- AreaWestern coastline from the Gulf of Aqaba to Jazan
- Best forSnorkelling, diving, island resorts, beach time
- Time3–5 days
- TipBook boat trips and resort transfers in advance; distances are long
Saudi Arabia's Red Sea shore is one of the least developed tropical coastlines in the world. For decades its reefs were known mainly to divers working in Jeddah; now a string of new resorts, an international airport and improved roads are opening it up to everyone. Water temperatures stay warm for most of the year, visibility is often excellent, and the coral is among the healthiest in the region.
The Red Sea destination
Between Umluj and Al Wajh, the developer Red Sea Global is building a large luxury destination across a lagoon of more than 90 islands, coastal dunes and mountains. By autumn 2026 around a dozen resorts were open, including island and desert properties run by brands such as Six Senses, St. Regis, Ritz-Carlton Reserve and Four Seasons, with more under construction. Resorts are reached by car, boat or seaplane from Red Sea International Airport (RSI), which opened in 2023. It has flights from Riyadh and Jeddah and has added regional and seasonal international links from hubs such as Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi; check current schedules, which change often. Compare Red Sea resorts.
Umluj and Al Wajh
Umluj, sometimes called the "Maldives of Saudi Arabia", is a small town with a scatter of sandy islands and turquoise shallows offshore. Local operators run day trips to the islands for swimming, snorkelling and picnics. Further north, Al Wajh has a historic old quarter and access to reefs and the mountains inland. Both towns have simple hotels and guesthouses rather than big resorts.
Yanbu
Around 350 km north of Jeddah, Yanbu combines an industrial port with a pleasant waterfront, a restored historic district and some of the most accessible diving and snorkelling on the coast. Dive centres head out to reefs and wrecks; see our Red Sea diving and snorkelling guide, or browse snorkelling trips.
The south: Jazan and Farasan
Off the southern port of Jazan, the Farasan Islands are a protected archipelago of coral islands with mangroves, gazelles, migrating birds and coral-stone heritage houses, reached by ferry. They feel very far from the resorts of the north. Note that parts of the far south lie close to the Yemeni border, so check your government's travel advice before you go.
Getting around the coast
The coastal highway links Jeddah, Yanbu, Umluj, Al Wajh and Duba, continuing north to the Tabuk and NEOM region. Distances are long and public transport is limited, so a hire car is the most flexible option. A classic road trip pairs the coast with AlUla, about three hours inland from Al Wajh.
How long to stay
Three nights is a sensible minimum at a remote resort, given the transfer time. For a road trip, allow five days or more to combine Yanbu, Umluj and Al Wajh with a detour inland to AlUla.
Tours: Red Sea Coast
Compare guided trips, transfers and tickets.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best place on the Saudi Red Sea coast for snorkelling?
The islands off Umluj, the reefs near Yanbu and the house reefs of the Red Sea Global resorts are all excellent. Jeddah's dive centres also run good day trips.
How do I get to the Red Sea resorts?
Fly to Red Sea International Airport (RSI), mainly from Riyadh or Jeddah, then transfer by car, boat or seaplane arranged by your resort.
When is the best time to visit the Red Sea coast?
October to May, when air temperatures are comfortable and the water is warm. Summer is very hot and humid.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.