The name Saudi Arabia brings to mind two unmistakable holy destinations; Mecca and Medina. However, what lies beyond these two most-visited cities are equally awe-inspiring destinations, if not more.
Saudi Arabia is more than just a sparkling desert.
Contrary to common notion, there are soaring mountains, mesmerizing sandy dunes, endearing ancient towns and cliffside villages, white sand atolls, sparkling emerald oceans and coastlines, and bustling cosmopolitan cities in the intriguing country that is KSA.
The country recently opened its borders to tourism in 2019. Since then, Saudi Arabia has grown to become one of the most curiosity-evoking destinations in the world. Saudi Arabia tour packages have surged in popularity over the years, and not just for Umrah or Hajj visits.
While Saudi is still highly regarded for religious tourism, the place, owing to its beautiful desert vistas blending tasteful urban experiences, is soon gaining popularity.
Here are 6 of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia, beyond Mecca and Medina.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Hegra, Al Ula
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Matyas Rehak
Situated at the heart of the Kingdom, on the Al Ula Desert is Hegra – one of Saudi Arabia’s most fascinating destinations. Built by the Nabataeans – the same nomadic warrior-traders who built Petra in Jordan, Hegra is home to a series of over 100 monumental rock-cut tombs intricately carved into sandstone cliffs. These tombs were built over 2000 years ago and bear detailed inscriptions including symbolic motifs. The place is also Saudi’s first UNESCO recognized World Heritage Site, and now attracts many visitors from around the world, most notably history buffs with a love for ancient wonders.
With plain rustic charm, and intriguing history to offer, Hegra is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia.
The Edge of The World
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Fedor Selivanov
Jebel Fihrayn, or as it is popularly known, The Edge of The World, is a sight to behold to say the least. Located just west of the capital city Riyadh, the aptly named destination is much like a colossal canyon that overlooks a vast stretch of reddish desert landscapes, extending indefinitely into the horizon. Comprising a towering wall of variegated sandstone cliffs that seem to rise from what appears to be an ancient ocean bed, these cliffs offer breathtaking panoramic views of the arid landscape out front. As you stand atop these cliffs, feeling the desert air in your hair, you will catch sightings of wild camels rambling about in the distant ancient trade routes, and experience the illusion of standing at the edge of the world. This unique experience makes Jebel Fihrayn, one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia.
To visit this destination, book Riyadh holiday packages and hire a four-wheel drive to make a 98 km day tour from Riyadh. Choose to go after noon, as the sunset views from the Edge of The World are beyond amazing.
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Al Balad, Jeddah
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/schusterbauer.com
Al Balad in Jeddah is one of the few places in the world that makes you feel the historic ambience, just through its sensorial elements. Characterized by a distinct smell of spices, calls to prayer, and labyrinthine alleyways flanked by ancient coral-hued stone buildings, Balad in Jeddah – the cosmopolitan city of Saudi, is one of its most powerfully evocative destinations. Home to vibrant traditional bakeries emanating rich clove-infused scents, oud suppliers, and the bustling Souq Al Alawi – one of Jeddah’s oldest Bazaars, the place was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. Since then, many of its ancient buildings and mansions have been tastefully restored.
One among its most prominent restoration projects is the grand 106-room Nasseef House – the residence of a prominent trading family in the past. It is now an elaborate museum and cultural center offering insights into the opulent life of the elite in the city during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Just for its magnificent immersive ambiance, Al Balad in Jeddah is one of the best places to visit in Saudi. Book cheap flights to Jeddah and travel by cab to see this wonderful city.
Diriyah
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/VD Image Lab
Located on the outskirts of Riyadh is Diriyah – once the seat of the royal Al Saud family. Enveloped by the green oasis of Wadi Hanifa, this ancient desert city is believed to be the birthplace of modern Saudi, and was once a bustling cultural center. Additionally, it was also a bustling crossroads hosting commuting pilgrims, merchants, and traders.
Diriyah’s most fascinating feature is its mudbrick architecture; an array of ancient buildings lining the UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif district, along with intermittent palm trees. In the city, you will find a slew of old mosques and palaces, along with cozy restaurants and coffee shops to stop by. Among its prominent attractions is the Salwa Palace – Diriyah’s rich museum that offers insights into the city’s history.
Look for cheap flights to Riyadh and take a road trip from there to visit this destination. Book your accommodation at one of the best hotels in Riyadh as well, to have a comfortable day tour.
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Thee Ain
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Hyserb
Thee Ain, located near Baha, around 4.5 hours from Jeddah is an ancient village built in the 8th century. Picturesquely situated at the base of a cliff, atop a hill, alongside arrays of white marble mountains, the village stands amidst foggy and steep, winding roads leading up to it – much like a promising rusty old mansion in an ancient fairytale.
Comprising more than 40 houses, a mosque, and a fortified wall along its borders, the place exudes historic charm and folklore. You can learn more about the intricately constructed village and its stories at the Visitor Center. Walk around the town, admire the fruit trees and date palms lining it, or sit and soak up the culture at one of its cafes.
Named after the water that flows through the nearby mountains, Thee Ain is one of the most beautiful and best places to visit in Saudi Arabia.
Rijal Almaa
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Matyas Rehak
Last but not least, is Rijal Almaa – one of Saudi’s more fascinating old villages located in the south of the country in Abha. Widely known as the Gingerbread Village, the place is nothing short of an architectural marvel that has stood the test of time. Boasting a life of more than 900 years, the place features numerous blocky stone, clay or wooden buildings with brightly coloured shutters – similar to the folk-favourite gingerbread houses.
The buildings of this village-turned-museum are visibly influenced by Yemeni culture; its elements closely resemble those found in the Old Quarter of Sana’a, the capital city of Yemen. While most of the village has been converted into a museum, you will still find residents in quaint parts of the buildings. Among these buildings is also an insightful segment carrying old tools, weapons, and costumes from the city’s past.
For its exotic architecture and folklore, Rijal Almaa is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia.
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Wrapping Up: Top 6 Best Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia
From the magnificent rock-cut tombs of Hegra to the breathtaking views of the Arabian desert at the Edge of The World, and the charming gingerbread houses of Rijal Almaa, Saudi Arabia boasts some of the world’s most fascinatingly unique attractions. When you step foot in KSA, you take a plunge into the country’s rich culture, trader-led history, and stunning sandy landscapes. A world beyond spiritual escapades awaits tourists looking for deeper experiences in Saudi.
The best time to visit Saudi is during the winter season, when the country experiences pleasant weather with mild temperatures, perfect for exploring. Book Riyadh travel packages, or Saudi Arabia tour packages well in time to visit KSA during winter. Make sure you apply for your Saudi Arabia visa, with a reliable provider of online visa services for 180+ countries to avoid hassles.
FAQs
Is Saudi good for tourists?
Yes, Saudi Arabia is a wonderful country for tourists. Beyond its most visited religious cities of Mecca and Medina, the place boasts many stunning natural desert landscapes, oases, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a rich cultural heritage, and endearing stories. Many cities like Al Balad, Al Ula, and Thee Ain offer spectacular unique attractions with interesting stories that delve into the country’s trade history.
How much does a trip to Saudi Arabia cost?
A Saudi Arabia trip can cost anywhere from Rs. 22,000 to Rs. Rs. 40,000 excluding flights, if it is a short tour extending 2 to 5 days. In a short trip, you can cover core attractions in one or two cities, with limited time in each.
Whereas, more extensive Saudi Arabia tours spanning 5 to 10 days can cost between Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 1,50,000 per person excluding flights. The actual cost would depend on the packages, the hotels, and flights you choose.
Where to vacation in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia houses several interesting historic and coastal attractions to vacation. Some of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia include Hegra in Al Ula, The Edge of The World, Al Balad in Jeddah, Diriyah, Thee Ain, and Rijal Almaa.
What is the best time to visit Saudi?
The best time to visit Saudi is during the winter season, from November to February. During this time, the country offers excellent climate conditions for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and sunny weather.
The summer months between April and October are best avoided because of extreme heat and unpleasant weather.
Which city is beautiful in Saudi Arabia?
Some of the most beautiful cities in Saudi Arabia are Al Ula – for its ancient ruins, stories, and desert landscapes, Jeddah – for its coastal charm and historic sites like Al Balad, Abha – for its cooler climate, mountains and oases, and Riyadh – which offers a blend of modern and traditional settings.
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