Desert Dreams
Travel+Leisure India|November 2023
From the vibrant streets of Riyadh to the coastal charm of Jeddah and the mystical wonders of AlUla, Saudi Arabia offers countless surprises to those who set foot on the magical land.
Bayar Jain
Desert Dreams

EMBARK ON AN EXTRAORDINARY journey to Saudi Arabia where the allure of opulence seamlessly intertwines with rich cultural traditions. Begin your sojourn in the vibrant city of Riyadh. VIA Riyadh is perfect for those looking for unparallelled luxury. Constructed in the beautiful Salmani style which combines modern architecture with the local heritage, this premier dining and shopping destination has exclusive brands, innovative Michelin-starred restaurants, and state-of-the-art cinemas.

Elevating the blending of old and new to unprecedented heights is the Bujairi Terrace in Diriyah. Opened in December 2022, it is a collection of 20+ restaurants and cafes, and overlooks At-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is considered the birthplace of Saudi Arabia. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Najdi and Islamic architecture, explore castles made using mud and palm trunks, or delve into the historical significance of Salwa Palace—the government headquarters during the first Saudi state. Diriyah is also home to Museum of Social Life where you can get a lowdown on Saudi’s erstwhile social life including older methods of writing and education. The Arabian Horse Museum, meanwhile, enthralls with narratives of the strength, breeds, and beauty of Arabian horses.

This story is from the November 2023 edition of Travel+Leisure India.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the November 2023 edition of Travel+Leisure India.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM TRAVEL+LEISURE INDIAView All
Travel, Leisure, And Everything In Between
Travel+Leisure India

Travel, Leisure, And Everything In Between

Shibani and Farhan Akhtar share their travel dynamics, love for luxury, and why Raffles Udaipur, with its serene ambiance, is the ultimate getaway.

time-read
2 mins  |
November 2024
10 Elevated Experiences in The Lap Of Luxury
Travel+Leisure India

10 Elevated Experiences in The Lap Of Luxury

Travel in a luxury caravan, cook a meal with Michelin-starred chefs, chill in your private in-villa wine cellar and snorkel with seahorses-here is our handpicked list of 10 unique indulgences at some of the finest hotels across the world

time-read
6 mins  |
November 2024
The Sound Luxury
Travel+Leisure India

The Sound Luxury

In 2024, the sound of Kenny G has been replaced by lo-fi beats in resorts and elevators, transforming the traditional musical landscape. Ambient music has become essential for crafting the perfect atmosphere.

time-read
7 mins  |
November 2024
APPETITE for LIFE
Travel+Leisure India

APPETITE for LIFE

Dandelion roots and pea greens, truffles and wild mountain thyme: a meal in Slovenia is like a walk in a fairy-tale forest. Sierra Crane Murdoch falls under the country's spell.

time-read
10+ mins  |
November 2024
Silk Route Revival
Travel+Leisure India

Silk Route Revival

With its luxe offerings and ease of visa-free access to several countries, including India, Kazakhstan is slowly opening doors to travellers with a whole new set of handouts beyond the exotic, explores Shikha Tripathi

time-read
4 mins  |
November 2024
A TRANQUIL JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
Travel+Leisure India

A TRANQUIL JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

At Raffles Udaipur, discover the art of slowing down and connecting with history, nature, and yourself.

time-read
4 mins  |
November 2024
Basking in Opulence
Travel+Leisure India

Basking in Opulence

Lights, camera, glam. What is it about Rajasthan, especially Udaipur, that spells luxury travel like no other?

time-read
4 mins  |
November 2024
Tradition in Modern Tapestry
Travel+Leisure India

Tradition in Modern Tapestry

Waris Ahluwalia's insights on sustainable practices and the power of human connection in his creative journey reflect through his words, and his work.

time-read
3 mins  |
November 2024
Design, Diversity, and Sustainability
Travel+Leisure India

Design, Diversity, and Sustainability

Roopal Patel discusses the evolving landscape of global fashion, the power of personal style, her vision for a more inclusive industry, and the future of design in an insightful exchange with Samreen Tungekar

time-read
2 mins  |
November 2024
MUMBAI TO MILAN: LUXURY, CULTURE AND CULINARY DELIGHTS
Travel+Leisure India

MUMBAI TO MILAN: LUXURY, CULTURE AND CULINARY DELIGHTS

Tanya Khanijow enjoys the best of Milan with Lufthansa, from stylish shopping to tasting the city's culinary delights.

time-read
2 mins  |
November 2024