Saudi Arabia and Jordan Combined Tour
Saudi Arabia and Jordan Combined Tour
Start your 12-day journey through Saudi Arabia and Jordan, beginning in the vibrant city of Riyadh. Take the time to explore the lively streets and visit important historical sites like Diriyah and the National Museum, which offer a glimpse into the countries rich past.
Next, you'll fly to Medina, the second most sacred city in Islam, where you can experience its deep spiritual significance. From there, head to Al Ula, a place full of ancient history and culture, where you'll visit fascinating sites such as Al-Hijr, Jabal Ikmah, and Dadan, each offering unique insights into the area's heritage.
Your adventure continues with a trek through the stunning Wadi Disah, a scenic valley that’s perfect for a bit of hiking. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing break in Aqaba, where you can swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. From there, travel to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Wadi Rum and explore the ancient city of Petra, with a peaceful stop in the charming Dana Village along the way.
Finally, wrap up your journey by visiting Madaba, known for its historic mosaics, and take in the panoramic views from Mount Nebo. End your trip with a soothing dip in the Dead Sea, famous for its salty waters, before departing from the capital city of Jordan, Amman.
Day 1 - Arrival in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Upon landing at Riyadh International Airport, you'll be greeted by a driver who will take you straight to your hotel. The check-in process will be smooth and easy, allowing you to settle in quickly. Take the rest of the day to explore the nearby area at your leisure, soaking up the local atmosphere. Unwind and get comfortable for your first night in Riyadh.
Overnight in Riyadh
Day 2 - Explore Riyadh
Spend the day discovering the vibrant city of Riyadh. Visit the Masmak Fortress, a historic site that now houses a museum telling the story of Saudi Arabia's unification. Explore the National Museum, where you’ll find a wealth of exhibits on the country’s history, art, and culture. Wander through the ancient Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit Al Murabba Palace, another piece of the nation’s rich heritage. Stop by Souq Al Zal, a lively market full of traditional Arabian goods, and enjoy a pleasant lunch amidst the sights and sounds of Riyadh.
Overnight in Riyadh (B)
Day 3 - Riyadh to Madinah
After breakfast, you'll head to the airport for a flight to Al Madinah. Once there, a city tour will take you to the Dar Al Madinah Museum, the date market, and the historic Al Hijaz railway station. Following your tour, you'll check into your hotel for a restful overnight stay.
Overnight in Madinah (B)
Day 4 - Madinah to Al Ula
Travel to Al Ula. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to explore the historic old town, where the past and present blend seamlessly. Enjoy a lunch in this charming setting before visiting the Al Maeraia Concert Hall for some traditional music. As the day winds down, head to Jabal Al Feel for stunning mountain views and a serene sunset. End your day back at the hotel, ready for another night of rest.
Overnight in Al Ula (B)
Day 5 - Discovering Al Ula
Start your day at Al-Hijr, also known as Madain Salih, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its Nabatean tombs and rock-cut architecture. Continue to the Maraya Concert Hall, known for its reflective mirrored facade, and explore Jabal Ikmah, rich with ancient inscriptions and rock formations. Lastly, visit Dadan, an archaeological site filled with the remnants of the ancient Lihyanite and Dedanite kingdoms.
Overnight in Al Ula (B)
Day 6 - Al Ula to Wadi Disah and Tabuk
Enjoy a scenic drive from Al Ula to Wadi Disah, a breathtaking landscape where the desert meets lush oases. After lunch, continue your journey to Tabuk, a city with deep historical roots. On arrival, visit Tabuk Fort before checking into your hotel for an overnight stay.
Overnight in Tabuk (B)
Day 7 - Tabuk to Aqaba, Jordan
After breakfast, you’ll cross the border in to Jordan and travel to Aqaba. Once you’ve settled into your hotel, relax on the beach, swim, and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. Later, explore Aqaba’s vibrant market, where you can soak up the local culture and shop for souvenirs.
Overnight in Aqaba (B)
Day 8 - Aqaba to Wadi Rum
Spend your morning by the sea before heading to Wadi Rum. Here, you’ll embark on a 2-hour desert safari in a 4x4 jeep, exploring ancient valleys and towering sandstone cliffs. Watch the sunset, then enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars. You’ll spend the night in a comfortable Bedouin-style tent, with a chance to stargaze in the serene desert environment.
Overnight at Wadi Rum (BD)
Day 9 - Wadi Rum to Petra and Dana
Today your Saudi Arabia and Jordan combined tour travels to Wadi Musa to visit Petra, Jordan’s famous ancient city. Explore its stunning rock-cut architecture, including the iconic Treasury. After lunch, continue to Dana Village, known for its traditional stone houses and beautiful terraced gardens. Check into your accommodation and enjoy a leisurely walk around the village before dinner.
Overnight at Dana in local village (B)
Day 10 - Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Dead Sea
Depart Dana after breakfast and head to Madaba, where you'll visit the famous 6th-century mosaic map in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. Next, visit Mount Nebo, offering sweeping views and biblical significance as the place where Moses first saw the Promised Land.
Overnight at Amman (B)
Day 11 - Exploring Amman
Start your day with a visit to the Amman Citadel, where you can explore ancient ruins from Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad periods. Then, head to the nearby Roman Theatre. For lunch, enjoy the lively atmosphere on Rainbow Street, known for its cafes and Jordanian cuisine. In the afternoon, stroll through the bustling streets of downtown Amman, known as Al-Balad, and explore the vibrant souks.
Overnight at Amman (B)
Day 12 – Depart Amman, Jordan
Your tour concludes today as you transfer to the airport for your flight home, taking with you wonderful memories of your journey through Saudi Arabia and Jordan.
Departure Dates
The Saudi Arabia and Jordan Combined Tour can be tailor-made to your exact requirements. Our expert travel consultants can design the tour to your budget and preferences. Just get in contact to find out more.
Private Guided Tour - Scheduled to your dates and requirements
Price of itinerary as shown - from £4425 per person (based two people sharing per room)
What is included in the Saudi Arabia and Jordan Combined Tour
- Meet and assist upon arrival and departure , Transportation by modern A/C car
- English speaking driver/guide (1 person)
- Flight ticket from Riyadh to Madinah and half-day tour in Madinah
- Guided tour of Madain Saleh, Dadan, Ikma, Old Town, and Elephant Rock
- Tour to Wadi Disah with English speaking Driver and Local Guide
- Accommodation in Saudi • 2 nights at a 4-star hotel in Riyadh on a bed and breakfast basis • 1 Night at 4-star hotel in Madinah on bed and breakfast basis • 2 night stay in Al Ula at a 3-4-star hotel on a bed and breakfast basis • 1 night stay in Tabuk at 3-4 star hotel on a bed and breakfast basis
- Accommodation in Jordan • 1 Night at a 3-4 star hotel in AQaba on a bed and breakfast basis • 1 night at Camp site in Wadi Rum on half board basis • 1 night at a Local Lodge in Dana Village • 2 nights at 3 star hotel in Amman on bed and breakfast basis
Not Included in the Saudi Arabia and Jordan Combined Tour
- International travel to the start and end point - contact us for information and flight options
- Any airport taxes
- Travel Insurance
- Any visa requirements
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks plus meals other than those mentioned on the program.
- Expenditure of a personal nature, laundry, telephone bills, drinks, souvenirs, tips etc.
- Early check in/ late checkout fees if required
- Gratuities for local tour guide
Government Travel Safety Advice
We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice. Please refer to the COVID-19 entry requirements page for any country-specific conditions of entry.
Saudi Arabia - https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/saudi-arabia
Jordan - https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/jordan
Visa and Passport Information
Passport validity - For Saudi Arabia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. To enter Jordan, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
You may not be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia if your passport shows that you have travelled to, or were born, in Israel.
Visas
You must get an e-visa or an electronic visa waiver (EVW) either before you travel or on arrival at any of Saudi Arabia’s international airports. The type of e-visa or EVW you choose depends on your reason for travelling and how long you want to stay.
You can apply for an e-visa if you are a tourist. You must get an e-visa to perform Umrah.
E-visas are:
- valid for 365 days from the date of issue
- for visits of up to 90 days
- for multiple entries
Apply online or on arrival at any of Saudi Arabia’s international airports.
You will need a separate visa for Hajj.
You must have a visa to visit Jordan. You can get this on arrival.
You can buy a single-entry visit visa when you arrive at a Jordanian airport or the Sheikh Hussein/North Border crossing. It costs 40 Jordanian dinars and is valid for one month. Some airlines may ask you to submit a health declaration at check-in.
If you’re visiting for tourism, you can apply for a Jordan Pass online before you arrive. You will not need to pay tourist entry visa fees if you stay at least 3 nights (4 days). The pass gives discounted entry to major tourist sites.
Local Laws and Custom
Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country and Islamic law is strictly enforced. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religion so you do not cause offence. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK.
You should avoid:
- showing affection in public
- swearing and rude gestures
- playing loud music
- making critical political statements or behaving in ways the Saudi authorities assess disrupt the public order
Penalties include fines, imprisonment and deportation. See Visit Saudi for information on behaviour. You must always carry ID. You can get a fine or prison sentence if you do not have any. If you’re a tourist, carry a copy of your passport and visa.
Men and women must wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the elbow and below the knees. You should also:
- avoid tight-fitting clothing
- avoid clothes with profane slogans or images
- not wear clothing with symbols or slogans that could be viewed as political and lead to arrest
Female travellers do not have to wear the traditional robe (‘abaya’) or cover their hair. See Visit Saudi for more information on dress codes.
Jordan is a predominantly Islamic country. Always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions so you do not cause offence.
Alcohol laws and bans
Do not bring alcohol into Saudi Arabia or arrive under the influence of alcohol.
It is illegal to drink alcohol or be drunk in public. British nationals have been arrested for disorderly or offensive behaviour when drinking. You can face severe penalties, including prison, for possession or trade of alcohol.
Illegal drugs penalties – There is zero tolerance for drug offences in Saudi Arabia, and the penalties are severe. If you’re arrested for drug offences, you may have a long period of detention before trial. You can get a prison sentence of up to 5 years and a fine of 30,000 Saudi riyals for possessing even small amounts. Drug dealing and smuggling can result in a death sentence. In Jordan, it is illegal to possess, use or traffic drugs. If convicted, you can get a lengthy prison sentence and heavy fine.
Sexual relations outside of marriage
Sex outside of marriage and adultery are illegal, including for tourists. In the most serious circumstances (for example, those involving Saudi nationals) the penalties could include custodial sentences or deportation. There are special arrangements for visitors and unmarried tourists may share hotel rooms.
Filming, photography and other media restrictions
In Saudia Arabia, it is illegal to film or photograph government buildings, military installations and palaces. If you produce, transmit or distribute printed, digital, audio or video information, you must get permission from the General Authority of Media Regulation (GCAM) in advance. If you do not, you could get a large fine and a prison sentence. Only photograph local people if you have their consent.
In Jordan, it is illegal to photograph some government buildings and military sites. Do not photograph people without their permission. Hobbies like bird watching and plane spotting may be misunderstood – particularly near military sites, government buildings and airports.
Drones - It is illegal to fly drones or any other remote-controlled flying device without a valid licence or in restricted airspace.
LGBT+ travellers – In Saudi Arabia, Same-sex relations are illegal, although legal action is uncommon. All couples should be aware of local customs and avoid showing affection in public. Visit Saudi says all visitors are welcome, are not required to disclose their personal information, and will have their right to privacy respected. Being transgender is not recognised in Saudi Arabia. Transgender people could also face difficulties with dress code and access to medical care. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
In Jordan, same-sex sexual relations are not illegal, but same-sex couples showing affection in public may cause offence. You could be arrested under other Jordanian laws. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
Health
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. Some prescribed or over-the-counter medicines are controlled substances in Saudi Arabia. You may need approval from the Saudi authorities to bring some prescription drugs. See rules on bringing prescription drugs to Saudi Arabia.
If you need to bring controlled or prescription medication, make sure you have an official prescription, hospital note or a letter from your GP, which includes:
- the amount prescribed
- details of the drug and dosage
- your doctor’s signature
- a stamp from the clinic or hospital
See narcotics and psychotropic substances information from the Saudi government.
Pharmacies are common and can be found easily, particularly in the big cities. All hospitals will have a dispensing pharmacy and international brands can be found in shopping malls and plazas. UK prescriptions are not honoured in Saudi Arabia. Prescriptions must be issued by a doctor registered and licensed by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialities.
Healthcare facilities in major cities in Saudi Arabia are of a high standard. Most towns have a health centre or basic hospital. Serious cases may be transferred by ambulance or air to a hospital in a major city, which might be some distance away.
Medical facilities in Jordan outside Amman and Aqaba are basic. In an emergency you should seek treatment in Amman or Aqaba.
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Jordan where some staff will speak English.
Emergency medical number - Call 911 and ask for an ambulance in both Saudi Arabia and Jordan.
What to bring on your Saudi Arabia and Jordan Combined Tour
Clothing
Lightweight clothing is essential in mid- summer, with a sun-hat and neck protection, though a sweater and light jacket are advisable for Wadi Rum. Early mornings can be very cold when camping in the desert. Winters in Jordan can be cold, so please bring suitable warm clothing. We recommend a waterproof jacket in winter. Women are advised not to wear shorts or dresses that are too revealing as this can attract unwelcome attention in the streets of Moslem towns - loose fitting trousers or slacks are ideal. Women should also cover their head and shoulders when entering a mosque and men should wear long trousers.
Men and women must wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the elbow and below the knees. You should also:
- avoid tight-fitting clothing
- avoid clothes with profane slogans or images
- not wear clothing with symbols or slogans that could be viewed as political and lead to arrest
Female travellers do not have to wear the traditional robe (‘abaya’) or cover their hair. See Visit Saudi for more information on dress codes.
Footwear
Well-worn low-cut hiking shoes are ideal for hiking activities. Any normal pair of running shoes or hiking shoes will be sufficient. Sandals or beach footwear is good for the coastal areas.
Luggage while on your tour
Please allow yourself one main piece of luggage and a daysack. Remember, you are expected to carry your own baggage, so don't overload yourself, a soft wheely bag may be easier to manage than a suitcase.
Equipment
We recommend a sunhat, sunscreen, a torch, insect repellent and a water bottle. A solar charger for your phone and other electronics is a good idea.
Currency
The Saudi riyal is the currency of Saudi Arabia. It is abbreviated as SAR, or SR. It is subdivided into 100 halalas. You can choose to either change your money in advance or on arrival at the airport. Here you will find both ATMs and a Bureau de Change. The exchange rate with the SAR is approximately SAR 5.25 to the British Pound. Please check on line for up to date information. ATMs can also be found in the major towns and cities for cash withdrawals in SAR.
The Jordanian dinar has been the currency of Jordan since 1950. The dinar is divided into 100 qirsh or 1000 fulus. It is pegged to the US dollar.
Sterling and US$ are widely exchangeable though exchange rates tend to favour the US$. It is worth taking some money in cash. You may be able to order Dinars from your bank although the rate will usually be lower than purchasing currency in country. Nowadays international credit cards (MasterCard, Visa and Amex) are also accepted in many places, but this may not be the case everywhere you will be travelling.
Weather in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has a predominantly desert climate, meaning that the summers are very hot and dry, and the winters are more temperate. The majority of the country's annual rainfall occurs between November and April, but aside from in the mountainous areas this is very minimal. However, there are certain regional differences that should be taken into consideration. Along the coast near Jeddah, winter and shoulder season temperatures range from approximately 22-32 degrees celsius. The desert plateau, which encompasses Riyadh, Buraidah and Medina, can range from 15-30 degrees celsius (again, in winter and the shoulder months) depending on the time of day. Ha'Il and Al Ula are also on this desert plateau but at a slightly higher elevation, so night time temperatures can drop as low as 5 degrees celsius. In the mountains around Asir, and to a lesser extent in the lowlands of Al Bahah, the climate is temperate year around. However, rainfall is at its highest particularly from January to May.
Weather in Jordan
During April to November days are generally sunny and hot without rain with temperatures around 32°C. In spring and autumn evenings can be cool and night temperatures can drop suddenly especially in the desert. Expect cold nights in winter (December to February) when temperatures can drop to around 0 degrees. Some rain should also be expected at this time of year.
Electricity in Saudi Arabia and Jordan
Saudi Arabia uses type G plugs, which have three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. The plugs are also known as SASO (Saudi Arabian) plugs. The power sockets in Jordan are of type C, D, F, G and J. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.
Mobile Phones in Saudi Arabia and Jordan
Most of the big UK networks works will have connections and if your phone is enabled for overseas calls you should be able to get a signal, at least in the larger towns and cities. Connections elsewhere may not be so good. Check on your roaming charges as it is often better value to purchase a local sim card.
Internet in Saudi Arabia and Jordan
Saudi Arabia has a high internet penetration rate and many young, active social media users. Nevertheless, Saudi Arabia ranks relatively low when it comes to internet freedom. However, internet users in the kingdom generally support necessary social media restrictions. You can access the internet either through hotel wifi or in some cafés in Jordan, but you may find connections are temperamental at times and there may be charges involved in getting online.
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