Saudi Arabia is no longer just known as a destination for the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, but is now also a rapidly growing international tourist destination. The country offers a variety of historical, modern, natural, and world-class entertainment attractions.
If you’re planning a visit to Saudi Arabia, here’s a guide to the best tourist destinations you should definitely add to your bucket list!
1. Mecca
Important destinations in Mecca:
- Masjid al-Haram & Kaaba
- Hajar al-Aswad
- Tomb of Prophet Ibrahim
- Jabal al-Noor (Cave of Hira’)
- Jabal al-Thur
- Jam Clock Tower (Abraj al-Bait Towers)
Besides religious tourism, the area around the Grand Mosque has modern malls, Islamic museums, and international restaurants.
2. Medina
Historical places that must be visited:
- Nabawi Mosque
- Raudhah
- Tomb of Rasulullah SAW and his Companions
- Quba Mosque (The first mosque in Islam)
- Jabal Uhud
- Qiblatain Mosque
3. AlUla – A Historic City Similar to Petra in Jordan
Popular tourist spots in AlUla:
- Hegra (Madain Saleh) – UNESCO Site
- Elephant Rock
- Old Town AlUla
- Jabal Ikmah (Museum of Ancient Writing)
AlUla is also known for its music, cultural, and hot air balloon festivals.
4. Jeddah – A Modern City on the Red Sea
Interesting Destinations:
- Jeddah Corniche
- King Fahd Fountain (World’s Tallest Fountain)
- Al-Balad (UNESCO Old City)
- Abdul Rauf Khalil Museum
- Red Sea Coast – snorkeling, diving, and sailing
Jeddah is the international gateway to Mecca and Medina
5. Riyadh – The Futuristic Capital
Favorite tourist attractions:
Kingdom Centre Tower (Iconic Sky Bridge)
Riyadh City Boulevard
Saudi National Museum
Masmak Fortress (historical citadel of Saudi Arabia’s founding)
Diriyah Gate – a UNESCO heritage destination
Riyadh is also home to the Riyadh Season festival, famous for its concerts, performances, and international events.
6. Abha – A Cool Natural Destination
Main attractions:
Asir Mountains
Habala Village
Al-Soudah National Park
Cable Car Abha
7. NEOM – Saudi Arabia’s City of the Future
NEOM’s territory includes:
The Line – A 170-km-long metaverse city
Sindalah Island – A luxury resort destination similar to the Maldives
Trojena – A ski resort in the middle of the desert (to be opened for tourism)
Saudi Arabia is now not only a religious destination, but also a center of historical, cultural, natural, and modern technological tourism.
If you’re looking for a unique and meaningful travel experience, Saudi Arabia is the perfect destination.
