Top Three Cities to Visit in Saudi Arabia

Opening to tourism in 2019, Saudi Arabia offers travel enthusiasts an undiscovered world of unique experiences. From the shores of the Red Sea to the stunning desert sunrises here are three of the top cities worth exploring on your next trip to Saudi Arabia. 

Riyadh~ The capital city is as energetic as expected, fusing tradition with innovation, world-class dining, art, and shopping, to create a vibrant city you’ll visit again and again. Some of the city’s highlights:

• Kingdom Center Sky Bridge ~ The most iconic building in the capital also boasts the highest views of the city, and well beyond. The Sky Bridge is located on the 99th floor of the Kingdom Center. Head here at sunset for a stunning view. Be sure to stop on the 77th floor to visit the King Abdullah Mosque, the highest mosque in the world.

• Jebel Fihrayn ~ Also known as “The Edge of the World” is a peak within the Tuwaiq Cliffs, reaching 300m above sea level. The cliff drops sharply giving the illusion you’re standing on the edge of the world. If you’re an avid hiker, this experience is not to be missed!

• Home Dining Experience ~ Work with your Travel Advisor to arrange a traditional dining experience in a Saudi family’s home. Hosts will walk you through Saudi culture and customs. Be prepared to consume copious amounts of food and enjoy socializing with a local family.

• Al Masmak Fortress ~ This clay and mudbrick fort has been converted into a museum that recounts the tale of King Abdulaziz’s rise to power. Bonus – walk over to the Souk Al-Zal to shop for souviners.

AlUla ~From contemporary art to Michelin-starred chefs, the insta-friendly region of AlUla isn’t your usual desert destination. Some recommended highlights:

• Hegra ~ Carved out from the sandstone rock in the middle of AlUla’s desert, Hegra comprises 110 very well-preserved tombs, left behind by the ancient Nabataean civilization. Dating back to the first millennium BCE, it’s no wonder Hegra is Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO world heritage site.

• Maraya ~ like a mirage in the desert Maraya is designed in such a way that it blends perfectly into its natural environment, but stands out like a true piece of art. This modern multipurpose concert hall built in 2018 host, concerts events, and even weddings. Allow your travel advisor to arrange a rooftop reservation at the Michelin-starred Maraya Social restaurant, and dine under the stars.

• Jabal Alfil ~ Also known as Elephant Rock, is one of those stunning natural landmarks that makes AlUla so unique. She buy thousands of years of water and when diversion this impressive rock formation is the size of a three-story building. Impressive at any time of day, prime time is sunset, as the golden hour fades there’s a hip lounge vibe with food trucks, table service, and Shisha. Bonus - you can often find camel rides nearby. 

• Jabal Ikmah ~ often described as the biggest open air library in arabia. Filled with inscriptions and rock art left by people traveling along engine caravan roots. This site proves that AlUla has been a crossroads for civilizations in the first millennium BCE.

Top left: Jabal Alfil, bottom left: Jabal Ikmah, right: Maraya 

Jeddah ~Melding history with modernity, Saudi’s commercial center is a cultural hub of art, fashion and design. A few highlights:

• Red Sea ~ Get ready to make the most of your time in the Red Sea city and go on a full day trip out to sea. There are loads of dive companies to choose from, and you can even explore Historic shipwrecks not too far off the coast, if you’re not qualified to dive, then go snorkeling and see the marine creatures from above. You might even see the rare black marlin or Napoleon Fish!

• Al Balad ~ the historic old town area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the city has an astonishing history, dating back to 552 BC. Head along to Souk Al-Alawi to pick up trinkets, including jewelry, textiles, art and more.

• Al Ragnar Mosque ~ otherwise known as the floating mosque. It gets its name from its position over the water, giving the impression of floating serenely on top. It’s a stunning location and you’ll want to take a photo to remember it. Visitors should feel encouraged to tak a look inside as well. 

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