Fresh from her recent visit to Saudi Arabia, Jacqueline Fernandez shares everything that made her birthday truly memorable.
Indians holding a valid tourist or business visa from the US, UK or any Schengen country, with stamped entry receipt, are eligible for e-Visa and visa on arrival at Saudi Arabian international airports.
Have you ever wondered how celebrities always seem to have the most enviable luxury getaways? Their perfect vacations leave us scrolling through their feeds in awe. From undiscovered gems and the best restaurants to the most incredible staycations, they really know how to make the most of a little downtime!
Fresh from her recent visit to Saudi Arabia, Jacqueline Fernandez shares all that made her birthday truly memorable. Accompanied by her parents, Jackie took a well-deserved break from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai. She began her visit to Saudi Arabia with a trip to the Red Sea and ended in the capital, Riyadh. If you are looking for recommendations that tick all the boxes, look no further!
Where to stay:
Jacqueline chose Nujuma, a Ritz Carlton Reserve hotel located on Ummahat Island in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea. One of seven Ritz-Carlton reserves worldwide, this private island is known for its vibrant coral reefs and untouched natural beauty. Every corner of the hotel is a subtle nod to Saudi Arabia’s design heritage and blends seamlessly with its pristine surroundings.
In Riyadh, the actor opted for Mansard Riyadh, a Radisson Collection hotel, located in the heart of the capital and offering luxurious amenities and world-class service.
Where to eat:
An important part of a perfect holiday is keeping the palate happy. For the Indian-Sri Lankan celebrity, Sita at Nujuma was an absolute standout choice with a perfect balance of Levantine cuisine and French-style pastries. With an ambiance inspired by ancient bazaars, Sita exquisitely captures the essence of luxury and tranquility. Jackie indulged in the unique menu after her Hatha yoga session at the resort’s Neyrah Spa.
Another place Jackie couldn’t miss on her visit to Riyadh was the Flamingo Room in Diriyah, the perfect venue for Jacqueline’s birthday dinner. Located in the heart of Riyadh’s historic and cultural quarter on the banks of the Wadi Hanifah River, this restaurant combines vibrant aesthetics with a delicious menu, making it the ideal place to enjoy a fine dining experience. If you’re a vegetarian like Jackie, there are plenty of dishes on their menu that will leave you satisfied. (Tip: don’t forget to try the pumpkin carpaccio!)
To do:
A visit to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea isn’t complete without a dose of aquatic adventure at Galaxea and The WAMA Sailing Club. The world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system awaits you here, with diving experiences that focus on showcasing the biodiversity that inhabits the Red Sea. While Jacqueline chose to snorkel and sail with her parents on the eve of her birthday, you can always try stand-up paddleboarding, diving or even kayaking through the pristine waters of the Red Sea.
Nothing speaks to the heart more than a rejuvenating session at the spa. At Neyrah Spa, you’ll find a wide range of bespoke therapies, including sound therapy, meditation and moon yoga, all offered by trained experts. In the evenings, head to the beach and sip healthy smoothies or healing infusions while watching the sunset at Affia, a comfortable lounge at the resort overlooking the sea.
The Mansard Riyadh Spa also offers a wealth of options. As the first signature L'Occitane spa in Riyadh, it offers a serene setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa's treatments are inspired by Provençal tradition, combining holistic approaches with personalized experiences. With its French-inspired interiors and captivating aromas, the spa promises an unforgettable experience.
How to get there:
Saudi Arabia is just a 5-hour flight from India. While Jacqueline chose Saudia Airlines, you can choose from up to 7 other airlines with direct flights to Saudi Arabia.
Indians holding a valid tourist or business visa from the United States of America, the United Kingdom or any Schengen country, with a stamped proof of entry, can apply for the e-Visa and visa on arrival at Saudi Arabia’s international airports. Those who are not eligible as per the above-mentioned criteria can apply for the visa through 11 Tasheer Centres across the country. Indian travellers can also apply for a stopover visa, which is valid for up to 96 hours and can be obtained 90 days in advance from the Saudia Airlines and Flynas website for a nominal fee.
