- Inayah Sadiq explains why she recommends Saudi Arabia for holidays
- The content creator shares a travel itinerary to explore the country's highlights
- READ MORE: I sold my house to go travelling full-time - here's where I've loved
Saudi Arabia was once one of the world's least-visited tourist destinations.
But now it's opening up to international tourism - with visitor numbers guaranteed to rocket for the 2034 World Cup.
Thinking of going now it's on the map but not sure it's your vibe - or worried about a hostile reception?
TikTok traveller Inayah Sadiq ( @inayahtravels ) may just ignite your wanderlust for the country.
A 27-year-old traveler who spent 15 years living in Saudi Arabia wants people around the globe to discover a nation she strongly suggests visiting for holidays.
She posted a
Video explaining six manners guidelines
Visual guide presenting six principles of proper conduct
Clip detailing six social courtesy standards
Presentation covering six behavioral norms for polite interaction
Tutorial highlighting six key points of decorum
Six-point video summary on appropriate behavior rules
you should always follow while there, and revealed even more about the country to MailOnline Travel, including the best places to visit, the common misconceptions and an ideal itinerary.
We started by asking her what advice she would offer to those who feel anxious about coming for a visit.
She responded: "Saudi Arabia is an extremely secure country, and I'd urge others not to take all media reports at face value. The Saudi people are among the kindest and most open-hearted individuals you could encounter."
I strongly suggest visiting this place for your vacation. Similar to several Gulf nations, incidents of street crime such as robberies are very uncommon, and law enforcement maintains a solid presence in large urban areas.
I'd suggest going with an open mindset, taking time to understand the local customs and traditions ahead of your visit, and fully immersing yourself in the experience.
Inayah pointed out that numerous misunderstandings surround Saudi Arabia.
She revealed that although ‘it’s true that you can’t drink alcohol, it doesn’t diminish the experience’ of visiting.
The travel pro added that women don’t need to wear a hijab when they visit.
She clarified: 'While modesty is promoted, women are no longer required to cover their hair or wear an abaya [a long cloak].'
She emphasized that although some might believe 'women have limited rights' and 'freedom of expression is restricted,' Saudi Arabia actually features 'well-educated women who are becoming more prominent in leadership positions,' with a 'vibrant flow of ideas taking place across society—particularly within younger circles.'
Concerned that it could be unbearably hot? Inayah explained that this isn’t necessarily true, stating to MailOnline: 'Although summer can be intensely warm, the period from November to February offers comfortably cool temperatures, which makes those months perfect for visiting.'
Well, what does the travel specialist enjoy most about Saudi Arabia?
She said: 'It's hard to choose just one thing, especially as someone who has grown up here. Watching Saudi Arabia undergo such a remarkable transformation has been nothing short of incredible. Once a more closed-off society, it is now an open, thriving hub of culture and innovation, driven by the visionary leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
'Saudi Arabia effortlessly blends modern progress with deep-rooted tradition.
'The hospitality here is unmatched, and the world-class dining scene is truly a standout. Kabsa - the iconic national dish of spiced rice with meat, cardamom, and cinnamon - is an absolute must-try. For a personal favourite, Mama Noura where I spent my childhood dining, always serves amazing shawarma without fail.
Occurrences such as Riyadh Season have placed Saudi Arabia under international attention, offering remarkable musical performances, exciting athletic competitions, and world-class amusement.
In 2023, I got the opportunity to experience MDL Beast Soundstorm, the biggest music festival in the Middle East, featuring amazing sets from performers such as David Guetta, Steve Aoki, and Amr Diab.
As the Kingdom also gears up to welcome the FIFA World Cup 2034, Saudi Arabia’s influence on the world stage is poised to expand further. Amidst all these thrilling developments, there has never been a more compelling moment to explore and witness this vibrant nation for yourself.
Which destinations should not be missed when visiting this nation?
Inayah recommended exploring historic sites in the capital, Riyadh, such as Masmak Fort, Murabba Palace, and the mud-brick city of Diriyah, the birthplace of the Saudi state, along with modern areas such as the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the Via Riyadh mall, and Boulevard.
The Kingdom Centre Skybridge, which offers ‘panoramic views’, should also be on the agenda, along with a day trip to the jaw-dropping Edge of the World cliff face, around 100km from Riyadh.
In Jeddah, Inayah recommended exploring Al-Balad—the old town—along with trips to the Floating Mosque, walks by the Corniche, and snorkeling adventures at Silver Sands Beach.
The historic desert settlement of Al-Ula, along with the impressive tombs at Mada'in Salih—located within AlUla, which holds the distinction as Saudi Arabia’s inaugural UNESCO World Heritage Site—is another must-see destination deserving a place atop your travel list.
She continued: 'Discover Abha, experience the splendor of the Asir Mountains, tour the historic town of Habala, and savor the refreshing weather and vibrant scenery.'
Meanwhile, in the desert, tourists can ‘enjoy dune bashing, camel riding and a Bedouin style dinner under the stars'.
Inayah told MailOnline that Muslim tourists should aim to 'experience the spiritual significance of Mecca and Medina, two of the holiest cities in Islam'.
And no one should miss the food and the souk shopping.
Inayah said tourists should sample Kabsa (spiced rice and meat), mandi (meat and rice cooked in a pit), ma’moul (butter cookies), maqshush (buckwheat pan bites topped with honey and ghee) and muttabbaq (stuffed pancake), while the souks are where tourists can load up on spices and souvenirs 'and experience Saudi hospitality and traditions'.
She said: 'For this purpose, Souk al Zal in Al Dirah, located in Riyadh, works very well.'
Certainly, visitors should remain aware of the nation’s traditions and regulations, just as Inayah emphasizes in her TikTok clip.
She told MailOnline: 'Just like when visiting anywhere else, using good judgment and showing consideration for local traditions is key. Refrain from speaking negatively about Islam or the government of Saudi Arabia, seek consent before photographing individuals, and remain aware of clothing expectations to help guarantee a positive and secure visit.'
'Dress appropriately and show consideration for local traditions. The consumption of alcohol is not allowed, and some activities might be limited.'
Maintain privacy in your interactions since public displays of affection are not well received. Refrain from taking photos of local people, particularly women, as well as restricted locations such as governmental offices.
You’ll also want to plan your schedule around prayer times, warned Inayah, who said: ‘Some businesses close during prayer times so schedule activities accordingly.’
And traffic can be tricky.
Inayah remarked, "If I were to highlight one drawback of Saudi Arabia, it would be the traffic situation in Riyadh. With the swift growth in tourism and an expanding population, road congestion has become common, frequently causing delays and extending commute times beyond what’s anticipated."
'Nevertheless, the introduction of the Riyadh Metro presents an opportunity to address this issue, paving the way for more efficient travel options ahead.'
Finally, as part of her etiquette tips for traveling in Saudi Arabia, Inayah recommended: "Interact with local people. Saudis are hospitable and enthusiastic about sharing their traditions."
Looking for more from Inayah? Discover travel advice and inspiration on her TikTok profile – @inayahtravels - and Instagram, @inayahtravels . For more on Saudi Arabia visit www.visitsaudi.com/en .
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