Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage and natural treasures are a treat to adventure lovers. As a country possessing a scenic desert landscape, beautiful coastlines and ancient sites; you will find everything here. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is even developing these sites to attract tourists from across the globe.
If you are arriving in the region with the intention of performing Umrah through Umrah Packages soon, you should explore the region. After completing the holy rituals in Makkah, you should opt for Ziyarath of holy sites. Then, tour the region’s cultural and natural treasures. Though you might need additional permissions on your Umrah visa, travellers on Umrah permit are free to move in KSA.
Discovering Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural treasures is full of adventure and excitement. Plus, the tourism developments made by the Kingdom in these regions further make your travel and stay memorable.
Al Wahbah Crater
In western Saudi Arabia 250 km from Taif, Al Wahbah Crater is present. It is a volcanic crater with white salt flat spanning over 2 kilometres and 250 metres deep. Al Wahbah crater attracts tourists, hikers, photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Nabatean ruins
In Hegra, the Nabatean ruins remain the Saudi’s first UNESCO World Heritage site from 2018. In Mada’in Salih, Hegra is often referred to as the preserved Nabatean site. It houses nearly 109 impressive tombs carved into rose-red cliffs. The engravings on these tombs usually feature snakes, eagles and a number of other mythological figures. Therefore, perfectly depicturing the traditions of first century.
These tombs are merely burials of Nabatean elite. Around 30 of them have all the inscriptions of names and status while some remain unfinished. Therefore, adding to the mysterious feel of the Nabatean ruins. For anyone interested in history and culture, this site is a must visit in Saudi Arabia.
Al Balad
Al Balad is the heart of Jeddah, also referred to as ‘historic centre’. Here, the Hejaz culture and history is very prominent. Whether you are strolling through the streets of coral-clad buildings with wooden balconies or exploring the Souks here.
In the Al Balad district of Jeddah, you can shop for souvenirs like handicrafts and traditional jewellery. Tourists should also enjoy the local delicacies and street food here for an authentic middle eastern taste. You can also go and explore the famous Old Jeddah Wall and the ancient Al Shafi Mosque.
In short, Al Balad district is a perfect treat for history lovers as it lets you dive deeper into the Hejazi culture of Saudi Arabia. Even today, it remains a gateway to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Most of the pilgrims pre-booking Umrah Packages 2025 for Umrah come here first. Pre-booking the Umrah Packages 2025 for the coming year saves a lot for pilgrims as services are in high availability and prices are low.
Jebel Fihrayn
Jebel Fihrayn (The Edge of the World) is Saudi Arabia’s scenic natural wonder. It is a stunning cliff formation at a distance of 90 kilometres from Riyadh city. As you stand on the Edge of the World you can have breath-taking views of the vast plains the lie beneath.
There are walking trails made for the visitors to different viewpoints and spots of Jebel Fihrayn. You can trek along the path with the sunrise and sunsets being the best times. The golden hour further adds to the beauty of this natural wonder.
Red Sea coral reefs
A heaven for divers and snorkelers, Red Sea coral reefs hold an underwater paradise. With crystal clear waters, diverse marine life and colourful coral gardens – it is one of best-preserved diving spots globally.
You can go to Farasan Islands and Umluj to have a live viewing experience of vibrant fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Whether you are planning a visit here alone or with family, you are going to be in the state of awe.
Rock art at Jubbah
If you want to see one of the oldest yet finest examples of Neolithic rock art, then head to Jubbah. With petroglyphs as old as 10,000 years, Jubbah is an open-air gallery present in the Hail region of Saudi Arabia.
The rock art that you will see here mostly comprises of scenes depicting daily life, hunting, and local wildlife. In short, providing us with the valuable insights of the prehistoric cultures that survived the harsh deserts.
Asir Mountains
For the pilgrims travelling through Umrah Packages or tourists to KSA, Asir mountains offer an escape from heat. With cooler temperatures, beautiful landscape and cool breezes – it’s a perfect getaway from the typical desert climate of KSA. The highest mountain of Saudi Arabia i.e. Jabal Sawda is also present here.
Head to the southern part of KSA to Asir Mountains and enjoy the misty yet green mountain ranges. The traditional stone villages here portraying colourful artwork are worth a sight. Go to Abha, hike the Asir National Park, and indulge yourself in the heritage of Rijal Almaa village.
Whether you are a cultural explorer or a natural beauty admirer, Asir mountains offer opportunities for both. Travel there, enjoy the local culture and refresh your mind in its calming and cool atmosphere.
Al Ahsa Oasis
Another prominent UNESCO world heritage site of Saudi Arabia, Al Ahsa is a lush green oasis making it a popular tourist destination. It spreads over an area of 2,500 hectares as it wears the crown for ‘world’s largest palm oasis’. You’ll see palm groves, ancient forts, and peaceful lakes here as you explore the site.
Present in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia, Al Ahsa’s ancient irrigation system (Falaj) is worth seeing. This oasis has played a major role in water conservation, holding significant importance till date.
Most of the foreign tourists arriving in KSA necessarily plan a visit to Al Ahsa oasis. Let it be its breath-taking beauty, natural wonders or the temptation of being an oasis itself. It attracts visitors from around the world.
The Empty Quarter
The Empty Quarter, also known as ‘Rub’ al Khali,’ is present in Saudi Arabia. It holds the title for the world’s largest continuous sand desert. The ever-changing sand dunes, golden horizons and towering landscape – Rub’ al Khali is a popular tourist destination.
You can do stargazing under the clear skies of the desert landscape during the night and stay in camps. The activities for adventure seekers here include;
- Dune bashing.
- Sandboarding.
- Camel treks.
Old Diriyah
As an iconic landmark of Saudi heritage, Old Diriyah was the original home of royal family of KSA. The At-Turaif district is a UNESCO World heritage site, known for its Najdi mud-brick architecture.
Many of the alleys, palaces and forts here are restored to their original condition. Your visit to Old Diriyah is a shortcut to experience Saudi cultural treasures. The region also hosts many cultural festivals, with typical Saudi art, food, and music for the tourists to enjoy during their visit.
Tips for discovering the Saudi Arabia’s cultural and Natural Treasures
For a comfortable and memorable trip, planning around the weather is really important. The hot weather conditions in KSA are going to affect your travel plans. You need pleasant weather for all the outdoor activities and exploration. Travel during the cooler months i.e. September to February with Ramadan Umrah Packages 2025 and explore.
When discovering the Saudi cultural and natural treasures, be mindful of your surroundings. Respect the laws, rules and regulations imposed on the visitors. Avoid littering and play your part in preserving the place in its original form. Respect the local customs, norms and traditions of the places you are visiting. Maintain a friendly attitude towards everyone.
If you want to save yourself from the hassle of trip management and planning, hire a local tour guide. Having a tour guide along for visiting cultural and natural wonders in KSA will make your trip peaceful yet knowledgeable. You will save both time and money while having a productive trip to these sites.
Keep yourself hydrated and rely on an organic diet. While enjoying the local delicacies is something you shouldn’t miss out on, keep it as healthy as possible. Otherwise, if you fall sick, it will take away all the essence of the trip.
Get up early if you are planning hikes, treks, dives, or other activities of the sort. Try to complete most of your trip in daytime and rest at night.