Saudi Arabia for Women
Value-Centered Exploration – Cultural Encounters, Mindful Presence, and Authentic Experiences Behind the Veil
Experience the culture, history, and natural wonders of Saudi Arabia on a special journey designed through a female perspective.
In Jeddah, explore the historic Al Balad district, the Tayebat Museum, and the Floating Mosque, while taking a cooking class with a local female chef to prepare traditional Hejazi dishes.
In Medina, discover the historic streets, stroll along Qiba Street, and enjoy a homemade lunch with a local family to gain insight into everyday life. The magical landscapes of AlUla and Hegra, the Nabatean tombs, Elephant Rock, and the ancient inscriptions of Jabal Ikmah tell the stories of ancient civilizations. Wadi Dissah’s stunning cliffs and lush vegetation, along with sailing along the Red Sea coast in Yanbu, offer a perfect balance of nature and relaxation.
This journey is a harmonious blend of culture, history, gastronomy, and nature, enriched with personal experiences for every participant.
DETAILS
Travel
Travel to the destination is self-arranged and not included in the price, but from the moment you decide to join, we help you choose the gentlest way to reach your destination.
We calculate your footprint, explore flight-free possibilities when possible, and guide you toward options that honor both your adventure and the Earth. Because the way you arrive is already part of the journey.
Participation fee
4550 EUR
Deposit: 40% of the participation fee is due upon registration.
Second installment: the remaining 60% is due 60 days before the start of the trip. The participation fee does not include airfare.
The participation fee also includes a 50 EUR donation, half of which goes to a local Saudi Arabian women’s organization, and the other half to a Hungarian women’s advocacy organization.
Accommodation
4 nights on Jeddah’s seaside in a comfortable, modern hotel with breakfast included.
1 night in Medina in a centrally located 4-star hotel with breakfast.
3 nights in the AlUla region in a desert-style, premium accommodation with breakfast (deluxe room available for an additional fee).
1 night in Yanbu in a modern, seaside hotel with breakfast.
Dates
Autumn Departure: October 10–20, 2026
(11 days / 10 nights)
Available spots: 14/16
Maximum group size: 20 participants
The trip will not operate with fewer than 8 participants. In such a case, the amount paid will be refunded or can be transferred to another trip according to the terms specified in the contract.
Plan B. B for Balanced Tradition
Day 1 – Arrival in Jeddah
- Upon arrival, our local guide will meet us at the airport, and we will continue to the hotel with a comfortable transfer. After checking in, there will be time to rest briefly following the journey.
Day 2 – Jeddah City Tour
We begin the day in the morning with a short stop along the Jeddah Corniche and its seaside promenade, where we can feel the city’s open, maritime atmosphere. From there, we continue to the Tayebat Museum, which offers insight into Jeddah’s diverse past.
- The Tayebat Museum presents the city’s over 2,500-year cosmopolitan history in a unique way. Located in the Al Faisaliyah district, it occupies a complex designed to evoke a traditional Hejazi neighborhood, featuring characteristic wooden lattice balconies, coral stone walls, and ornate facades. The multi-level exhibits showcase the history of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and the Arabian Peninsula, with a particular emphasis on the city’s rich Islamic heritage.
- Next, we visit the famous Floating Mosque, built in 1985 directly on the water, supported by stilts. Its pristine white exterior and turquoise dome create a striking sight in the sunlight, reflecting the harmony of architecture and Islamic art on the water’s surface. The mosque is also equipped with modern sound and lighting systems, enhancing its calm and refined atmosphere.
- In the evening, we explore Al-Balad, Jeddah’s historic district. Its name simply means “the town,” and it has served as the city’s historic center since the 7th century. During our walk, we learn about the history of the old houses and enter one building to see its interior and period furnishings up close. Al-Balad is a UNESCO World Heritage site, where buildings with distinctive windows and carved doors have been carefully preserved—some constructed from seashells and stones. Wandering through the narrow streets, we recall how merchants once traded here and how pilgrims prepared for their journey to Mecca before passing through the Mecca Gate. Along the way, we also see several old mosques, many of which were built over 300 years ago and are still in active use today.
Day 3 – Train Journey from Jeddah to Medina
- We begin today in the spirit of speed and comfort, traveling from Jeddah to Medina on a high-speed train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. Please note that luggage is limited to a maximum of 25 kg per person.
- In Medina, we enjoy a local lunch at a family home, guided by a female tour leader. This experience offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Saudi hospitality in a warm, home-like setting. Although Medina has undergone significant development, it has preserved its historic character as an oasis city. The local cuisine relies on fresh, locally grown ingredients—dates, spices, and the famous mint leaves—which appear in a variety of dishes. A special treat is the Buff, a semicircular samosa filled with various fillings, most commonly minced meat. The Buff is especially popular during Ramadan, often eaten to break the fast.
During the city tour of Medina, we first visit the extension exhibition of the Prophet’s Mosque, located near the Holy Mosque, where there is an opportunity for photography. Next, we stroll along Qiba Street, which connects the Holy Mosque and the Qiba Mosque. Both sites are highly significant in Islamic history: the first is the house of the Prophet Mohammed, now the location of his tomb; the second was historically the very first mosque ever built. Here, we gain an overview of how the city has evolved over the past 1,400 years. (The mosques are visited from the outside only.)
Day 4 – Medina to AlUla
Today we travel to AlUla by comfortable car, gradually revealing the unique beauty of the desert landscape along the way.
- Our first stop is one of AlUla’s most famous natural wonders, Elephant Rock. This massive formation of red sandstone is entirely shaped by nature—the work of wind and water over millions of years—not human hands. Every detail of the “trunk” and “body” reflects natural forces, surrounded by fine sandy areas and uniquely shaped rocks. The site has a truly special atmosphere, with a café and restaurant nearby, some terraces built partially underground. The warm lighting and the colors of the setting sun make this experience especially memorable.
Next, we visit Addeera School, AlUla’s first girls’ school. Since 2019, the school has been an important community hub, reviving the region’s traditional craft techniques and ancient artistic heritage. We will learn how local artisans teach young girls, and we may even participate in a short demonstration or workshop.
(If the school is closed, the program will be replaced with an alternative available activity.)
Day 5 – Hegra / Madain Saleh Tour
- Today we explore the archaeological site of Madain Saleh (Hegra), a place that combines breathtaking natural surroundings, rich history, and outstanding cultural heritage. This site captivates visitors from the very first moment. Hegra’s most famous attractions are the rock-cut tombs and ornate façades, which testify to the exceptional engineering and artistic skills of the Nabatean civilization. The ancient structures, set against the desert landscape with reddish sandstone cliffs and a serene environment, create a truly unique atmosphere. The area was an important stop along the ancient Nabatean trade routes, so walking among the ruins offers a direct connection to the stories and daily life of the past. It is no coincidence that Hegra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protected for its outstanding universal value to ensure it is preserved for future generations. During the visit, the sense of calm and harmony is almost tangible.
We enjoy lunch at a local farm, tasting homemade dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. This experience not only delights the palate but also allows us to support the local community and sustainable farming practices directly.
- Next, we make a short stop at AlUla Old Town, where charming market streets, artisan workshops, local businesses, cafés, and traditional flavors await. During the walk, we gain insight into local crafts while exploring the unique atmosphere of the Old Town, with time for photos and free exploration.
- The day concludes with a scenic hike to the AlHarra summit, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. The hike lasts approximately 5 hours; it is physically moderate but provides an unforgettable experience. (The route may be adjusted depending on local conditions and weather.)
Day 6 – AlUla to Wadi Dissah
- Today we journey into the valley of the breathtaking Wadi Al Dissah. Along the way, the desert landscape gradually unfolds before us, revealing dramatic rock formations that set the tone for the day even before we arrive.
- Upon arrival, our local team welcomes us with a traditional, freshly prepared lunch in the valley. This shared meal is a perfect opportunity to discover local ingredients, flavors, and culinary traditions, all while being surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, creating a truly special atmosphere.
After lunch, we take a walk through the approximately 15 km-long canyon, which runs along the Jebel Qaraqir sandstone massif, about 80 km south of Tabuk. This natural wonder remained hidden for centuries and only became more accessible after the construction of the road to Dissah and the release of satellite images. At the eastern entrance, the canyon walls rise about 100 meters, while on the western side they soar up to 500 meters. A quiet stream winds through the narrow valley, surrounded by lush vegetation, including palms and shrubs, creating a unique, almost oasis-like atmosphere.
Day 7 – Exploring Dedan and Jabal Ikmah
- Today we explore the ancient city of Dedan, once the capital of the Dadanite and Lihyanite Kingdoms. Here, you will discover thousands-of-years-old tombs, archaeological excavations, and sites, while immersing yourself in the rich history of ancient civilizations.
- Jabal Ikmah, located next to the city of Dedan, is often referred to as a vast open-air library, as it contains the largest and most diverse collection of inscriptions in AlUla. Walking around the mountain, you can observe thousands of early Arabic writings that preserve the everyday life and culture of the inhabitants of this ancient oasis.
Prepare to be amazed by the oasis of Dedan, dating back to the 1st millennium BCE, where excavations have revealed the remains of massive fortified cities. These kingdoms developed their own culture, language, and writing system, blending Arabian traditions with influences from surrounding empires.
- A particularly striking sight is the pair of tombs located about 1 km south of the main excavation area, each adorned with two carved lions. These sculptures symbolize the importance of influential leaders—governors or other prominent figures—and are remarkable examples of Mesopotamian art, remaining iconic symbols of the ancient oasis to this day.
Day 8 – Yanbu to Jeddah: Half a Day on the Red Sea
- Important note: If weather conditions do not allow the program to take place, the group will be offered the option to visit a beach club in Jeddah instead.
During the day, we set out on a half-day boat excursion on the Red Sea. With our private boat, we visit a beautiful, untouched coastal area, where rich coral reefs and colorful fish await us. With a bit of luck, we may even spot dolphins along the way. The locations are perfect for swimming or snorkeling, where you can admire the underwater coral world in crystal-clear waters.
During the boat trip, refreshments and snacks are provided, allowing you to enjoy the sunshine, relax, and fully immerse yourself in the calm rhythm of the sea.
Day 9 – Jeddah: Cooking Class and Lunch with a Women’s Organization
- Today, a special cooking class and lunch await us in Jeddah! This program is a perfect opportunity to discover the traditional Hejazi cuisine.
We will meet a renowned local female chef, who will guide us through this culinary journey. Together, we will prepare three dishes and a side, all based on traditional recipes passed down through generations. You will learn some of the best-kept secrets that make local flavors so unique.
- At the end of the cooking session, you can enjoy the dishes you’ve prepared, while chatting with your new chef friend and fully immersing yourself in the joy of gastronomy.
Day 10 – Jeddah – Departure
Utazási ajánlat tartalma
Price includes
Airport transfers (upon arrival and departure)
Accommodation with breakfast
Programs, tours, and experiences as described
Entrance fees and on-site tickets for all visited attractions
Train ticket for the Jeddah–Medina route (standard class)
Local guides at major sights
Daily local tour leader accompanying the group throughout the trip
Private transportation: Toyota Coaster (up to 10 participants), 49-seater coach (for 12–20 participants)
Price does not include
Airfare
Baggage fees
Visa fee: approx. 89 EUR
Travel insurance
Tips according to local customs (approx. 60 USD per person), to be given to drivers and local guides in cash; collected at the start of the trip by the Hungarian tour leader
Some dinners (where specifically indicated)
Optional personal expenses
Shopping and souvenirs
Cancellation Policy
90 days: before the start of the trip: 50% of the paid amount will be refunded.
60 days: before: 30% of the paid amount will be refunded.
30 days: the paid amount is non-refundable, but the trip can be transferred to another person.
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