saudi arabia Archives - Nada Al Nahdi

Sports court for rent in jeddah

Nada Al Nahdi — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 15:10:55 +0000

Growing up, I was never good in sports. My school had many sports events but I was never part of that and I’m not sure if I was THAT bad or simply wasn’t interested.

Fast forward to today, I long for Sundays and Tuesdays which are the days my friends and I had set up for playing sports.

It all started in Riyadh, when a good friend invited me to join their weekly volleyball game. It took a few games until I had the courage to face the ball and not run away from it. Despite on basically standing and running away from the ball, I still enjoyed every bit of it. The fact that I am socializing, having fun and laughs while moving rather than sitting at home or in a coffee shop makes it a highlight day of every week.

In October 2021, I moved back to Jeddah and was absolutely crushed to miss out on the weekly volleyball games in Riyadh. So I started to look for courts to rent in Jeddah and found a few of them.

Now, my friends and I play Volleyball every Sunday and Basketball every Tuesday and I couldn’t be more grateful for this.

Here are some places where you could rent courts in Jeddah to play in with your friends.

Beach Volleyball

Jeddah Youth Beach Volleyball

Contact +966504305926

Rental Rate 300 SAR for 2 hours

Location Google Map

The Spike

Contact +966565651515

Rental Rate 350 SAR for 2 hours

Location Google Map

Multi Sports Court

Dar Thikr – Run by Al Qima Sports Academy

Contact +966543414074

Rental Rate 200 SAR for 2 hours

Location Google Map

Waad Academy – Run by Al Qima Sports Academy

Contact +966543414074

Rental Rate 200 SAR for 2 hours

Location Google Map

Koora Arena

Contact +966569138835

Location Google Map

Rental Rate 420 SAR for 2 hours

Add sports to your list of activities with your friends and I promise you that you will have a great time plus get more active!

Let me know if you know of any other courts to rent in the comment below!

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Aseer Region

Nada Al Nahdi — Fri, 04 Oct 2019 14:01:37 +0000

Aseer Region is one region away to the border of Yemen. This region is particularly special for its cool weather all year round. It’s the perfect region for a getaway from the heat.

It is also best explored by renting your own vehicle as there isn’t any public transport that would take you around the area unless if it is within Abha City which is the capital of the Aseer Region.

The spots in Abha city can be enjoyed by walking from one location to another as per the map below.

Al Basta Historical District

It’s a small district with abandoned old mud and brick houses.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/sBxiDtK39ogSVTFC7

Art Street

The art street has street arts and food trucks.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2

Tuesday’s Market

Tuesday’s Market is open all week long despite the name of the market. The market has stalls from traditional handicrafts, honey, clothes, incense, and many other locally made products with a great bargain price.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/M9mRzSLZiyTFVkpm7

Al Muftaha Art Village

A spot that cannot be missed! The village was founded by the government in 1989 to promote art. Al Muftaha village showcases the artistic culture of the Aseer Region. The beautiful mud houses are covered with local style art known as Al Qatt al Assiri as well as graffiti and other forms of art by local and regional artists.

Muftaha Art Village brings together a community of passionate photographers, handicrafts and fine artists.

It can be visited all day long but the stores open from 5 p.m. where you can purchase locally made souvenirs and handicrafts with high quality and great prices too.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2

Al Mahatbah

This gem is a definite must-visit. The area has many ponds, streams, natural slides, and mini waterfalls. The trail is very easy and flat with minimal scrambling required in some spots. Don’t forget to bring your swimwear and jump into the natural pool!

There isn’t any visiting hours or entrance fee. It’s a public area and can be accessed by anyone and at any time.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2

Tanoumah

Tanoumah is known for its pleasant weather for a hike, climb, and camping. There’s also a popular waterfall in the area.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ggCL1DG7rYc7WadU6

Tamniah Museum

The most beautiful museum I have ever visited in Aseer Region. The museum is surrounded by an abandoned and old neighborhood with mud-brick buildings. Stroll around the narrow alleyways before entering the museum.

The museum has 3 stories with many beautiful rooms that are decorated with the local art style known as Al Qatt Al Assiri which is the painting on the walls.

They also allow visitors to spend the night for a fee to experience life in the past.

Entrance Fee: 2.5 USD

Visting Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. / 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Contact Number: +966 50 575 0784

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2

Habala Rope Village

Habala rope village was inhabited by the flower men who fleed from the Ottoman Empire. The village was only accessible by a rope ladder, hence the name Habala (Rope). It can now be accessed by a cable car.

However, I don’t recommend visiting the village because there is absolutely nothing to see. It’s best to enjoy the Habala mountain from the top.

Cable Car: 10 USD

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2

Mount Soudah

Jabal Sawdah is the highest peak of Saudi Arabia with an elevation of 3,000 meters above sea level. There is also a cable car to enjoy a scenic view of the highest peak in Saudi Arabia.

Don’t forget to carry a jacket or any warm clothing when visiting Soudah Mountain.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2

Rijal Almaa

Rijal Alma is the highlight of the Aseer Region. The village is made out of natural stones, clay, wood and striking windows played an important role in trade between Yemen and the Hejaz Region.

The people of Rijal Alma were famous for their bravery in many battles including a battle against the Ottoman. The Ottomans managed to occupy some parts of the Aseer Region, but they were defeated in Rijal Alma.

Visiting Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. all week long

Entrance Fee: 10 SAR

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2

Turshi Museum

Turshi Museum is located close to Rijal Alma. It is owned by Mohammed Turshi who is one of the oldest tour guides in the region. Mohammed Turshi built his own mosque, majlis and turned his old school into a museum.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6AVSQmEXMyH2

How to get there: Fly from any city to Abha City

How to get around: It is best to go around with a car. Rent a car with unlimited mileage or contact a driver.

Driver in Aseer Region (price includes a van and fuel)

Contact Name & Number: Ali +966 58 176 8888 (80 USD/Day)

Contact Name & Number: Ahmed +966 50 090 0961 (80 USD/Day)

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Taif

Nada Al Nahdi — Fri, 04 Oct 2019 11:48:30 +0000

Taif is a city known for its fresh fruits and roses used to also be a city for many palaces that are currently abandoned. It is located just 200km South East of Jeddah, it is perfect for a weekend getaway or a day trip.

Here are some sites to see while you visit Taif.

Wadi Wej

Taif is one of the cities that receives more rain than other parts of Saudi Arabia. Hence, there are several Wadi (valleys) that has streams of water running through most of the year. It’s a nice spot to see greens and water running through (yes, we appreciate seeing even a little bit of greens because it’s not easy to find in the city) It’s good for a picnic or simply a walk along the stream.

We also spotted a man fishing under the rocks!

Visit Restriction: No restrictions. It’s open to the public.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

Wadi Dhe Ghazal

It’s another popular Wadi in Taif but I have never been there.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/rz4FHrebVsk272mi9

Mount Qarnayt

It’s the best spot for camping, hiking, and climbing! The location is a bit tricky to reach, it’s best to ask locals to give the exact direction because Google Maps won’t take you to the final spot.

Visit Restriction: No restrictions. It’s open to the public.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

Fruit Market

Taif is known for its fresh and local produce. Everyone who goes to Taif always come back with cartons of produce of the season.

Visit Restriction: No restrictions. It’s open to the public.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

Al Kamal Rose Farm

Taif is known for its roses. A visit to one of the oldest rose farm owned by generations of Kamal family is a must-do.

Visit Restriction: Visiting Hours is from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

Cable Car

The cable car is best visited during the golden hours to get a picturesque view of the mountain and the winding roads against a sunset background. The price per person is quite pricey though. Its 18 USD per person.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

Mount Dakkah

Mount Dakkah is the highest peak in Taif. Its a nice spot for a picnic and a viewpoint.

Visit Restriction: No restrictions. It’s open to the public.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/jSYzzgBa9gXDG6qB8

Abdullah Al Sulaiman Palace

Abdullah Al Sulaiman Palace also known as Jabra palace is one of the many abandoned palaces in Taif. The palace is on the verge of breaking down due to negligence. King Saud used to stay here when he was a crown prince and the palace belonged to the late minister of Abdullah Al Sulaiman.

The details, marbles, and architecture is simply beautiful!

Visit Restriction: No restrictions. It’s open to the public.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oD6zpdyZwXA2

Writer’s Palace

Writer’s Palace or also known as Bait Al Katib was built in 1897. It was once home for King Faisal. The architecture style is a mix of Hejazi, Islamic and tall Roman pillars. It is one of the palaces that desperately needs restoration.

Visit Restriction: Currently closed to the public.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

Saleeg Badiya

One cannot visit Taif without trying their traditional dish of Saleeg which is basically rice porridge with chicken. Saleeg Badiya is the best place that makes it. Also, ask for their chicken broth for a delicious and heartwarming drink to sip on or pour on your rice.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/KrBMdpzt6BUtj6V78

https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/VID_20190329_204905-1.mp4

Shobra Palace

The Shobra Palace was built in 1905. It was home to King Abdulaziz and later home to King Faisal.

Visit Restriction: Currently closed to the public.

Contact Number: + 966 50 371 5949

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

Kaki Palace

Kaki Palace also known as Beit Kaki was a residence of a wealthy and important merchant. It is currently closed but the gem can be admired from outside for its intricately carved windows and doors.

Visit Restriction: Currently closed to the public.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/p7X7SNFuDxw

Mohammed Suroor Sabban Palace

Another abandoned palace is closed to the public. During my last visit in April 2019, there was an open gate where we were able to access the palace.

Visit Restriction: Currently closed to the public.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

Souk Okaz

Souk Okaz is a very unique ancient and historical festival that is held once a year in the exact location where it started in the past. It is my favorite festival in Saudi Arabia. It is deeply rooted in the history where people used to gather to show their art, poetry and they also hold camel races.

Visit Restriction: Opens only one month per year during Souk Okaz Festival.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

Madhoon Mosque

Visit Restriction: No restrictions. It’s open to the public.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

Al Kou Mosque

Al Kou Mosque was built at the end of the Ottoman era and it is known for the story of a Christian boy named Addas who served grapes to the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). It is also said that the prophet leaned against the mosque which gives the name Al Kou (The Elbow)

Visit Restriction: No restrictions. It’s open to the public.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

Grand Mosque of Abdullah Ibn Abbas

The Grand Mosque of Abdullah Ibn Abbas is located close to the grave of Abdullah Ibn Abbas who is the paternal cousin of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). Abdullah Ibn Abbas is

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WyuehQU3DLP2

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Boat Trip in Saudi Arabia

Nada Al Nahdi — Sat, 11 May 2019 11:42:38 +0000

A boat trip is a fun activity to do with your friends and family during the summer heat in Saudi Arabia!

Here’s how to arrange a boat trip on your own:

Visit the closest Coast Guard and inquire on the closest Marina or simply find one.
Check if it is allowed to dive if you plan on diving
Check if there’s any gear rental shop nearby. (Umluj didn’t have one)
Talk to the captain on the places you want to visit; snorkeling, shallow area, mangroves, reefs, etc.
Give all IDs to the coast guard to issue a permit. You will take the IDs back upon your return.
Rates per hour vary in every city and according to the boat type.

Rabigh: 150 SAR/hour (8 Pax)
Umluj: 200 SAR/hour (11 Pax)
Jeddah: 300 SAR/hour (11 Pax)

Contacts:

Jeddah: +966 50 663 8794

Rabigh: +966 56 366 3777

We spotted a stingray while walking around the mangrove area by Rabigh

Photos by: @photojunaid @zee_tr @qairawan_sa

Beach Camping in Saudi Arabia

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Beach Camping in Saudi Arabia

Nada Al Nahdi — Sat, 11 May 2019 09:28:13 +0000

When summer hits Saudi, the best place to beat the heat is to head to the Red Sea which is along the West coast of Saudi Arabia.

There are plenty of pristine public beaches that are secluded and tucked away from the city where you could go and spend the day or even a few nights.

Finding a spot where you could swim and camp should be done cautiously as there are some areas where it is not allowed or dangerous to swim in.

Open Google Map (Satellite) and check which area seems to be sandy with corals.
Check with the closest coast guard on the spots where you could camp and swim so you don’t waste your time wandering in areas that might not be allowed to swim or camp in.
Drive along the coast and pick your camping spot.
Go back to the nearest coast guard and inform them of your camping spot and provide an ID of a male who will be responsible for the campsite.
The coast guard will give you a permit and a number to be placed on your campsite so they can identify each campsite.
Set your camp and enjoy your time!

Coast guards constantly move back and forth to ensure safety. I never felt bothered and they were always helpful whenever I needed anything.

Here are the camping spots I have camped in recently.

Rabigh: https://goo.gl/maps/PLdfxoRWCSE1MZXz6

Umluj: https://goo.gl/maps/kFmPyNrsoP9rSXYo6

UPDATE: Beach camping is no longer allowed along all the coasts of Saudi Arabia. Individuals can sleep along the beach only with a sleeping bag and without a tent. Sometimes, you can get lucky if you are allowed by the coast guard to camp a couple of meters away from the shore.

Got questions? Comment below and I’ll happily answer them!

Rabigh Campsite

Umluj Campsite

Photos by:

@photojunaid @shaggy23 @zee_tr @qairawan_sa @musaphoto

Here’s a quick preview of the Rabigh Campsite

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Summer is coming.. – Shots by: @photojunaid Editing: Me ( @nadiranjum ) Trip by: @qairawan.sa – – @saudiarabia #SaudiTravel

A post shared by Nadir Anjum (@nadiranjum) on May 11, 2019 at 1:43am PDT

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Things to do in Jeddah

Nada Al Nahdi — Wed, 30 Jan 2019 03:29:51 +0000

If you’re not sure on what to do during your visit to Jeddah, check out the listed things to do below. This post will be constantly updated with new items and up to date information.

Historical Sites

Al Balad – Historic District (UNESCO)A UNESCO Heritage Site is the most visited tourist site in Jeddah. The 7th-century old town was the center of Jeddah. As the city progress, the center keeps moving further up north. However, Al Balad remains as the charm of the town with its towering clustered buildings and their unique hand carved wooden balconies known as Roshan.Begin your tour at Bab Jadid and get lost in amazement as you walk through the narrow alleyways.Location: https://goo.gl/maps/s5K6yAydcym Khozama Palace Khozama Palace was built in 1933 for the first King of Saudi Arabia; King Abdulaziz Al Saud. The palace is currently closed for restoration and estimated to be opened in 2020. Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iVpqaagHooA2

Famous Landmarks

King Fahad Fountain It is the tallest fountain in the world jetting water as high as 300 meters. The fountain turns on just before it gets dark until midnight. The view can also be enjoyed from Park Hyatt’s outdoor restaurant. It may also be a good idea to contact Park Hyatt to check if the fountain is running prior to visiting the location as it may not be running due to maintenance.Location: https://goo.gl/maps/sJ44EGrA6K32 Flag Roundabout The flagpole is the tallest of its kind, standing at 171 meters. Location: https://goo.gl/maps/bcdqTpauT9t Jeddah’s RoundaboutsThe unique structures that sit on top of the roundabouts are unique to Jeddah. Here are some famous roundabouts that are photo worthy The Lanterns https://goo.gl/maps/mZQj3YZX1vt The Globe https://goo.gl/maps/EwAetwLGSrj The Magic Carpet https://goo.gl/maps/EzFXBygG8112 The Bicycle https://goo.gl/maps/DipsNvyUKA82 Floating Mosque (Al Rahma Mosque)

The mosque with a striking blue dome sits on top of a bridge that’s built in the water makes it a perfect place to watch sunset or sunrise.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/SrtZpJztfrt

Jeddah Sign Visit the iconic Jeddah Sign during sunset for great contrasting colors. Location: https://goo.gl/maps/tiPCMonC2tN2

Museum & Art Galleries

Darwish House of MuseumThis unique house hides behind Fuddruckers Restaurant off Al Andalus Road. The exterior showcase structures of traditional houses from different regions in Saudi.Location: https://goo.gl/maps/C3XqQVmSXbq Entrance Fee: Free Angawi HouseHere’s another mind-blowing masterpiece that has been built since 14 years ago. The architecture and a humble man; Sami Anggawi currently lives with his family in the house. Therefore, a visit to the house requires prior arrangements with Amirah. Contact Person: Amirah Mashat +966505685399.Location: https://goo.gl/maps/n6wUYfHPy442 Entrance Fee: 200 SAR/Person Minimum 15 people required. Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum The museum is surrounded with antiquity shops and traditional restaurant which makes it a perfect place to spend a few hours in.Location: https://goo.gl/maps/7fW3rJLMaER2 Entrance Fee: 80 SAR / 22USD per person Darat Safiya Bin Zagr Website: www.daratsb.com Location: https://goo.gl/maps/GcVTqrohgPz Entrance Fee: Free Working Days: Saturday Other days require a prior appointment.

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Darat Safeya Binzagr

A post shared by Darat Safeya Binzagr (@daratsafeyabinzagr) on Apr 29, 2017 at 4:51am PDT

Athr GalleryLocation: https://goo.gl/maps/aD2RfWsVdaL2 Entrance Fee: Free Museum of Arts Home Entrance Fee: 80 SAR / 22USD per personLocation: https://goo.gl/maps/MCrjGg7cjfo

Activities

Attend an EventThere’s always a fun-filled entertainment and events because Jeddawis know how to have fun! You can check the Entertainment Calendar from Rozanamah Website: https://roznamah.sa/en/ Jeddah WaterfrontIt is the perfect place to get active, may it be riding a bike, jog, run or simply watch a beautiful sunset contrasting against the famous Jeddah Sign.Location: https://goo.gl/maps/yC1UGFhmtq12 Go on a Boat Trip or Spend the day at the beachThere are regular boat trips arranged by Dive Stores across Jeddah that takes you out to the open water for diving, snorkeling or simply lounging and sunbathing.The trip goes on Fridays and Saturdays from 7a.m. to 5 p.m. Here are some tour operators who arrange boat trips.Desert Sea Dive +966 56 395 2008

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Aerial photo from yesterday’s boat trip. Don’t miss our trip this Friday 26th of Oct For more details, you will find booking link on the #Bio. This #trip will be powered by @overboard_sa & @s3aati #Special deal for group 👍🏼 📸 @mohannadbatarfi #jeddah#divingtrip#saudiarabia #swimming#watergames#aerialphotography #weekend #ابحر#جدة#غوص#عائلات

A post shared by OverBoard®️ (Jeddah)since 2014 (@overboard_sa) on Oct 20, 2018 at 2:27am PDT

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Beach volleyball in the middle of the sea 🏖🏐 #saatiadventures #volleyball #sea #island #adventure #summer #tan #explor #ksa

A post shared by Saati Adventures LLC (@s3aati) on Sep 11, 2018 at 5:54am PDT

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Learn to enjoy every minute of your life 🙏🏻 Go out 🏃🏻‍♀️ meet more inspiring people ✨ . Photo by: @marwan__aljuhani املج #املج_البحر #السعوديه# . . . . . . #saudiarabia #explore #Sa #snorkeling #adventure #wander #wanderwoman #saudiadventurer #saudigrl #nature #sea #ocean #notyourtypicalsaudi #weekend #naturewalk #redsea #umluj #breath #breathofthewild #naturebeauty #mearch #lgp #letsgoplaces

A post shared by Mashael Alsolai 🇸🇦🇺🇸 (@mearch_) on Jan 8, 2019 at 5:26am PST

Outdoor ActivitiesJeddah is surrounded by mountains that we love to hike on or climb on! There are many just 45 minutes outside Jeddah

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بالتعاون مع ( رابطة التسلق السعوديه_ و فريق جو اوت دور عن اعلان عن مغامرة جديدة رحلة رقم 88 ( هايكانج وًتسلق صخور ) الموافق 26/ اكتوبر /2018 التسجيل في الرحلة ارجو التكرم بزيارتنا للموقع الالكتروني في الاسفل . JeddahGoOutdoors.com. @saudiclimbingassociation ………………………………………………………………………… With collaboration with two group “Saudi climbin gassociation”group and “Go Outdoors” group We are pleased to announcing our New challenging trip name (Hiking And Rock Climbing) .. Date 26 October 2018 at 02:30 pm till 08: 30 pm Transportation: Not Secured. Get your own car For Register please visits our website . . Jeddahgooutdoors.com @saudiclimbingassociation ………………………………………………………………………….. Looking forward to join us

A post shared by Go Outdoors (@jeddah_go_outdoors) on Oct 20, 2018 at 11:54am PDT

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The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams. . . . dream#adventure #adventuretime #hiking#tiaf #ksa#saudiarabia #saudi #trip#hike #welcome #pic #pictures #picture_to_keep #see#hope#t #drone #picturetokeep_nature #nature

A post shared by Go Outdoors (@jeddah_go_outdoors) on Jul 8, 2018 at 2:25am PDT

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من المؤكد ان زيارة كهف ام جرسان تعد ضمن قائمة اَي مغامر خليجي ولمساعدتكم في إنجاز هذه المغامرة صممنا لكم هذه الرحلة الممتعة لمشاهدة اطول كهف في العالم العربي و كذلك مشاهدة البركان الابيضً الوحيد في السعودية مع جولة في مدينة خَيْبَر الأثرية للمزيد عن هذه الرحلة وطريقة الاشتراك اتمنى زيارة الرابط في البايو

A post shared by Weekend Tripرحلة نهاية الاسبوع (@weekendtrip1) on Jan 9, 2019 at 6:24am PST

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What a great weekend..thanks all for coming 🙏🏻 #mearch #letsgoplaces #volcanohike #saudiarabia #explore #hikesaudiarabia #saudiphotographers #desert . . . . . . #roadtrip #saudiarabia #explore #Sa #hiking #adventure #wander #wanderwoman #saudiadventurer #saudigrl #nature #mountains #campvibes #hike #notyourtypicalsaudi #weekend #naturewalk #volcano #desert #breath #breathofthewild #naturebeauty #destinationryd

A post shared by Mashael Alsolai 🇸🇦🇺🇸 (@mearch_) on Dec 20, 2018 at 4:07am PST

Horse RidingTrio Ranch Contact Number: +966 50 5676000Location: https://goo.gl/maps/nCX3AxanqtD2

Fakieh AquariumFakieh Aquarium focuses on species from the Red Sea. Keep in mind that singles (men) are not allowed entry without a female. Entrance Fee: 55 SAR/ 15 USD per person Location: https://goo.gl/maps/gHiARgj3dHF2 Website: www.fakiehaquarium.com

Cafe

Jeddah is big on cafes. I always like to take the tourists that come here to cafes to experience the social life which they always enjoy!

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مع الساعات الأولى للصباح, يقوم فريقنا باختبارات متعددة لضمان استخلاص افضل مذاق كوب قهوة تلبي رغبات عشاق ومحبين قهوتنـــــا.. ☕️ مقهى ومحمصة |مَدّ| ______________________________________________ During the earliest hours of our mornings, our baristas come to prepare for yet another day of love and dedication to the job; experimenting and constantly improving their skills, to make sure you get the best cup of coffee. Isn’t that what you came for? ☕️ ______________________________________________ #meddcafeandroastery #medd #coffee #speciality #organic #fairtrade #barista #baristadaily #jeddah #saudiarabia #مقهى_و_محمصة_مد #مد #قهوة #عضوية #مختصة #تجارة_عادلة #جدة #السعودية #باريستا

A post shared by مقهى و محمصة مَدّ (@meddcoffee) on Sep 3, 2018 at 8:57am PDT

https://www.instagram.com/p/BqPk7K6F0iA/

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Mornings aren't complete without Snow.. 🌞 . . #cupandcouch #scwa #letscoffee #coffee #specialtycoffee #experience #latte #latteart #chemex #chemexlove #neighborhood #cafe #espresso #goodvibes #theconcept #jeddah #saudiarabia . . #كوب_و_كنبة #قهوة #قهوة_مختصة #جدة #السعودية #2017

A post shared by Cup & Couch |Neighborhood Cafe (@cupandcouch) on Nov 5, 2017 at 4:50am PST

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The birth of a new complexity of flavors #Its92 التحميص يضيف ابعاد معقدة للنكهة، ويظهر النكهات الموجودة طبيعيا في القهوة ☕️

A post shared by Brew92 ° برو٩٢ (@brew92cafe) on Jan 17, 2019 at 5:02am PST

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Umluj

Nada Al Nahdi — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 09:58:34 +0000

Experience Saudi’s dramatic landscapes in West of Madinah with @weekendtrip1

The quick weekend getaway will take you to volcanic areas, caves, clear blue water, and black sand dunes in 3 days!

Day 1: Yanbu – Campsite

We were picked up from Yanbu Airport and driven to the campsite on a volcanic area. The area requires a 4X4 car.

The weather was pretty chilly and it picked up some wind in the middle of the night.

Day 2: Hiking

We started our day at 8 am for a 10km hike to explore 3 caves.

The trail is mostly flat ground with different terrains; hard lava, fine volcanic materials, flat sand.

To go down into one of the caves, we used a 6-meter ladder that’s already held in place. It’s safe!

You may want to consider taking an antihistamine and a mouth cover as the place is filled with heaps of bird waste.

We have been blessed with plenty rainfalls this year that plants grew in one of the caves.

We had our break with a warm cup of tea before heading back to the campsite.

Black Sand Dunes

Post lunch, we packed up and headed to an area known as “ارض القمر” which means the land of the moon.

As you can see, the volcanic materials are wearing off from the volcanic mountains. Over time, it created a vast area of black sand dunes

If you check google earth, you would be able to see the black area where we camped and the location of the black sand dunes located west of Al-Ais

Al Shabhah Town

As the sun sets, we visited the old town of Al Shabhah where we were greeted in the most traditional way by a group of kind locals.

The locals are putting together an effort to restore the old houses and artifacts of the area for visitors to enjoy.

They demonstrated a traditional way of making wheat bread which is by placing the dough directly on ash and covered with charcoal.

Then the bread is beaten to get rid of the ash and crumbled. Lastly, it is served with a lot of ghee.

It may not sound appealing but once you try it, you won’t be able to stop. It has a very distinct flavor and taste.

Then we camped by the seashore of Umluj.

Day 3 – Swim/Dive/Snorkel

We went to the boat rental spot in Umluj and hopped in one and went to the tiny islands spread around where we snorkeled.

Boat Rental Location: https://goo.gl/maps/v8srqfM9jp72

The water is crystal clear with many beautiful corals everywhere.

I wanted to dive but there wasn’t enough time between diving and my flight.

We ended it with a feast of seafood!

It was one of the most exciting trips I experienced in Saudi and I recommend everyone to visit the locations mentioned!

Trip Organized by: Weekend Trip

Instagram: @weekendtrip1

Twitter: @weekendtrip1

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A Guide to Saudi Arabia

Nada Al Nahdi — Sun, 20 Jan 2019 17:08:27 +0000

After meeting many travelers who came to Saudi, many do not know how to go about and the locals they ask are not aware of the services available in the country. Here’s a quick and to the point guide which I will continuously update. Local TransportInterCity: SAPTCO Urban Buses: SAPTCO Download the app to know the routes & scheduleCar Services: Careem, Uber, Jeeny Tip: Use Careem App and choose Sawa Car (Carpooling) it’s the cheapest fare among the other car services!Delivery Services: Marsool, Hunger Station, HelloFood, Talabat. LuqmetyTrain: Saudi Rail Way and Haramain RailWayShared Car: Located outside SAPTCO bus station (Jeddah)Flight: Saudia, Flyadeal, Flynas, and Saudi Gulf. Tip: Saudia has the most extensive flight network Flyadeal has the cheapest flights if booked in advance. Car Rental: Key, Theeb, Hanco, Budget ***There is a mileage limit of 250 – 300km per day. The best way to go around Saudi is to mix between buses, car rental, and cheap flights.Accommodation We don’t have hostels and basic accommodation are pretty expensive A basic room starts from 100 SAR/26USD. Couchsurfing communities are available in Saudi or try finding a cheap Airbnb.Clothing Men: Basically anything. Are shorts allowed? YES except at the malls, a few restaurants, Saudia flights (not sure about other airlines) Women: Are colored abayas allowed? YES! We love stylish, colorful and unique styles! It does not have to be ankle length either, it can be above ankle length and below knee length. Should I wear a scarf? No, not needed. Should I wear a burqa? No, not needed. Here’s what I wear around Saudi. Basic Words to KnowAssalamualaykum – Hello and reply with WaalaykumsalamThank You – ShukranHow Much – BekamWhere is xxxx – Fen xxxxLeft – YasarRight – YameenStraight – AlatoolCostWater – 1 SARPetrol – 0.40 SAR/literInterCity Bus Fare – 2 SAR Food from local eateries

Breakfast: 5 – 10 SAR

Lunch/Dinner: 10 – 20 SAR

Emergency NumbersPolice – 999Ambulance – 997Traffic Police – 993 Accident – 920000560Civil Defense – 998

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Al Wa’abah Crater

Nada Al Nahdi — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 01:57:03 +0000

Al Wa’abahCrater is a massive volcanic crater with a depth of 250 meters and 2 km width. It’s located 350 km from Jeddah, it takes about 4 hours drive.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/vNyG2o8a3RotthER7

It is a great place for camping and hiking. The hike was not easy due to the heat from the sun right on top of your head. It’s not easy to find shade while descending to the beautiful sodium phosphate base as well as the climb up to the rim.

It would be wise to wear a hat or tie a shemagh around your head and bring at least 2 liter of water in an insulated water bottle so it will stay cold.

It is recommended to start the hike as early as possible and climb up before the sun strikes. It is recommended to attempt the hike only in winter season from December to February.

The time to climb down and up really depends on how much stops you make but it takes about 45 to 60 minutes each. There is a rocky trail to follow and it goes in a zigzag like pattern. The climb up definitely took much longer than going down.

What’s great is that it is very secluded in the middle of nowhere and there is only a handful of people around. There were other tents and hikers but the rim is so big that you can pitch your tent away from others.

It was just us by the edge of the crater; accompanied by millions of bright stars, full moon light and brisk winds singing to our ears.

The sunrise is something you should not miss! Climb down and enjoy the sunrise over the plateau.

If you haven’t been there, then it’s a perfect place for a weekend adventure with friends or family! 😀 Just make sure to bring extra necessities because there isn’t any shop around the area.

“You could see it as heaps of gravel,

surrounding a massive hole,

a magnificent corollary,

of the mighty mother nature;

breeds beauty,

from an enigmatic catastrophe”

Cover Photo Credit goes to @mr_esob

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