Hey 👋🏻 all, continue from SiennyLovesDrawing’s 👩🏻 earlier blog stories via 🌐 https://siennylovesdrawing.wordpress.com/2024/03/09/saudi-tourism-authority-strengthening-bonds-enhances-commitment-to-malaysians-to-discover-saudi-for-adventure-luxury-heritage-culture/ & 🌐 https://siennylovesdrawing.wordpress.com/2024/05/27/2024-travel-list-with-top-attractions-in-saudi/ that Saudi 🇸🇦 offers a diverse tourism experience, catering to every Malaysian traveller’s preference, be it in culture, heritage, or nature
Saudi boasts a diverse array of activities tailored to every tourist’s interests. From cultural attractions & adventure-filled amusement parks 🎢 to outdoor recreation options, luxurious stays 🏨, & shopping malls 🏬🛍️, there’s something special for everyone to enjoy
This time she is gonna sharing more of the top attractions in Saudi 🇸🇦;
7️⃣ Must-visit Nature Reserves & Resorts in Saudi to Reconnect with Nature & Elevate With A Luxury Stay
6️⃣ Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea
In conjunction to Global Wellness Day 2024 theme (Check out via 🌐 https://www.globalwellnessday.org/magentanature/) aims to deepen our connection ↔️ with nature 💚, emphasising the profound impact of harmonising with our environment on overall well-being. In line with this, Saudi 🇸🇦 emerges as an unparalleled destination, offering a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes 😍🤩🏞️, pristine well-preserved environments & distinct wildlife. Saudi’s stunning natural landscape spans mountains 🏔️⛰️, deserts & sea 🌊 with a 1,800km coastline
This Global Wellness Day, why not immerse yourself in Saudi’s 🇸🇦 picture-perfect vistas & embrace the transformative power of its nature & reserves. Let Saudi be your sanctuary for holistic well-being, where every moment spent in communion with nature nourishes the mind, body & soul 😌🧘🏻♀️
Nujuma, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, The Red Sea
It’s the 1️⃣st Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East, this newly opened Nujuma, Ritz-Carlton Reserve is situated on a pristine set of private islands 🏝️, marking the brand’s debut in the Middle East. Nestled within the captivating Blue Hole cluster, this newly opened resort features thriving coral reefs beneath the surface & an endless tapestry of stars ✨ above
Nujuma (inspired by the meaning of ‘stars’ in Arabic) seamlessly blends intuitive & heartfelt service with stunning natural beauty & indigenous design. The resort will feature 63 1️⃣-to-4️⃣-bedroom water & beach villas, designed to blend seamlessly with the unspoiled natural environment. Guests can indulge in a lavish spa 🧖🏻♀️, swimming pools 🏊🏻♀️, a range of restaurants 🍽️ & a retail area 🛍️
Neyrah Spa, a tranquil sanctuary dedicated to holistic wellness, will rejuvenate the mind, body, & spirit through global ceremonies and methods, using regional ingredients like oud & moringa peregrina tree oil. Wellness experts will create bespoke journeys for guests, guiding them through breathing techniques, meditation 🧘🏻♀️, lunar yoga & sound healing therapy. The spa will feature 5️⃣ sea-facing treatment rooms, three outdoor treatment cabins, vitality & lap pools, a hammam & a fitness centre
Additionally, honouring the legacy of nomadic exploration and learning, the on-site Conservation House is an integrated space for creative pursuits to expand knowledge & foster a sense of community. Through hands-on activities hosted by resident sustainability, environmental & cultural experts, guests of all ages can cultivate a deep connection with the destination
More info via 🌐 https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ejhrz-nujuma-a-ritz-carlton-reserve/overview/
RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE MAKES GRAND ENTRANCE IN THE MIDDLE EAST WITH EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE ISLAND OASIS IN THE RED SEA, SAUDI ARABIA 🇸🇦
IT OFFERS GUESTS A RARE & IMMERSIVE ESCAPE TO DISCOVER SAUDI ARABIAN CULTURE & THE UNTAPPED WONDERS OF THE RED SEA
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the 1️⃣st Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East was unveiled today on Ummahat Island in the tranquil waters of The Red Sea. The private island 🏝️ retreat is nestled within the captivating Blue Hole cluster of islands, where pristine coral reefs thrive beneath the surface & the celestial canopy above paints an endless tapestry of stars. Nujuma – inspired by the meaning of ‘stars’ in Arabic – invites travellers to embark on an unchartered journey to 1️⃣ of the world’s 🌎 most secluded and protected archipelagos. Here, amidst the azure expanse, guests are beckoned to explore & immerse themselves in the region’s culture & traditions
“As more & more travellers look to discover 🆕 corners of the earth, we are thrilled to reveal our newest Ritz-Carlton Reserve, located amongst the natural beauty & stunning setting of The Red Sea,” said Jenni Benzaquen, SVP The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis & Bulgari Hotels & Resorts
“Nujuma joins a collection of rare Ritz-Carlton Reserve estates around the world 🌎, inviting the most discerning travellers to embark on a journey of exploration where every encounter reveals a deeper connection to the destination. I cannot wait for guests to discover this luxurious private sanctuary & truly transformative experience.”
The Red Sea, 1️⃣ of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s 🇸🇦 luxury regenerative tourism destinations on the west coast of the country, is surrounded by the world’s 🌎 4️⃣th-largest barrier reef system with an archipelago of more than 90 untouched islands 🏝️ From this enchanting setting, guests can embark on extraordinary snorkelling 🤿 & scuba diving 🦪 adventures to uncover seldom visited sites beneath the waves. Teeming with vibrant coral reefs that have thrived for over 5️⃣K years, the barrier reef is home to fascinating ecosystems including over 165 endemic reef fish 🐠, dolphins 🐬, sea turtles 🐢, stingrays & Napoleon wrasse
The island’s shores are fringed by rich mangroves, known to be 1️⃣ of the most productive ecosystems in the world 🌎, & within this lush habitat visitors can spot a variety of sea birds 🐦, marine invertebrates & havali guitarfish. Beyond the turquoise waters 🌊, guests can discover the beauty of the coastal mainland through guided trails across majestic desert dunes
Designed by Foster & Partners, Nujuma’s sweeping shell-inspired 🐚 architecture & elegant interiors are crafted with natural materials imbued with calming sea & sand tones 🌊🏖️ & geometric patterns reminiscent of the region’s design motifs. Arabic artifacts, traditional ceramics, woven Saudi patterned rugs and intricate wall hangings celebrating local craftmanship flow through the canopied interiors. Lush landscaping of indigenous plants elegantly frame the pathways between the pavilioned spaces & villas
Accessed by chartered boat or seaplane, Nujuma features 63 overwater & beach villas, offering 1️⃣-to-3️⃣-bedroom accommodation, spacious living areas & private pools 🏊🏻♀️ overlooking the sea. Guests can marvel at the limitless starry night skies from the comfort of their villa through telescopes positioned on each deck. Perched above the cerulean-blue sea & connected by an elevated ring walkway, the overwater villas offer panoramic views & direct access to the sea. Nestled on undisturbed soft white sand 🏖️, the beach villas are secluded retreats flooded with natural light & the sea’s refreshing breeze 🌬️ Each villa enjoys the services of a dedicated personal host, who will take care of every detail & guide guests through all the enriching experiences this destination has to offer
Opportunity to gain unique insights into the Saudi Arabian culture, traditions & the destination are presented by a team of local experts dedicated to preserving & sharing their heritage. Honouring the legacy of nomadic exploration & learning, the Conservation House is an integrated space for creative pursuits to expand knowledge & foster a sense of community. Through hands-on activities hosted by resident sustainability, environmental & cultural experts, guests of all ages can cultivate a deep connection with the destination
Nujuma’s dining philosophy is inspired by the Arabian tradition of gathering at one’s home to share stories of good fortune, poetry, philosophy & science. Each of the Reserve’s 5️⃣ culinary experiences honour the generations of fishermen from the Umluj region whose lives have been deeply intertwined with the area for over 50 years. Guests are warmly welcomed to Tabrah, a modern interpretation of a fisherman’s home, to share a menu of seafood specialities including, ‘The Luckiest Catch’, a communal celebration of the sea’s daily bounty that has nurtured the fisherman’s family through the ages. Jamaa is a relaxed alfresco space serving light dishes prepared in an open kitchen and over a wood-fire grill to the resort’s outdoor pool & beach lined with plush cabanas
As the sun dips below the horizon, Maia is an intimate place for astrology inspired refreshments prepared by expert mixologists, including ‘Gemini’, a citrus mocktail named after the constellation, known as al-Taw‘amân in Arabic, that can be seen from Saudi Arabia’s capital all year. Designed to celebrate the wonders of the night’s sky 🌌 featuring telescope & star design elements, the open-air terrace is a place to gaze above while Nujuma’s astrologer shares insights into the evening’s constellation. Inspired by vibrant bazaars, all day dining venue, Sita, is a spacious French-style patisserie and a Levantine restaurant under three woven-wood pavilions, a design nod to the tradition of leaf weaving. Guests are greeted by the aroma of freshly baked bread 🍞 exuding from a traditional clay oven, paired with fresh hummus & dishes seasoned from the resort’s vast spice library
Neyrah Spa is a tranquil sanctuary dedicated to holistic wellness to rejuvenate the mind, body & spirit. The serene indoor & outdoor oasis invites guests to nourish the body & soul through ceremonies & methods from around the globe while connecting with regional ingredients including the enchanting scent of oud & moringa peregrina tree oil sourced from the AlUla region. Wellness experts design bespoke journeys to rebalance & relax 😌, & guide guests through breathing techniques, meditation, lunar yoga & sound healing therapy. The sea’s breeze & gentle sounds of waves flow through 5️⃣ sea-facing treatment rooms & 3️⃣ outdoor treatment cabins. The space also features vitality and lap pools, a hammam & a fitness centre. Designed as a voyage, bespoke treatments encourage guests to reflect on the past, live in the present & step into the future with clarity & energy
“With the launch of the 1️⃣st Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the region, we are opening the doors to an unparalleled destination & inviting the world to discover The Red Sea destination,” said Tony Coveney, General Manager, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, “Nujuma is unlike any other property in the region, a pinnacle of luxury with discovery & sustainability at its core, offering guests a transformative journey into the extraordinary set within the picture-perfect backdrop of Ummahat Island’s 🏝️ natural beauty. We look forward to welcoming 🤗 guests to enjoy an unforgettable exploration of the destination where every moment is infused with wonder & connection.”
Ritz-Carlton Reserve is part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands. More info via 🌐 http://www.ritzcarlton.com
Al Ahsa Oasis, Al Hasa
Surround yourself and your family with the lush greenery, natural springs & lively markets of Al Ahsa. Home to 1️⃣ of the biggest oases in the world & now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Ahsa boasts tall, beautiful date palms. Take a break and fully immerse yourself in nature as you climb the limestone hills of Al Qarah, reaching the top to digest the spectacular view it offers before exploring the hive of caves and passageways cut into the rock 🪨
Next, you can make your way to Al Ahsa National Park for a family picnic 🧺 or go to the King Abdullah Environment Park & enjoy the water fountain ⛲ light shows as well as the playgrounds, football ⚽ stadium, mazes & theatre 🎭 Don’t leave without experiencing Yellow Lake’s (also known as Asfar Lake) unforgettable captivating view from sitting on golden sand dunes, bonding with your family & creating lasting memories. Before you leave, you & your family can take a stroll through Souq Al Qaisariya, 1️⃣ of the oldest markets in Saudi, to stock up on spices, traditional scents & souvenirs 🎁 to take back
A tour starting from SAR 700 for a group of 5️⃣ pax if you’re looking for a guided adventure where you will visit Dar Altorath Museum, Al Qarah Mountain 🏔️ , take a tour of Prince’s School Museum & indulge in a delightful lunch at a local house 🏡 for a truly authentic experience among other stops
Jabal Shada, Al Baha
Located about an hour and a half from Al Baha by car, the Jabal Shada Nature Reserve is a lesser-explored biodiversity hot spot where unusual rock formations and flora and fauna common to the region are found. It is home to unique geological formations of caves that are engraved with Thamudic writings and drawings that date back 3,000 years.
To visit Jabal Shada, head out for a short road trip with your family so you can make the most of your time together. To fully immerse yourself in this experience and live amidst the nature and beauty of the caves of some of the world’s oldest geological formations on the planet (dating back 763 million years!), you can book yourself & your family a tour of the cave resort, enjoy the comforts of modern living with fully equipped bedrooms, kitchens & balconies with breathtaking views & simultaneously explore Jabal Shada’s natural wonders
More info via 🌐 https://akamaljazerah.com/ar/tour/shada-mountain-caves-al-baha/
Sharaan Nature Reserve, AlUla
Covering 1,500 square kilometres, the beautiful Sharaan Nature Reserve is a treasure trove of natural wonders & one that is the perfect 👍🏻📍 spot for you to explore
Book a 4×4 adventure through Safari Sharaan (🌐 https://www.experiencealula.com/en/things-to-do/experiences/sharaan-reserve-safari-tour) so you & your family can sit back & relax 😌 as a professional guide drives you across this protected area of red-rock canyons, broad valleys, open desert areas & rocky outcrops. You will enjoy viewing natural sandstone structures & deciphering ancient symbols & rock 🪨 carvings while also spotting some red-necked ostriches, Arabian ibex & Idmi gazelles among many other animals
Time out after a day of adventure at sustainable retreat Habitas AlUla, home to Thuraya Wellness, a secluded heaven created to enhance well-being & restore balance. Relax with sunrise yoga 😌🌅🧘🏻♀️, private fitness sessions or treatments from the resident physiotherapist. Cool off in the outdoor pool & pick local essential oils, herbal teas, and body scrubs from the alchemy bar for your personalised treatments. Villa options include Celestial and Alcove Wellness Villas, conveniently located near the wellness centre & additional wellness-focused amenities, such as yoga mats & private in-room massage 💆🏻♀️ sessions
Alternatively, unwind in elegant, tented villas & the award-winning spa at The Banyan Tree, an enchanted sanctuary suspended in time & space, which offers a unique fitness & wellness-focused getaway. It blends Asian rituals with Saudi traditions, natural & native ingredients form the essence of each unique treatment. The striking naturally treated rock pool in the mountains provides a secluded setting for swimming 🏊🏻♀️ & an Instagram worthy moments
Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort
Make the most of your travels and indulge in an unforgettable experience at the Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort where you can relax 😌 in secluded luxury villas complete with private gardens & swimming pools 🏊🏻♀️, surrounded by green lawns, sand dunes & mountains ⛰️
Connect with nature on a whole 🆕 level at the Resort’s incredible Wildlife Park and spot Asian elephants, Grevy’s zebras, Arabian oryx and giraffes.
Unwind in style with your family at Nofa’s on-site 39-seat theatre, and enjoy daily movie screenings at your leisure, or have a family competition at The Nofa Bowling Alley. Younger children can enjoy the Kids’ Adventure Park, an exciting indoor park with action-packed games & a playground
Aseel Resort, Diriyah, Riyadh
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind family experience that merges nature, heritage & luxury, Aseel Resort is the answer. Nestled in Diriyah, the City of Earth, Aseel Resort was created as an ode to Saudi’s history & Najd’s beautiful artistry, making it the perfect 👍🏻 location to immerse in heritage & nature 💚
Based on the size of your gathering (anywhere from 6 people to 75), Aseel Resort offers you 6️⃣ varying farms to choose from, each one decorated with stunning Saudi artistry & ornate craftsmanship made by locals
Whether you take a dip in the farm’s private pool or enjoy game nights with your family at the indoor majlis, you are bound to create memories that will last you a lifetime
Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea
Experience unparalleled luxury at this newly opened resort 🏨, set against the dramatic backdrop of desert plains & the Hijaz Mountains, Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea Resort, pays homage to Nabataean architectural heritage & majestic desert surroundings
The resort offers 36 guest rooms & 40 pool villas, each boasting expansive views of the surrounding dunes & wadi. Treat yourself to the ultimate relaxation 😌 with a traditional hammam experience at the world-class Six Senses Spa, where tailored wellness screenings & treatments ensure your complete rejuvenation. Connect with inner peace & the natural world in a unique & immersive way with meditation & yoga 🧘🏻♀️ sessions in a desert or oasis setting
Savour the flavours of Saudi’s culinary heritage with curated dining 🍽️ experiences. From Al Sarab to Merkaz, Bariya & beyond, indulge in dishes crafted with ingredients sourced from the Chef’s Garden or local suppliers. Enhance your culinary skills by enrolling in a cooking school, where you’ll master healthy recipes & techniques, immersing yourself in the vibrant tastes of the region
More info via 🌐 https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/things-to-do
Habitas AlUla
Time out after a day of adventure at sustainable retreat Habitas AlUla, home to Thuraya Wellness, a secluded heaven created to enhance well-being & restore balance. Relax with sunrise yoga 🌅🧘🏻♀️, private fitness sessions or treatments from the resident physiotherapist
The Jeddah Edition
Situated along the Jeddah Corniche, adjacent to the Yacht Club & Marina & the F1 racetrack 🏎️, this hotel offers unparalleled convenience with easy access to Jeddah’s City Center & the Red Sea Mall. Featuring 63 rooms, including 11 suites, the newly opened hotel boasts a signature restaurant, a cozy lobby lounge, an intimate bar, a rooftop terrace & a refreshing pool
An outdoor adventure with the wildlife in Aseer
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Aseer, the premier destination for nature lovers. At 3️⃣K meters, perched on the side of Saudi’s highest mountain, Soudah is the unofficial outdoor adventure capital of Saudi & part of the vast Aseer National Park. Its network of hiking routes, lush greenery, cool mountain air, wild nature and mist-cloaked valleys make for the perfect Father’s Day getaway. Whether your loved ones prefers hiking 🥾, paragliding 🪂, cycling 🚴🏻♀️, or canoeing 🛶, there’s endless excitement & adrenaline-pumping activities in this breathtaking region
For those loving nature 💚, the Jurf Raydah Reserve nestled within Sarawat Mountains is a must-visit. Amidst the fragrant juniper trees and exotic flora like cacti, wild olives, and banana trees, you will encounter fascinating wildlife, from Arabian woodpeckers to the rare and endangered Aseer magpie. You can also gift 🎁 your loved one a thrilling experience by booking him a hike 🥾 on a 250 year old trail in the Sawda Mountains ⛰️
The upcoming Aseer Season 2024 also has exciting events to offer which you can enjoy during your trip – from live music 🎵🎶 to delectable dining options & family-friendly activities & athletic championships
Adventures in the Red Sea
Saudi is one of the best diving spots in the world with its pristine waters 🌊, white sandy beaches 🏖️, an abundance of thriving coral reefs & some of the world’s coolest shipwrecks. The Red Sea is home to more than 90 pristine islands 🏝️, dormant volcanoes, mountain canyons & historical & cultural sites spanning 28K square kilometers & boasts the world’s 🌎 4️⃣th-largest barrier reef system
For those loving adventure, the Red Sea is a paradise. Enjoy activities such as canoeing 🛶, stand-up paddle boarding, guided dive excursions & snorkeling 🤿 excursions & more
Spend a weekend at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC)
Perfect for families, KAEC is a haven that offers luxurious resorts, locally styled accommodations 🛏️, and a range of water activities on stunning beaches 🏖️ for a perfect weekend getaway
Book exciting adventures at Yam Beach in KAEC, with options to rent a banana boat, donut boat 🛥️, or canoeing 🛶, or enjoy a scenic stroll along the turquoise seashores. For those who love to golf ⛳, indulge in 1️⃣ round or 2️⃣ at The Royal Greens Golf & Country Club, located in the luxurious district of Al Murooj within KAEC
A self-care day @ the Four Seasons Spa
Tranquility & rejuvenation await at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh. With more men prioritizing self-care & wellness, pamper yourself or loved one with a much-needed break from the daily grind, where they can choose from a range of luxurious treatments designed to soothe & revitalize, such as the all-time favorite traditional Moroccan Hammam ritual, or a hot stone massage 💆🏻♀️ to melt away tension provide deep relaxation 😌
Immerse in culture & history in Al Baha
Known as the jewel of the south, the enchanting Al Baha Province boasts dense forests, majestic mountains ⛰️, cascading waterfalls & picturesque valleys 🏞️, all steeped in a history brimming with ancient traditions, which makes for a wonderful glamping or camping experience 🏕️
Discover the region’s vibrant culture & history at the Al Baha Museum, embark in an exhilarating hike 🥾 along scenic trails in Shada Mountain Park, or wander through the charming narrow alleyways in Al Qala old town, where all can browse through the local shops brimming with handicrafts, souvenirs 🎁 & aromatic spices
Culinary delights & attractions in Al-Balad, Jeddah’s historic district
Better known as ‘Historic Jeddah’ or the Old Town, the Al Balad district of Jeddah is a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting buildings that date back to 7️⃣th century
Treat yourself or loved one to the renowned seafood scene when in Jeddah. Nestled along its stunning coastal location, Jeddah boasts a rich seafood culture that is not to be missed. Indulge in the finest selection of freshly caught fish 🐟 expertly prepared; from delicate filets to hearty seafood platters at Twina Obhur, or immerse in the elegance of Japanese coastal flavors for an unforgettable dining 🍽️ experience at Kuuru
After a hearty meal, you can cool down from the summer heat in the captivating Fakieh Aquarium, the immersive Jeddah Open Air Museum & the iconic King Fahd’s Fountain ⛲, which casts its enchanting spray along the waterfront
Ideal gift 🎁 hunting or spend the day @ Saudi’s many shopping destinations
Boulevard City ~ A day of excitement with thrilling activities & delicious cuisines at different food corners in Boulevard City, a 1️⃣-stop entertainment & relaxation hub for families of all ages to enjoy. Besides fun zones & virtual reality game experiences for thrill seekers, fitness enthusiasts can also try their hand (or fist) at Mike Tyson’s Boxing 🥊 Club
Red Sea Mall ~ Nestled near the picturesque Waterfront Promenade along the Corniche, this mall stands as 1️⃣ of Jeddah’s premier shopping destinations 🏬🛍️ Pick out your favorites within the vast array of international brands & entertainment options
Jeddah Boulevard ~ For those who appreciates a contemporary shopping 🛍️ experience amidst sleek architecture, here offers a delightful mix of retail therapy 🛍️ & culinary delights 🍽️
Mall of Arabia ~ Plan a family affair here as it offers many entertainment options. With attractions like the beloved Kidzania indoor game village, both kids & adults can have a blast
It has never been easier or safer to visit Saudi, especially with Malaysia 🇲🇾 being among the 66 countries eligible for the eVisa program
Malaysians can NOW obtain an approved eVisa for short stays up to 90 days
For longer stays, Malaysian travelers can opt for business, tourism, or Umrah/Hajj visas, including a free 96-hour Stopover Visa. To ensure seamless accessibility & connectivity, airline capacity has increased to over 700K seats across 3️⃣ main carriers ✈️ ~ Air Asia X, Malaysia Airlines & SAUDIA. Direct flights are available ✅ to cities such as Jeddah, Madinah, Taif & Damam
Personally, SiennyLovesDrawing 👩🏻 is looking forward to be at Saudi 🇸🇦 to explore & learn its culture & heritage especially in the near future then ☺️
Do you share the same travel preference❓⁉️
More about Saudi’s tourism offerings via 🌐 https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/travel-regulations
#MuslimsFriendly #Halal #Muslims #Islamic #tourism #art #religion #heritage #culture #cultural #VisitSaudi #Saudi #JomSaudi #SaudiArabia #SaudiTourismAuthority #travel
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