Best Places To Visit In Saudi Arabia

1.Riyadh(Capital Of Saudi Arabia )

Riyadh

saudi Arabia

Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia. Located in the central part of the country, it serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of Saudi Arabia. Riyadh is known for its modern skyscrapers, such as the Kingdom Centre and the Burj Rafal, and its historical sites, including the Masmak Fortress. The city has undergone rapid development in recent years, transforming it into a major business and cultural center.

Saudi Arabia is a country located on the Arabian Peninsula in the Middle East. It is the largest country in the region and is known for its significant oil reserves, which play a crucial role in its economy. Saudi Arabia is also renowned for its Islamic heritage, with Mecca and Medina being two of the most important religious sites for Muslims. The country has a rich cultural history and is known for its traditional architecture, vibrant markets, and desert landscapes. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has been undergoing a modernization push under its Vision 2030 plan, aiming to diversify its economy and enhance tourism.

Best Months to Visit

November to February: temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

Open Days And Timing

In Riyadh, the typical working week runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday as the weekend. The general opening hours for businesses and government offices are:

  • Government Offices: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
  • Banks: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Shops and Malls: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (with extended hours during weekends)

Ticket 

For purchasing tickets to Riyadh, whether for flights or events, you have a few options:

  1. Flights: You can book flights to Riyadh through major airlines and travel agencies. Websites like Expedia, Skyscanner, Google Flights, and airline-specific booking sites are good places to compare prices and book tickets. The primary airport in Riyadh is King Khalid International Airport (RUH).

  2. Events and Attractions: For tickets to events, attractions, or landmarks in Riyadh, you can check:

    • Event Websites: Websites like Ticketmaster, Eventbrite, or local event listings.
    • Attraction Websites: For major attractions, visit their official websites for ticketing information. Examples include the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom Centre Tower, and the Masmak Fortress.

  3. Local Agencies: For personalized assistance, local travel agencies in Riyadh can help with ticket bookings and travel arrangements.

Near By Location

Riyadh is well-placed for exploring several interesting locations nearby. Here are some notable places you can visit within a few hours’ drive from Riyadh:

  1. Diriyah: About 20 km from Riyadh, Diriyah is a historic town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and cultural significance. It’s a great spot to learn about Saudi Arabia’s history.

  2. Al-Ula: Located around 1,000 km from Riyadh, Al-Ula is famous for its stunning rock formations and ancient ruins. It’s a bit of a drive, but well worth it for its unique landscapes and archaeological sites.

  3. Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn): Approximately 90 km from Riyadh, this dramatic cliff offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert. It’s a popular spot for hiking and photography.

  4. Thumamah National Park: About 80 km from Riyadh, this park offers a natural escape with opportunities for picnicking, off-roading, and observing local wildlife.

  5. Al Khobar: Roughly 400 km from Riyadh, Al Khobar is a coastal city with beautiful beaches, shopping areas, and dining options.

  6. Qassim: Around 300 km from Riyadh, Qassim is known for its agricultural activities and historical sites. The region has picturesque landscapes and traditional markets.

2.Makkah (Mecca)

Makkah (Mecca)

Makkah (Mecca)

Makkah (Mecca) is a city in western Saudi Arabia and is considered the holiest city in Islam. It is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and the site of the Kaaba, the most sacred structure in Islam, located within the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque). Every year, millions of Muslims from around the world travel to Makkah to perform Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and Umrah, a pilgrimage that can be undertaken at any time of the year.

Makkah holds immense religious significance and is central to the Islamic faith. The city is known for its bustling streets filled with pilgrims and its impressive religious architecture. The surrounding area features various historical sites and modern amenities to accommodate the influx of visitors.

Best Months to Visit

In Makkah (Mecca), temperatures can vary significantly depending on the time of year:

  • Winter (November to February): Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Nights can be cooler, often dropping to around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

  • Spring (March to May): Temperatures start to rise, with daytime highs reaching between 30°C and 40°C (86°F to 104°F). Nights are generally mild, with temperatures around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

  • Summer (June to August): Makkah experiences extremely hot temperatures, often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Daytime highs can reach up to 45°C (113°F), with nighttime lows around 30°C (86°F).

  • Autumn (September to October): Temperatures gradually decrease, with daytime highs ranging from 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F) and cooler nights around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).

Open Days And Timing

  • In Makkah (Mecca), the city operates on a schedule similar to other parts of Saudi Arabia. Here’s a general overview:

    1. Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque): The mosque is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Pilgrims can perform prayers and rituals at any time, though there are specific prayer times throughout the day.

    2. Shops and Malls:

      • Shops: Typically open from around 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with some closing for a few hours in the afternoon for prayer. Hours can vary by location.
      • Malls: Generally open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with extended hours during weekends.

    3. Restaurants and Cafes: Most establishments are open from late morning until late evening, with some staying open 24 hours, particularly in areas with high traffic from pilgrims.

    4. Government Offices and Banks:

      • Government Offices: Usually open from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday.
      • Banks: Typically open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday.

Ticket 

  1. In Makkah (Mecca), the timing for various activities and places is generally as follows:

    1. Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque):

      • Open: 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Pilgrims can perform prayers and rituals at any time.

Near By Location

Near Makkah (Mecca), you can explore several interesting locations:

  1. Jeddah: About 80 km west of Makkah, Jeddah is a major port city with a vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, and beautiful coastal areas. Key attractions include the King Fahd Fountain, Jeddah Corniche, and the historic Al-Balad district.

  2. Taif: Roughly 90 km southeast of Makkah, Taif is a mountainous city known for its pleasant climate, beautiful gardens, and traditional markets. It’s a great spot for escaping the heat and enjoying fresh air.

  3. Mount Arafat: Located about 20 km southeast of Makkah, Mount Arafat is a significant site for Muslims during Hajj, where pilgrims gather for the climax of the pilgrimage.

  4. Mina: About 8 km east of Makkah, Mina is known for its large tent city where pilgrims stay during Hajj. It is also historically significant for its role during the pilgrimage.

  5. Muslim Heritage Sites: The area around Makkah has various other historical and religious sites such as the Cave of Hira on Jabal Noor (the mountain where Prophet Muhammad received the first revelation) and the Cave of Thawr, where the Prophet and his companion Abu Bakr sought refuge during the early days of Islam.

3.Medina (Madinah)

Medina (Madinah)

Medina (Madinah) is a city in western Saudi Arabia and the second holiest city in Islam after Makkah (Mecca). It is renowned for being the final resting place of the Prophet Muhammad and the site of the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid al-Nabawi), one of the most important and visited mosques in the Islamic world.

Medina holds significant religious and historical importance, as it was the city to which the Prophet Muhammad migrated from Makkah, an event known as the Hijra, marking the beginning of the Islamic calendar. The city is a key destination for Muslims undertaking Umrah or Hajj, with many pilgrims visiting Medina to pay their respects at the Prophet’s Mosque and other significant sites.

Medina is also known for its rich history, including the Quba Mosque, the oldest mosque in Islam, and the Uhud Mountain, the site of the Battle of Uhud. The city is characterized by its blend of historical architecture and modern developments, offering a unique spiritual and cultural experience.

Best Months to Visit

In Medina (Madinah), temperatures also vary throughout the year:

  • Winter (November to February): Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Nights can be cooler, often dropping to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).

  • Spring (March to May): Temperatures begin to rise, with daytime highs between 30°C and 40°C (86°F to 104°F). Nights are typically mild, ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

  • Summer (June to August): Medina experiences very hot temperatures, with daytime highs often exceeding 40°C (104°F) and sometimes reaching up to 45°C (113°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).

  • Autumn (September to October): Temperatures start to decrease, with daytime highs ranging from 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F) and cooler nights around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

Open Days And Timing

In Medina (Madinah), the timing for various activities and places is generally as follows:

  1. Masjid al-Nabawi (Prophet’s Mosque):

    • Open: 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Pilgrims and visitors can perform prayers and visit the mosque at any time, though there are specific prayer times throughout the day.

Ticket 

For purchasing tickets related to Medina (Madinah), here are some options:

  1. Flights: You can book flights to Medina through major airlines and travel websites. Popular flight booking platforms include Expedia, Skyscanner, Google Flights, and airline-specific sites. The primary airport in Medina is Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport (MED).

  2. Accommodation: To book hotels or other accommodations in Medina, you can use booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or Agoda. Many hotels offer easy access to the Prophet’s Mosque and other key attractions.

  3. Tours and Attractions: For tickets to local tours or guided visits, you can check:

    • Tour Operators: Websites like Viator or GetYourGuide offer various tours and experiences in Medina.
    • Local Agencies: Local travel agencies in Medina can help with arranging tours and tickets to specific attractions.

  4. Religious Visits: There are generally no tickets required for entry to the Prophet’s Mosque, but during peak pilgrimage seasons (like Hajj), it’s essential to plan your visit in advance and follow specific guidelines set by local authorities.

Near By Location

  • Uhud Mountain: About 5 km north of Medina, Mount Uhud is a significant historical site, known for the Battle of Uhud that took place here. It’s a popular site for visitors interested in Islamic history.

  • Quba Mosque: Approximately 7 km south of Medina, Quba Mosque is the first mosque built in Islam and holds great religious significance. It’s a peaceful place for reflection and prayer.

  • Qiblatain Mosque: Located around 7 km northwest of Medina, this mosque is known as the “Two Qiblas Mosque” because it is where the direction of prayer (qibla) was changed from Jerusalem to Makkah.

  • Wadi E Jinn (Valley of Jinn): About 30 km east of Medina, this valley is known for its mysterious landscape and is a popular spot for those interested in exploring unique natural features and local legends.

  • Mount Badr: Approximately 80 km southwest of Medina, Mount Badr is known for the Battle of Badr, another important event in Islamic history. The area around the mountain has historical significance and offers a scenic desert landscape.

  • Yanbu: About 200 km west of Medina, Yanbu is a coastal city on the Red Sea. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, diving spots, and historical sites, making it a good option for a beach getaway.

4.Tabuk

Tabuk

Tabuk is a city in northwestern Saudi Arabia, serving as the capital of the Tabuk Province. It is strategically located near the borders of Jordan, making it a key point for trade and travel between the two countries.

Tabuk has a rich history and is known for its role in the Islamic tradition, with historical sites such as the Tabuk Fortress and the Mosque of the Prophet’s Expedition. The city is also a gateway to the stunning natural landscapes of the region, including the volcanic formations of Jebel al-Lawz and the scenic beauty of Wadi Rum.

In recent years, Tabuk has been developing rapidly with new infrastructure, including modern shopping centers and facilities for tourists. It serves as a starting point for exploring the surrounding areas, including the Red Sea coast and various archaeological sites.

Best Months to Visit

October to April.

temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

Open Days And Timing

    • In Tabuk, the general schedule for various activities and places is as follows:

      1. Government Offices:

        • Open: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday.

      2. Banks:

        • Open: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday.

      3. Shops and Malls:

        • Shops: Typically open from around 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with some closing briefly for midday prayer.
        • Malls: Generally open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends.

      4. Restaurants and Cafes:

        • Open: Most are open from late morning until late evening, with some in high-traffic areas potentially operating 24 hours.

Ticket 

  1. For purchasing tickets related to Tabuk, here are some options:

    1. Flights: You can book flights to Tabuk through major airlines and travel booking websites. Popular platforms include Expedia, Skyscanner, Google Flights, and the websites of airlines that operate flights to Tabuk. The primary airport in Tabuk is Tabuk Regional Airport (TUU).

    2. Accommodation: To book hotels or other accommodations in Tabuk, you can use booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or Agoda. These platforms offer various options from budget to luxury accommodations.

    3. Tours and Activities: For local tours or guided experiences, you can check:

      • Tour Operators: Websites like Viator or GetYourGuide offer tours and activities in and around Tabuk.
      • Local Agencies: Local travel agencies can assist with arranging tours and tickets for specific attractions or experiences.

Near By Location

Nearby locations to Tabuk that are worth exploring include:

  1. Wadi Rum: About 100 km northwest of Tabuk, Wadi Rum is a stunning desert valley known for its dramatic rock formations and red sand. It’s popular for jeep tours, hiking, and stargazing.

  2. Jebel al-Lawz: Approximately 150 km southeast of Tabuk, Jebel al-Lawz is a mountain with unique volcanic formations. It offers scenic views and opportunities for hiking and exploration.

  3. Red Sea Coast: About 200 km west of Tabuk, the Red Sea coast features beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and diving spots. Cities like Yanbu offer a coastal retreat with various recreational activities.

  4. Al-Ula: Around 400 km southwest of Tabuk, Al-Ula is renowned for its ancient rock formations and archaeological sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Madain Saleh.

  5. Tabuk Castle: Located in the heart of Tabuk, the castle is a historical site dating back to the Ottoman era. It provides insight into the region’s history and architecture.

  6. Prince Fahd Bin Sultan Park: In Tabuk itself, this park is a pleasant place for relaxation and leisure, with green spaces and recreational facilities.

5.Al Bahah

Al Bahah

Al Bahah is a city in southwestern Saudi Arabia, known for its beautiful landscapes and pleasant climate. It serves as the capital of the Al Bahah Province and is situated in the Sarawat Mountains, which contribute to its picturesque scenery.

Best Months to Visit

March to May and September to November.

Temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).

Open Days And Timing

In Al Bahah, the general schedule for various activities and places is as follows:

  1. Government Offices:

    • Open: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday.

  2. Banks:

    • Open: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday.

  3. Shops and Malls:

    • Shops: Typically open from around 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with some closing briefly for midday prayer.
    • Malls: Generally open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends.

  4. Restaurants and Cafes:

    • Open: Most are open from late morning until late evening. Some in high-traffic areas may operate 24 hours.

  5. Tourist Attractions and Parks:

    • General Timing: Most parks and outdoor attractions are open throughout the day, typically from early morning to late evening. Specific hours may vary depending on the site.

Ticket 

For purchasing tickets related to Al Bahah, here are some options:

  1. Flights: If you’re flying to Al Bahah, you can book tickets through major airlines and travel websites. Common platforms include Expedia, Skyscanner, Google Flights, and the airlines that service Al Bahah. The primary airport serving Al Bahah is Al Bahah Regional Airport (ABT).

  2. Accommodation: To book hotels or other types of accommodation in Al Bahah, use booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or Agoda. These platforms offer a range of options from budget to luxury.

  3. Tours and Activities: For local tours or guided experiences:

    • Tour Operators: Websites like Viator or GetYourGuide offer various tours and activities in and around Al Bahah.
    • Local Agencies: You can also consult local travel agencies in Al Bahah for personalized tours and tickets to specific attractions.

Near By Location

Nearby locations to Al Bahah that are worth exploring include:

  1. Dhee Ayn Village: About 30 km southeast of Al Bahah, this ancient village is known for its unique stone architecture and beautiful mountain views. It offers a glimpse into traditional life in the region.

  2. Raghadan Forest Park: Located in Al Bahah, this park provides lush green spaces and a tranquil environment, ideal for picnicking and enjoying nature.

  3. Baljurashi: Roughly 60 km southwest of Al Bahah, Baljurashi is known for its traditional architecture and local markets. It’s a good place to experience local culture and cuisine.

  4. Gadid Mountain: About 50 km northwest of Al Bahah, Gadid Mountain offers scenic views and is a great spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

  5. Taif: Approximately 150 km northeast of Al Bahah, Taif is a mountain city known for its pleasant climate, beautiful gardens, and historical sites. It’s a popular destination for those looking to escape the heat.

  6. Jeddah: Around 300 km west of Al Bahah, Jeddah is a major coastal city with beautiful beaches, historic sites, and a vibrant cultural scene. It’s a good option for a more extensive travel experience.