Lifestyle Corner: Top Tourist Destinations in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, with its unique blend of modernity and tradition, is quickly becoming an exciting destination for tourists. The kingdom’s rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural wonders offer something for everyone, from history and culture enthusiasts to nature and adventure seekers. As Saudi Arabia continues to open up to tourism, here are some of the best destinations to visit in 2024.

 

Riyadh: The Vibrant Capital

In Riyadh, the heart of Saudi Arabia, visitors can explore the Masmak Fortress, a historical landmark that played a crucial role in the kingdom’s history. The Kingdom Centre Tower is another must-see, offering panoramic views of the city from its Sky Bridge. For a deep dive into the nation’s past, the National Museum provides an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing Saudi Arabia’s rich history and culture.

 

Jeddah: The Red Sea Jewel

Jeddah, located on the Red Sea coast, is known for its historic old town, Al-Balad. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its traditional architecture and vibrant markets, offering a unique cultural experience. The city’s Corniche is a beautiful waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the Red Sea.

Adding to the city’s cultural offerings, Jeddah will host Candlelight Concerts, a series of concerts created by Fever, featuring live music across a range of genres played by local musicians in idyllic venues illuminated by thousands of faux candles. The next concert in this series highlights the work of Hans Zimmer and is scheduled at the Hilton Hotel Jeddah on Wednesday, August 29, 2024.

Jeddah also offers world-class scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. The Red Sea’s clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life make it a diver’s paradise. Top sites like Abu Tair Reef, Cable Wreck, and Obhur Creek are perfect for underwater exploration, with numerous dive centers providing equipment and guided tours.

 

AlUla: An Ancient Wonder

AlUla is home to Hegra (Mada’in Salih), another UNESCO World Heritage site featuring well-preserved Nabatean tombs. Elephant Rock, a natural rock formation, is also a popular spot for tourists, offering a striking landscape and a glimpse into the region’s geological history.

Adding to its allure, AlUla hosts the AlUla Desert Blaze, the first event of its kind in Saudi Arabia, testing the endurance of the very toughest of runners. Taking place in the heat of the summer on August 24, 2024, this road race pushes the limits of participants from all over the world with distances including 5km, 10km, a half marathon (13mi/21km), and an epic full marathon (26mi/42km). The inaugural edition of AlUla Desert Blaze passed through AlUla’s most iconic sites, taking runners on a journey through time, linking the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra with the modern wonder of Maraya. Medical and water support stations are set up at numerous points along the routes to help ensure the safety of participants.

 

Taif: The Summer Capital

Taif is often referred to as the “Summer Capital” of Saudi Arabia due to its pleasant climate, scenic beauty, and cultural significance, making it a popular retreat during the hot summer months. Situated at an elevation of about 1,879 meters (6,165 feet) in the Sarawat Mountains, Taif enjoys cooler temperatures compared to the lowland areas, providing a refreshing escape from the desert heat. The region is known for its lush green landscapes, rose farms, and natural attractions like Al Rudaf Park, which is a beautiful area with rock formations, gardens, and lakes. Its proximity to major cities like Makkah and Jeddah, coupled with well-developed tourism infrastructure including hotels, resorts, recreational areas, and annual summer festivals and events, enhances its appeal. Taif also boasts historical sites such as Shubra Palace, a historic palace now serving as a museum, providing insight into the region’s history and architecture and traditional markets.

 

 

Al Khobar: Modern Vibrancy

In Al Khobar, the scenic Corniche is dotted with parks, beaches, and dining options, making it a great spot for leisure. The King Fahd Causeway, which connects Saudi Arabia to Bahrain, offers beautiful views and stands as an impressive modern-day engineering project.