Destination guide
The Saudi Red Sea
Some of the least-dived reefs in the world, a string of new ultra-luxury island resorts, and water warm enough to swim most of the year.
Updated · by Daniel
The coast at a glance
- Best time
- Year-round; warmest water April to November
- Gateway airports
- Red Sea (RSI), Jeddah (JED)
- Getting around
- Resort transfers, boats and seaplanes
- Diving season
- September to May for best visibility
- Dress
- Swimwear is fine at resort beaches
Where to base yourself
Red Sea Global resorts (Ummahat and Sheybarah islands) — overwater villas and private islands reached by seaplane or boat from RSI airport. The flagship luxury option.
Jeddah and Obhur — the practical base: city hotels, beach clubs and day boats to sandbank islands such as Bayada.
Farasan Islands — a remote archipelago off Jazan in the far south: empty beaches, mangroves and a marine sanctuary. For the adventurous.
Book for the coast
Travel insurance
The visa's built-in cover is medical only. Cover cancellations, delays and activities.
Data eSIM
Install before you fly. Maps, ride apps and tickets all need data on arrival.
Questions travellers ask
Can you swim in the sea in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Hotel beaches, beach clubs and resort islands all allow swimming and normal swimwear.
Is the Saudi Red Sea good for diving?
Yes. Visibility is often excellent and the reefs see a fraction of the divers that Egypt’s coast does.
