In short
- AlUla and the Red Sea for luxury and nature, in season from October to March or April.
- Jazan, Farasan and Yanbu for a warm sea and diving in winter.
- Riyadh and Diriyah for events and heritage, and Al-Ahsa for its oases and old markets.
- Tabuk for lovers of the cold, with occasional snow on Jabal Al-Lawz.
1. AlUla
The season runs from October to March, with mild weather. The resorts of Ashar Valley sit among the rock formations, desert camps offer starry nights, and Hegra is visited on organised tours booked in advance. AlUla airport has flights from Riyadh and Jeddah.
2. The Red Sea and Umluj
The best time is October to April. Island resorts have overwater and beach villas, and Umluj has about 103 islands that many call the Maldives of Saudi Arabia. Red Sea International Airport has flights from Riyadh and Jeddah.
3. Jazan and the Farasan Islands
Winter, from November to March, is the best time for Jazan, as summers on the coast are hot and humid. The ferry to Farasan is free and takes about an hour, booked in advance on the official platform, and island accommodation is limited, so book it first.
4. Riyadh and Diriyah
Riyadh's winter events run from 21 October 2026 to March 2027, and Diriyah is at its best in winter: an evening at Al Bujairi overlooking At-Turaif, and sunset at the Edge of the World.
5. Tabuk
Winter in Tabuk is cold, and snow sometimes falls on Jabal Al-Lawz, though never on a set date. There's also Wadi Disah, and Haql on the sea about two and a half hours' drive away.
6. Al-Ahsa
Winter is the best time to wander the farms and sights: Jabal Al-Qarah, Al-Qaisariya Souq and Ibrahim Palace. The train reaches it from Riyadh and Dammam.
7. Yanbu
Winter and spring are the best times for the sea and diving, in mild weather, and the Yanbu flower festival draws visitors in spring. It is about two and a half hours from Madinah.
Tell us where and when, and we'll find you the lowest available rates for your hotel or resort, along with your flights.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best winter destination in Saudi Arabia for families?
Riyadh and Diriyah for events, Jazan and Farasan for the sea, Al-Ahsa for heritage, and AlUla for desert and nature lovers.
Where can I find snow in Saudi Arabia?
In Tabuk, on Jabal Al-Lawz on some winter days, though snowfall is never guaranteed.
When is the best time to visit AlUla?
October to March, when the weather is mild.
How do I get to the Farasan Islands?
On the free ferry from Jazan port, about an hour, booked in advance.
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Published 7 October 2026, last updated 7 October 2026. The information is for guidance only; entry requirements and seasons can change, and the binding price is the one in your booking confirmation.