There is something spectacular about Saudi Arabia. Brimming with old-time stories and surreal landscapes that will leave you speechless, the country offers experiences for all types of travelers. Once a land shrouded in mystery, Saudi Arabia is now quickly becoming a must-visit destination, and with good reason. Whether it's the towering skyscrapers of Riyadh, the serene beaches and crystal clear waters of the Red Sea, the ancient mudbrick architecture of Diriyah's At-Turaif or the historic wonders of AlUla, the Kingdom will certainly leave a lasting impression.
But when a country is brimming with so much to offer, scouring the grounds and choosing the “must visits” beyond the ordinary can become a daunting task. Travel+Leisure India and South Asia is here to make planning easier with this handy guide to the must-see hidden gems in Saudi Arabia.
Hidden gems of Saudi Arabia
Edge of the World, Riyadh
Everyone knows Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. After all, it's historic souksmuseums, And architecture, skyscrapers and A The thriving art scene has been attracting travelers for years. But few venture beyond the city to see a gem hidden in plain sight: the end of the world. Name given to the 1,131 meter high cliff located 100 kilometers from the capital, Edge of the World is part of the Tuwaif mountain range. This dry, soilless surface is dotted with Samar and Acacia trees, Ghodi trees and Pole plants covering most of the high fixed dunes. On the ground, snails and fossils of marine life add to the flora and fauna, hinting at the area's ancient habitat.
Historic Jeddah – Al Balad, Jeddah
Before becoming a seaport of Mecca in 657 AD, Al-Balad or historic Jeddah was built on coastal land. It would serve as the central point of the city, where people from all walks of life would meet. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to ancient houses on its premiseseach of which has been transformed into art galleries or specialty cafes. Above, wooden Rawashins shelter the streets, a nod to the country's authentic architecture.
Once you arrive at the historic city of Jeddah, you will notice several gates. These doors date from ancient times when they would be used as protection For the markets from the surrounding streets. The most famous of these is Bab Jadeed, built under Saudi rule in the early 1940s and located in the eastern half of historic Jeddah. Facing the East is also Bab Makkah, intended to protect the market and form a passage. To the south is Bab Shareef, used as a passage to visit external markets.
Once there, be sure to visit the many houses including Bait Nassif (the first Arab house of oriental design in Jeddah), Bait Matbouli (which dates back 420 years), Bait Nour Wali (for a closer look at the ancient architecture of Jeddah called Rawashin), Beit Alsharbatly (one of the oldest historical houses in Jeddah), among others. If time permits, make stops at mosques like Rebat Alkhonji, Al Shafei Mosque, Al-Mimar Mosque, and Ain Farag Yosr.
Hegra, AlUla
Few people know about Hegra, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hegra, home to more than 110 preserved tombs and ancient wonders that provide insight into Nabataean history, is shaped by millions of years of erosion. Take for example the tomb of Lihyan, son of Kuza. Standing 72 feet tall and considered the largest tomb in Hegra, the rough chisel marks tell stories of projects left unfinished. Even today, unfinished and unsmoothed marks line its lower third. In the same wayJabal Banat, one of the largest tomb complexes in the region, has 29 tombs carved into the sandstone rock. The name evokes its origins. Jabal Banat refers to the number of tombs owned or commissioned by or for women.
The Jabal Ahmar, which has 18 tombs, is the latest addition. Recently search, the name refers to the unique red color of the rocks structuring the tombs. Further east, Jabal Ithlib is a natural mountain outcrop with a picturesque passage through the mountains. Today, it also serves as a venue for banquets and meetings between city leaders.
Maraya, AlUla
While AlUla celebrates ruggedness and history in abundance, Maraya (meaning “mirror” in Arabic) stands out with its contemporary aesthetic that blends into the surroundings. An architectural marvel located in the Ashar Valley of AlUla, this mirrored marvel, blending into the sandstone cliffs, is a hidden gem of Saudi Arabia in more ways than one. Its reflective surface — including of 9,740 mirrored panels, a Guinness World Record, provide a surreal experience as they appear and disappear with your every step. As sunlight dances across the ultra-modern surface, the building embodies the union of modernity and nature.
Inside, this modernity is visible in the 26-meter floor-to-ceiling facade which offers panoramic views of the Ashar Valley. Apart from captivating visitors with its innovative design and environmental harmony, Maraya also captivates guests by organizing events.
King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC)
Launched in 2005 to attract international businesses, the King Abdullah Economic City or KAEC now also shines as a leisure destination. Located on the shores of the Red Sea, KAEC is famous for its beaches, green spaces and multitude of family activities, the most popular of which is motorsport. Immerse yourself in a world of fun and thrills at Juman Karting, a 700-meter high-speed track. Then, head to the nearby K-Max Cinema to relax with an immersive 4D experience. Try your hand at putting at the city's Royal Greens Golf & Country Club, which hosts numerous international tournaments throughout the year. And, of course, take the time to grab a bite at the bouquet of restaurants, some of which also offer side ocean views!
Al-Bujairi Heritage and Tourism Park, Diriyah
Enter a world of tranquility at Al-Bujairi Heritage and Tourism Park, where lush greenery and serene waters create a captivating escape. Imagine strolling through palm-lined paths, the gentle rustling of leaves and calming sounds of nature being your constant companions. As you walk, discover hidden treasures niche amid the park's natural beauty: tranquil lakes reflecting the azure sky, towering trees casting dappled shade, and vibrant flora showcasing the region's biodiversity. You can enjoy the best traditional dishes with hot and cold drinks, available at food stalls throughout the park, or channel your inner shopaholic to purchase souvenirs and heritage products.
At-Turaif World Heritage Site, Diriyah
At-Turaif District, UNESCO World Heritage Site, presents itself as a testament to Saudi Arabia's rich history. This meticulously restored neighborhood features stunning palaces, mosques and mudbrick houses, reflecting the unique Najdi and Islamic architectural styles. Once here, immerse yourself in the past through its museums. Discover the stories of the early settlers, learn about the formation of the Saudi state, and appreciate the intricate details of Najdi and Islamic architecture. The district offers a fascinating journey through time, allowing visitors to experience for themselves the birthplace of the first Saudi state.
Another lesson is that history awaits you at Salwa Palace. An important landmark of At-Turaif, this hidden gem of Saudi Arabia welcomes visitors with its impressive 10,000 square meter area. Founded in 1765 AD, this palace served as the seat of government during the era of the first Saudi state. With its seven residential units and versatile design, Salwa Palace Also offered comfort and functionality to its residents and visitors.
Beyond the Salwa Palace, the The At-Turaif district offers a multitude of historical sites. Immerse yourself in yesteryear's Saudi social life at the Museum of Social Life, where you can explore traditional writing methods, educational systems, and the intricate design of Saudi homes. For horse enthusiasts, the Arabian Horse Museum offers a captivating insight into the history, breeds and remarkable qualities of these iconic animals.
Related: Where to go and what to do this summer in Saudi Arabia
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.