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8 Saudi Cities Quietly Becoming the Next Travel Hotspots

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1 day ago

October 8, 2026

Shorya

Saudi cities emerging as the next travel hotspots

The tourism industry is booming in Saudi Arabia, and there are more options available than just the elements typical of the Kingdom. The Kingdom’s mountains, beaches, forests, heritage and desert landscapes are all growing in popularity. These are the 8 cities that are becoming more interesting to visit in the coming years from high elevational cooling and relaxing getaway spots to high-end islands in the Red Sea.

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1. Abha

Contrary to the concept of a desert country, Abha is located in an area known as the Asir and is a place of contrast. The slower temperate weather, green mountain topography and proximity to Rijal Almaa and the Soudah highlands are making it more and more popular for nature-loving travelers to come to the area.

2. Taif

Taif is famous for its beauty, its reputation as a land of roses, and its in-between climate, meaning that it has a relatively mild climate. High above the earth, it is very attractive in the warmer months; valleys and agricultural areas around it provide an alternative scene in Kingdoms.

3. Jazan

Jazan is a fusion of the Red Sea coastline, islands and cultural heritage. Farasan Islands are a popular destination for those looking for a more relaxed or quieter spot away from the Saudi Arabian coastal hubs, offering a host of beaches, marine activities and more.

4. Tabuk

Northwestern Saudi Arabia is uniquely rich with travel possibilities, in mountainous regions, desert, archaeology, and coastline. Major tourism developments in NEOM and the Red Sea region are also located in Tabuk.

5. Yanbu

Yanbu is becoming a tourist hotspot due to its beaches, diving possibilities and maritime attractions. It could be a pleasant alternative to the busier tourist hot-spots of the Kingdom with its less formal environment, for those wishing to venture off of periodized coastal resort hotspots in the Red Sea.

6. Al Baha

Al Baha offers contrasting views of nature in Saudi with forests, valleys and high mountain landscapes. The green landscape and cooler temperatures offer a unique geographic setting for nature or adventure enthusiasts in parts of this region above the elevation of 2,500 metres.

7. Diriyah

Then there is Historic Diriyah, not far from Riyadh, which is becoming a major tourism attraction in its own right. The interest in the area’s heritage and tourism potential is growing with the opened and upcoming area of At-Turaif, Bujairi Terrace and cultural, dining and hospitality experiences.

8. Hail

A blend of dramatic desert scenes and mountains, archaeological sites and traditional culture make up hail. The developing tourism amenities and multi-day activities of the cultural and adventure type may make the region a heart-stopping choice for tourists who are looking for a more “down under” version of Saudi Arabia.