Dubai or Egypt may come to mind first when considering a trip to the Middle East. But there is a new kid on the block that is turning into a new hotspot among the globetrotters in Saudi Arabia. Ancient historical sites, futuristic cities, stunning mountains, and breathtaking coastlines can all be found in this vast and diverse nation. What are the places to visit in Saudi Arabia?
The Kingdom has just been opened up to international tourism, and the question to ask is: Is Saudi Arabia worth visiting? Absolutely! Saudi Arabia is a diverse land, featuring its holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, the coral reefs and the Red Sea, and the snow-capped mountains of Tabuk.
What are the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia, what are the coldest places in Saudi Arabia, and when is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia? You should be packing your bags by the end of this blog.
Riyadh
Being the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh can be considered the pumping heart of the Kingdom. It is a city that wonderfully harmonizes tradition and modernity.
Riyadh Major Attractions
- Masmak Fortress: This historical fortress, constructed in the 19th century, offers a glimpse into the beginnings of modern Saudi Arabia.
- Kingdom Centre Tower: A unique high-rise building with an observation deck on a skybridge that gives a 360-degree view of the city.
- The National Museum of Saudi Arabia is an absolute must-see for those seeking to grasp the rich cultural and Islamic history of the country.
Although Riyadh is situated in the desert, it boasts green parks, such as King Abdullah Park, where musical fountains entertain both children and adults.
And when you wonder whether Saudi Arabia is worth visiting, Riyadh itself is a great argument.
Jeddah
Jeddah is a cosmopolitan city with a laid-back atmosphere, historical neighborhoods, and a beautiful coastline. It is the second city of the Kingdom and a major Red Sea port.
Attractions in Jeddah
- Al-Balad (Old Jeddah): Get lost in maze-like streets and look at traditional architecture constructed with coral stone.
- Jeddah Corniche: A contemporary quayside commercial and tourist strip featuring art sculptures, promenades, and seafood eateries.
- King Fahd Fountain: It is the highest of its kind in the world, reaching up to 312 meters in the air.
Jeddah is a historic city with the added beauty of the sea. It is undoubtedly among the most wonderful tourist attractions in Saudi Arabia.
AlUla
AlUla has been rapidly growing into one of the most attractive locations in Saudi Arabia. This prehistoric city in the northwest has become an international tourist destination in modern times, thanks to its sandstone mountains and well-preserved archaeological remains.
Reasons to Visit AlUla
- Hegra (Madain Saleh): It is a UNESCO World Heritage site commonly known as the Saudi Arabian equivalent of Petra.
- Elephant Rock: This is a natural rock (sandstone) in the shape of an elephant – an ideal place to take pictures during sunset.
- AlUla Old Town: This place showcases a unique blend of traditional mud-brick architecture and desert life.
The otherworldly beauty of AlUla makes it one of the must-see locations in Saudi Arabia.
Abha and Asir Province: The Green Highlands
When it comes to cold places in Saudi Arabia, the best option is Abha in the Asir Province. Abha is a contrast to the desert heat typically associated with the Kingdom, boasting cool weather, particularly in the summer.
Best Places of Interest in Abha
- Asir National Park: Picnic areas and forested mountains in a green paradise.
- Habala Village: A village that is constructed on a cliff and hangs on it.
- Jabal Sawda: It is one of the most elevated mountains in Saudi Arabia, and it has beautiful mountainous scenery and a favorable climate.
The area is best suited to hiking and experiencing the varied climate of Saudi Arabia.
Madinah and Makkah
These cities are primarily visited for religious reasons, yet they remain among the most culturally and historically diverse places to visit in Saudi Arabia.
Religious and Historic Landmarks
- Prophet’s Mosque (Madinah): The mosque where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is buried.
- Masjid al-Haram (Makkah): Masjid al-Haram is the location of the Kaaba, the most sacred place in Islam.
- Mount Uhud and the Quba Mosque are significant in the history of Islam.
The cities are off-limits to non-Muslims, but to Muslim travelers, it is a must-visit experience that can be described as a spiritual journey.
Tabuk
Surprisingly enough, cold places exist in Saudi Arabia, and Tabuk is one of them. During winter, it gets considerably colder, and snow in the nearby mountains is not an unusual occurrence.
What Makes Tabuk Special
- Jabal Al-Lawz: It experiences snow, and some people believe that this is the biblical Mount Sinai.
- Tabuk Castle: This ancient castle, built in 1559, showcases the city’s rich history and heritage.
- Maghaer Shuaib: A group of Nabatean tombs and rock sculptures.
Tabuk offers one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia for those interested in winter wonderlands.
Dammam and Al Khobar
Dammam and the adjacent city of Al Khobar, situated on the Arabian Gulf, are renowned for their laid-back lifestyle and stunning beaches.
What to Do Here
- Half Moon Bay: An Ideal place to spend time with family, as the water here is calm and the sands are soft.
- Corniche Road: A perfect place to have an evening stroll and enjoy the gorgeous sea view.
- Scitech Museum: A science and technology center that the whole family can enjoy.
Another reason why the answer to Saudi Arabia is worth visiting is that the eastern region of this country is a resounding yes.
Najran
The City of Najran, located near the Yemeni border, is a cultural and geographical blend of both worlds. It is a cultural gem featuring a unique blend of mud-brick buildings, palm oases, and prehistoric ruins.
Special Experiences in Najran
- Al-Ukhdood Archaeological Site: The ruins of an ancient society.
- Najran Fort: It is a traditional fort that represents local architecture.
- Traditional Souq: Purchase silver jewelry and tribal artifacts, which are handmade.
The hospitality of Najran and its cultural richness make this city even more charming, as one of the most interesting yet lesser-known tourist destinations in Saudi Arabia.
When to Go to Saudi Arabia
It is essential to know when to visit Saudi Arabia to make the most of your experience. In most cases, the months of October to March are the best due to favorable weather conditions.
Seasonal Breakdown
- Winter (December to February): The most appropriate time to travel to Tabuk and the Asir region.
- Spring (March to May): The desert scenery flowers; AlUla is ideal.
- Summer (June to August): It’s scorching hot in most places, but it’s a good time to visit Abha.
- Fall (September to November): Excellent climate in places such as Riyadh and Jeddah.
Start planning your trip according to the kind of experience you seek, whether it’s cultural immersion, a desert adventure, or a mountain retreat.
The Most Beautiful Place in Saudi Arabia
AlUla is arguably one of the most beautiful places in Saudi Arabia, although beauty is a subjective matter. A combination of natural attractions, historical sites, and serene desert scenery makes it an enchanting destination.
Alternative Candidates Are
- Jeddah Corniche is renowned for its modern seaside beauty.
- The Asir mountains are surrounded by natural greenery.
- Vast, untouched desert dunes can be found in the Empty Quarter (Rub al Khali).
The Kingdom is a visual treat, with each region possessing unmatched beauty.
Conclusion
Whether you are a religious traveler or an adventure tourist, the list of places to visit in Saudi Arabia will have something to explore for every type of traveler. Modern and metropolitan Riyadh and Jeddah, as well as ancient and natural AlUla and Tabuk, are just a few examples of how Saudi Arabia is not only a pilgrimage destination anymore but a tourist phenomenon in its own right.
Then, is Saudi Arabia worth visiting? Absolutely. Hike mountains, swim through coral reefs, uncover ancient civilizations, and do whatever it is you desire to do. The Kingdom is open to you.
FAQs
The top destinations include AlUla, Jeddah, and Riyadh due to their historical, cultural, and contemporary significance.
AlUla is commonly referred to as one of the most beautiful places, owing to its distinct rock formations, heritage locations, and striking desert landscapes.
Yes, there are even more incredible places, such as Abha, Asir, and Tabuk, especially during the winter.
October to March is a good time because the weather is generally cooler, making it more suitable for outdoor activities.
Yes, Saudi Arabia has taken significant steps to ensure tourists’ safety and provide them with a secure environment.
Yes, the majority of nationalities require a tourist visa, which can be easily obtained online via the eVisa portal.
It is advisable to wear modest clothes. Women no longer have to wear an abaya, but they are expected to cover their shoulders and knees when in public areas.
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