Discover Saudi Arabia: 10 Must-See Attractions for Tourists

On its land, Saudi Arabia combines unique experiences to make a tourist’s visit memorable. Here are the top 10 things you should not miss while traveling to this country:

1. Masjid al-Haram

The Masjid al-Haram, or the Great Mosque of Mecca, is the holiest place in Islam. While only Muslims are allowed into Mecca, if you’re a visitor of the Muslim faith, this should be on top of your list. It holds within it the Kaaba—the black, cube-shaped building that Muslims pray in the direction of. Just seeing the millions of worshippers here is truly a sight.

2. Al-Ula

Al-Ula is a city with a history dating back over 2,000 years. The star attraction here is Madain Saleh, more than 100 tombs chiseled into the faces of rocks. These are similar to the Petra ones in Jordan but not as crowded. You will feel like a real explorer, discovering these ancient wonders.

3. Jeddah

Facing the Red Sea, Jeddah is home to many beaches where you can soak up the sun. The waters are ultra-clean, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Not to miss are the colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. After a day well spent at the beach, have a walk along the Jeddah Corniche, a seafront promenade filled with restaurants and coffee shops.

4. NEOM

NEOM is a planned city that gives a sneak peek into what the future of urban living holds. It is still under construction, but part of it is now open to visitors. You can have firsthand experience with cutting-edge technology and sustainable architecture. You will feel like walking onto the set of a science fiction movie in the desert!

5. Al-Batha Souk

Get a feel of the traditional Arab culture at Riyadh’s Al-Batha Souk. Here, one can bargain over spices, gold trinkets, rugs, and traditional clothing. It is a feast for the senses, with all the color, exotic smells, and the bustle of bargaining.

6. Desert Safari

Take a safari trip for camel riding, sandboarding, and watching the sunset across boundless dunes. Most of the trips include overnight camping in Bedouin-style camps where one can spend a starry night under the gleaming sky of the desert.

7. Kingdom Centre Tower

This skyscraper in Riyadh is the tallest building in Saudi Arabia. Take a trip to the Sky Bridge at the top for amazing views over the city. The building’s unique design, with a large hole near the top, makes it stand out even among other modern skyscrapers.

8. Red Sea Coast

The Saudi Arabian Red Sea coast is indeed the diver’s and snorkeler’s paradise. Thousands of colored fish swim alongside colorful coral reefs, with shipwrecks lying around to be explored. Whether you are a seasoned or first-time diver, there are spots fit for all expertise.

9. National Museum

The National Museum in Riyadh offers great background information about Saudi history and culture. You will leave informed on the complex nation from ancient artifacts, and exhibits on Islam, to the country’s oil boom.

10. King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture (Ithra)

Ithra is one of the mesmerizing modern buildings in Dhahran. Inside one finds art exhibitions, a library, a theater, and a cinema. It displays a view into present-day Saudi culture and a sneak peek at the artistic future of this country.

Long closed to tourism, Saudi Arabia is opening its doors to visitors to reveal one of the world’s most mysterious lands to interested visitors. Ancient wonders, futuristic cities, bustling traditional markets, and modern art galleries—the country has something to offer for every taste.