The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural identity lies beyond its deserts and offers travelers a diverse array of experiences that captivate the senses and stir the soul, from ultra-luxe glamping scenes under the AlUla sky to magnificent palaces nestled in the lanes of Diriyah, if the travel enthusiast in you is willing to explore unexplored destinations in the Middle East. Here’s an assorted guide to the best five tourist destinations in the Middle East.
1. A private carriage-driven tour
Hegra, the first-ever UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia, is a great place for ecotourism and nature aficionados. Encompassing 52 hectares, the site boasts 131 magnificent tombs and an endless array of rock formations.Local storytellers, or Rawis, will lead visitors through this area and provide comprehensive knowledge about the intriguing history of Hegra. Explore the architecture of this magnificent Nabataean civilization, from the monolithic mausoleum of Lihyan Son of Kuza to historic banquet halls.
2. Northern winters in Saudi
Take a mountain trip northwest of Tabuk to commemorate the seasonal dusting like a local would, or hop on an Arabian camel for a memorable wintertime experience. Next, select from an extensive range of additional seasonal pursuits, such as hiking, camping, and sledding. Snow-lovers should buck up and head to Jabal Al Lawz, also known as “Almond Mountain” in Arabic. With a height of 2,549 meters, it is the highest peak in the Province of Tabuk and the only location in Saudi Arabia where snowfall occurs nearly yearly, making it an ideal destination for winter hiking.
3. Al Qarah Mountain
At 205 meters above sea level and 75 meters above street level, the top provides unparalleled 360-degree views of Al Ahsa. Not only is the vista breathtaking from the summit of the mountain, but its mysterious caverns also awe tourists. The Al Qarah Mountain, which connects to Kuwait and Iraq in the north and the Rub Al Khali desert in the south, is what caused the caverns. It is located at the eastern edge of the Shadqam plateau. Its characteristic curves, caverns, and mushroom-like formations are the result of sub-aerial weathering, which is formed by rivers and rain rather than groundwater.
4. Exquisite history at Diriyah
Bujairi Terrace, a premium luxury dining destination with a curation of 20 beautiful restaurants and cafes overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al-Turaif, the birthplace of Saudi Arabia, is located in the ancient city of Diriyah.
5. Red Sea
The Red Sea is renowned for its pristine environment, which includes mountains, mangroves, 90 unspoiled islands, and the fourth-largest barrier reef system in the world—all in one location. It is a one-stop shop for fun, excitement, and unique experiences that improve life. Not just that, but also! In addition, one may enjoy water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and yachting as well as the opportunity to see turtles, octopuses, and unique fish.
