ostriches, as well as predators like lions and cheetahs, along with various birds, tortoises, and other animals. After the safari, picnic areas with dining tables and playgrounds provide a comfortable space to relax.

For luxury accommodations, consider the Ritz Carlton or Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh. From the capital, you can also organize a day trip to Ad-Diriyah, a historic district that offers another glimpse into the country’s rich past.

Traveling to Saudi Arabia has become simpler, thanks to streamlined visa initiatives. An electronic visa (eVisa) is now available to citizens of 68 countries – including Kazakhstan – and there is also a free transit visa option for stays up to 96 hours. Processing an eVisa can take as little as 24 hours for urgent applications, or up to three days for standard requests.

Should you have any questions during your trip, the Visit Saudi hotline is available 24/7 to assist travelers.

DKNews International News Agency is registered with the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Registration certificate No. 10484-AA issued on January 20, 2010.

Theme
Autoreload
МИА «DKnews.kz» © 2006 - 2025