In the meantime, here’s a sample of some of the photographs captured, which concentrated on a welcoming people, significant landmarks, the sophistication of the capital, Riyadh, and the Kingdom’s fascinating culture.

Madein Saleh (above), the magnificent sandstone tombs that rise from the northern desert, has been the focus of my attention for the last three days. I’d have to say though, the 4am starts with desert temperatures plunging to near zero, provided quite a challenge for a photographer who arrived from an Australian summer with little more than shorts and a few polo shirts. Thankfully, my guide, Yasser Al-Emam (that’s him holding the falcon who, by the way ladies, is looking for a wife) was better prepared, and generously lent me his wardrobe (below).

My presentations at the national photography conference in Riyadh went well – both full to capacity, with an appreciative and engaging audience. That said, I fear my translator may have had a meltdown trying to keep up with me as there were technical problems showing my slide presentation on the big screen which cost me half an hour so, by the time I hit the stage, I was like a greyhound bolting from the gates.

Photo Essay: It’s a popular weekend pastime in Saudi – jump in your four wheel drive and head out of town to find the tallest sand dune you can find.

I had an enjoyable experience yesterday photographing a falconer on the sand dunes of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia (despite the fact I was up at 3am for the shoot, he adds).

I’m starting to enjoy my shoot in Saudi Arabia, having finally rid myself of this wretched jet lag (though I’m still bursting out of bed at 2am before I realise I’m not six hours ahead in Brisbane which is making for a long day).