Stopover When Flying with Saudi Airlines

Saudi Airlines flies via either Jeddah or Riyadh from the UK. You could just transit in one of these 2 cities en-route to your final destination or you could stopver for 48 hours and experience the most up and coming country in the Middle East.

Jeddah

Jeddah is a vibrant and exciting city with a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm. If you are planning a visit to Jeddah and have 48 hours to explore the city, here is a schedule for how to make the most of your time:

Day 1:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Al-Balad district, which is known for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. Here you can find a mix of souvenir shops, art galleries, and traditional restaurants.

After exploring Al-Balad, take a stroll along the Corniche, a waterfront promenade that stretches along the Red Sea. Here you can enjoy the sea breeze and take in the stunning views of the city.

In the afternoon, visit the King Fahd’s Fountain, the tallest fountain in the world, which is located on the Corniche. The fountain shoots water up to a height of over 820 feet, making it a sight to behold.

In the evening, head to the Al-Tahlia Street, the main shopping district in Jeddah, which is known for its high-end boutiques and luxury brands. Here you can find everything from designer clothing to jewelry and electronics.

For dinner, try some traditional Saudi Arabian cuisine, such as Al-Kabsa, a dish made with rice and meat, or seafood, which is plentiful in Jeddah due to the city’s location on the Red Sea.

Day 2:

Start your second day in Jeddah with a visit to the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, which is a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the country. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including traditional artifacts, artworks, and historical documents.

After the museum, take a trip to the Al-Rahma Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Jeddah and a important religious site for Muslims. The mosque is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

In the afternoon, head to the Jeddah Waterfront, which is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Here you can relax on the beach, try your hand at water sports, or visit one of the many restaurants and cafes that line the waterfront.

In the evening, head to the Jeddah Art Gallery, which is known for its collection of modern and contemporary art from Saudi Arabia and the wider region. The gallery hosts a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year.

For dinner, try some street food, which is a popular choice in Jeddah. There are many stalls and shops around the city that serve a range of dishes, including shawarma, a popular street food made with slow-roasted meat served in a pita or wrap.

Riyadh

Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia and is a city that is rich in culture and history. It is a city that has something to offer for everyone, whether you are interested in exploring the outdoors, shopping, or immersing yourself in the local culture. If you have 48 hours to spend in Riyadh, here is a schedule of how you can make the most of your time:

Day 1:

9:00 AM: Start your day by visiting Masmak Fortress, which is a historical fort located in the heart of the city. The fort is a testament to the city’s history and was the site of a key battle that led to the founding of the Saudi state. The fortress has been beautifully preserved and features exhibits on the history of the city and the region.

11:00 AM: After visiting the fortress, head over to the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, which is located in a modern building in the city center. The museum is home to a wide range of exhibits that cover the history and culture of Saudi Arabia, including ancient artifacts, traditional crafts, and modern art.

1:00 PM: Break for lunch at a local restaurant and try some traditional Saudi dishes such as lamb kabsa or shawarma.

2:00 PM: After lunch, visit the Al Faisaliyah Center, which is a towering skyscraper that offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The center is also home to a shopping mall and a variety of restaurants.

5:00 PM: Head over to the Al Mather Nature Reserve, which is a protected area located just outside of the city. The reserve is home to a wide range of plant and animal species and is a great place to go for a hike or a nature walk.

7:00 PM: End the day by having dinner at a local restaurant and trying some traditional Saudi desserts such as baklava or kunafa.

Day 2:

9:00 AM: Start the day by visiting the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, which is a museum that is dedicated to the history and culture of Saudi Arabia. The center is home to a wide range of exhibits, including traditional artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the country’s past.

11:00 AM: After visiting the museum, head over to the King Abdullah Park, which is a large urban park that is located in the city center. The park is home to a wide range of recreational facilities, including a lake, a playground, and a number of walking and biking trails.

1:00 PM: Break for lunch at a local restaurant and try some traditional Saudi dishes such as falafel or hummus.

2:00 PM: After lunch, visit the Murabba Palace, which is a historical palace that was once the residence of the Saudi royal family. The palace has been beautifully preserved and is open to the public.

4:00 PM: Head over to the Riyadh Gallery Mall, which is a large shopping mall that is home to a wide range of stores and restaurants. The mall is a great place to spend an afternoon shopping or just relaxing.

7:00 PM: End the day by having dinner at a local restaurant and trying some traditional Saudi desserts such as baklava or kunafa.

With this schedule, you’ll be able to see some of the city’s most popular attractions and get a taste of the local culture. Riyadh is a city that has a lot to offer and 48 hours is just enough time to get a taste of what it has to offer.