5 Exciting Tourist Spots In Saudi Arabia

Praveen Vikkath

Saudi Arabia has been always looked upon as a holy place since ancient times. However, with its strange geographies and rich cultural heritage Saudi also attracts many tourists every year. There are many sought after tourist attractions in Saudi Arabia. A pulsating vibe of an ancient civilization in these destinations still strikes every traveler when he or she tends to explore this desert valley nation.

Here are the 5 tourist destinations in Saudi Arabia

Diriyah

Being one of the UNESCO’s world heritage centers and built on a beautiful oasis of the outskirts of Riyad, Diriyah is traditional headquarter of Al Saud family, the rulers of the kingdom. The important attraction here is homes made of mud brick walls and tourists can roam around through these brick wall homes situated with a touch of ancient times. Saudi historical and cultural museum which narrates the story of the ancient civilization, the century old Salwa palace and food shops that offer traditional Arab food items are the other attractions in Diriyah.

Al-‘Ula

Al-‘Ula, is a city of the Medina Region in north-western Saudi Arabia. It  is home to incredibly beautiful natural rock formations and canyons and ancient tombs which date back to more than 7,000 years. Al-‘Ula is the Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient city also offers adventure sports options and cutting-edge art installations.

Al Balad

Known as ‘the Bride of the Red Sea’, Al Balad (old town) in Jeddha is well known for its elaborately designed 500-year-old buildings built with coral from the Red Sea. Built in 7th century the city was used by pilgrims as a corridor to Mecca. The renovated Mecca gate standing on the Makkah al-Mukkarramah road of the Jeddah–Makkah Highway now bears the stamp of antiquity of modern Saudi. Souq Al Alawi , according to visitsaudi.com, situating close to the Matbouli House Museum in Jeddah’s ancient beating heart, sprawls maze-like through the narrow alleyways, filling the surrounding neighborhood with the waft of exotic spices and the noisy cries of street hawkers selling their wares.

The historic pilgrim market is Saudi Arabia’s largest bazaar and the best place in Jeddah to pick up everything from the finest Arabian dates to the tastiest local street food. Indulge in a Mutabaq (stuffed pancake) as you browse the stalls.

Taif

According to visitsaudi.com, Taif is often referred to as the City of Roses. Taif is known for its famously fragrant flowers that grow in the surrounding wadis and mountains. It’s also known as Saudi’s unofficial summer capital. Because of its altitude, Taif is a cool escape from the heat. And while the roses bloom in April, the city really blossoms in August, when the Souq Okaz cultural festival and the Crown Prince Camel Festival are in full swing.Cool and green Taif isn’t just about exquisite mountain sceneries and idyllic weather, it has tons to offer to thrill-seekers as well.

Red Sea Coast

Saudi’s Red sea coast which lies between gulf of Aqaba and Farasan Island , spread over 1700 kms has long beaches and is a paradise for those who like diving and snorkeling. This coastline is also rich in coral reefs, dolphins,turtles,Du-gongs etc.

Exotic shores across this coastal area provide compelling experience to any traveler.