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Saudi Arabia
Mecca
Dublin
16h 51m
Plane
11,424 km
TripPilot

Travel Tips

Absolutely! The cities of Riyadh, Ta'if, and Mecca in Saudi Arabia offer a unique blend of modernity, culture, and spiritual tradition. Here are some travel tips to help you:

Best Time to Visit:
The ideal time to visit all three cities is during the cooler months, between November and March. The temperature during this period is relatively cooler and makes outdoor sightseeing comfortable.

Route and Accessibility:
The journey usually begins from Riyadh, the capital city, which is well-connected by international flights. Ta'if can be reached by road from Riyadh in about 8-10 hours. After visiting Ta'if, you can continue your journey to Mecca, which is about 1-2 hours away by road.

Altitude and Acclimatization:
Riyadh is at a higher altitude, but the change is not drastic enough to require considerable acclimatization for most people. However, it's a good idea to take it easy the first day or two, especially in the warm season.

Accommodation and Booking:
Hotels in all three cities should be booked in advance, especially during the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage season. Mecca, in particular, has a wide range of accommodation options for pilgrims.

Clothing and Essentials:
As a sign of respect to local customs and laws, both men and women are requested to wear modest and loose-fitting clothes. A light shawl or jacket would be useful for cooler evenings. It is essential to always carry a copy of your documents, especially in Mecca during the pilgrimage season.

Health and Safety:
Carry a basic first aid kit, any specific medicines you require and, for pilgrimage, carry necessary vaccinations certificates updated. The cities are generally safe, but adhering to common sense safety guidelines is always recommended.

Local Etiquette and Respect:
The Saudi culture is conservative and deeply rooted in Arab customs and Islamic teaching. Modest dressing, respect towards religious practices, and understanding local customs (like not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan) are all important. Remember, non-Muslims are strictly prohibited from entering the sacred grounds of the Holy Kaaba in Mecca. Please respect this prohibition.