Highlights of Saudi Arabia

Fly to Jeddah and transfer to a city centre hotel.

Today's city tour takes you to Al-Balad, the old city of Jeddah where grand houses built of coral stone tower over the narrow lanes with their intricate wooden balconies. In the afternoon wander along the Corniche to see the modern art sculptures and see the Floating Mosque set on the Red Sea. (B,L,D)

A drive up the Red Sea coast takes you to Yanbu from where you head out on a boat for a snorkelling trip on the Red Sea. Return to shore and explore the old town with its friendly souk. (B,L,D)

Heading inland and into the desert to Al Ula, the area is characterised by its natural landscape of red sandstone mountains sculpted by the wind and sand. This afternoon visit Hegra, a highlight of the tour, the second city of the Nabateans after Petra. Explore the area full of rock-hewn tombs with their elaborate and well-preserved facades before stopping at Elephant Rock to watch the sunset. (B,L,D)

The old city of Al Ula comprises many mud brick buildings which are slowly being restored, learn about the town with a guide before heading to the Biblical city of Dedan, of which just 4% has so far been excavated. After lunch venture further into the desert to the city of Ha'il, once an important stop on the pilgrimage route to Mecca and Medina. (B,L,D)

Hidden in the desert is a large area of ancient rock art, the petroglyphs of Jubbah are UNESCO listed and give an insight into ancient life in the area. Return to Ha'il to visit the beautifully restored forts of Ha'il before boarding the train to Riyadh. (B,L,D)

Riyadh is a sprawling city of skyscrapers and a number of architecturally noteworthy modern buildings but is also home to the old city and the mud-brick fort where a battle gave rise to the Kingdom of Al Saud. Spend the day exploring the city and take in the bird's eye view from the Kingdom Tower. Finish the day with a trip to the souk and King Abdullah Mosque before a final group dinner. (B,L,D)

Transfer to the airport for your return flight. (B)