How to plan the ultimate Saudi Red Sea road trip

Saudi, known as the heart of Arabia, is a place of endless mystique and inspiration, with myriad stories waiting to be told, and memories to be made. The Dakar Rally, the world’s most prestigious endurance rally, concluded in Saudi, with a historic win by a homegrown motorist. What better time to embark on you own, more leisurely, road trip along the Saudi Red Sea.
Where better to do that than from the cosmopolitan coastal hub of Jeddah, gateway to the Saudi Red Sea? The Saudi Red Sea is no ordinary road trip destination — spread across three distinct regions, this 1,800-kilometre stretch of pristine coastline is home to more than 1,000 islands, 500 dive sites and some of the world’s most fascinating cultural sites.
This untouched coastal marvel has a host of exciting experiences - each area of the Saudi Red Sea brings its own charm — luxurious escapes and crystal-clear waters in the North, urban coastal vibes with entertainment and cultural gems in the Centre, and untouched natural wonders with deep cultural roots in the South.
Starting from Jeddah – a city that bridges the past and the present with its UNESCO-listed Al-Balad, Historic Jeddah and sleek new developments – explore our suggested five-day itinerary to discover something extraordinary at every turn.
Day 1: Jeddah
Begin your journey in the beating heart of Jeddah. Historic Jeddah is the city’s UNESCO-listed district that hums with culture, from the coral-stone rawasheen houses with their intricate wooden latticework to the bustling souks overflowing with spices and textiles. Step into Nassif House Museum, a beautifully preserved merchant’s home that feels like stepping into another century of history. Let the scents of cardamom and oud guide you through the narrow lanes of Souq Al-Alawi, then as the sun sinks low, visit Historic Nights Rooftop Café, a local favourite, for golden views of this storied neighbourhood, with the call to prayer echoing across its timeworn walls. End the day with a stay at Beit Jokhdar, a carefully restored family home turned guesthouse hidden in Al-Balad’s maze-like alleyways.
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Day 2: Jeddah to King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC)
Distance: 120 km
Drive time: 1.5 hours
Ease into the day with a breezy drive to KAEC, a sleek seaside escape, and head straight for Yam Beach, a sun-drenched stretch perfect for kayaking across turquoise waters, paddleboarding at your own pace or basking in the warm glow of the Saudi sunshine. When hunger calls, head to one of the area’s restaurants for a laid-back lunch, then afternoon adventures await at family-friendly Juman Park — hop on a bike and cruise its winding paths, or step up your game at the Royal Greens Golf & Country Club, a world-class course framed by sea views and rolling greens. As the sun dips, check in to the stylish Bay La Sun Hotel and grab dinner on the waterfront terrace.
Day 3: KAEC to Yanbu
Distance: 250 km
Drive time: 3 hours
Leave the polished streets of KAEC behind and head north to Yanbu, a coastal gem locals call the Pearl of the Red Sea. Here, time slows down, especially in the Old Town, where labyrinthine alleys hide artisan workshops, fragrant souks and crumbling coral stone homes that hark back to trading days gone by. Stroll along the Yanbu Corniche, a waterfront stretch where palm trees sway lazily in the sea breeze and cafés offer front-row seats to the turquoise horizon. But the real magic lies beneath the waves for keen snorkellers and divers — Yanbu’s reefs are untouched masterpieces, brimming with fish, curious turtles and surreal coral formations.
Day 4: Yanbu to Umluj
Distance: 150 km
Drive time: 2 hours
Venture further up the coast to Umluj, a slice of paradise where the sea shimmers in impossible shades of turquoise, dotted with untouched islands that beg to be explored. Hop on a private boat tour or charter your very own vessel to weave between these secluded gems, and snorkel alongside curious fish, lounge on pristine sands or simply lose yourself in the serenity of this dreamy escape. End the day at with a barbeque on the beach, looking to the shimmering water and considering a day well spent. Or, if you’re feeling flush, head to Six Senses Southern Dunes, the newest resort along the Saudi Red Sea, just outside Umluj. After several days of driving, partake of locally inspired wellness treatments at the spa, and immerse yourself in Arabian heritage.
Day 5: Umluj to Tabuk
Distance: 500 km
Drive time: 6.5 hours
Wrap up your road trip with a long drive to Tabuk, a region rich in history and full of natural beauty. Take an organised tour trip to Wadi Al-Disah, a hidden valley flanked by towering sandstone cliffs that glow amber in the sunlight, with palm-fringed streams winding through its heart in the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve. Alternatively, head further north to wander through centuries-old lanes and barter for treasures at the Old Town’s vibrant souk. After all that adventure, head to Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport to drop off your rental car and hop on a quick, easy flight back to Jeddah. Not ready to leave just yet? Extend your stay and uncover even more of the Saudi Red Sea’s unspoiled wonders — it’s all yours to discover.
To learn more and plan your trip, visit the Visit Saudi website. https://www.visitsaudi.com/en