Day 1: Arrival to Riyadh
Arrival to Riyadh
Today we will be welcoming you at the airport as our representative will be waiting for you holding a sign with your name , we will be taking you to your hotel where you can rest for a bit.
Welcome to Riyadh, the birthplace of modern Saudi Arabia, where old-world charm meets 21st-century vision. Riyadh Province – also known as Al-Wosta – is home to the country’s capital: a modern metropolis with a thriving financial and business centre, and a growing cultural scene. It’s a city rich in history, boasting myriad forts, palaces and museums, and some of the country’s most colorful souks.
Transfer to the hotel
Check in at Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya
Room Type: High floor king room
Location
This hotel warmly welcomes guests in Riyadh.
Facilities
The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities include a baggage storage service, safe, currency exchange service and ATM. Wireless internet access is provided in public areas. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The hotel has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. The hotel has wheelchair-accessible facilities and an elevator. Children can enjoy the playground. Additional amenities include a TV room and a playroom. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the garage or in the parking lot (no extra charge). Further services and facilities include a 24-hour security service, a babysitting service, a childcare service, a car rental service, medical assistance, a transfer service, room service, a wake-up call service, a laundry service, a hairdresser, a coin-operated laundry and a hotel shuttle bus. Complimentary newspapers are available. The business center is on hand for guests’ business requirements and provides a fax machine.
Riyadh city tour – Al Masmak – National museum
Today we will start with at Al Masmak Fortress ,surrounded by sand, this squat fortification was built around 1865 and is like a scene out of the movies: a big fortress representing an empire. It was the site of a daring 1902 raid by Ibn Saud, during which a spear was hurled at the main entrance door with such force that the head is still lodged in the doorway. Highlights among the exhibits include maps and fascinating photographs of Saudi Arabia dating from 1912 to 1937, in galleries converted from diwans (living rooms). The roofs are covered with painted palm-tree, taramic and ethel wood and exude an old-world charm that evokes an Arabian painting. Inside, the information panels and short, chest-thumping films on the storming of the fortress and the ‘reunification’ of Saudi Arabia are reverential towards the Al Sauds but worth watching nonetheless.
In the same area and only in walking distance we will find our self in Souq Al-Zal which is one of the oldest traditional market. They sell traditional dresses, antiques, Oud ” Arabic perfume” and jewelry
Next on we will move to the National museum you will be discovering Saudi Arabia’s rich past is an amazing journey that would bring you along thousands of kilometers around the whole Kingdom. An easier way to have an insight of Saudi Arabia’s rich History is to visit the King Abdulaziz Historical Center in Riyadh where artifacts from all periods are exhibited and with explanations about their historical significance.
Kingdom Tower Skybridge
It was designed by the US-based architecture firm Ellerbe Becket in a joint venture with the Riyadh-based architecture and engineering firm Omrania and associates.
At the top of the tower, an inverted arch is spanned by a glass skybridge housing a public observation deck, Its design was inspired by iconic structures from around the world, including the Gateway Arch in St.Louis, The Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Eiffel tower.
KAFD & Grand Mosque
King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Grand Mosque in Riyadh won the International Architecture Prize, in the Religious Buildings category, for the Year 2020.
Today we will be visiting a landmark within a ‘forest’ of skyscrapers,
The building represents the spiritual centre of the Master Plan and serves as the Juma’ah (Friday) mosque for the visitors and residents of the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD); an all-new mixed-use district in Riyadh.
Inspiration and basis for the unique geometry of the mosque is the crystalline intersecting plates of a desert rose. The building is further landmarked by two sculpted 60m minarets. The development of the design involved a series of complex parametric arrays to ultimately create a simplified and dynamic massing which represents an abstraction of the desert rose. This form and movement in stone extends to the 5th elevation completing an exciting profile, viewed from all angles. The skin of the building appears to rise up from the earth as an emerging crystal mass, bursting from the earth. In the same way the minarets appear to rise up, piercing the landscape.
Diriyah visit
We will visit Diriyah, birthplace of the first Saudi state, historical crossroads of pilgrims and traders, and home to one of the kingdom’s most ambitious heritage developments.
The historical district of Turaif in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved adobe structures that showcase the Najdi architectural style. It was the first capital of the Saudi dynasty and holds great cultural and historical importance in the country’s history. Visitors can explore the traditional mud-brick buildings, historical mosques, and learn about the rich history of the region.
Day 3: Fly to Alula
Flight to AlUla
Arrival to AlUla
AlUla, The World’s Masterpiece, is one of the oldest cities in the Arabian Peninsula and home to Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site.
A land rich in historical, geological and geographical significance, this ancient city, once at the crossroads of The Silk Road and The Incense Route, has only recently been re-discovered by the world.
A walk in the old town
Explore Old Market Street in AlUla Old Town and shop a variety of retail stores featuring local artisans, entrepreneurs, cafes and more.
Cultural activations, handicraft stores, local speciality foods to name a few, are featured for guests to discover and learn more about the wonders of AlUla.
Elephant Rock at sunset
Early evening, we will take you to the Elephant Rock, also known as Jabal AlFil, one of AlUla’s many geological marvels. Unlike the ornate, hand-carved facades of nearby Hegra’s Nabataean tombs, the “trunk” and “body” of this monolithic red sandstone beast were hewn by natural forces — millions of years of wind and water erosion. The beauty of the unrefined structure is enhanced by its surroundings of a fine-sand sea studded with rocky outcrops, many of which are equally impressive in size and have interesting shapes and figures.
The area has very nice atmosphere with a cafe and restaurant, the seating area are build underground filled with magical lights that its just wonderful to witness the sunset.
Check in at Our Habitas AlUla Saudi Arabia
Room type: Canyon Villa
Location
Located in Al Ula, this hotel is ideal for those in need of an adults-only vacation.
Facilities
The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities include a baggage storage service, a safe and a currency exchange service. Wireless internet access is provided in public areas. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The complex has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. The hotel has wheelchair-accessible facilities. A garden provides extra space for rest and relaxation in the open air. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the parking lot for no extra charge. Other services include a 24-hour security service, a car rental service, medical assistance, a transfer service, room service, a laundry service and a coin-operated laundry. Active guests can make use of the bicycle rental service (no extra charge) to explore the surrounding area.
Hegra Vintage Land Rover tour
Today let’s explore the most popular historical site in Saudi Arabia, Madain Saleh in a vintage Land Rover. It is one of Saudi Arabia tours that is a must do, it is the first to be listed as a UNESCO Word Heritage, Madain Saleh means the “cities of Saleh” after the name of the Prophet Saleh who tried to convert the ancient people of Thamud to Islam. But this name started to be used only during the Ottoman occupation of the Hejaz, whereas the people who built this city, the Nabateans, called it Hijra.
The importance of Madain Saleh is ostensibly displayed by its 111 monumental tombs, among which 94 were decorated with majestic facades on the sandstone massifs of the area, especially the Jibal Ithlib. The smallest tomb is barely 2,7 meters tall but the biggest reaches an impressive 21,5 meters! Madain Saleh was the second largest city of the Nabatean kingdom whose capital was Petra (in today’s Jordan) where the Nabatean people created more than 600 tombs. What most people dont know that there are many other fascinating archeological sites attest to the thousands of years of human occupation of the area thanks to the underground water available for millennia.
Dadan-Ikma Mountain Landrover tour
Let’s explore the ancient capital city of Dadan and examine tombs, excavation sites, and thousands of early Arabic inscriptions in a vintage Landrover.
Ikma mountain or Jabal Ikmah, a mountain near to the ancient city of Dadan, the capital of Dadanite and Lihyanite Kingdoms, has been described as a huge open-air library.
There is no such site that is more significant, than Jabal Ikmah, home to the highest concentration of, and most varied inscriptions, in AlUla.
We hope you’re ready to be blown out by this beautiful journey as we will start with The most famous oases of the 1st millennium BCE the oasis of Dedan, where excavations on extensive archeological sites have revealed the existence of large fortified cities. These kingdoms developed their own culture including a specific language and alphabet, that resulted in a mix of Arabian traditions and strong influences from the surrounding empires.
About 1 kilometer south of the main excavation site of Dedan are two exceptional tombs located some 50 meters above the wadi where the ancient oasis was centred. Those are the only tombs that are decorated with two carved lions each, showing the importance of their owners, being governors or influential people. These sculptures of lions that are an outstanding example of the Mesopotamian influence, and are the proud iconic figures of this ancient oasis.
Jabal Ikmah, a mountain near to the ancient city of Dadan, the capital of Dadanite and Lihyanite Kingdoms, has been described as a huge open-air library.
Maraya
Maraya is a stunning piece of art set in the desert canyon of Ashar Valley. Designed to blend into the surrounding landscape, it rises from the sand like a mirage. The state-of-the-art structure is covered in 9,740 mirrored panels reflecting AlUla’s beauty, making it the largest mirrored building in the world, according to Guinness World Records.
Maraya, meaning mirror or reflection in Arabic, celebrates AlUla’s significant role in history as a crossroads of cultures for centuries.
Harra View point at sunset
AlUla is blessed with numerous lookout points that offer an elevated view of the epic landscape. Scale the black lava stone terrain of Harrat Uwayrid, and you’ll be rewarded with views over Dadan, Ula oldtown, AlUla Fort and the AlUla Oasis. Stand at what feels like the edge of the world, meditate, and reconnect with nature. Arrive before sundown to soak up the sights and sounds of the golden hour, when the sky’s orange glow adds a magical touch to everything you see. Stay for sunset and watch the sky slowly fill with thousands of dancing stars.
Day 5: Free day – Optional tour
AlUla Hot Air Balloon – Optional (USD 365 per person in Shared trip)
Rise with the sun and soar high above AlUla. Float through the early morning in this magical hot air balloon experience – sure to be something you’ll never forget. Each flight will last around 45-60 minutes depending on weather.
A hot air balloon tour is an essential part your visit to AlUla. Even the most stunning images fail to capture its true beauty. Drift gently over the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, around unique rock formations and over lush farmlands. The diverse colors and vistas of the flight will make for beautiful photographs and unforgettable memories.
Sharaan Platinum Dinner Safari (7 hour) – Optional (USD 365 per person for shared car & USD 1,215 per person for private car)
Explore Shaaran Nature Reserve’s stunning landscapes with incredible sunset views, a nocturnal eco-walk, delicious dinner, and mesmerising stargazing.
- Pick-up from AlUla hotels in a Land Rover Defender 130 between 02:30 PM and 04:00 PM, depending on the season. We will inform you of the exact pick-up time around noon on the day of your experience.
- Arrive at the Sharaan Nature Reserve and receive your stainless steel water bottle to take home. Get a briefing from your dedicated Conservation Guide about your experience.
- Explore the Reserve as you embark on a safari through the canyons and valleys, with several opportunities to stop and explore. Points of interest include vast rock formations telling unique stories, inscriptions dating back thousands of years, and lush fields in which you can truly take in the unique scents of the local flora.
- At sunset, embark on a short hike up a canyon to be greeted with a breathtaking scene of a vast valley and canyons. Sit back, relax and enjoy canapes as you watch the sun go down.
- Arrive at your camp for the evening and experience true magic as the scene of lantern-lit canyons unfolds before you.
- Venture into nature with your dedicated Conservation Guide and UV lights as you try to spot nighttime creatures and learn about why they are so important to the ecosystem.
- Indulge in a four-course meal that consists of a South African-style “braai” completed with grilled meats, vegetables and sides as well as indulgent appetisers and desserts.
- Retreat to the lounging area and relax next to the bonfire as you listen to tales of the night sky with an immersive stargazing session and even get to see the stars and planets up close through a telescope.
- Return to the hotel between 09:30 PM and 11:00 PM, depending on the season. Your total experience will last approximately seven hours.
Day 6: Drive to Red Sea
AlUla to Red Sea
3 hr 37 min (260 km)
Arrive to Red Sea
The Red Sea Project is the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism project, offering an exclusive experience of unparalleled diversity for discerning global travellers. The site encompasses an archipelago of more than 90 pristine islands, miles of sweeping desert and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Option 1: Ritz Carlton, Nujuma
Born from the stars of the infinite sky above and the colorful reef below, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve carries on the traditions of those who traveled across uncharted territory to discover pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and flavors as vivid as the sea itself. Surrounded by crystal-clear water and soft white sand, Nujuma is an unspoiled sanctuary where exploration unveils a constellation of unforgettable experiences
Option 2: St Regis resort
Located on a pristine private island, The St. Regis Red Sea Resort presents a compelling vision of exquisite living in the Ummahat archipelago. Fashioned from one of the world’s little known natural treasures, the destination artfully blends the brand’s visionary spirit, avant-garde style, and bespoke service with a progressive new benchmark for sustainable development.
Accessed from the coast of Saudi Arabia via chartered boat or seaplane, the island occupies a secluded position in the pioneering The Red Sea project. A rich environment of timeless glamor, the collection of 90 overwater and beachfront villas each have a spacious footprint and private pool.
Creating a setting for immersive experiences, the resort includes outdoor pools, high-tech fitness center, The St. Regis Spa, and Children’s Club, alongside exceptional fine dining. Each stay is enhanced by a curated selection of signature rituals and the iconic St. Regis Butler service.
Option 3: InterContinental The Red Sea Resort
InterContinental The Red Sea Resort is a luxury beachfront property located on Shura Island within the visionary The Red Sea Project. Surrounded by pristine waters and vibrant coral reefs, the resort offers elegant rooms and suites designed with sustainability and contemporary Arabian style in mind. Guests can enjoy private beach access, world-class dining, wellness facilities, and curated marine experiences such as snorkeling and sailing. Built to high environmental standards, the resort reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regenerative tourism. It is an ideal destination for travelers seeking exclusivity, nature, and refined relaxation on the Red Sea coast.
No Plans For This Day
Day 8: Free day at leisure
No Plans For This Day
Transfer to airport
Flight to Jeddah
Arrive to Jeddah
Welcome to Jeddah, Over the years, no Saudi city has been more open to outside influencers such as traders, international artists and Makkah-bound pilgrims than the ancient port of Jeddah. Indeed, the city’s unofficial motto is “Jeddah ghair,” or “Jeddah’s different.” Today, Jeddah is Saudi Arabia’s buzzing cosmopolitan hub, home to gleaming hotels and big-ticket events
Transfer to the hotel
Check in at Shangri-La Jeddah
Room type: Deluxe Sea View
Location
This hotel is located in Jeddah.
Facilities
The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities include a baggage storage service, safe, currency exchange service and ATM. Wireless internet access (no extra charge) allows guests to stay connected while on vacation. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The hotel has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. An elevator and wheelchair-accessible facilities are available. There are also a number of shops that make for great strolling and browsing. The grounds of the hotel feature a playground and a lovely garden. Additional facilities include a playroom. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the garage or in the parking lot. Further services and facilities include a 24-hour security service, a babysitting service, a childcare service, a car rental service, medical assistance, room service, a laundry service and a coin-operated laundry. Active guests can make use of the bicycle rental service to explore the surrounding area. The business center is on hand for guests’ business requirements and provides a fax machine.
Jeddah – City tour
Today we will start our tour in the morning with a short stop at Jeddah Corniche and Jeddah water front before we go to our next stop at Tayebat Museum.
The Floating Mosque was built in 1985 on a water surface, with bases planted under the surface of the sea. It is also called “Al Rahmah mosque”. It is marked by its bright white color and its turquoise dome which paints a wonderful scene especially when the sun shines on it to reflect the beauty of architecture joined with Islamic and traditional constructive art. The beauty of the mosque is not limited to its construction, it is also equipped with advanced sound and lighting technologies, to complement the elements that distinguish it from others with serenity and extreme beauty.
We will head now to The Tayebat Museum for a fascinating look into Jeddah’s long and cosmopolitan past, take an informative tour indeed the Tayebat Museum for a superbly curated representation of the city’s 2,500-year history. Located in the Al Faisaliyah district, the museum is housed in a multiroom complex that re-creates the traditional Hijazi architecture of the old city, with bay windows overlaid with intricate wooden lattice work and ornate coral masonry.
With several floors of in-depth exhibits, the museum offers a living history lesson on the foundation of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and the wider Arabian Peninsula. There is also an entire floor dedicated to the city’s rich Islamic heritage.
After our visit we will go to The house of Islamic arts, a museum specialized in Islamic arts. From the far countries of China and India to the farthest countries of the Maghreb and Andalusia of various arts, where the museum contains more than a thousand pieces of art representing 15 centuries of the history of Islamic art from all countries of the Islamic world
Before we move to the next tour we will have lunch we will suggest one of the local nice restaurants here in Jeddah that serves the famous traditional dishes in Jeddah.
Tayebat Museum Closed on Fridays.
Al Balad Tour – Jeddah Historical City
In the evening we will start our tour in Al Balad as local call it which means “ the town” as reference to the base of Jeddah. Al-Balad was founded in the 7th century and historically served as the centre of Jeddah.
Our tour will go through the history of these building including going inside one of the buildings to see the interior designs , furniture Al Balad is registered as a world heritage UNESCO site and since then the old buildings with its unique window designs and doors are being preserved along with its unique buildings which some have been built using sea shells and stones !.
We will also explain the historical importance of some sites and locations while we wonder around the narrow streets to explain how merchants used to sell their goods and how pilgrims used to get their supplies of cloth and food before they head to Makkah through the Makkah Gate in Al Balad.
The old Mosques is another tourist attraction where some were founded over 300 years ago and still functional as a mosque.
Day 11: Departure – Flight to Egypt
Airport transfers
Arrival Cario
Arrival at Cairo airport + meet & assist by Gezira Travel English-speaking tour leaders. Meet & assist service means meeting the guests inside the airport before the immigration desk by signboard, assisting in airport formalities and luggage handling until we connect the guest with the car and driver for their transfer to the requested destination and hotel.
Assistance in Egypt entry visa (Our Tour leader will pre-purchase the visa stamp and will handle it in stamping it on the clients’ passports. Benefits: guests will avoid standing in the bank queue. Noting that banks accept only cash payments which might not be convenient to the guests.
Check in at Sheraton Cairo Hotel & Casino
Room type: Deluxe Room
Location
Located in Cairo, this 5-star urban hotel, luxuriously furnished, has the perfect ambience for business travelers as well as families. Guests can reach public transportation within around 100 yards.
Facilities
The hotel welcomes guests in a 26-story building with 8 elevators and 650 rooms. English- and French-speaking staff at the reception desk in the lobby are ready to assist you with check-in and check-out. Amenities include a coat check, baggage storage service, safe, currency exchange service and ATM. Wireless internet access in public areas allows guests to stay connected. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The hotel has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible facilities are available. A number of shops, including a souvenir shop, are great for shopping or just browsing. A garden provides extra space for rest and relaxation in the open air. Additional facilities include a library. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the garage (for a fee) or in the parking lot (for a fee). Further services and facilities include a childcare service, a car rental service, medical assistance, 24-hour room service, a laundry service and a hairdresser. A business center with fax machine and projector is available.
Day 12: Cairo City Tour
Full day tour to Giza Pyramids, Sphinx and Sakkara
(tour duration around 8 hours Including transportation time)
Breakfast at the hotel and pick up early morning and transfer to visit Giza Pyramids Area, Then the Great Sphinx of Giza, which is a limestone statue of a reclining sphinx, transfer to visit Sakkara and Serapeum
Suggested pickup time: early morning
Including:
-Professional English-speaking guide, entrance fees, transportation
– Priority Pass Package at Pyramids area ( to guarantee private transportation by Golf cart during the visit) including the following features:
Meet & Greet service at Official Priority Pass Booth, located at the entrance of the Visitor Center.
Dedicated Priority Pass Lane through security and ticket validation.
Use of private Golf Cart for 3 hours ( according to the available slot time)
Ice Box with water, soft drinks, and juices for your guests.
Excluding:
-Entering the Pyramid chamber from inside [claustrophobics are not allowed due to narrow passages] with supplement
-Camel ride for around 20 minutes with supplement.
-Lunch (we can suggest a restaurant and reserve a table if needed)
Day 13: Cairo day tour
Visit The Grand Egyptian Museum
(Tour duration around 5 hours including transportation time)
Breakfast at the hotel and pick up early morning and transfer to visit The Museum (the visit includes access to the Tutankhamun Galleries, Main Galleries, Grand Hall, Grand Stairs, Khufu’s Boats Museum, commercial area, and exterior gardens, offering an unparalleled journey through Egypt’s ancient heritage and modern design)
Including:
-Professional English-speaking guide, entrance fees, transportation
Excluding:
-Lunch (we can suggest a restaurant and reserve a table if needed)
Transfer to airport
Flight to Luxor
Arrival to Luxor
Arrival Luxor Airport with meet & assist by our tour leader and transfer to the Nile cruise for check in:
| Stay on board of Movenpick Hamees Nile cruise – Superior cabins upper deck on full board basis
including: -Private Sightseeing as per cruise Itinerary ,Private transportation during sightseeing. – Private English-speaking guide from upper Egypt. – Entrance fees for all mentioned sites in the Itinerary. Excluding: – Any Personal Expenses – Tips & gratuities. – Air fare tickets Kindly find the Itinerary on their website https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1KkcM1gV4fcqOx_BDtaie4vJD1Hy3I2aL
Check in time around 12:00 Check out time around 8:00
MOVENPICK MS HAMEES SPECIAL AMENITIES
➢ Mini Gym. ➢ Swimming pool 150 cm depth ➢ Safe Deposit. ➢ Free welcome drink upon arrival. ➢ Captain Cocktail. ➢ 01 Small Bottle of mineral water daily. ➢ Free Mineral water during Lunch and Dinner. ➢ Tea and Coffee during Breakfast. ➢ Tea and Coffee Tray in each cabin refilled daily. ➢ Teatime during sailing. ➢ Open Buffet served during meals except 01 Set Menu and 01 BBQ on Sundeck per cruise. ➢ Espresso Machines added to cabins, with free espresso capsules upon arrival for all cabins & refilled *chargeable *as per the normal Espresso rates charged on board. The Itinerary is subject to change because of the water level, opening of the bridges & locks during the cruise and any other circumstances beyond our control.
any increase in government Tax, Energy (gas, fuel, diesel…etc), Entrance fees increase prices will be increased accordingly and you will be notified |
Day 14 – Day 17 / Stay on board of Movenpick Hamees Nile cruise
Day 18: Departure
Check out and departure transfer to Aswan Airport End of service
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