Okay, confession time: A few years ago, if someone had told me Saudi Arabia would become one of my favorite travel destinations, I would've laughed. But here we are, and I'm literally planning my third trip back. This country? It's absolutely wild in the best possible way.
Saudi Arabia has gone from being practically closed to tourists to rolling out the red carpet (literally—have you seen those desert camps?). And trust me, this isn't just another Middle Eastern destination. We're talking about a place where you can explore 2,000-year-old tombs in the morning, dune bash in the world's largest sand desert by afternoon, and sip coffee in a futuristic skyscraper by evening.
Ready to discover why Saudi Arabia should be at the top of your travel bucket list? Let's dive into the 12 places that'll absolutely change how you see this incredible country.
Why Saudi Arabia Is Having Its Travel Moment Right Now?
Before we jump into the list, let's talk about why now is the perfect time to visit Saudi Arabia.
Since launching its tourist visa in 2019, Saudi Arabia has been on a mission to share its treasures with the world. The country's Vision 2030 initiative is transforming tourism infrastructure faster than you can say "shukran" (that's "thank you" in Arabic, by the way—you'll be using it a lot).
Here's what makes Saudi Arabia so special:
History that predates Rome: We're talking Nabataean tombs, ancient rock art, and archaeological sites that'll make history buffs weep with joy
Landscapes for every vibe: Snow-capped mountains, pristine Red Sea coastline, endless deserts, and lush valleys—all in one country
Culture shock in the best way: Traditional souks meet cutting-edge architecture, and the hospitality will spoil you for other destinations
Still relatively undiscovered: You won't find Instagram crowds at most sites (yet)
Now, let me walk you through the 12 places that'll make your Saudi Arabia trip absolutely unforgettable.
1. Riyadh: Where Ancient Meets Ultra-Modern
Let's start with the capital, because Riyadh is unlike any city you've experienced.
Picture this: You're standing in front of Masmak Fortress, a 19th-century mud-brick fort that played a crucial role in Saudi history. Turn around, and you're facing the Kingdom Centre Tower—a 99-story skyscraper with a sky bridge that'll make your palms sweat (in a good way).
What Makes Riyadh Unmissable
Must-See Attractions:
- Kingdom Centre Tower: That iconic sky bridge 300 meters up? Yeah, the views are insane
- National Museum of Saudi Arabia: Seriously the best crash course in Saudi history and culture
- Masmak Fortress: Where modern Saudi Arabia was literally born in 1902
- Al-Diriyah: UNESCO site with traditional Najdi architecture (think: Saudi's ancient capital)
- Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn): 90-minute drive from Riyadh, but worth every second for those dramatic cliff views
Pro Tip: Hit up Boulevard Riyadh City during evening hours. It's this massive entertainment district that feels like a permanent festival—live music, restaurants, activities, and the vibe is just chef's kiss.
Best For: Architecture lovers, history buffs, and anyone who wants to see Saudi Arabia's ambitious vision for the future
How Many Days: 2-3 days minimum (but honestly, you could spend a week here)
2. Jeddah: The Bride of the Red Sea
If Riyadh is Saudi's business heart, Jeddah is its creative soul.
This coastal city on the Red Sea has been the gateway to Mecca for centuries, which means it's accumulated this incredible mix of cultures, architecture, and energy. Plus, the seafood here? Unreal.
Why Jeddah Will Steal Your Heart?
Can't-Miss Spots:
- Al-Balad (Historic District): Wander through narrow alleys lined with centuries-old coral stone buildings. UNESCO recognized this beauty in 2014, and you'll see why
- Jeddah Corniche: 30 kilometers of waterfront perfection with sculptures dotting the promenade
- King Fahd's Fountain: World's tallest fountain (312 meters)—watching it at night is mesmerizing
- Floating Mosque: The Al Rahma Mosque appears to float on water during high tide. Absolutely magical for photography
Foodie Alert: Jeddah's food scene is seriously underrated. Try traditional Saudi dishes like mandi (rice and lamb), kabsa, and don't skip the Red Sea fish at any of the waterfront restaurants.
Art Scene: Jeddah has become a surprising art hub. The open-air Jeddah Sculpture Museum features works by famous artists scattered throughout the city—it's like a treasure hunt.
Best For: Culture seekers, art lovers, beach people, and serious foodies
How Many Days: 2-3 days (add more if you're diving the Red Sea)
3. AlUla & Madain Saleh: Saudi's Archaeological Crown Jewel
Okay, I need you to sit down for this one because AlUla is going to blow your mind.
Imagine Petra in Jordan, but with 90% fewer tourists and spread across a valley that looks like a movie set. That's AlUla. And at its heart? Madain Saleh (also called Hegra), Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage site.
What You'll Experience in AlUla
The Headliners:
- Hegra (Madain Saleh): 111 Nabataean tombs carved into towering sandstone mountains. The largest? Qasr Al-Farid, a 72-foot masterpiece standing alone in the desert
- Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil): This natural rock formation literally looks like an elephant. Sunset here is pure magic
- Old Town AlUla: 900-year-old mud-brick village maze that you can actually explore
- Dadan & Jabal Ikmah: Ancient Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms with incredible rock inscriptions
Experience Alert: AlUla has transformed into a luxury destination. We're talking the spectacular Maraya (world's largest mirrored building), gourmet dining under stars, hot air balloon rides over ancient sites, and even concerts featuring international artists.
Winter at Tantora Festival: If you're visiting December through February, this cultural festival is phenomenal—think concerts in ancient oases, art installations, and heritage celebrations.
Best For: History enthusiasts, archaeology nerds, luxury travelers, and anyone who wants epic Instagram content
How Many Days: 3-4 days minimum (you could easily spend a week)
Insider Tip: Book your Hegra tickets in advance through the Experience AlUla website. Trust me on this.
4. Abha: The Mountain Paradise You Didn't Know About
Hold up—mountains in Saudi Arabia?
Yes! Abha, perched at 2,200 meters in the Asir Province, is Saudi's cool summer escape (literally—temperatures here are about 10-15°C cooler than the rest of the country).
Why Abha Is Different?
Top Experiences:
- Asir National Park: Hiking trails through juniper forests with baboons (yes, baboons!) and incredible bird watching
- Habala Village: Ancient cliff-side village accessible only by cable car. The views will make your heart skip
- Green Mountain: At night, this mountain is lit up in green lights, creating this surreal scene
- Tuesday Market: Traditional weekly market selling everything from honey to handicrafts
The Vibe: Abha feels more like you're in Ethiopia or Yemen than Saudi Arabia. The local architecture features colorful painted houses, the climate is spring-like year-round, and the landscapes are lush and green.
Best For: Hikers, mountain lovers, anyone escaping summer heat, and photographers
How Many Days: 2-3 days
When to Visit: Year-round destination, but summer (June-August) is when Saudis flock here for cooler weather
5. Taif: Where Roses and History Bloom
Ever wondered where Saudi perfume comes from? Taif is your answer.
Sitting in the mountains between Mecca and Riyadh, Taif is famous for its rose gardens and has been a summer retreat for Saudi royalty for decades.
What Makes Taif Special?
Must-Experiences:
- Rose Farms & Festival: April is peak rose season. Watching traditional rose water distillation is fascinating
- Shubra Palace: Ottoman-era summer palace that's now a museum
- Souq Okaz: Ancient pre-Islamic marketplace that's been revived as a cultural festival
- Al Rudaf Park: Cable car rides with spectacular mountain views
- Taif Old Market: Get lost in the traditional souq—the honey here is legendary
Fun Fact: Taif roses are so prized that the oil can cost more than gold per gram. No wonder they call it "liquid gold."
Best For: Garden lovers, cultural enthusiasts, honeymooners (it's genuinely romantic), and anyone who loves perfumes
How Many Days: 1-2 days (perfect day trip from Jeddah or stopover between Jeddah and Riyadh)
6. Najran: The Forgotten Ancient Kingdom
This southern city near the Yemeni border is one of Saudi's best-kept secrets.
Najran has been inhabited for 4,000 years, and the archaeological evidence is everywhere. This is where history gets really old.
Najran's Hidden Treasures Key Sites:
- Al-Ukhdood Archaeological Site: Ruins dating to the 1st century AD with ancient inscriptions
- Najran Museum: Houses artifacts spanning millennia
- Najran Dam: Considered one of the oldest dams in Saudi Arabia
- Traditional Souks: The date markets here are incredible—Najran is famous for its palm cultivation
Architecture Watch: The traditional mud-brick forts with their distinctive design are unlike anything else in Saudi Arabia. The Al-Aan Palace is particularly impressive.
Best For: Off-the-beaten-path travelers, archaeology fans, and culture seekers
How Many Days: 1-2 days
Travel Note: Less touristy infrastructure here, so plan accordingly
7. The Empty Quarter (Rub' al Khali): Earth's Largest Sand Desert
Ready for something truly epic?
The Empty Quarter is the world's largest continuous sand desert, covering 250,000 square miles of seemingly endless dunes that can reach 800 feet high.
Why Experience the Empty Quarter?
Desert Adventures:
- Dune bashing: 4x4 safaris over massive dunes (hold on tight!)
- Sandboarding: Exactly what it sounds like, and it's addictive
- Bedouin camping: Sleep under some of the world's clearest night skies
- Sunrise/sunset viewing: The colors are absolutely unreal
The Experience: There's something profoundly moving about being surrounded by nothing but sand as far as you can see. It's silent, vast, and humbling in the best way.
Wildlife Surprise: Despite appearing lifeless, the Empty Quarter hosts gazelles, Arabian oryx, and various bird species adapted to desert life.
Best For: Adventure seekers, photographers, anyone who wants a digital detox, and desert lovers
How Long: 1-2 nights (longer if you're doing a desert crossing expedition)
Best Time: November-February (summer is dangerously hot)
8. The Red Sea Coast: Saudi's Emerging Beach Paradise
Get ready, because Saudi Arabia is about to become a major beach destination.
The Red Sea Project is Saudi's ambitious plan to develop 90+ pristine islands and 200km of coastline into a luxury resort destination focused on sustainability.
What's Happening on the Red Sea?
Current State (2025):
- Phase 1 resorts opening: Luxury properties are starting to welcome guests
- Pristine diving: Some of the world's most untouched coral reefs
- Beach resorts: High-end properties along the coast
- Water sports: Kitesurfing, diving, snorkeling, sailing
What Makes It Special: Saudi's Red Sea coastline has been mostly unexplored for decades, meaning the coral reefs and marine life are incredibly healthy. We're talking 300+ coral species and over 1,200 fish species.
Sustainability Focus: The project aims to power entirely on renewable energy and has committed to enhancing biodiversity across the region.
Best For: Beach lovers, divers, luxury travelers, and anyone who wants to experience somewhere before it becomes "the next big thing"
When to Visit: Year-round, but diving is best September-November and March-May
Customize Your Dream Vacation!
Get in touch with our local experts for an unforgettable journey.
Plan Your Trip9. Al Ahsa Oasis: The World's Largest Oasis
Did you know the world's largest natural oasis is in Saudi Arabia?
Al Ahsa, in eastern Saudi Arabia, is home to over 2.5 million date palms—yes, you read that right. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Discovering Al Ahsa Top Attractions:
- The Oasis: Wander through endless palm groves fed by natural springs
- Qasr Ibrahim: Historical fort and military center
- Al Qara Mountain: Natural caves with unique rock formations
- Traditional markets: The dates here are arguably the world's best
Date Education: Al Ahsa produces dozens of date varieties. The local guides can teach you to identify different types by taste and texture—it's fascinating.
Best For: Nature lovers, agricultural tourism fans, and anyone seeking authentic experiences
How Many Days: 1-2 days
10. Ha'il: Gateway to Ancient Rock Art
For rock art enthusiasts, Ha'il is paradise. This northern region contains some of the most significant prehistoric rock art sites in the world, with carvings dating back 10,000 years.
Ha'il's Ancient Art
UNESCO Sites:
- Jubbah Rock Art: Petroglyphs depicting humans, animals, and symbols from multiple periods
- Al-Shuwaymus Rock Art: More incredible ancient carvings in dramatic desert settings
The Story: These sites show evidence of ancient human presence when the Arabian Peninsula was much greener and supported diverse wildlife like lions and hyenas.
Best For: History buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and photographers
How Many Days: 2 days
11. NEOM & The Line: Experiencing the Future
Okay, this one's wild because it's literally being built right now.
NEOM is Saudi's $500 billion megacity project in the northwest, including The Line (a 170km linear city), Trojena (a mountain resort with skiing), and Sindalah (a luxury island).
What You Can Experience Now?
Current Visitor Options:
- Viewing areas: See construction of futuristic projects
- Sindalah Island: Luxury resort recently opened
- Desert landscapes: The NEOM region's natural beauty is stunning
- Red Sea beaches: Pristine coastline before development
Why Visit Now: Witnessing this unprecedented development is historical in itself. It's like seeing Dubai being built from scratch.
Best For: Future-focused travelers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone curious about ambitious megaprojects
12. Farasan Islands: The Arabian Caribbean
Last but definitely not least: Saudi's best-kept secret islands.
The Farasan Islands in the Red Sea are an archipelago of coral islands with pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and traditional fishing villages.
Farasan Island Magic
What to Experience:
- White sand beaches: Practically deserted
- Snorkeling/diving: Healthy coral reefs
- Birdwatching: Important migratory bird stop
- Traditional villages: Authentic island life
- Ottoman architecture: Historic buildings in Farasan town
Getting There: Ferry from Jizan on the mainland (about 2 hours)
Best For: Beach lovers, divers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking total relaxation
How Long: 2-3 days
Essential Tips for Visiting Saudi Arabia
Alright, practical stuff time. Here's what you need to know before you go:
Visa Information
Good News: Saudi Arabia now offers tourist eVisas to citizens from 63+ countries. The process is super simple:
Apply online at visa.visitsaudi.com
Cost: Around $120-150 USD
Valid for 1 year, multiple entries
Up to 90 days per visit
Dress Code (Let's Keep It Real)
For Women:
- Abaya is no longer mandatory for tourists (big change!)
- Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees
- Loose-fitting clothing recommended
- Bring a scarf for visiting mosques
For Men:
- Long pants (shorts are okay at beach resorts)
- T-shirts fine, but sleeveless shirts less common
- Traditional dress not required but respectful at religious sites
Cultural Dos and Don'ts
DO:
- Accept Arabic coffee (qahwa) when offered; it's a hospitality ritual
- Remove shoes when entering homes
- Use your right hand for eating and greeting
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially women
DON'T:
- Public displays of affection (even between married couples)
- Eat/drink in public during Ramadan daylight hours
- Bring alcohol or drugs (seriously, don't)
- Point your feet at people when sitting
Money Matters
- Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)
- Exchange Rate: Approximately 1 USD = 3.75 SAR (pegged)
- Cards: Widely accepted in cities, bring cash for souks
- ATMs: Everywhere in urban areas
- Tipping: 10-15% in restaurants (often included as service charge)
Best Time to Visit
November - March (Peak Season):
Perfect weather (15-25°C / 59-77°F)
All outdoor activities comfortable
Can be crowded during holidays
April - May & September - October (Shoulder Season):
Still pleasant, slightly warmer
Better prices
Less crowded
June - August (Avoid Unless...):
Extremely hot (40-50°C / 104-122°F)
Exception: Abha and mountain regions stay cooler
Much cheaper, but brutal heat
Getting Around
Domestic Flights:
Surprisingly affordable between major cities
Airlines: Saudia, Flynas, Flyadeal
Renting a Car:
Highly recommended for flexibility
Roads are excellent
GPS works well
International license + home license accepted
Uber and Careem available in cities
Trains:
New high-speed rail connecting major cities
Comfortable and affordable
Language
Official: Arabic
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants
Translation apps are your friend
Learn a few Arabic phrases; locals appreciate the effort
- Marhaba (Hello)
- Shukran (Thank you)
- Min fadlak (Please)
- Ma'a salama (Goodbye)
Safety
Real talk: Saudi Arabia is one of the safest countries I've traveled to. Crime rates are very low, especially violent crime.
Stay Smart:
- Follow local laws (they're strict)
- Women can travel solo safely
- Keep emergency numbers handy
- Stay hydrated (seriously, the heat is no joke)
Internet & Connectivity
5G available in major cities
Tourist SIM cards at airports (cheap and easy)
WiFi in most hotels, cafes, restaurants
VoIP (like WhatsApp calls) works fine
How to Plan Your Saudi Arabia Trip
Sample Itineraries
1 Week: Greatest Hits
- Days 1-2: Riyadh (Edge of the World, museums, souks)
- Days 3-4: AlUla/Madain Saleh
- Days 5-6: Jeddah (Al-Balad, Corniche, diving)
- Day 7: Return
10 Days: History & Adventure
- Days 1-2: Riyadh
- Days 3-5: AlUla & Madain Saleh
- Day 6: Taif
- Days 7-8: Abha & Asir Province
- Days 9-10: Jeddah & Red Sea
2 Weeks: Ultimate Saudi Experience
- Days 1-3: Riyadh (include Edge of the World)
- Days 4-6: AlUla & Madain Saleh
- Days 7-8: Ha'il (rock art)
- Day 9: Taif
- Days 10-11: Abha
- Days 12-14: Jeddah & Red Sea coast
Booking Your Trip
Tour vs. Independent:
Go on a tour if:
- First time in the Middle East
- Want hassle-free logistics
- Interested in specialized experiences (archaeology, adventure)
- Limited time
Go independent if:
- Comfortable with self-planning
- Want flexibility
- Have more time
- Enjoy spontaneous travel
Accommodation:
- Luxury: International chains present in major cities
- Mid-range: Growing options everywhere
- Budget: Hostels emerging in tourist areas
- Unique: Desert camps, heritage hotels, boutique properties
Why You Should Visit Saudi Arabia Before Everyone Else Does
Here's the thing: Saudi Arabia is at this amazing sweet spot right now.
The infrastructure is rapidly improving. Sites are becoming more accessible. Luxury experiences are multiplying. But it hasn't been discovered by the masses yet.
You can still explore Madain Saleh without fighting crowds. You can have entire sections of the Empty Quarter to yourself. You can experience authentic souks that haven't been turned into tourist traps.
This window won't last forever.
In five years, AlUla will likely be as crowded as Petra. The Red Sea will be dotted with mega-resorts. The secret spots won't be secret anymore.
Right now? You can:
- Be one of the first tourists to explore these ancient sites
- Experience hospitality before tourism becomes routine
- See history being made (NEOM, Red Sea Project)
- Tell friends you went to Saudi Arabia when it was still "undiscovered"
Final Thoughts: Saudi Arabia Is Unlike Anywhere Else
I'll be honest—when I first visited Saudi Arabia, I had zero expectations. And that's probably why it completely blew me away.
This country offers something genuinely different in our over-touristed world: mystery, discovery, authenticity. It's not trying to be another generic beach destination or theme park country. Saudi Arabia is confidently itself—ancient yet ambitious, traditional yet transformative.
Whether you're standing before 2,000-year-old Nabataean tombs, climbing sand dunes that seem to touch the sky, diving pristine Red Sea reefs, or sipping traditional coffee in a Riyadh café, you'll feel it: you're experiencing something special.
So here's my advice:
Don't overthink it. Don't wait for the "perfect time." Just go.
Book that flight. Apply for the visa. Pack your bags (modestly, remember).
Because five years from now, when Saudi Arabia is on everyone's bucket list and travel influencers are flooding every photo spot, you'll be that person who went when it was still an adventure.
And trust me—future you will be grateful.
Ready to Start Planning? Here's What to Do Next:
-
Get inspired: Bookmark this guide and the specific places that excited you most
-
Check visa requirements: Head to visa.visitsaudi.com and start your application
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Choose your season: Decide between November-March for best weather
-
Book accommodations: Start with major cities (Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla)
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Research tours: Especially for AlUla/Madain Saleh and desert experiences
-
Learn basics: Download Arabic translation app, read up on customs
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Pack smart: Modest clothing, sun protection, comfortable shoes
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Go: Seriously, just go. You won't regret it.
Have questions about planning your Saudi Arabia adventure? The country is changing so fast that having current information is crucial. Whether you're wondering about specific sites, logistics, or just need reassurance that you can actually do this, reach out to reputable tour operators or join online Saudi Arabia travel communities.
Saudi Arabia isn't just opening its doors; it's rolling out the red carpet.
Will you accept the invitation? Book Your Saudi Tours Today!
Absolutely! Saudi Arabia is safe for solo female travelers. You don't need a male guardian. Just dress modestly and use common sense (same as anywhere).
Yes! With the tourist visa, non-Muslims can visit all areas except Mecca and Medina's holy sites. These remain restricted to Muslims only.
Moderate to expensive. Comparable to UAE but with more budget options emerging. Domestic transport and food can be affordable; luxury experiences can be pricey.
Yes, it's actually mandatory for the tourist visa. Get comprehensive coverage.
No, alcohol is completely prohibited throughout Saudi Arabia. Zero tolerance policy with severe penalties.
Some websites and apps are blocked. VPN usage is common among tourists.
Yes, but be respectful. Restaurants close during day (hotel restaurants often stay open), and the vibe changes. Evenings are actually quite festive.
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