Saudi Arabia, one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for followers of Islam all around the world, is also home to many interesting landmarks and sites. Known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the country has a diverse history, culture, and spectacular architecture. Speaking about tourism and attraction, there is no dearth of places to visit in Saudi Arabia to leave you spellbound. Every city here delivers a sense of rich culture and tradition dating back centuries. From archeological sites, tranquil mosques, majestic museums to extravagant skyscrapers and luxuriating malls, hotels, and restaurants; let us check out the excellent spots that are must be explored in the country.
Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia: Discover the Interesting Marvels in the Country
There is a plethora of exquisite places to visit in Saudi Arabia with one being as interesting and unique as the other. One can explore different terrain from tranquil beaches and lush green mountains to majestic museums and intriguing archeological sites. You cannot miss trying the unique and piquant flavors of traditional Arabic dishes at numerous opulent restaurants. And if you feel like getting something precious for the loved ones back home, the country is a hub of vibrant souks, opulent restaurants, and splendid malls to get anything and everything. Now, let's get acquainted with some of the top places.
- Umm Al - Qamari Island
- Qasr al-Farid - Hegra
- Al Nakheel Mall by Arabian - Riyadh
- Al Rahma Mosque - Jeddah
- Deerah Souq - Riyadh
- Dammam Corniche - Dammam
- Aseer National Park - Aseer
- Al-Masjid An-Nabawi - Medina
- Al Nakheel Beach - Al Jubail
- Jebel Al Akhdar - Abha
- Masjid Al-Haram – Mecca
- King Abdulaziz Historical Center (National Museum) - Riyadh
- Winter Park – Al Ula
- Al Asfar Lake – Umran City
- Half Moon Beach – Al Khobar
1. Umm Al- Qamari Island
Islands are among the top tourist attractions in Saudi Arabia, offering you an unwinding experience of beauty, luxury, and leisure. Umm Al- Qamari Island is one of the most spectacular attractions luring nature lovers to spend a relaxing time. The island in Saudi Arabia is home to a plethora of migratory birds and a dense wilderness, making it a heavenly abode. From the corals to the exotic flora, Umm Al Qamari Island has a rich bio-diversity, which is quite shocking in the arid climate. One can spot the diverse range of birdlife like the eagle, white egret heron, and African collared lunar. One of the natural reserves in Saudi Arabia, it is managed by the national center for the development of wildlife to preserve rare and indigenous species.
- Time: Open all day
- Top Attractions: Exotic flora, corals, and leisure time
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2. Qasr al-Farid- Hegra
Qasr al-Farid, also called The Lonely Castle, is also among the oldest and historical places to visit in Saudi Arabia. With an impressive ancient structure, this old and ruined castle was built in the 1st century CE, but the tall facade of the castle was never actually finished. While Qasr al-Farid is recognized as a castle, it is a tomb that was a part of the ancient Nabatean site of Hegra.
Talking about its art and architecture, Qasr al-Farid has a unique construction technique inspired by the Nabateans. The monument, due to its unusual architecture, appears to never have been completed. The incomplete piece of the tomb provides a fascinating glimpse into the ancient carvers' process before the coarser work was polished away. One of the best tourist places in Saudi Arabia, Qasr al-Farid was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 2008.
Time: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Top Attractions: Unusual architecture, history, and heritage
3. Al Nakheel Mall by Arabian- Riyadh
When you are in Saudi Arabia, you surely can’t miss shopping. Al Nakheel Mall in Riyadh is one of the top Saudi Arabia tourist spots where you can find a wide range of shopping accessories, fashion brands, and more to quench your thirst for an exclusive collection. Even if you are in the city to spend New Year in Saudi Arabia, the mall is quite a place to spend the eve.
Al Nakheel Mall is famous for its sticking architecture and top-notch facilities that make it one of the famous tourist places in Saudi Arabia. Experiencing a footfall of more than 200,000 people per week, this place is surely the most happening spot for families. You will find the best collection of international brands like Lefties, LC Waikiki, ZARA, Kipling, Karaca, Bershka, and Aldo. Not only shopping, but you will also find the best cafés and restaurants for family dining.
Time: Saturday - Thursday: 9.30 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday: 2 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Top Attractions: Clothes, accessories, cafés and restaurants
Suggested Read: Ramadan In Saudi Arabia: Observing The Holiest Month In the Pious Land
4. Al Rahma Mosque- Jeddah
While you are in Saudi Arabia, one thing that you cannot miss is exploring its rich culture and spiritual sites. Al Rahma Mosque in Jeddah is among the most significant Saudi Arabia tourist places. With the turquoise dome and striking architecture, the mosque is enclosed by the waters of Red Sea and is also known as the floating Mosque. The white silts of the mosque appear to be suspended, which looks like floating on the river.
The magnificent aura and serenity of the Al Rahma Mosque make it one of the perfect places to visit in Saudi Arabia. The open courtyard of the mosque is mostly crowded with tourists and locals who often visit the place to delve into its spiritual vibes. The city of Jeddah is a gateway to the holy cities of Makkah and Medina, attracting tourists and devotees from every corner.
Time: Everyday: 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Top Attractions: Turquoise dome, striking architecture, and tranquil vibes
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5. Deerah Souq- Riyadh
Riyadh is a shopper’s hub, and the places like Deerah Souq are a must visit attraction for every tourist. Located in Thumairi Street, Deerah Souq is also known as Al-Thumairi Souq. One of the old and traditional markets or tourist spot in Saudi Arabia, Deerah souq is the perfect place to buy souvenirs and authentic Arabic items for the loved ones back home. The market adorns the vintage touch and is quite an ancient place to better understand the history of the city. The souq is famous for its intricate gold antiques sections. Shopping in Riyadh is an interesting way of understanding the culture of the city, like at Deerah souq you can buy some quality jewels, available in the traditional Arabian design.Other than the precious jewels, there is a wide range of souvenirs and handicraft items like carpets, traditional clothes and props, furniture, and other items available in different shops.
- Time: Open all day
- Top Attractions: Jewelry, carpets, and traditional items
6. Dammam Corniche- Dammam
Overlooking the magnificent beauty of the sea, Dammam Corniche is one of the top Saudi Arabiafamous places. The vibrant beauty of the corniche is all because of those buzzing cafes and fancy restaurants lined by the shore. Dammam Corniche in Saudi is the perfect leisure spot for the residents of the city or tourists looking for a serene destination to spend quality time with family and friends.
If you are celebrating your honeymoon in Saudi Arabia, then surprise your better half with a cruise dinner at the Dammam Corniche and enjoy the vistas of the city while floating in the water. You can take a tour around Marjan Island or just stay back at the corniche to observe the watch of the Persian Gulf in the evening. The Corniche stretches from Aziziah Beach and ends at Tarot Island, lending you a place to spend the evening and admire the picturesque views of the sunset.
Time: Open all day
Top Attractions: Café, boat ride, and cruise
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7. Aseer National Park
The first national park in the country, Aseer National Park is one of the most scenic attractions in Saudi Arabia. Known all around the country for its incredible beauty and serenity, the park is home to more than 300 rare and indigenous wilds. Perched at a height of 10,522 feet above sea level, Aseer National Park has the highest mountain in Saudi Arabia. The park was opened in 1980, and since then, it has been the most significant attraction for every nature lover. What’s unique about the charisma of the place is its lush green beauty, magnificent views, and flora spreading to vast areas. Enjoy the day admiring the landscape, the cold refreshing aura, and wildlife that is rare to the Gulf region. Being one of the top places to visit in Aseer; it is preferred by adventure enthusiasts for hiking and trekking to spot the wildest species of birds and other exotic animals.
Time: Open all day
Top Attractions: Wildlife, exotic flora, and trekking
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8. Al-Masjid An-Nabawi-Medina
Get ready to mesmerize yourself in the city of God. Visiting one of the holiest places in Saudi Arabia, Al-Masjid An-Nabawi gives you the vibes and feeling that you are in the presence of that Almighty. The holy city of Medina is considered to be the most religious and culturally important city of Islam. The city and the mosque were established by Prophet Mohammad who left Mecca and came to live in Medina for life and is among the best tourist attractions in Saudi Arabia. Medina adorns a plethora of religious and historical marvels that can be explored on your trip to Saudi Arabia. Millions of devotees visit the museum and seek blessings from God. If you want to explore more, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Medina after you have paid your respects at the mosque. The city is also brims with restaurants and shopping markets, providing tourists with the chance to savor culinary delights and take back home the best souvenirs for a lifetime experience.
Time: Open all day
Top Attractions: Tranquil vibes, blessings, and culture
9. Al Nakheel Beach- Al Jubail
The captivating beauty and tranquility of Al Nakheel Beach in Jubail attracts visitors from all over the world to relax and revive amidst the surreal beauty. The white sands, clear blue waters, and the lush greenery of the palm trees make up perfect scenery and makes this beach one of the best beaches in Saudi Arabia. The beauty of the numerous palm trees makes this place a complete bliss and the beach is also known as Palm Beach. Divided into three sections, the beach offers a place to relax under palm trees, another for playing volleyball and basketball, and the third section for basking in the sun on the beach. Click the best panoramic photographs to reminisce your holiday in one of the top Saudi Arabia places to visit.
Time: Open all day
Top Attractions: White sand, blue water, and tranquil vibes
10. Jebel Al Akhdar- Abha
If you are looking for a detox amidst nature’s beauty and relax in nature’s lap for a soul-soothing experience, then visit the beautiful hill station of Jebel Al Akhdar which is one of the best Saudi tourist places. Get mesmerized by the true beauty of nature and click on the best panoramic photographs. One can also relish savoring delicious snacks in small cafes in the mountains and enjoy the breathtaking views. Soak in the fresh mountain air, relax and rejuvenate in the natural scenery for a lifetime experience in this charming hill station in Saudi Arabia. The mountains overlooked are a cherry on the cake and make the scenery a complete bliss.
- Time: Open all day
- Top Attractions: Natural scenery, lush greenery, and cosy cafes
11. Masjid Al-Haram – Mecca
Visit the divine city of Mecca and get ready to mesmerize yourself in the worship of God. Located in the holy city of Mecca, Masjid Al-Haram is the biggest mosque in the world. Attracting millions of devotees from all over the world, the mosque is open 24 hours and is believed to be built by angels. There are indoor and outdoor praying spaces where numerous devotees come during Hajj. The mosque is an ancient architectural marvel that was once damaged by floods and then it was rebuilt and is among the top Mosques in Mecca. Today, the mosque is a great cultural attraction for Muslims worldwide and it is a dream of every Muslim devotee to visit Saudi Arabia and come here once in their lifetime to seek the blessing of Allah.
Time: Open all day
Top Attractions: Blessings, serene vibes, and beautiful architecture
Suggested Read: Ramadan In Saudi Arabia: Observing The Holiest Month In the Pious Land
12. King Abdulaziz Historical Center (National Museum)- Riyadh
King Abdul Aziz historical center, also known as the National Museum in Riyadh was built around the compound of the Murabba Palace. Spreading to an area of 1.5 kilometers, the museum is listed as a historical attraction in Saudi Arabia where one can admire the beauty of its architecture. King Abdul Aziz historical center, with more than eight exhibition halls, is exhibiting every element of Saudi’s History and heritage. The exhibited art here is well-lit, informative, and interactive to deliver every nitty-gritty of the country. One of the best tourist places in Saudi Arabia, this historical landmark is also home to a mosque, library, conference hall, park, green fields, and a fountain. King Abdul Aziz historical center also has a group of traditional homes that are used as reception centers to host major events and ceremonies.
Time: Monday - Thursday & Saturday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday: 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Top Attractions: History, exhibition halls, and rich heritage
13. Winter Park – Al Ula
One of the most fascinating cities in Saudi Arabia, Al Ula is frequently referred to as a "living museum" with preserved tombs, sandstone outcrops, antique homes, and monuments. There are many places in the city that not only demand a mere visit but also the efforts of tourists to try and understand them. However, if you are looking for fun places to visit in Al Ula, drop everything and choose Winter Park. Other than offering a plethora of amazing activities, festivals, and events, the hot air balloon ride is one that stands apart. Although the rides are only available for a certain time period, they are a must-try activity if you plan your holiday around the same time.
Time: N.A.
Top Attractions: Hot air balloon ride, fun events, and history
14. Al Asfar Lake – Umran City
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the first sight of Al Asfar Lake is both astonishing and mesmerizing. A beautiful body of water thriving around the dry, golden desert sand is a view worth taking pictures of. There are several iconic places to visit in Saudi Arabia, and visiting the lake must be one of them. The lush greenery, brimming water, and magnificent dunes surrounding the lake make it an even more delightful destination than it already is. Also known as the Yellow Lake; it is home to around 40 diverse species of flora. Turtles and frogs can be found floating in the lake, and seasonal birds like squacco herons and tiny grebes migrate to the lake in the winter.
Time: N.A.
Top Attractions: Scenic view, exotic flora and fauna, and dunes
15. Half Moon Beach – Al Khobar
The crescent-shaped beach on the Persian Gulf should be on your list of top Saudi Arabia beaches to visit. The mesmerizing view of the water, the soft white sand, and people indulging in different water sports are what you experience at this beautiful place. You have the opportunity to relax and bask in the sun or try some of the thrilling water activities that include swimming, parasailing, boat riding, and more. The beach is the perfect destination to spend some quality time with your family and end the day with a delicious barbecue dinner at any of the nearby luxury resorts.
Time: Open all day
Top Attractions: picturesque view, white sand, and delicious food
Unveil the beauty and culture of Saudi Arabia with its famous cities, historical sites, and museums. With a plethora of attractions and places to visit in Saudi Arabia, you can now plan the ideal vacation to relive its beauty, experience its culture, and explore every intricate beauty of its heritage. Where the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has always been recognized as a land of spatiality and religion, there is a lot more to its undefined beauty. Today, Saudi Arabia is becoming a new hub for those who love history and are keen to better understand the rich and diverse culture of the nation.
Shopping and eating, regardless of location, are complete stress relievers. Speaking of these two things, Saudi Arabia is one such place people should explore for their products and cuisine. So, the Saudi Arabia tour package is just what people need.
Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia - FAQs
The months from November to February are best for planning a holiday in Saudi Arabia. As the country experiences extremely hot summers, winters can be the right time to visit the country. You can also enjoy New Year and Saudi Arabia national day.
There are museums, malls, souks, and galleries in Saudi Arabia that deliver the beauty of the rich art and heritage of the country. Some of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia are:
- King Abdulaziz Historical Center
- Qasr al-Farid
- Al Rahma Mosque
- Deerah Souq
- Dammam Corniche
Deerah Souq is the best shopping place for every tourist. Derrah Souq in Riyadh is famous for its intricate gold antiques sections. You can show some quality jewels, available in the traditional Arabian design. Shops are selling a wide range of souvenirs and handicraft items like carpets, traditional clothes and props, and furniture.
Qasr al-Farid, also called The Lonely Castle, is located in Hegra. It is among the old and historical places with an impressive ancient structure, inspired by the Nabateans. This tourist place in Saudi Arabia was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 2008.
Al Rahma Mosque in Jeddah is all enclosed by the waters of RED SEA and is also known as the floating Mosque. The white silts of the mosque appear to be suspended, which looks like floating on the river. It is among the most significant attractions and spiritual places in the country and is famous for its turquoise dome and striking architecture.
King Abdul Aziz historical center, also known as the National Museum in Riyadh is a famous site to explore. King Abdul Aziz historical center, with more than eight exhibition halls, is exhibiting every element of Saudi’s History and heritage. There is a mosque, library, conference hall, park, green fields, and fountain to enhance the majestic beauty of this historical landmark.
Saudi Arabia is a country with rich art and history. Welcoming tourists from every corner of the world, these are the top cities you can visit.
- Riyadh
- Jeddah
- Dammam
- Mecca
- Medina
Yes, there are many artificial islands in Saudi Arabia, enhancing the infrastructure and landscape beauty of the place. Some top islands you can visit here for adventure and leisure are:
- Al Marjan Island Dammam
- Umm Al- Qamari Island
- Sanafir Island
- Sanafir Island
- Farasan island
There is a total of 25 major airports in Saudi Arabia, amongst which King Fahd International Airport is the biggest airport.
Abha is a beautiful hill station in Saudi Arabia known for its natural beauty of lush green mountains, picture-perfect scenery, mountain top cafes for a perfect vacation retreat.
