Top 10 Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia

One of the countries that few travelers would consider as their next travel destination is Saudi Arabia. Nevertheless, there is one Middle Eastern nation that hooks tourists with its history, culture, and unbelievable nature, so it is worth a visit. Here are the top 10 must-see attractions in Saudi Arabia:

1. Madain Saleh

Ancient city on the northeastern part of Saudi Arabia which was once an important city in an early trading network. The remains of well-preserved tombs and complicated buildings at Madain Saleh belong to the early Higazy period, more than 2000 years ago. It is one of the most intact and well-preserved examples of the civilization of the Nabateans, which is why it was chosen as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

2. Edge of the World

The Edge of the World viewpoint is set just beyond Riyadh, and the name befits the views it offers. The cliff stands high on a cliff and provides a view of a large expanse of red sandy deserts with rocky surfaces extending over several miles. Their beauty especially early in the morning or late in the evening is breathtaking that is why many people stop here to take photographs.

3. Farasan Islands

One of the most beautiful natural areas of KSA is the Farasan Islands situated in the Red Sea on the southern part of the country. The many islands provide scenarios of clean waters, coral gardens, mangrove forests, and beaches to provide the best swimming and diving/snorkeling. Most of the islands have accommodations for tourists who wish to spend the night.

4. Al-Balad, Jeddah

Formerly, the old city of Jeddah, included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, introduces guests to medieval architecture. The large ancient homes, look like they have several floors, wooden carved doors, and balconies. Streets are connected to lanes that house contemporary art galleries and cozy cafés, whereas traditional crafts such as silver ornaments and fabrics can be found on the old pavements.

5. Al-Ula

This Archeological site is located in northwestern Saudi Arabia and has been crucial as a station for incense trade. Al-Ula boasts of its fabulous 2000-year-old heritage which was established by the Kingdom of Lihyan and the Nabataean, Mada’in Salih the rock carved tombs and the cliff cutting Hejra which is the first Saudi Arabia UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6. Masmak Fortress, Riyadh

Also, the monumental building made of clay and stone Masmak Fortress became the historical center of modern Riyadh. First established in 1865 the fort went through changes in the year 1902 when King Abdulaziz reoccupied the fort and marked the beginning of modern Saudi Arabia. Part of a fort, this section offers an interesting insight into Saudi weaponry in the early part of the 20th century and the lifestyle that accompanied it.

7. King Fahd's Fountain

This massive fountain stands over 270 meters high and sprays water alongside Jeddah’s Red Sea coast. The large fountain called the ‘mammoth fountain’ was gifted by King Fahd of KSA; to generate its breaking water spout it takes 50,000 gallons (190,000 liters) of seawater pumped through. The fountain has Laser light shows which enhance its regular performances.

8. Red Sea Diving

Not surprisingly, scuba divers rank the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia as among the top locations on Earth. The bay has over 1,200 different kinds of fish and 200 varieties of coral (some of the reefs shining with brilliant neon colors). Clear waters and temperatures ranging from 24 to 28 degrees Celsius define this area. In a calm diving environment, one encounters more than a hundred shipwrecks and varied aquatic life.

9. Wadi Lajab Minerals Park

This reserve is 60 square kilometers stretching up to about 125 kilometers south of Taif city and is characterized by cliques of folding rock surfaces, and sparkling minerals. Mountain ranges with bright red, yellow, white, brown, black, and green stones and small lakes surrounded by desert and various vegetation. Tourism: It is favorable for camping and hiking through the wadi trails.

10. Janadriyah Cultural Festival

The annual festival of Saudi culture is the largest of its kind held every winter in a location outside Riyadh. Janadriyah is a two-week event of manifestation of the Saudi Arabian nation which is showcased through the Saudi Arabian way of life, Saudi artisans, traditional Saudi dance performances, Saudi Arabian food, Saudi Arabian dancing, Saudi Arabian cultural activities, and camel races. Some of the popular products, which are locally woven rugs and textiles are found in the souq.

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