Saudi Arabia was long a closed country, but in recent years it has become increasingly open in terms of tourism. So let’s look at 13 wonderful attractions!
Saudi Arabia is also called „the land of the two holy mosques” after the mosques in Mecca and Medina, which are the two holiest places in the Islamic world. It is bordered by Jordan, Iraq, and Kuwait to the north, Oman and Yemen to the south, and Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to the east.
Table of Contents
Best places in Saudi Arabia
Riyadh
The capital of Saudi Arabia showcases the country’s modern face while being deeply rooted in tradition.
Rising in the heart of the city is the Kingdom Centre, which dominates the skyline with its iconic top. The observation deck at the top of the tower offers a breathtaking panorama of the endless city, especially at sunset.
The historic Al-Masmak fortress takes visitors back to the 19th century when Riyadh was still a small town and played a key role in the establishment of the Saudi Kingdom. The building, now converted into a museum, presents the history of the unification of the kingdom and the traditional lifestyle of the region.
The city’s bustling bazaars, such as Souq Al-Zal, are real treasure troves for those who want to discover local crafts. In addition to traditional perfumes, jewelry, and spices, visitors can gain insight into Bedouin culture, which remains a defining part of the country’s identity to this day.
Al Ahsa
One of the country’s most fertile oases, offering a special atmosphere with its vast palm forests and historical sites. The region, which is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage, boasts more than two million date palms, among which idyllic water sources and traditional villages are hidden.
One of the oasis’s most famous attractions is Al-Qarah Mountain, whose special rock formations hide cool caves. In addition to its unique natural beauty, the place is also of archaeological significance, as it was an important trade route in the region thousands of years ago.
In the historic Al Ahsa souq, visitors can learn about local crafts, such as traditional pottery and carpet weaving. The handicrafts available here are perfect gifts for those who want to take home a piece of Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage.
Mecca
The holiest city of Islam attracts millions from all over the world every year.
The Kaaba stone is the central part of the Masjid al-Haram mosque, which marks the direction of prayer for Muslims. During the Hajj pilgrimage, believers circle the Kaaba, which is considered one of the most important religious ceremonies.
The city preserves many important sites in Islamic history, including the Cave of Hira, where Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation. This place has special significance for pilgrims, as it is where the revelation of the Islamic religion began.
Its modern infrastructure allows for the comfortable reception of visitors, but due to strict religious rules, the city is not open to non-Muslims. Nevertheless, the spiritual significance of Mecca is felt throughout the world.
Al-Ula
One of the country’s most spectacular historical sites, attracting visitors with its spectacular rock formations and archaeological treasures.
The city, which preserves traces of the ancient Nabatean civilization, was once an important trading hub and now serves as an impressive attraction. The region is home to the old town of Al-Ula, made up of traditional mud-built houses. The atmosphere of the settlement invites visitors on a journey through time, while exploring the remains of the once-flourishing city through narrow alleys.
The surrounding rocky countryside is a real paradise for nature lovers. The special formations formed from sandstone, such as the Elephant Rock, provide a fascinating sight, especially at sunset when the colors of the red rocks come alive.
Jeddah
Located on the shores of the Red Sea, this cosmopolitan city is one of Saudi Arabia’s most exciting cultural centers.
The historic core of the city, the Al-Balad district, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and with its traditional mud-built houses provides a fascinating glimpse into the old Arab world. The Nassif House and the old markets preserve the atmosphere of the former merchant city.
Jeddah is also famous for its modern attractions, such as the King Fahd Fountain, the world’s tallest seawater fountain. The spectacular water jet shoots up to more than 300 meters high, especially impressive at sunset when it is illuminated.
The city is also a paradise for diving and water sports. Coral reefs and colorful marine life await visitors in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. Jeddah’s port and Corniche promenade are favorite meeting places for locals and tourists, where elegant restaurants and cafes offer perfect views of the sea.
Hegra
Also known as Mada’in Saleh, it is one of the most significant monuments of the ancient Nabatean civilization, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The site is considered a sister city to Petra in Jordan, as it was created by the same Nabatean culture and hides similarly impressive rock-cut tombs. Walking among the monumental tombs and sandstone rock formations, visitors can discover the once-flourishing past of the region. One of the most famous tombs, Qasr Al-Farid, stands out from the others with its special, solitary form, and is considered one of the best-preserved Nabatean structures.
Besides its historical significance, the surrounding desert landscape of Hegra is also impressive. The huge sand dunes and red rocks create a special atmosphere, made even more magical by the light of the sunset.
Wadi Al Disah
A hidden natural wonder in the northwestern part of Saudi Arabia, famous for its dramatic rock canyons and lush oases.
Hiking or going on a jeep tour in the valley is an unforgettable experience, as the steep cliffs and natural formations offer a varied sight. Among the red and orange-tinted rocks, we can discover smaller caves and rock paintings that preserve the traces of ancient civilizations that lived here.
The bird and wildlife of the valley are also remarkable, as many rare species find refuge in the fertile area. For nature lovers and photographers, Wadi Al Disah is a true paradise.
Medina
The second holiest city of Islam is famous for the Prophet’s Mosque.
The Masjid al-Nabawi was founded by Prophet Muhammad himself in 622 when he moved to Medina, and his tomb is also located here. It has been continuously expanded and decorated over the centuries, making it one of the largest and most spectacular mosques in the world today. One of its most iconic elements is the Green Dome, which covers the tomb of Prophet Muhammad. Originally, the mosque was a simple, mud-built structure, but today it is characterized by huge marble courtyards, impressive minarets, and wonderful decorations.
The Rawdah al-Jannah or the „Garden of Paradise” is a special area inside the mosque located between Prophet Muhammad’s house and the original mosque. According to believers, prayers said here are particularly blessed.
Farasan Islands
The hidden gems of the Red Sea attract visitors with their pristine natural beauty and rich history. The archipelago consists of more than a hundred islands of various sizes, with crystal-clear waters and snow-white sandy beaches stretching between them.
The islands are known as a protected ecological area where rare bird species, sea turtles, and dolphins live. For diving enthusiasts, the colorful world of coral reefs offers an unforgettable experience, as special marine creatures can be observed in the shallow waters.
The historical ruins of Farasan on the islands preserve the memories of the former Arab and Ottoman era. The region once had a vibrant pearl fishing industry, a tradition that can still be felt in the lives of the locals today.
Asir National Park
Saudi Arabia’s verdant mountainous area awaits nature lovers with 3,000-meter peaks and diverse wildlife. The foggy valleys and terraced villages near the city of Abha show another face of the country.
There are numerous hiking trails in the park, and it is also an ideal location for bird watching enthusiasts. The baboons and other animals living here provide a special sight for visitors.
Qassim
A traditional Saudi province, famous for its agricultural products and cultural heritage. The region is particularly known for its excellent quality date harvest, which is celebrated annually at a large festival.
There are numerous historical cities in the province, of which Unaizah and Buraidah are particularly noteworthy. These cities preserve the authentic Saudi atmosphere of the region with their old bazaars, traditional clay buildings, and vibrant markets.
For nature lovers, the area around Qassim offers interesting desert landscapes and valleys that provide an ideal location for hikers and astronomy enthusiasts.
Dumat Al-Jandal
An ancient city in the northern part of the country, preserving historical memories from the Nabatean Empire and the early period of Islam.
One of the city’s most significant attractions is the Qasr Marid fortress, which stood in a strategic location and played a defensive role in the region. The city is also famous for the Omar Mosque, which is one of the oldest mosques in Saudi Arabia. Due to its simple, clean form and historical significance, the building is one of the country’s most important religious monuments.
The surroundings of the city are rich in archaeological findings, and the region’s desert yet impressive landscape provides a perfect location for those who want to travel back in time.
Dammam
One of the country’s most important economic and cultural centers. The city, located on the Persian Gulf coast, is famous for its modern infrastructure and coastal promenades.
One of its most popular attractions is the Corniche, which offers a stunning view of the gulf and is a perfect place for a pleasant evening walk. Half Moon Bay along the coast, with its sandy beaches and shallow water, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
The Tariq Ibn Ziyad Museum provides insight into the history and cultural heritage of the region. One of the city’s iconic locations is King Fahd Park, which is one of Saudi Arabia’s largest parks.