Honest thoughts on Saudi Arabia after my first visit

First time in Saudi Arabia and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. Al-Ula was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best Saudi dates I've ever had. Edge of the World was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: alcohol is completely prohibited, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: rapid transformation of the country, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.