Now is the time to visit Saudi Arabia. The kingdom is in the midst of a transformation, as it launches a major initiative to open up its traditionally isolated society to the outside world. The result is a \u201csweet spot\u201d moment, when you can see country\u2019s one-of-a-kind sights as they start to become accessible, ahead of the anticipated tourism boom. This trip takes you to the country\u2019s most high-profile destinations, including the dynamic cities of Riyadh, Medina, and Jeddah, the monumental ancient tombs of Hegra, and the cliffs of Jubbah, decorated with thousands of astonishingly beautiful prehistoric petroglyphs. It also ventures beyond the main attractions to explore fascinating, sometimes surprising facets of the country. You\u2019ll traverse historic trade routes that have helped define the culture of the peninsula from its earliest days; discover medieval towns that showcase regional architecture; shop at traditional markets that remain central to daily life; visit niche museums devoted to distinctive features of Arab society; and take in a diverse landscape that includes towering canyons and scenic shorelines as well as vast, majestic desert.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":44059,"menu_order":0,"template":"","trip_experiences":[14,638,15],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n