welcome to arabia Archives - Nada Al Nahdi Breaking through the social norms Tue, 07 Apr 2020 10:44:33 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cropped-cropped-Nada_final_logo-Transparency-1-1-32x32.png welcome to arabia Archives - Nada Al Nahdi 32 32 189328479 Tabuk Region https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/tabuk-region/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tabuk-region https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/tabuk-region/#respond Tue, 07 Apr 2020 10:40:57 +0000 https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/?p=10602 When we say Tabuk, it does not mean the city of Tabuk but Tabuk Region.

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]]> When we say Tabuk, it does not mean the city of Tabuk but Tabuk Region. Tabuk city does not have much to offer but the surrounding area has plenty.

Tabuk is best explored by renting a car as all of the beautiful places have huge distances between them. The drive is very enjoyable as you will pass through different landscapes and scenery.

Tabuk Region is bordered by Jordan and without a doubt, it is one of my favorite regions in Saudi Arabia for its diverse and unique landscapes. As I drove along Tabuk regions, I was captivated by the tall mountains surrounded by red sand dunes, my jaw dropped as I drove along the coastline with Egypt on the horizon and mountainous silhouette from the Sinai Peninsula against the Aqaba Gulf.

Catalina Sea Plane

Catalina Seaplane is a military seaplane from the 1930s that belonged to an American family who was traveling around the world and happened to have landed in Ras Al Sheikh Hamid. The seaplane shows the bullet holes that were shot by the bedouins in the area who thought it was a threat. There weren’t any casualties, the family was flown to Jeddah for interrogation and eventually let free. However, the seaplane remains in the same spot.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iEQoQfJFQbT2

Haql & Georgios Shipwreck

Haql is located in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, bordered by Jordan and along the Gulf of Aqaba. It is one of the popular spots for diving and there are many beach resorts in Haql.

Many visit Haql to see the long-abandoned shipwreck called the Georgios G Shipwreck. The abandoned cargo line is left stranded since 1958 due to the narrow route that caused the ship to get caught on the corals.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iEQoQfJFQbT2

Tayyib Ism

Located just off the coast of Aqaba and across from Sinai, legend has it that Prophet Moses crossed the Red Sea and split the mountain in half. It starts off with beautiful palm trees and as you walk through the crack, there are streams along the way. It’s definitely a must-visit.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/JrngViDgz8Q4bk6s8

Sharma

I have not been there but it said to be one of the best beaches. There is also a restaurant in a hotel where one could enjoy a meal with a sea view.

For more details on how to go on a boat trip in Saudi, check the link here.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/JrngViDgz8Q4bk6s8

Duba

During our trip to Tabuk, we stayed the night in Duba and took a boat from the marina in Duba. The coral reefs were beautiful!

For more details on how to go on a boat trip in Saudi, check the link here.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iEQoQfJFQbT2

Magna

A drive along the coastline of Magna is not to be missed! You’ll find yourself stopping on the side of the road to marvel the beauty of the steep mountains. It is also believed that Prophet Moses crossed the Red Sea to Magna.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iEQoQfJFQbT2

Spring of Moses

Located in a palm tree lush area, the spring is said to be where Prophet Moses drank after crossing from Egypt. The area has a perfect view of the sea, valleys and palm trees.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iEQoQfJFQbT2

Wadi Disah

If I had one place to visit in Tabuk Region, I’d say “Wadi Disah” without hesitation. That’s how special and spectacular this canyon is. The 15km canyon is best explored with a 4×4. There are plenty of generous and hospitable locals who visit the valley whom you could hitchhike with. Before arriving to Wadi Disah, there are several strawberry farms worth a visit if it’s during the season.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iEQoQfJFQbT2

Al Bad’a

It is often skipped and less popular than other spots in Tabuk Region. However, there are several tombs from the Nabatean period that are worth a visit even if they are only a few and not well maintained. Unlike Madain Saleh, Mughayer Shuaib can easily be accessed.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/JBjH3o3kp91mkPRz7

Umluj

Umluj is also known as the Maldives of Saudi for it’s clear and pristine beaches and white sandbanks. It is a popular destination for beach camping trips.

For more details on Umluj, click here.

For more details on how to camp in Saudi, check the link here.

For more details on how to go on a boat trip in Saudi, check the link here.

Campsite Location: https://goo.gl/maps/JBjH3o3kp91mkPRz7

 

How to get to Tabuk Region: Fly in from any city to Tabuk City

How to get around Tabuk Region: Rent a car from the airport and make sure that it has unlimited mileage. Usually, Dheeb rental car has an offer for unlimited mileage

Recommended Tour Agency: @tabuk.tours

Contact Person: Salem

Contact Number: +966 50 277 9907

 

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]]> https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/tabuk-region/feed/ 0 10602 Recommended Tour Operators in Saudi Arabia https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/recommended-tour-operators-in-saudi-arabia/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=recommended-tour-operators-in-saudi-arabia https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/recommended-tour-operators-in-saudi-arabia/#respond Sat, 05 Oct 2019 07:43:56 +0000 https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/?p=10752 Here is a list of recommended tour operators based on their price range Non Profit

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]]> Here is a list of recommended tour operators based on their price range

Non Profit Travel Community

Jeddah Based

Qairawan 

 

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كلاس اليوجا بتقديم @danam_ashoor Yoga class led by @danam_ashoor

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Low – Mid Range

Jeddah Based

@jeddah_go_outdoors

Riyadh Based

@ghazi_tours

 

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‎ *رحلة هايكنج يسر فريق رحلات غازي ان يعلن عن رحلته القادمة الى “جبال نهاية العالم” الجمعه الموافق 4 اكتوبر في تمام الساعه 2:30 عصراً لغاية الساعه 10:00 مساءً باذن الله حيث فعاليات الهايكنج بالاضافة الى الفعاليات الترفيهيه المتنوعه للحجز والاستفسار :�جوال رقم # 0552223350 ❤@@@@ * hiking to Edge of the world ghazi tours group is pleased to announce their next trip to Edge of the world , on Friday 4 of October 2019 at 2:30-22:00for registration and more information please call or text #سياحة offroad #insta ‎�#هايكنج #hiking #edgeoftheworld #Worls#cave �#اكتشف_الرياض #هايكنج #hiking#saoudienne

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Tabuk Based

@tabuk.tours

High Range

Al Ula Based

@alulatourism

Riyadh Based

@masaratclub

 

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النجاح لا يعني العمل المستمر بلا توقف ولا يعني تكثيف المهام حتى تصبح نبضات قلبك مسرعة طوال الوقت و نفسك يلهث باستمرار. أن تكون انسان ناجح يعني أن تكون قادر على التوقف لوهلة في منتصف الطريق للاستجمام , جمع أجزائك المنثورة أرضا , واعادة ترميم ذاتك لتستطيع مواجهة الحياة بالقوة ذاتها مجددا. ان كنت تشعر أنك تركض لفترة طويلة و على طريق واحد لا ينتهي و بلا وجهة محددة تأكد أنك تحتاج الى ما ينتشلك من دائرة مسؤولياتك اللامنتهيه. في الاستكشاف تكمن جميع الحلول , شاركنا في رحلة الى أملج حيث سنصل الى أعماق البحر الأحمر و نسنكشف الجزر البكر للبحر الأحمر. في رحلتنا القادمة الى أملج سنمزج بين طبيعة المزارع و البحرحيث سيكون هناك زيارة لمزارع المانجو و رحلات بحرية تتضمن الابحار, السباحة والسنوركلنق. شاركنا للممارسة متعة الاستكشاف! A mixture between the ocean and mountain life creating a balance and resulting in time spent on creating fun memories. A perfect adventure for those who do not seek permanency nor seek to reside a settled land. An adventure that extends for three days which will include: exploring virgin islands swimming, fishing, and snorkeling. We will also go on an wonderful cruise around the Red sea to explore the unexplored. If you seek to explore the unknown join us on a trip to the north of the kingdom (UMMLUJ). للتسجيل عن طريق الرابط في البايو او التواصل على واتساب 0566445538 📆 03-05/10/2019 📍 Ummlaj #masaratclub #the_joy_of_exploring

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Umluj Based

@weekendtrip1

 

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احتفالنا هذا العام بـ #اليوم_الوطني غير ٤ ايّام – ٣ ليالي في مدينة الحالمين والمستقبل#نيوم نتعرف على المقومات السياحية التي سوف تجعل منها مقصداً لجميع سكان الارض، روح المغامرة والاستكشاف !! نغوص ونبحر ونستطلع ونستكشف جمال الطبيعة في بلادنا. 🐟🌊🏊🏻‍♂⛺🏄‍♂ التسجيل بالبايو📝 العدد محدود الوصول مطار #تبوك TUU# ✈️ للاستفسار التواصل عبر الواتساب 0501335104 📲 ‏#weekendtrip1 #رحلات_سياحية #تبوك #املج #نيوم #NEOM

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Jeddah Based

@disconnectksa

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]]> https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/recommended-tour-operators-in-saudi-arabia/feed/ 0 10752 How to Travel Around Saudi Arabia https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/how-to-travel-around-saudi-arabia/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-travel-around-saudi-arabia https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/how-to-travel-around-saudi-arabia/#respond Sat, 05 Oct 2019 07:13:27 +0000 https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/?p=10740 Saudi Arabia is a large country with so many beautiful places that are sparsed and

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]]> Saudi Arabia is a large country with so many beautiful places that are sparsed and spread around the country. With the lack of connecting transportations to visit beautiful destinations, it is important to understand the Map of Saudi Arabia before planning your route.

Saudi Arabia is best understood by Regions. There are 5 regions which I have listed below. I also added the best route to explore most of each region noting that there isn’t any public transport that would take you to all the spots so it is best to rent a car with unlimited mileage or hire a driver.

In summary, I would recommend flying into Riyadh and fly out of Jeddah. Simply because Jeddah is the perfect city to end an intense and exhaustive trip by relaxing by the beautiful beaches in Jeddah, mingle with mixed culture locals, sip a cup of coffee in the many local specialty cafes and enjoy a beautiful sunset by the tallest fountain in the world.

  • Fly into Riyadh (Central Region) then drive to the Eastern Region
  • From Eastern Region,  fly into Northern Region
  • From Northern Region, fly into Southern Region
  • From Southern Region, fly into Western Region
  • Fly out from Jeddah (Western Region)
Northern Region

Recommended city to fly in:  Tabuk

Recommended city to fly out to: Riyadh

Contact for Drivers: Salem +966 50 277 9907

Recommended Route

Central Regions (Najd)

Recommended city to fly in:  Riyadh

Recommended city to fly out (if not driving to Dammam): Abha

Recommended Route around Riyadh & Qassim

Recommended Route from Riyadh to Eastern Region

Eastern Region

Recommended to drive from Riyadh to Dammam as shown in the previous map

Recommended city to fly in:  Dammam

Recommended Route

Southern Region

Recommended city to fly in:  Abha or Jazan

Recommended city to fly out to: Jeddah

Contact for Drivers: Ali +966 50 090 0961

Recommended Route

Western Region (Hejaz)

Recommended city to fly in:  Jeddah

Recommended Route

Available Public Transport

Intercity Bus: SAPTCO

Urban City Bus: SAPTCO

Train: Saudi Railway Organization (Central & Eastern Region), Haramain High Speed Railway (Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, and KAEC)

Feel free to drop a comment or send me an email through the contact form if you need any help!

 

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]]> https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/how-to-travel-around-saudi-arabia/feed/ 0 10740 Aseer Region https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/aseer-region/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=aseer-region https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/aseer-region/#respond Fri, 04 Oct 2019 14:01:37 +0000 https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/?p=10537 Aseer Region is one region away to the border of Yemen. This region is particularly

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]]> 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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]]> https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/aseer-region/feed/ 0 10537 Taif https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/taif/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=taif https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/taif/#respond Fri, 04 Oct 2019 11:48:30 +0000 https://www.nadaalnahdi.com/?p=10347 Taif is a city known for its fresh fruits and roses used to also be

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]]> 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

 

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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