Do you love exploring historical sites? If so, we have a great destination for you this time. To know more, continue with this blog till the end. Try exploring Sakaka, the administrative capital of Al Jawf Province in the Saudi Arabia for the best experience. Often spelled Sakakah, this is an oasis town across the Arabian Peninsula, steeped in history and culture. Sakaka is home to many historic & prehistoric archaeological sites including Za'abal Castle, dating back to pre-Islamic times. Be it exploring its ancient ruins, historical sites, modern developments, and natural attractions, there are numerous places to visit in Sakaka that provide a unique blend of old and new culture. Do you want to know more about this place? Read further then!
Must-Visit Places to Visit in Sakaka with Your Favorite People
Sakaka is a great destination to experience history, culture, adventure and welcoming hospitality. Lying on the old caravan route from the Mediterranean Sea, the city has prehistoric archaeological sites offering everything history buffs look for. One can plan their trip to this iconic destination whenever they want, however the best time to visit Sakaka is from November to February due to the mild and pleasant weather. During this time, the weather is perfect to explore most of the tourist places to visit in Sakaka without facing Saudi’s scorching heat.
- Marid Castle
- Za'abal Castle
- Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Mosque
- Al-Rajajil Standing Stones
- Sisira well
1. Marid Castle
Also known as Qasr Marid or Al Marid Fortress, Marid Castle is a historic castle that attracts many visitors every year. Being one of the oldest archaeological sites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it consists of numerous forts, watchtowers and bastions dating back to the first and second centuries. The towers offer panoramic views of the surroundings, making it one of the top sights in Sakaka.
Location: Located 50 km from Sakaka
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: 50 Saudi Riyals Per Person
2. Za'abal Castle
Also called Zaabal Fort or Zaabal Palace, Za'abal Castle lies at the top of a mountain in the northwest corner of Saudi Arabia. The most interesting thing about this major tourist attraction in Sakaka is it sits on top of a well system running throughout the city of Sakakah for centuries. Visiting Za'abal Castle is one of the best things to do in Saudi Arabia if you love exploring archaeological sites, especially ancient mud stone structures.
Location: Sakaka 72311, Saudi Arabia
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 24/7
- Friday – 12 AM to 7 AM
- Saturday – Closed
- Sunday – 7 AM to 12 AM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Cave Diving in Saudi Arabia: Top Things to Know
3. Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Mosque
If you're looking for some good places to visit in Sakaka to explore true Islamic culture, Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Mosque is a true gem. Being one of the beautiful mosques in Saudi Arabia, here one can discover the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity. The mosque is dedicated to Prince Sultan and is a place of worship and a cultural landmark, drawing visitors from near and far. Also, the mosque's location offers picturesque views of the surroundings, making it one of the most popular places to visit in Sakaka, Saudi Arabia for photography enthusiasts.
Location: W5HP+PCG, King Fahd Ibn Abdulaziz Rd, Sakaka, الفيصلية, 72346, SA
Opening Hours: 24/7
4. Al-Rajajil Standing Stones
This is another good place to visit in Sakaka for every history enthusiast who loves to dive deep into the country's rich past. You must be confused about hearing the name of this place. Right? Well, the standing stones of Al-Rajajil represent an enigma about which very few have heard of. Sometimes referred to as the “Standing Men”, the Al-Rajajil standing stones are a collection of fifty groups of man-made stone, standing near the ancient town of Sakakah. It is one of the most famous archaeological monuments in Saudi Arabia, dating back to around seven thousand years. So, next time when you look for some of the most popular historical places in Saudi Arabia, try exploring these standing stones of Al-Rajajil.
Location: R67C+682, Sakaka 72466, Saudi Arabia
Opening Hours: 24/7
5. Sisira Well
Sisira Well (also known as Sisera Well or Sisra Well) also lies on the list of the best places to visit in Sakaka, KSA for people who have a deep interest in learning about the rich heritage and ancient ingenuity of the country. Dating back to the Nabataean Period, it is a well dug into sandy rock and is known for its historical and cultural significance. As soon as you enter the site, you will be greeted by the astonishing architecture and tranquil landscape. Being one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia, Sisra Well is a great place to learn about the rich past of the KSA.
Location: Sisra well, Sakaka 72311, Saudi Arabia
Opening Hours: 24/7
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Sakaka is indeed a great location for every history enthusiast who has a deep interest in learning about ancient past and rich culture. Apart from this, the city also offers desert safari experiences for those seeking outdoor adventure. Whether you’re interested in discovering ancient forts and cultural attractions, or captivating museums, there are many places to visit in Sakaka for every type of traveler. So, what are your plans? Have you made up your mind to travel to this city? If so, book from our best Saudi Arabia tour packages and explore Sakakah’s most popular sights with your loved ones.
Places to Visit in Sakaka – FAQs
Sakaka has a few historical sites that one can explore. Here is the list:
- Al Jouf Museum of Archaeology and Folklore
- Al Marid Fortress or Marid Castle or Qasr Marid Castle
- Al Hazm Fort
Well, Sakaka is not as famous as Mecca and Medina for being the holiest cities in Saudi Arabia. However, there are a few religious places in the city, including Sisera Well and Umar ibn al-Khattab Mosque.
Al-Jouf (Al Jouf or Al-Jawf) International Airport, located around 31.5 km from Sakaka is the nearest airport in the capital of Al-Jouf Province in Saudi Arabia.
You must try some regional specialities like Kabsa, Mutabbaq or Murtabak, Shorba, and Al-Hassawi Rice when in Sakaka.
Not at all. Sakaka is less expensive as compared to other major cities in Saudi Arabia. Accommodation and transportation are cheaper however, food and entertainment options can be expensive.
There are numerous best hotels in Sakakah where you can have a comfortable stay, including:
- Le Park Concord Hotel - Sakaka
- Bahget Eljouf Furnished Apartment
- Admato Hotel
- Sweet Spirit Hotel
- Raoum Inn Hotel
To get around Sakaka, you can use public transport like buses, hire private taxis, and book rental cars.
The Marid Castle remains open every day of the week i.e. from Monday to Sunday between 8 AM to 6 PM.
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