How to Experience Authentic Saudi Culture while Travelling?

Saudi Arabia is currently making a big push to rebrand itself as a best holiday destination in the Middle East. New visa regime makes it significantly easier for many nationalities to visit the country. Travellers may experience hospitality, religious and culture events and local foods. Saudi Arabia is a country where past blend with present. Not everyone find Saudi Arabia to be a top tourism destination. But it is another matter. You need to be fully prepared, if you intent to visit Saudi Arabia. By being aware of local customs and traditions, you can prevent offense and misunderstandings. Qiblatain travel agency understands he unique and modern needs of USA Muslim Community. Qiblatain gives you variety of Affordable Umrah packages that are fully satisfied the customers. 

A Closer look at Saudi Culture History:

This kingdom in its current form was founded in 1932 as an absolute monarchy. This indicates that the House of Saud, the royal family that still controls the Kingdom. Makkah and Madinah, the two sacred cities are located in Saudi Arabia. Millions of Muslims around the world travel to these cities every year to perform Hajj or Umrah.  Bedouin life, family values and Islamic traditions shaped the Saudi culture. It is best to learn some simple greeting Arabic phrase before starting your journey in Saudi Arabia.  Even if visitors do not speak Arabia well, expressing interest in the language may open doors to friendly interactions. 

Uncover the Spiritual and Historical Landmarks:

Saudi Arabia is place of many holy places that are valuable in both spiritually and historically ways. The most significant historical and spiritual landmarks are located there. Each destination tells the different story. There are numerous sites, amazing natural landscapes and modern attractions. The history of Saudi Arabia is fascinating and interesting. You can discover historical sites, important archaeological places and museums. These places highlights the rich history of country. 

• Al-Balad is the old town that has extensive markets with a historical charm and a touch of modernity. 
• Riyadh city is the perfect combination of ancient and modern aspects.
• Al Ula is one of the most ancient and historical sites and city in Saudi Arabia. 
• Diriyah is a very famous and yet historical place located just outside the city of Riyadh.

 It is easy to visit these places if you are travelling with Qiblatain. Their best Umrah packages in Ramadan make your trip convenient and simpler. 

Flavors that Define Saudi Culture:

Prepare to put on some dollars in Saudi Arabia, if you are foodie. Saudi Arabia has always been a cultural crossroads. Some traders arrived by sea, while others arrived from the north on horses and camels.  For centuries, Muslims pilgrims have visited Makkah from all over the world. As a result, Saudi cuisine id influenced by a wide ranges of sources and many of its traditional dishes have foreign roots. 

Some traditional Saudi local dishes are:

• Kabsa – Roast chicken and rice dish
• Dates – best dates in the world
• Laban – Creamy yogurt drink
• Tharid – Spicy lamb stew served with bread
• Mamuul – Stuffed date cookies

Participate in Saudi’s Festivals and Events:

There are many cultural festivals throughout the year in Saudi Arabia. Music, crafts, and many others festivals are take place there. Travelers can participate in these events in Jeddah, Riyadh or different regions across the Kingdom. These festivals highlight the history, innovation and artistry of Kingdom. 

Here are some best festivals in Saudi Arabia:

• Taif Rose festival
• Souq Okaz festival
• King Abdulaziz camel festival
• Sharqiah season
• Janadriyah national festival
• Saudi National day

These local festival times could be helpful to enhance travel experience. Travelers experience a very unique cultural environment in Ramadan.  You can join community Iftars, explore vibrant night markets and experience the spiritual essence of Ramadan. Book Umrah packages in Ramadan offers by Qiblatain. 

A Glimpse into Bedouin Life:

Bedouin culture is important part of Saudi identity. Bedouins are famous for sense of hospitality, poetry, storytelling, desert lifestyles and camel raising. Many travel agencies provide desert trip where you can enjoy tea around a fire and traditional music in a tent. A trip to desert gives a feeling of peace and connection to nature. Travelers may learn how Bedouins can survive in harsh atmosphere. 

 Walk through Local Marketplaces and Souqs:

A visit to local markets enable you to better understand the country beyond its modern skyline. Each destination is filled with hospitable shopkeepers, local stories and items that hold cultural value. There are many international brands in Red Sea Mall. 

You can buy items from these markets such as:

• Perfumes and Oud
• Tribal ornaments
• Silver jewellery
• Dates and spices
• Traditional clothing

Some affordable Umrah packages from Qiblatain offers guided shopping tours, which helps pilgrims to find affordable and authentic items.

Gender Divides and how to Act in Saudi Arabia: 

Saudi Arabia is heavily divided by gender. Men operate in one sphere, women in another. Even within families, it is common for women to stay out of sight or hidden from men. 

Here are some general tips to keep in mind: 

• Do not touch the opposite gender
• Try to avoid making unnecessary eye contact with strangers of opposite gender. If you are interacting with them, especially as man. Men can get defensive if you stare at their wives or sisters. 
• Do not sit next to the opposite gender unless you are with them or related to them. 
• No PDAs you travelling couples. Though you will see married couples holding hands sometimes, anything beyond that is inappropriate and a punishable offense.