Once a land closed to most, Saudi Arabia is now one of the world’s most exciting destinations to explore. From ancient tombs in the desert to futuristic cities rising from the sands, it’s a country where tradition meets transformation.
Ready to explore this mysterious and magical land? Let’s dive into the top things to do in Saudi Arabia!
🏛️ 1. Explore AlUla & the Ancient Tombs of Hegra
Step into history at AlUla, home to Hegra (Madain Saleh) — Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site.
Think Petra, but with fewer crowds and just as much mystery.
🗿 Wander among:
- Ancient Nabatean tombs
- Carved rock facades
- Stunning desert canyons
- Balloon festivals and desert concerts 🎈🎶
Don’t miss the incredible Elephant Rock, a natural sandstone formation perfect at sunset! 🐘🌅
🕋 2. Visit Mecca & Medina (for Muslims only)
For Muslim travelers, a pilgrimage to Mecca (Makkah) and Medina is a deeply spiritual journey.
- Masjid al-Haram: Home of the Kaaba – Islam’s holiest site
- Al-Masjid an-Nabawi: Prophet Muhammad’s mosque in Medina
- Peaceful, powerful, and awe-inspiring places of worship 🙏✨
🏙️ 3. Soak Up the Vibes in Riyadh
The capital city is full of contrasts: futuristic skyscrapers, traditional souks, modern art, and desert adventures.
✔️ Must-do in Riyadh:
- Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge – Incredible city views 🏙️
- National Museum – Dive into Saudi’s history 📚
- Diriyah – A UNESCO site and the birthplace of Saudi Arabia 🕌
- Edge of the World – Jaw-dropping desert cliff hike 🏜️🧗
🏄 4. Relax at the Red Sea Beaches in Jeddah
Jeddah is the kingdom’s coastal gem – perfect for beach lovers, divers, and foodies.
🌊 Top experiences:
- Scuba diving in the Red Sea reefs 🤿🐠
- Strolling along Jeddah Corniche – artsy, breezy, and beautiful 🌴
- Historic Al-Balad – a UNESCO-listed old town with coral-stone houses 🏘️
- Try local seafood and mutabbaq (savory stuffed pancake) 🍽️
🕌 5. Discover Hidden Oases in the Empty Quarter
Welcome to Rub’ al Khali, the world’s largest sand desert 🌍
Think endless dunes, golden silence, and mysterious desert life.
🧭 Adventure lovers can:
- Go dune bashing in a 4×4 🚙
- Camp under the stars 🌌
- Visit oases like Al Ahsa, another UNESCO site 🌴
🧕 6. Experience Saudi Culture & Local Hospitality
Saudi Arabia is more than its landmarks — it’s about its people and traditions.
✨ Try:
- Wearing a thobe or abaya 👗
- Sipping traditional Arabic coffee (qahwa) and dates ☕
- Visiting a souq (market) for spices, perfumes, and gold 💰
- Watching a camel race or falconry show 🐪🦅
🌆 7. Check Out NEOM & the City of the Future
Saudi Arabia is building NEOM, a $500-billion futuristic city rising from the desert.
⚡ What’s coming:
- The Line – a 170km linear smart city
- Trojena – a ski resort in the desert! 🎿
- Oxagon – a floating industrial hub
While it’s still under development, parts of NEOM like Sindalah Island are opening soon!
📌 Good to Know Before You Go:
- 🧕 Dress modestly (women wear abayas in public; men dress conservatively)
- 🚗 Car rental is popular for exploring
- 🍽️ Alcohol is not available in Saudi Arabia
- 💳 Card payments are widely accepted
- 🌤️ Best time to visit: November to March (cooler weather)
🌟 Final Word: More Than You Ever Expected
Saudi Arabia is a land of contrasts: ancient ruins and futuristic cities, vast deserts and turquoise seas, deep-rooted tradition and bold new visions.
If you’re looking for a destination that’s still off the beaten path, but full of wonders, Saudi Arabia will absolutely surprise you 🇸🇦💫
💬 Have you ever thought of visiting Saudi Arabia? What would you explore first — the desert, the sea, or the sky-high cities? Drop your thoughts below!👇