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The northwestern city of Tabuk has long been a resting point for Jordanian and Egyptian pilgrims with a rich Bedouin culture that can be felt in Souq Twaheen, which still supplies patterned rugs and goat-hair tent covers for modern nomads.
Today’s Tabuk marks the Northern point of the Saudi coast but is also a base for exploring wild beauty spots and the story of the Prophet Moses, who is believed to have lived east of the city for a decade. It’s possible to visit the carved tombs of Maghaer Shuaib in the desert, or the Moses Spring near Maqna, where natural springs still flow under the date palms.
Nearby is the stunning Tayeb Al Ism, a steep granite massif separated from the turquoise-fringed Gulf of Aqaba by only the road. For clear seas and sun-swept beaches, explore the charms of local coastal towns Haql and Sharma.
Saudi, the future
Upcomming Saudi wonders
Discover upcoming Saudi experiences
The Red Sea is the world’s most ambitious luxury tourism development. It will be an exquisite sanctuary offering indulgent experiences, seamlessly customized to the unique needs of each visitor. Meanwhile, AMAALA will be an ultraluxury resort destination spanning three sites. It will be a place of self-transformation, inspired by the arts, wellness and the purity of the Red Sea. Both wonders will be open to the public from 2022.
On the other hand, Qiddiya will be the capital of Entertainment, Sports and the Arts in Saudi. It is being built around five cornerstones: Parks & Attractions, Sports & Wellness, Motion & Mobility, Arts & Culture and Nature & Environment. And NEOM will become the world’s most ambitious futuristic and sustainable ecosystem for living and working, over 33 times the size of New York. These two wonders are scheduled to be open to the public from 2023 and 2030, respectively.
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What to see at Tabuk
Our recommendations to plan the perfect holiday
Tabuk Castle
There are spectacular fortresses all around Tabuk, but this imposing castle in the center of town might be the oldest. Known to date from 1559, some claim there was a fortress here as early as 3,500BC. Inside its walls, two mosques are linked by courtyards, stairwells and watchtowers and there’s a small museum detailing the history of the castle and the wider city – from the great explorers that visited, like Ibn Battuta, to the caravans of pilgrims who would stop to drink from its wells on their way to Makkah and Medina.
Al Disah Valley
At the crossroads of three valleys south of Tabuk, the wildly sculpted sandstone columns of Wadi Al Disah (Valley of the Palms) look like a mix between the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley in America. While much of the landscape is ochre desert, there are oases of pools, tall grasses and palm trees running through deep canyons, creating an otherworldly feeling, especially during glowing sunsets. It’s possible to hike through much of the valley, or visit on a 4WD drive tour.
Maghaer Shuaib
The Maghaer Shuaib seems to appear from nowhere in the reddish desert west of Tabuk – its elegantly carved facades and tombs built into the sandstone rocks recalling Petra in Jordan and Hegra at Al Ula. According to tradition, having fled Egypt, Moses lived here for a decade under the patronage of the Prophet Shuaib, who had been impressed by Moses’ chivalry and offered his daughter’s hand in marriage. Moses eventually returned to Egypt, but it’s easy to imagine that this beautiful place stayed with him.
Further information
Saudi culture
Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and traditions have been shaped by its position as a historic trade hub and the birthplace of Islam. In recent years, the Kingdom has undergone a significant cultural transformation, adapting centuries-old customs to fit the contemporary world. For example, while modest dress is still encouraged for both men and women — tourists are advised to avoid tightfitting clothing, and women must cover their shoulders and knees — female visitors no longer need to wear an abaya and hijab (robe and head covering). Unmarried guests to the country may now stay together in hotels, and female tourists (as well as locals) may also drive.
The official language
Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia and the first language of all native Saudi people. It is the primary language used in all public transactions and is a language spoken by Muslims all over the world. However, English, which is a compulsory second language in schools, is widely spoken in the Kingdom. And most road signs are bilingual, showing information in both Arabic and English.
Time zone
The standard time zone of Saudi is Arabia Standard Time (AST). The time zone is 3 hours ahead of GMT (GMT3+) with no daylight savings.
Getting to Saudi
With 13 international airports, served by global carriers, getting to and around the Kingdom couldn’t be easier.
1. King Khalid International Airport (RUH) – Riyadh
2. King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) – Jeddah
3. King Fahd International Airport (DMM) – Dammam
4. Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) – Medina
5. Taif International Airport (TIF) – Taif
6. Abha International Airport (AHB) – Abha
7. Hail International Airport (HAS) – Hail
8. King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (GIZ) – Gazan
9. Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ) – Qassim
10. Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (TUU) – Tabuk
11. Prince Abdulmohsin Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (YNB) –Yanbu
12. Al Jouf International Airport (AJF) – Jouf
13. Al Ahsa International Airport (HOF) – Al Ahsa
Saudi Arabia also operates 15 domestic airports, for short hops between regions. For further information, visit the General Authority for Civil Aviation.
Getting around Saudi
A first-rate transportation system connects Saudi Arabia’s provinces and cities, some of the modes of transport include car rentals, taxis, ride-hailing apps, trains and buses.
Weather in Saudi
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always hot in Saudi Arabia. The kingdom experiences four distinct seasons —from chilly winter breezes in January to peak desert heat in August —and a climate that varies between regions. Read on for a seasonal overview of the kingdom’s weather.
Spring in Saudi Mid-March to Mid-June
Spring in Saudi Arabia can be brisk, particularly in the north, where the temperature at night can drop below 15 degrees C. The central and southern regions are warmer, averaging around 20 degrees after nightfall. Rainfall is at its highest during spring, particularly in the central region and in the southwest over the Asir Mountains.
Summer in Saudi Mid-June to Mid-September
With the exception of the comparatively mild highlands in the southwest, summer signals the start of rising temperatures across most of the country, with the average hovering around 45 degrees C. The early mornings and long evenings are more temperate, so take advantage of the warm seas to explore Saudi’s world-class scuba diving sites, or try sailing and snorkeling.
Autumn in Saudi Mid-September to Mid-December
Autumn brings gentler weather and cool breezes in both Saudi Arabia’s northern regions and the southwestern highlands. While daytime temperatures remain warm and can reach the 30s in early fall, evenings are milder and fit for outdoor strolling, especially along Jeddah’s waterfront, indulging in alfresco dining or visiting Al Ahsa’s cool desert springs.
Winter in Saudi Mid-December to Mid-March
Take advantage of Saudi Arabia’s beautiful winter weather to explore the kingdom. The balmy days and cool nights are ideal for camping, rock climbing or exploring Saudi Arabia’s verdant highlands and bustling cities, from Riyadh to Jeddah. Average winter temperatures are in the teens, but visitors might be lucky enough to see snowfall in the mountains of the northern regions blanketing the slopes and desert sands.
Other important Q&A
The customs and laws
Cultural heritage and religion inform the public etiquette that’s expected and practiced in Saudi Arabia. If you’re not familiar with Saudi Arabia’s laws and customs, don’t worry: Behind these conventions are values that people across many cultures are accustomed to, including respect for others, decorum in public and protection of privacy. Before your trip, learn more about how to act and dress in Saudi Arabia, as well as the role of religion and rules about alcohol and other substances.
Saudi dress code
In public, both men and women are asked to dress modestly, avoiding tight-fitting clothes and items with profane language or images. Women should cover their shoulders and knees in public. (Consider packing blouses with sleeves, scarves or shawls for your shoulders and mid- to maxi-length skirts and dresses, capris or pants to cover your knees.)
Public decency laws
Public displays of affection are not consistent with the local culture. Visitors should also avoid using profane language or gestures.
Saudi currency and payments
Currency exchange and transactions are easy in Saudi Arabia. And even if you don’t yet know the difference between a riyal and a halala, there’s no need to worry: Many businesses in the kingdom accept credit cards and contactless payments. Use this guide to learn the ins and outs of Saudi currency and exchange rates so you can get back to scuba diving, sightseeing and shopping instead.
Respecting Saudi religion
During prayer time in Saudi Arabia, five times a day, music is turned off in public places and many shops close briefly. For one month a year, during Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. If you visit during Ramadan, the most sacred month of the year in Islam, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day out of respect. Learn more about how to participate in Ramadan, whether you’re visiting Jeddah or Riyadh.
Illegal substances and alcohol
The sale, purchase and consumption of alcohol are illegal in Saudi Arabia. It is also illegal to bring alcohol or drugs into the country, so plan to unwind with coffee or tea at one of the country›s many cafés instead.
What is the Saudi exchange rate?
The U.S. dollar is equivalent to SAR3.75 (fixed rate). All banks in the kingdom offer currency exchange services. You can also find exchange bureaus at airports, some shopping centers and other locations throughout the country. Banking hours are generally from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday to Thursday. (Exchange bureaus are often open later, although they may charge higher commission fees.) Banks are usually open at international airports and currency transactions are at a lower rate than specialist currency exchanges. ATMs are widely available for the withdrawal of funds using the Visa and Mastercard networks, and credit cards including Visa, Mastercard and American Express are accepted throughout the kingdom. Many businesses also accept digital payment methods, such as Apple Pay.
Contacts
Important contacts to keep on hand in the event of an emergency. There are individual emergency numbers and services in Saudi to connect you with the relevant local authorities. General emergency - 112
Police services
There are two emergency numbers for police assistance in Saudi. There is also an app that allows citizens and residents to file security and traffic reports for humanitarian assistance outside the urban area. Police assistance – 911 / 999 / Kollona Amn
Fire Services
The General Directorate of Civil Defense is responsible for dealing with fire emergencies in Saudi. Fire emergency response – 998
Ambulance Services
Public ambulance services – 997
Flying Ambulance – 123
Saudi Red Crescent Authority ASAFNY
Road and Traffic Emergency Services
Traffic accidents – 993
Roadside Assistance (RSA) – 920003922 / Morni
Najm (non-emergency traffic accident team) – 920000560
Tourism Services
Tourism Call Center - 930
Tourism International Call Center - 920000890
COVID - 19
COVID19- hotline - 937
Whatsapp assistance: 920005937 / mawidapp