Siam Society is holding a study trip to Saudi Arabia to discover the remarkable heritage sites of the world's second-largest Arab nation, from Feb 19-27 next year.
Led by Bilaibhan Sampatisiri, the eight-day trip is an opportunity to explore the architectures and civilisations of the kingdom that stands at the crossroads of history and modernity.
Hailed as the fifth-largest country in Asia and the largest in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia is situated in the Arabian Peninsula, with the Red Sea to the west. Its geographical borders are defined by a diverse array of neighbours.
It is flanked by Jordan, Iraq and Kuwait to the north and shares boundaries with the Persian Gulf, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates in the east. To the southeast, it is bordered by Oman. The southern reaches are adjacent to Yemen and the Gulf of Aqaba in the northwest serves as a natural divide between Egypt and Israel.
The country's topography is characterised by a blend of arid desert landscapes, lowlands, expansive steppes and towering mountain ranges. Riyadh, serving as its capital city, holds a pivotal role in the nation's administration, while Mecca and Medina stand as the holiest cities in Islam, attracting millions of pilgrims every year.
In 2019, Saudi Arabia opened its doors to international tourism and invited visitors to uncover the kingdom's cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. The fee is 194,000 baht (190,000 baht for members) excluding international air tickets and visa fees.
Email studytrips@thesiamsociety.org or call 02-661-6470.
