Things To Do
in Khulayş
Khulayş is a coastal town on Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast known for its warm hospitality and growing tourist scene. The town blends traditional Hijazi architecture with modern seafood eateries, cozy cafes, and a lively Corniche promenade. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, tranquil sea views, and easy access to nearby desert scenery.
With reefs, dunes, and cultural echoes just outside the town, Khulayş suits travelers who want culture, nature, and coastal relaxation in one place.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Your journey begins as you arrive in Khulayş and settle into a traditional desert-style guesthouse. Stroll along the narrow alleyways to absorb the earthy aromas of ancient mudbrick walls. Friendly locals greet you as you learn about the town's long history.
Head to the bustling souk in the town square to browse handmade pottery, woolen textiles and fresh dates. Sample a variety of local dates and sip mint tea brewed in ornate silver teapots. Amid the chatter of merchants, haggle for souvenirs that reflect the region’s heritage.
As the sun dips below the sandstone horizon, climb a nearby ridge for panoramic views of the village bathed in golden light. Return to your guesthouse courtyard for a welcome feast of spiced rice, lamb kebabs and fresh salads. Under a canopy of stars, share stories with fellow travelers around a crackling fire.
Set out at dawn along a shaded path that leads through lush date palm groves irrigated by ancient channels. Listen to the whisper of water trickling beneath the towering fronds as your guide explains traditional falaj irrigation methods. Pause to taste freshly picked medjool dates warmed by the morning sun.
Continue deeper into the oasis where hidden springs create emerald pools amidst rocky outcrops. Enjoy a packed lunch of flatbreads, ripe figs and goat cheese under the shelter of tall palms. Observe flocks of migratory birds as they rest along the water’s edge.
Return to Khulayş just in time for a leisurely sunset walk along a dry wadi that reflects hues of pink and orange. Gather around a communal fire to learn how to prepare date-based desserts over hot coals. End the evening with traditional folk music drifting across the courtyard.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚤Boat tour or reef excursion | $40-80 |
| 🧭Souvenir shopping at market | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to pristine Red Sea beaches and reefs
- Rich Hijazi culture and friendly locals
- Compact town feel with easy day trips to dunes and coastal viewpoints
- Growing range of seafood-focused dining and markets
- Limited nightlife and alcohol availability
- Summer heat can be extreme and restrict daytime activities
- Public transport is limited; a car is often necessary
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "أود أن أطلب" - I would like to order
- "كم السعر؟" - How much does this cost?
- "مساعدة" - Help
Places to Visit in Khulayş
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sea views, boats on the water, and palm-lined promenades make for expansive golden-hour photos.
Colorful dhows, peeling paint, and fishermen at work provide rustic maritime character.
Soft sand dunes meeting the horizon offer dramatic silhouettes at dawn or dusk.
Narrow lanes, wooden latticework, and sunlit corners create photogenic street scenes.
Clear shallow waters and reflections near the coast provide tranquil coastal photography.
Food in Khulayş
Khulayş Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish and rice dish seasoned with onions, spices, lemon, and herbs.
Must-Try!
Spiced rice cooked with meat, commonly shared with family and fresh salads.
Lentils and rice with caramelized onions; a hearty vegetarian staple.
Creamy chickpea dip served with bread, a staple option at casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning stalls offering freshly caught seafood, often prepared on-site by nearby grills.
Spice and date stalls, dried fruit, sweets, and simple street snacks like falafel and grilled corn.
Casual spots along the promenade for shwarma, samosas, and fresh juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Modest attire is widely expected in public spaces; shoulders and knees should be covered, and more formal dress may be required at religious sites.
Greet with a smile and a light handshake; use the right hand for giving and receiving items.
Ask for permission before taking photos of people; avoid photographing sensitive sites or military personnel.
Public displays of affection are discouraged; speak calmly in public spaces and respect local prayer times.
Respect prayer times and local customs; remove shoes when entering mosques and certain traditional guest spaces as directed.
Safety
Tipping in Khulayş
Ensure a smooth experience
If a service charge is not included, a tip of about 10-15% is customary in restaurants. Hand extra tips to porters, hotel staff, and guides as appropriate.
Cash (SAR) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) and Mada are increasingly common in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Extremely hot and humid with strong sun. Plan outdoor activities early in the morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during peak hours.
Mild days with cool evenings. Comfortable for outdoor exploration and markets; layers help for cooler nights along the coast.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies; ideal for coastal walks, photography, and outdoor tours.
Similar to spring with comfortable humidity and good conditions for sea excursions and dune activities.
Khulayş at Night
Hiking in Khulayş
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible dune tracks along the shoreline offering sea views and sunset panoramas.
Low-slope routes into nearby valleys with open horizons and dramatic rock formations.
Walkable paths to small beaches with clear water and fewer crowds.
Airports
How to reach Khulayş by plane.
Jeddah's main international gateway, offering frequent international and domestic connections; about a few hours' drive from Khulayş depending on route.
Smaller coastal airport serving regional flights with good access to the Red Sea coast and nearby towns.
Regional airport serving the western highland corridor, convenient for broader Saudi travel and day trips to coastal and inland sites.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents who form the backbone of daily life, markets, and cultural events in Khulayş.
A mix of professionals and service workers from various countries contributing to the town’s diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local clubs and informal matches common along beaches and town squares.
Traditional and modern equestrian activities, as well as organized desert races in suitable seasons.
Snorkeling, diving, fishing, and kayaking are popular due to the Red Sea’s clear waters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Khulayş.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include mujadara, bean stews, salads, and grilled vegetables. Request dishes without meat stock and confirm dairy or egg use if avoiding all animal products.