Muslims around the world call it the ‘Holy Land’ but it’s rarely seen in travel advisories. A land rich in culture, with destinations that are underrated and mostly unheard of by those living outside of the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia is one of the most unique countries in the Middle East. Until the recent past, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia didn’t quite encourage International Tourism.
Although travellers other than pilgrims were allowed to visit, many tourists evaded on purpose due to the rules imposed by the Saudi authorities. But now, Saudi Arabia is ready to invite guests and narrate its fascinating story to the world.
From the sunny Tiran Island to the historic Mount Uhud, tourists are allowed to experience the gems of Saudi just as any local could.
Here are the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia.
Kaaba
The holiest location for all Muslims living across the world, Kaaba, also known as al-Kaʿbah al- Musharrafah is a shrine towards which all Muslims turn when praying to the Almighty.
Located within the Grand Mosque of Mecca, more than two million pilgrims visit this treasured place a year. The famed Black Stone is found on the eastern side of the Kaaba.
According to beliefs, this stone dates back more than a millennium. Muslims believe that it’s tainted with sins hence its impure colour. The direction of the Kaaba – known as Qibla – must be respected even if they’re living miles away in a different country.
Unfortunately, as per Saudi authorities and guidelines, only Muslims can enter the city of Mecca and of course Kaaba.
King Fahd’s Fountain
Also known as the Jeddah Fountain, located in the coastal city of Jeddah, King Fahd’s Mountain is a unique attraction and landmark that one must witness on their journey to the Kingdom.
Established in the ’80s this fountain was a donation by the late King Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
Being a country surrounded by deserts, owning an enormous water fountain of its kind in the world is simply intriguing. It is 312 meters high and shoots plumes of saltwater at a speed of 350 kph.
Locals advise visiting after dark as the view of it against the deep horizon looks so magnifying. Travellers visiting Jeddah must visit the fountain. It’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia.
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Mada’in Saleh
Most commonly known as Hegra, the Mada’in Saleh historic monument is believed to be built by King Aretas IV Philopatris back in the 4th Century BC. Resembling Petra of Jordan, this Nabataean City is located in the Medina region and is one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia if you’re a history admirer.
The history of Hegra is ravelled with many religious beliefs. The stories tell how some civilizations met their demise with idol-worshipping practices.
In 2008, Mada’in Saleh – Hegra – becomes Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Masjid Al-Haram
The great mosque which encloses the holy Kaaba is known as Masjid al-Haram. During Umrah and Hajj Pilgrimage, millions of devotees arrive from across the world at this grand mosque.
Initially constructed by the Ottomans, most parts of the Masjid al-Haram are renovated and modernized over the decades.
Although a new interior was installed, 16th-century architecture remains in certain parts of the mosque. With the religious police on duty, those entering Mecca and Masjid al-Haram must obey all imposed rules and regulations.
Tiran Island
Located in the Arabian Peninsula, Tiran Strait in the Red Sea is a lesser-known yet wonderful location for snorkelling, diving, and water activities during summer.
One of the most famous activities for travellers visiting Tiran Island is the boat cruise. Although the Island is taken up by the military, the surrounding waters offer a blissful experience for travellers and marine adventure enthusiasts.
According to Biblical references, some say that the Strait of Tiran was where the Red Sea parted. Nonetheless, it’s one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia.
Al Masmak Fortress
The bewitching Masmak Fortress in the old city of Riyadh is one of the most famous tourist locations in Saudi Arabia. The name Al Masmak means strong and thick in Arabic, which is quite relatable.
From being a garrison house and a prison to now – a Museum which narrates the unheard stories of Saudi’s recent history of raids and sieges, Al Masmak Fortress is a remarkable historic location.
Visitors are shown a short documentary of the historical incidents of King Abdul-Aziz’s capture of the fortress. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia.
National Museum
The National Museum of Saudi Arabia is located in the capital city of Riyadh. Visitors are given an insight into the history of the Arabian Peninsula and how Islam was dispersed within the regions.
Over the past decades, the National Museum of Riyadh has grown to be a major tourist attraction, with its values continuously contributing to the country’s tourism in many ways.
Farasan Islands
Generally referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Red Sea’, the Farasan Islands consist of 84 little Islands scattered across the bedazzling Red Sea in the Jizan Province. What’s special about these Islands is that they are made of coral reefs.
Away from Saudi’s famous deserts and dunes, the Farasan Islands offer something more delicate and pristine for travellers looking forward to a beach vacation.
The first inhabitants of these islands were the Sabeans. These people are said to have lived over a millennia ago. Over time other inhabitants such as Romans, Turkish, Aksumites, and Germans left types of inscriptions as evidence on these islands.
Today the islands have become a wholesome destination that offers relaxation and marine experiences.
Abraj Al-Bait Tower
With tourism now on the pedestal, the country is seeing a thriving future for itself. But, back then, tourist visas were largely assessed.
It was mostly those on Umrah and Hajj pilgrimage who travelled to Saudi Arabia, and the experience catered mainly to them.
Located in Mecca, the Abraj Al-Bait Tower is an enormous seven-skyscraper hotel complex.
It comprises the Safa tower, Marwah tower, Qibla tower, Maqam tower, Hajar tower, Zam Zam Tower, and the Royal Clock tower which stands boldly and elegantly overlooking the Kaaba and the rest of the city.
Mecca Royal Clock tower is also known to have the biggest clock face in the world.
Al Jubail
Located in the East of the Persian Gulf of Saudi Arabia, Al Jubail is an industrial port city situated close to King Abdul-Aziz Naval Base. Before being an Industrial city, Jubail was known for fishing and pearling.
Being strategically close to major oil fields in the country, the industrial city developed at a staggering rate with foreign construction companies and investors pumping through; Al Jubail houses the world’s fourth-largest petrochemical company.
Al-Masjid an Nabawi
Located in the Medina Province of Saudi Arabia, the Prophet’s mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world. It used to be a community centre and a religious school back in the day of the Prophet.
The most significant attribute of this mosque is the Green Dome, under which the Prophet’s tomb rests.
The current dome was built by the Ottomans in the 1800s. Although it’s one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia, non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the Nabawi mosque.
Mount Uhud
A famous battleground in Islamic history, Mount Uhud in the Medina region is a location where one of the most notable battles took place between the Muslims and Pagans. It is said that the Prophet Muhammed himself took part in the cavalry and was hurt.
Mount Uhud is 1,077 meters in height and harbours Maharis which are cavities that bag water throughout the year. Hiking up the mountain is a renowned tourist activity in Saudi Arabia and its history is even more famed.
There’s no perfect time to climb Mount Uhud as the weather rarely disturbs travellers.
Al Tayebat International City
Located in Jeddah, Al Tayebat International City of science and knowledge is one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia. The museum at Al Tayebat is a city within a city that encompasses an area of 10,000 square meters with 12 buildings.
Each of these houses exhibits interior and manuscripts belonging to the Saudi Arabian heritage, International heritage, public heritage, and Islamic heritage.
Visitors might not be able to complete exploring the Al Tayebat International City in one day, but it is worth it.
Those who are interested in learning the nitty-gritty of Middle Eastern culture must visit the Al Tayebat International City.
Red Sea Mall
For those looking for a high-end exclusive shopping experience, Red Sea Mall is the place to be. It’s Jeddah city’s largest mall and the only mall which is connected to a five-star hotel.
Red Sea Mall is said to attract about 17 million visitors every year, while it comprises of a total 242,400 square meters.
With a variety of offerings on products ranging from women’s wear and restaurants to accessories and telecom services, this mall indeed lives up to its informal slogan ‘shop till you drop’.
Dammam
A couple of decades back, Dammam was just a fishing village, but today it’s a flourishing city with ample green parks, fine-dine restaurants, seaside alleys, and shopping malls.
A few of the best places to visit in Dammam are Half Moon Bay, King Fahd’s Park, Al-Marjan Island, the Heritage Village, and the Corniche that begins from Aziziah Beach and continues to Tarot Island.
Travellers who love history and ancient fortresses must visit Tarout castle, which is located in the East of Al Qatif.
Al-Faisaliyah Center
A monument of the modern-day, Al Faisaliah centre in the business city, Riyadh is an ideal tourist attraction to visit during winter vacations. With a height of 267 meters, the Al-Faisaliyah centre has a total of 30 floors.
The distinctive architecture is built around the city’s requirements whilst addressing the Middle Eastern climate.
‘Globe’ – its fancy dine-in restaurant, offers an array of continental flavours for visitors as they enjoy a breathtaking view of the whole city below them.
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