How to Get to Raja Ampat from Saudi Arabia
If you’re living in Saudi Arabia and looking for an extraordinary travel experience far beyond the usual city getaways, Raja Ampat in Indonesia should be your next dream destination. Tucked away in the easternmost part of Indonesia, this remote archipelago offers everything a luxury traveler could want, from crystal-clear turquoise seas to untouched islands and vibrant coral reefs that are home to thousands of marine species.
Many Saudi travelers are now seeking unique destinations that combine natural beauty, adventure, and tranquil luxury, and Raja Ampat delivers all of that and more. You might be wondering, though, how to get to Raja Ampat from Saudi Arabia? While it’s not a short trip, it’s surprisingly straightforward once you know the routes. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to plan your journey. From flight options to visa requirements, travel tips, and the easiest way to explore Raja Ampat once you arrive.
Why Raja Ampat is Worth the Journey from Saudi Arabia
Traveling all the way from Saudi Arabia to Raja Ampat might sound like a long adventure and it truly is. But every hour spent on the journey is rewarded with a destination unlike anywhere else on earth. Raja Ampat, often called “The Last Paradise,” is located off the northwest tip of Papua in eastern Indonesia. This archipelago consists of over 1,500 small islands, each surrounded by turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs that are considered among the most biodiverse on the planet.
For Saudi travelers who appreciate pristine nature, exclusive experiences, and peaceful seclusion, Raja Ampat offers an escape from the hustle of city life. The region is famous for luxury liveaboard cruises, private island resorts, and snorkeling or diving experiences where you can encounter manta rays, sea turtles, and colorful reef fish. Compared to more crowded tropical destinations, Raja Ampat feels untouched, a hidden gem where you can enjoy the beauty of the ocean in total privacy.
What makes it even more appealing for visitors from Saudi Arabia is the shared cultural warmth between Indonesians and Middle Eastern travelers. You’ll find Muslim-friendly facilities, halal food options in major cities like Jakarta and Sorong, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes your stay comfortable. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual retreat in nature, a romantic escape, or a diving adventure, Raja Ampat promises something unforgettable for every kind of traveler.
How to Get to Raja Ampat from Saudi Arabia
Reaching Raja Ampat from Saudi Arabia may sound complex at first glance, but it’s actually quite manageable once you break down the journey. Since there are no direct international flights to Raja Ampat, your main goal is to reach Sorong (SOQ), the gateway city to this breathtaking archipelago. From there, you’ll continue your trip to the main island of Waisai, which is where most Raja Ampat adventures begin.
There are several ways to reach Sorong depending on which city in Saudi Arabia you’re flying from. Whether you depart from Jeddah, Riyadh, or Dammam, multiple international routes connect conveniently through hubs like Jakarta, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, and Bahrain. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to get from major Saudi Arabian airports to Raja Ampat, including flight routes, connections, and estimated travel times:
From Jeddah to Raja Ampat
If you’re flying from Jeddah (JED), there are a couple of efficient routes that will take you comfortably to Sorong (SOQ), the main entry point to Raja Ampat. The journey may be long, but each leg connects smoothly, making it easier than it looks once you plan your schedule in advance.
Option 1: Jeddah – Jakarta – Sorong
This is the most direct and time-efficient route available. You can fly with Garuda Indonesia from Jeddah to Jakarta (CGK), which takes around 15 hours including one short transit stop. From Jakarta, continue with a domestic flight to Sorong, which usually lasts about 6 hours on airlines such as Garuda Indonesia, Batik Air, or Lion Air. The total estimated cost for this route is around USD 910, depending on the season, airline choice, and how early you book your tickets.
Option 2: Jeddah – Bahrain – Singapore – Jakarta – Makassar – Sorong
If you prefer a more relaxed multi-stop route with world-class service, you can fly from Jeddah with Gulf Air to Bahrain (BAH), then connect with Singapore Airlines to Singapore (SIN) and onward to Jakarta (CGK). From Jakarta, a short domestic flight to Makassar (UPG) will take you closer to eastern Indonesia before your final connection to Sorong (SOQ). This route takes around 31 hours in total, but it offers smoother layovers and premium comfort options for long-haul travelers. This route takes around 31 hours in total, with an estimated total cost of around USD 636 for economy class tickets. It’s a great option for those who value smoother layovers and premium comfort throughout their long-haul journey.
From Riyadh to Raja Ampat
For travelers departing from Riyadh (RUH), reaching Raja Ampat is also quite convenient thanks to several well-connected routes through major Asian hubs. While the journey involves a few transfers, it’s straightforward once you understand the sequence, and each connection brings you closer to the untouched beauty of Indonesia’s eastern islands.
Option 1: Riyadh – Bahrain – Singapore – Jakarta – Sorong
One of the most common and comfortable routes from Riyadh begins with Gulf Air to Bahrain (BAH). From there, you can connect to Singapore (SIN) and continue your journey to Jakarta (CGK). Once you arrive in Jakarta, a domestic flight to Sorong (SOQ) operated by Garuda Indonesia, Batik Air, or Lion Air will take you to the gateway of Raja Ampat. The total travel time for this route is around 30 hours, depending on layover durations. For budgeting purposes, the estimated cost for this journey is approximately USD 650, making it a smooth and reliable option for travelers who prioritize comfort and premium in-flight service.
Option 2: Riyadh – Hyderabad – Singapore – Jakarta – Sorong
Another good alternative is to fly from Riyadh to Hyderabad (HYD) using IndiGo Airlines. From Hyderabad, you can continue to Singapore (SIN), then connect to Jakarta (CGK) before boarding your domestic flight to Sorong (SOQ). Although this route takes roughly 31 hours in total, it can sometimes offer more flexible travel dates or lower fares, perfect for travelers who prefer value and convenience combined. The estimated cost for this route is around USD 589, making it a competitive option for those looking for a balance between comfort and affordability.
From Dammam to Raja Ampat
For travelers departing from Dammam (DMM), reaching Raja Ampat is also quite feasible with several international connections through major Asian transit hubs. The journey may include a few layovers, but each stop brings you one step closer to experiencing the pristine islands and vibrant marine in Raja Ampat.
Option 1: Dammam – Mumbai – Singapore – Jakarta – Sorong
One of the practical routes from Dammam begins with a flight on IndiGo Airlines to Mumbai (BOM). From there, you can continue to Singapore (SIN) and Jakarta (CGK) before taking a domestic flight to Sorong (SOQ). This route is popular among travelers who prefer dividing their long-haul trip into manageable segments, allowing time to rest or explore between flights. The total travel time for this route is around 24 hours, depending on the duration of layovers, and the estimated cost is approximately USD 528.
Option 2: Dammam – Abu Dhabi – Singapore – Jakarta – Makassar – Sorong
Another excellent option is flying with Etihad Airways from Dammam to Abu Dhabi (AUH), followed by connections through Singapore (SIN), Jakarta (CGK), and Makassar (UPG) before arriving in Sorong (SOQ). This route may take approximately 33 hours in total, but it provides a high level of comfort and service, particularly for those flying in business class. The multiple layovers also give travelers the opportunity to rest in modern airports like Abu Dhabi and Singapore, making the journey to Raja Ampat more enjoyable and less tiring. The estimated cost for this route is around USD 595, offering a balance of convenience and premium service for long-haul travelers.
From Sorong to Waisai
Once you land in Sorong, you’re already close to paradise. The next step is getting to Waisai, the capital of Raja Ampat Regency, located on Waigeo Island. The most common way to travel from Sorong to Waisai is by ferry, phinisi boat or local speedboat services. The ferry takes around 2 hours, while speedboats can be faster, depending on sea conditions. Ferries usually depart twice a day, in the morning (around 9:00 AM) and in the afternoon (around 2:00 PM). It’s best to plan your flight to Sorong so you can connect smoothly with one of these ferry departures. Alternatively, if you’re joining a Raja Ampat liveaboard or tour package, most operators, including Komodo Luxury, provide private transfers from Sorong Airport directly to your yacht or resort, ensuring a hassle-free transition from land to sea.
Raja Ampat Liveaboard: The Best Way to Explore Raja Ampat
Once you’ve finally figured out how to get to Raja Ampat from Saudi Arabia, the next exciting step is choosing the right trip package that fits your travel style. Whether you prefer a luxurious private escape or a social adventure with new friends, Komodo Luxury offers several well-curated options designed to make your Raja Ampat experience seamless and unforgettable. Here’s a quick look at the most popular types of packages on Raja Ampat Liveaboard you can choose from:
- Private Trip Raja Ampat
If you value exclusivity and flexibility, a Private Trip Raja Ampat is the perfect match. You’ll have an entire luxury yacht or phinisi boat to yourself, ideal for couples, families, or small groups who want to travel at their own pace. You can customize everything from the itinerary and activities to the dining menu, ensuring that every moment reflects your preferences. It’s the ultimate way to explore Raja Ampat in comfort and privacy. - Open/Share Trip Raja Ampat
For those who don’t mind sharing the experience with a few others, an Open/Share Trip offers a great balance between comfort and affordability. You’ll join a small group aboard a luxury vessel, enjoying world-class facilities and guided tours while splitting the cost with other travelers. It’s also a fun way to meet like-minded adventurers who share your love for diving, snorkeling, and exploring hidden islands.
Visa & Entry Requirements for Saudi Travellers
If you’re traveling from Saudi Arabia, entering Indonesia and eventually Raja Ampat is now easier because of the updated immigration systems and the official All Indonesia App. This new integrated platform, launched by the Directorate General of Immigration of Indonesia, simplifies the arrival process by combining immigration, customs, and health declarations in one app.
As a Saudi Arabian passport holder, you’re eligible for visa-free entry for stays of up to 30 days for tourism purposes. However, if you plan to stay longer or want extra flexibility, you can apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) or an Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) before your trip.
Here’s what you need to know before flying:
- Visa-Free Entry: Valid for 30 days and non-extendable.
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): Valid for 30 days and extendable once (for another 30 days). Available at major international airports like Jakarta (CGK), Bali (DPS), and Surabaya (SUB).
- All Indonesia App: Download and fill out your digital arrival card and declarations through the official All Indonesia App (available on iOS & Android). Completing this step before arrival helps speed up the immigration process.
- Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
- Return Ticket: Required to prove onward travel or return plans.
Additionally, all foreign visitors to Raja Ampat are required to have a Raja Ampat Entry Permit (PIN Raja Ampat). This conservation fee supports marine protection and local community initiatives. You can purchase it at the Raja Ampat Tourism Office in Sorong or Waisai before your trip. Before departure, always double-check visa and entry updates via the official Indonesian Immigration website or consult your travel advisor to ensure a smooth journey.
Extra Tip:
If you want to handle your visa process more conveniently during your Indonesia holiday, especially when visiting Raja Ampat, you can use the Visa Concierge Service from Bali Premium Trip. Their team will assist you with VOA arrangements, extensions, and documentation so you can enjoy a stress-free travel experience.
Tips to Visit Raja Ampat from Saudi Arabia
After understanding how to get to Raja Ampat from Saudi Arabia, it’s important to prepare wisely before your trip. Traveling to a remote paradise like this takes a bit of planning, but with the right preparation, your journey will be smooth, safe, and unforgettable. Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your Raja Ampat adventure:
- Plan your flights early. Because flights from Saudi Arabia to Sorong involve multiple connections, booking early helps you secure the best fares and convenient layover times. It also ensures smoother coordination between international and domestic flights.
- Pack light but smart. Since you’ll be moving between islands and boarding boats, lightweight luggage makes travel easier. Don’t forget essentials like reef-safe sunscreen, quick-dry swimwear, and snorkeling gear if you prefer to use your own.
- Stay connected. Internet coverage in remote areas of Raja Ampat can be limited, so it’s best to buy a local SIM card upon arrival in Jakarta or Sorong. Telkomsel generally offers the best coverage across Indonesian islands.
- Respect nature and local customs. Raja Ampat is a protected marine sanctuary, so always follow your guide’s instructions and avoid touching coral reefs or disturbing marine life. You’ll also leave a positive impression by respecting local Papuan traditions and communities.
- Consider travel insurance. With long-haul flights and multiple transfers, having travel insurance provides peace of mind in case of delays, cancellations, or medical emergencies. It’s a small investment that ensures a stress-free experience.
- Choose the right season. The best time to visit Raja Ampat is between October and April, when the weather is dry, seas are calm, and visibility for diving and snorkeling is at its best. During this period, you’ll also enjoy more comfortable sailing conditions.
- Book through a trusted operator. Working with an experienced travel provider like Komodo Luxury ensures that every aspect of your journey, from flights and permits to liveaboard accommodations, is handled professionally. With everything taken care of, you can simply relax and focus on the adventure ahead.
Read more: Essential Preparations for Your Travel to Raja Ampat on a Liveaboard
Let’s Explore Raja Ampat Easily from Saudi Arabia with Komodo Luxury!
Now that you know how to get to Raja Ampat from Saudi Arabia, it’s time to make your dream trip effortless and memorable. Instead of dealing with complicated travel arrangements, you can simply join a Raja Ampat Liveaboard with Komodo Luxury, the easiest and most comfortable way to explore Indonesia’s most breathtaking islands.
From the moment you arrive in Sorong, our professional team takes care of everything: airport transfers, meals, activities, and luxury accommodation onboard. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, Komodo Luxury ensures a smooth and exclusive experience from start to finish.With us, you can focus on what truly matters, diving into crystal-clear waters, exploring untouched lagoons, and soaking in the serenity of Raja Ampat’s natural beauty. So pack your bags, and let Komodo Luxury turn your journey from Saudi Arabia into the tropical escape you’ve always dreamed of.
