Escape the winter chill and whisk mothers and mother-figures to warmer climes. From spa treatments and gourmet delights, to bonding over a new skill, not only does a trip to Saudi promise much-welcomed boost of vitamin D to mark the end of winter, but an opportunity to enjoy some truly special experiences in the world’s newest and most exciting tourist destination.

A New Perspective: Take to the skies in AlUla
Treat your Mother to a truly once-in-a lifetime experience – a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscape of Saudi. Setting off from AlUla, the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, marvel at breathtaking vistas of sand-blasted rocky outcrops and russet valleys. From Hegra to Elephant Rock, explore this open-air museum from the air and discover a place of extraordinary human and natural heritage that holds over 200,000 years of largely unexplored human history.

Book into Spa Bliss: Six Senses Southern Dunes, the Red Sea coast
For the ultimate dose of R&R, head straight to Six Senses Southern Dunes Spa. Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring dunes of Saudi’s Red Sea coast, interiors reflect the surrounding Arabian landscape: sweeping dunes and soothing sandy tones. Design is not the only reminder of where you are – notes of frankincense drift throughout the spa, and are reminiscent of the region’s incense heritage.

The traditions of Arabian wellness feature heavily throughout treatments and experiences. Join an interactive workshop to learn how to make clean skincare products using rich spices and fragrances the Nabateans traded centuries ago, the ultimate wellness souvenir! Or indulge in a Desert Bliss package, which will see skilled therapists clear and balance connective tissue using gentle cranio-sacral techniques, from the comfort of a quartz sand treatment bed.

Retail therapy: Browse the boutiques of Al Balad
For Mums who like total control over their Mother’s Day gift, or those who simply enjoy leisurely strolling round the shops, look no further than beautiful Al Balad. 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 7thcentury. The magnificent architecture could fool you into thinking you have stepped back in time. When not gazing up, there is plenty to discover on the street for keen shoppers. From spices and jewellery to textiles and perfume, the area is a treasure trove of little souvenirs to take a little bit of Saudi home. While stalls line the narrow streets, there are a number of stand-out establishments worth a visit – head to the Al Balad Gold Market for something sparkly, or the wood panelled Our Days of Bliss bookshop where keen readers can pick up works of fiction or historical tomes by Arabic authors.

Afternoon Tea and Mocktails by Moonlight at Bujairi Terrace
Calling all foodies in Diriyah! For Mothers who have a penchant for pastries and a taste for the finer things in life, Bujairi Terrace unites 21 globally renowned restaurants to gorge on. Start with something sweet at Parisian eatery Angelina: from signature Mont Blanc, meringue adorned with whipped cream and chestnut, to French dessert menu mainstays like Crepe Suzette and Tarte Citron, this is heaven for bakery buffs. Alternatively, go all out and order an Afternoon Tea for two, which comes with Angelina’s signature hot chocolate.

It has never been easier to visit Saudi – visa initiatives have been continuously developed, with the eVisa program now including 63 countries, including the UK and special administrative regions, and the free 96-hour Stopover Visa. eVisaapplications are instant and UK, US, or Schengen visa holders, as well as residents of the UK, US, or European Union countries, are eligible for the eVisa program.

SAUDIA and British Airways operate regular routes between Saudi Arabia and the UK. Flights operate from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester with direct flights to Jeddah, Riyadh and Neom Bay. With 51 inbound flights now operating weekly, the busiest routes are London – Jeddah, Manchester – Jeddah, and London – Riyadh.

To learn more and plan your trip, visit http://www.visitsaudi.com/