Photo credit: Saudi Arabia with MIR
What It's Really Like to Visit Saudi Arabia
Our Road Trip of Revelation: How Driving Across Saudi Arabia Transformed Our Perceptions
You might have read the recent article in the New York Times: Surprising, Unsettling, Surreal: Roaming Through Saudi Arabia, by Stephen Hiltner, about his personal driving exploration across the vast kingdom in search of what this intriguing country is all about.
We couldn’t agree more with his approach. Sometimes, you simply need to go and see for yourself. In fact, that’s exactly how the principals at MIR first traveled to Saudi Arabia. They rented a car. Then, they drove themselves around much of the country. They were truly impressed by what they discovered along the way. You can read about their first impressions on the MIR blog.
Consequently, that first overland driving journey inspired many custom trips to Saudi Arabia. MIR crafted a variety of these journeys. For instance, one included an extensive Saudi Arabia segment. This was part of an incredible 75-day overland expedition. A group of 18 hearty souls completed it by motorcycle, traveling from Muscat to Munich.
Furthermore, it also inspired the design of our small group tour, which is named “Saudi Arabia: Trade Routes, Tradition & Transformation.” It offers a 14-day cultural adventure. You’ll explore diverse landscapes, bustling markets, and even private homes of friendly local hosts. This journey encapsulates all the Kingdom’s diverse highlights. It’s packed into one fabulous itinerary.
You’ll see modern skyscrapers in Riyadh and visit the traditional architecture of Ushaiger. Explore the sprawling camel market at Buraydah, then marvel at the amazing rock art at Jubbah. Witness multi-colored desert landscapes and epic rock formations in the developing Tabuk/NEOM region. You’ll also experience the desert oasis of Wadi al Disah and discover Al Ula, the archaeological centerpiece. Beyond that, a visit to the holy city of Medina awaits, followed by a high-speed rail ride to coastal Jeddah.
But don’t just take our word for it. Hear directly from those who’ve experienced it themselves:
