Before 2020, many people used to think that Saudi Arabia was one of the most mysterious countries in the world. All of this changed when the kingdom opened its doors for international tourism for people of almost all countries. This was big news, especially for the Muslims as they could now visit the kingdom with their friends and family.
With this news, many tour operators started offering Umrah Packages with tourist visas to let people go beyond the holy cities. A lot of resorts and hotels were established for the visitors. It was like a dream come true for pilgrim families and honeymooners as they could now enjoy a perfect Saudi holiday along with Umrah. Overall, it was a revolutionary step by the government that boosted the economy and created a softer image of the Kingdom.
Let’s talk about the Saudi resorts that have taken the world by surprise. These are no ordinary places and offer the best of traditional Saudi hospitality with a luxurious touch. Here are the 5 best resorts in Saudi Arabia that Muslim pilgrim families can stay in before or after doing Umrah.
Top 5 Resorts in Saudi Arabia for Family Pilgrims
1. Habitas, AlUla
Go here if you want to feel like how the Saudi people used to live a couple of hundred years ago. The palace is like a shining star hidden around the sandstone cliffs and palm trees. A simple look at it will make you fall in love with its beauty, and it offers a wide range of facilities to keep you and your family pampered throughout your stay there.
You will be surprised by the fact that this place offers almost all the facilities that you would expect from a resort in Europe or America. Your stay there will be enhanced by amenities and experiences like fine dining onsite, high-speed internet, a pool & spa, hiking and biking.
2. Banyan Tree, AlUla
Due to AlUla’s unique and beautiful landscape, it is home to some of the best resorts for family pilgrims. Pilgrims that want to get a true taste of the Saudi desert life must not look anywhere else than this place.
Everything in and around this resort is so finely and elegantly crafted that you will feel like you are sitting with old Arabs and enjoying dates and tea with them. And if you want to take your trip to the next level, you can visit the AlUla neighborhood from here as well. Many people book an Umrah package for family with a tourist visa and then come here to enjoy some time with their loved ones.
The only issue: it is extremely costly and you may end up paying around SAR 2000 for one night’s stay here.
3. Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea
Sitting right in the middle of the desert near to the Red Sea, this resort is an amazing place for families and honeymooners. If you are one of those who always believed that Saudi Arabia is just another name for a desert, this resort is like an oasis for them.
Its engineering is nothing short of a marvel as it is created right within the desert and is only a 45-minute drive from the Red Sea coast. As the desert has no electricity, the resort is powered by solar energy.
Something like this resort is bound to be pricey. Don’t expect the budget for one night to be less than SAR 3000 for a room with a double bed.
4. Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Long gone are the days when only the Maldives was famous for overwater villas. The Saudis have joined the race and they are catching up fast. Najuma in the Red Sea is one of the finest examples.
The resort is a complete world of its own and is the epitome of luxury. Think of any amenity you are getting in a high-end hotel; this resort will have it. Spa, restaurants, fitness center, Wi-Fi; it has got you covered.
For the adrenaline buffs, there are watersports like kayaking, windsurfing and diving. You can only reach there via a boat or a seaplane and it costs around SAR 9000 for one night. That’s some amount of money.
5. The St. Regis Red Sea Resort
The overwater luxury in the Red Sea doesn’t end with Najum. The St. Regis resort is equal to the one discussed above but it is definitely a lot cheaper. A one-night stay here is almost SAR 5200 and many people rank it above Najuma.
The best thing about this resort is its location. It is set directly above the Al Wajh Lagoon waters, which is famous for dolphin and sea turtle spotting. If you are a fan of marine life, you can take a deep dive into the ocean and explore the amazing creatures. The resort is also home to a diving center where you can learn the basics.
A fully edicated Kids’ Club makes this place an ideal spot for families as the parents can leave the little ones there and have some me time.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is a year-round destination for Muslims as they will plan their Umrah whenever they get a chance. But if you are going to stay a bit longer in the country and explore the famous tourist sites, then November to April is the best time.
Although it is the peak season and the prices are usually high, the weather is extremely pleasant. Muslims can take the help of deals like April Umrah Packages and stay in the country for a long period of time.Reach out to Muslims Holy Travel to plan your next Umrah trip or a Saudi holiday.
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