In short
- Turkey is closer: about 4 hours' flight, no time difference, and history, shopping, the green north and the sea in one trip.
- Malaysia is about 8 hours away, but offers tropical nature, islands and warm weather all year.
- Both are visa-free for Saudi passport holders, and halal food is available almost everywhere.
Flights and time difference
Daily direct flights run from Riyadh to Istanbul in about 4 hours, with no time difference. Direct flights run from Riyadh to Kuala Lumpur in about 8 hours, and Malaysia is five hours ahead of Riyadh, so keep the first day for rest, especially with children.
Flights from Riyadh to Kuala Lumpur →
Visas and entry
Turkey: visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Malaysia: visa-free for up to 90 days, with the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) filled in before you travel.
Weather and best time
Turkey has clear seasons: Istanbul is best in spring and autumn, the green north in summer, and winter is cold and rainy. Malaysia is hot and humid all year (about 33° by day in Kuala Lumpur), with its driest months from June to August.
Sights and activities
Turkey has Istanbul's mosques, bazaars and the Bosphorus, Uzungöl and Trabzon, and the beaches of Antalya. Malaysia has the towers of Kuala Lumpur, the Langkawi Sky Bridge, the Cameron Highlands, Penang, and LEGOLAND in Johor for children.
Who does each suit?
Turkey suits a short or medium trip without jet lag, combining city, nature and shopping. Malaysia suits those who love islands and tropical nature and have a longer holiday that makes the distance worthwhile. Either way, we arrange every detail and find you the flights and the lowest available rate for your hotel.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for families: Turkey or Malaysia?
Turkey is closer, has no time difference and combines city, nature and sea; Malaysia suits families who love islands and tropical nature and have a longer holiday.
How many hours is the flight to Turkey and Malaysia from Riyadh?
About 4 hours to Istanbul and about 8 hours to Kuala Lumpur, on direct flights.
Do Saudis need a visa for Turkey and Malaysia?
No. Turkey is visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, and Malaysia for up to 90 days with the digital arrival card (MDAC).
When is the best time to visit Turkey and Malaysia?
Istanbul in spring and autumn and northern Turkey in summer; Malaysia all year, driest from June to August.