Saudi Arabia is a land of breathtaking contrasts, where ancient desert cities, dramatic sandstone cliffs, hidden islands, and vast sand seas come together. From rich history and thrilling adventures to stunning nature and vibrant culture, the many Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia offer unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler.
1. Madain Saleh (Hegra) — UNESCO World Heritage Wonder
Location: Al-Ula, Madinah Province (North-West Saudi Arabia)
History: Madain Saleh, also known as Hegra or Al-Hijr, was the second most important city of the Nabataean civilization after Petra (Jordan) and was a major stop on ancient caravan trade routes. It was inscribed as Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
Attractions & Views:
- Rock-cut tombs with intricate facades carved into sandstone cliffs.
- Qasr Al-Farid (“The Lonely Castle”) — a monumental tomb carved from a single rock.
- Elephant Rock — striking natural sandstone formation just outside the site.
- Scenic desert landscapes at sunrise and sunset are breathtaking.
Ticket Price & Tours:
- Guided tours generally start from SAR ~95 per person at the Visitor Centre.
- Audio-guided and half-day tour options are available (prices vary by provider).
Tips: Pre-book tours especially in the high season (Oct-Apr). Closed-to-own-vehicle access means guided tours are the typical way to visit.
- Location: Madain Saleh (Hegra).
2. Najran — Southern Cultural Jewel
Location: Southern Saudi Arabia near the Yemen border.
History: Najran boasts a rich heritage with settlements dating back thousands of years, influenced by ancient Arabian kingdoms.
Attractions & Views:
- Najran Fort — large historic fortress offering panoramic city views.
- Al-Ukhdood Archaeological Site — ancient ruins with deep cultural roots.
- Najran Museum — displays local history, artifacts, and heritage.
Ticket Info: Entry fees vary by site; museums and forts typically cost modest local ticket prices.
Best Time to Visit: Winter months (Nov-Mar) for comfortable weather.
- Location: Najran.
3. Farasan Islands — Red Sea Paradise
Location: Off the coast of Jazan Province in the Red Sea.
History: The coral archipelago features evidence of Roman maritime presence and longstanding fishing traditions.
Attractions & Views:
- Pristine white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and coral reefs.
- Marine Sanctuary — home to Arabian gazelles, sea turtles, dolphins, and migratory birds.
- Free daily ferries from Jizan Port make access easy.
Activities & Costs:
- Guided island day trips + ferry rides: tours start from approx $300+ USD depending on duration and inclusions.
- Water sports, snorkeling, diving, and wildlife boat trips are also available.
Tips: Best visited Nov-Mar for pleasant sea temperatures and bird migrations.
- Location: Farasan Islands.
4. Jabal Soudah — Highest Peak & Cool Mountain Escape
Location: Near Abha in Asir Region (South West).
History & Nature: At about 3,015m altitude, this is recognized as Saudi Arabia’s highest mountain and a centre for mountain tourism.
Attractions & Views:
- Verdant forests, cool climate, panoramic valleys and cloud views.
- Cable car rides to viewpoints and trekking routes.
Ticket Info: National Park access and cable car tickets vary seasonally; many trails and viewpoints are free or low fee.
Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-Sep) to escape desert heat.
- Location: Jabal Soudah.
5. Wahba Crater — Enormous Volcanic Wonder
Location: About 250 km north of Taif on the Harrat Kishb basalt plateau.
History & Geology: A maar volcanic crater with a diameter of ~3 km and depth ~250 m created by ancient volcanic activity.
Attractions & Views:
- Crater rim hiking for unmatched panoramic views.
- White sodium phosphate salt flats at the bottom create striking contrast.
Ticket Info & Tours: Guided day trips from Taif are available with transportation and meals — prices vary with providers.
Tips: Wear sturdy shoes and bring water — the climb takes time and weather can be hot.
- Location: Wahba Crater.
6. Al Lith — Marine Adventures & Seaside Beauty
Location: On the Red Sea coast, south of Jeddah.
Attractions & Views:
- A gateway to diving and snorkeling in clear waters with vibrant marine life.
- Local beaches and hidden coves invite relaxation and exploration.
Ticket Info: No major entry fees; diving and boat excursions priced per provider.
Best Time: Winter for diving and mild coastal weather.
- Location: Al Lith.
7. Taif — Rose Capital & Mountain Retreat
Location: Hejaz mountains east of Mecca.
History & Culture: Taif is known for its rose farms and luxurious rosewater production, traditional markets, and cooler mountain climate.
Attractions & Views:
- Roses and rose festivals in spring.
- Nearby Hijaz mountain landscapes and fruit farms.
Ticket Info: City sightseeing is generally free; farm tours and festivals may have ticket costs.
Best Time: Spring for blossoms; cooler weather year-round compared to desert plains.
- Location: Taif.
8. The Edge of the World — Epic Desert Cliffs
Location: Part of the Jebel Fihrayn / Tuwaiq Escarpment near Riyadh.
Why Visit:
- Spectacular 300+m high cliffs offering uninterrupted horizon views across the desert plains.
- Ideal for sunset photography, hiking, and off-road adventures.
Tour Info: 4×4 tours from Riyadh often start at ~$50-$100+ USD for guided experiences with pickups.
Tips: Bring plenty of water and go with a guide — terrain is remote and rugged.
- Location: Edge of the World.
9. Qassim — Cultural Heartland & Local Traditions
Location: Central Saudi Arabia’s agricultural belt.
Attractions & Views:
- Historic towns such as Unaizah and Buraidah with traditional marketplaces (souqs), mosques, and forts.
- Rich heritage, folk traditions, camel farms, and date palm groves.
Ticket Info: Most city attractions are free or low-fee.
Best Time: Winter months for outdoor exploration.
- Location: Qassim.
10. The Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali) — Vast Sand Sea
Location: Southern Arabia, spanning Saudi Arabia, Oman, UAE & Yemen.
Why It’s Beautiful:
- Largest continuous sand desert in the world with rolling dunes and silence that mesmerizes.
- Sunrise/sunset dune landscapes offer unparalleled photography moments.
Tour Info: Desert safaris and overnight tours available from nearby cities; pricing varies by operator.
Tips: Night temperatures can drop — plan proper gear. 4WD access is essential.
- Location: Empty Quarter.
Travel Tips for Visiting Saudi Arabia
- Best seasons: October–April for most destinations (comfortable temperatures).
- Guided tours: Many protected sites (like Madain Saleh) require guided visit bookings.
- Transportation: Renting a 4WD/Urgent for remote landscapes (Empty Quarter & Edge of the World) improves your experience.
Stay hydrated: Desert and mountains can be extreme in heat.
