CITIES
Discover the highlights of King Abdullah Economic City
From snorkelling among vibrant Red Sea marine life to lapping up the Saudi sunshine from pristine shores, coastal King Abdullah Economic City combines heritage and tradition with modern ambition...
By Scott Campbell
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Set sail from KAEC’s Bay La Sun Marina and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Red Sea’s pristine waters and breathtaking landscapes. Join a peaceful canal tour (SAR250-300) or take part in a thrilling six-hour fishing trip, where you might find yourself reeling in exotic catches such as snappers, groupers, or even barracudas.
Away from the city, the coastline is completely untouched, and the clear waters offer unparalleled visibility of the coral reefs teeming with a kaleidoscope of marine life. For those seeking a more luxurious excursion, yacht charter specialists ROAM offer indulgent weekend itineraries, complete with gourmet meals prepared by on-board chefs and unique local experiences tailored to discerning travellers. Whether you’re heading out for a quick jaunt or a two-day coastal odyssey, the captivating landscapes and abundant aquatic life make this corner of the Red Sea an unmissable destination.
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KAEC’s Art District, near the Bay La Sun hotel, is a unique fusion of art and urban space. The area is a living canvas, where buildings and streets are transformed into vibrant displays of colour and creativity.
As you wander through the district, spot bold and bright murals, intricate graffiti, and lifelike 3D paintings that jump off the walls. Prominent works include an imaginative ‘Lego’ bridge on the Marina Walk, a surfing shark donning stylish sunglasses, and a modern-day homage to the legendary singer, Umm Kulthum. Each piece – created by local artists – tells its own story, revealing glimpses into both traditional culture and contemporary influences.
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Yam Beach, a secluded treasure along the Red Sea coast, offers a sanctuary for water sports aficionados and nature enthusiasts alike. As you gently paddle through the waters, the untouched shoreline unfurls before you like a well-kept secret.
But the true magic of Yam Beach lies beneath the waves. Slip on your snorkelling gear and plunge in to catch a glimpse of the marine life below, with visibility stretching up to 50 metres. Marvel at stunning coral formations, their vibrant colours and intricate designs reflective of the vitality of this unique ecosystem.
Then watch as schools of fish dart between the corals, their scales catching the sunlight in a dazzling display. As you snorkel deeper, you’ll encounter a wide variety of marine life, from clownfish playfully peeking out from their anemone homes to angelfish gliding through the water. Please note that as this is a private beach, there is an entry fee.
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For those who prefer staying above the water, kayaking at Yam Beach offers a more unique vantage point of the Red Sea. Head over to Swan Pedal, near Bay La Sun Marina, and rent a kayak or pedal boat to embark on your own adventure. The gentle waves and light breeze make kayaking a delightful way to explore the scenic coastline at your own pace – particularly during the winter months of October to March.
To avoid the hot sun and enjoy calmer seas, the best time to head out is during the early morning or late afternoon. As you paddle along, keep an eye on the waters – you might spot a playful pod of dolphins or a sea turtle gracefully gliding by.
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A stone’s throw away from the Red Sea shores, just behind the iconic ‘I heart KAEC’ sign, lies Juman Park, a green oasis offering a peaceful escape from the lively beachside energy. Although modest in size, this lush enclave boasts meticulously manicured pathways, winding through vibrant gardens adorned with flowers and foliage.
As you wander, you’ll be greeted by the soothing sounds of bubbling fountains and the gentle rustling of leaves, with quiet corners inviting visitors to pause for a moment and take in the atmosphere. Younger guests will delight in the dedicated playground, while adults can find respite on comfortable benches with stunning views of the nearby coast. After a day spent at the beach, there’s no better place to unwind and reconnect with nature than Juman Park.
Practical information
Visas
It’s surprisingly simple and easy to get an e-Visa for Saudi and the process is very similar to applying for an ESTA for the USA. Over 50 nationalities are eligible to apply for an e-Visa, including people from the UK and USA, with it costing (at the time of writing) 535 Saudi riyals (about £115 or US$143). Applications are swift and nearly all applicants will receive a response within three working days – most within 24 hours. To apply for your Saudi e-Visa, visit the official Saudi Tourism Authority website. If you’re from the USA, UK or the Schengen Area, you can also apply for a visa on arrival into Saudi. It’s slightly cheaper than an e-Visa, too, at SAR480 (about £102 or US$128).
Getting there & around
Local customs
To really embrace Saudi life and pay respect towards its traditions, there are a few local customs you should abide when travelling around the country. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their elbows and below their knees when out in public. If you’re heading to the coast, it’s still expected you dress modestly. When meeting and greeting locals, whether it’s a market stallholder or a private guide, say hello with ‘salam alaykum’, which means ‘peace be upon you’, as well as offering a handshake.
Weather
You might think it’s hot all year round in Saudi but it’s a little more nuanced than that. The best time to visit the country is between October and March, when temperatures can dip as low as 20°C during the daytime, depending on where in the country you are, and rarely exceed 30°C. The summer months between June and September can get extremely hot, with temperatures often north of 40°C. But, do as the locals do and head out after dusk when it’s much cooler!
Is English spoken in Saudi?
Arabic is the official national language but English is widely spoken.
What is the currency of Saudi?
The currency of Saudi is the riyal, with the current rate (at the time of writing), around SAR4.76 to the UK£. You’ll need to pre-order money before you travel, as in the UK it’s not usually stocked in currency exchange booths.
What’s it like travelling in Saudi as a female?
We think you’d be surprised! To find out more, read our first-hand account on what it’s like to travel in Saudi.
What’s the time difference in Saudi?
Saudi follows Arabia Standard Time (GMT +3) all year round.
