Saudi Arabia is a kingdom steeped in natural marvels and wonders. From mesmerizing rock formations to Mars-like landscapes and even shipwrecks, there are endless places in Saudi Arabia to visit for keen explorers.
Take some inspo from some truly remarkable locations and discover why Saudi is an out of this world travel destination.
Places in Saudi Arabia you absolutely *need* to visit…
Qasr Al Farid, Hegra, AlUla
Via @mynameiismark on Instagram
Hegra was the first places in Saudi Arabia to enter the UNESCO World Heritage List. Its historical landmarks is full of hidden stories, as its rocks are full of obscure symbols, exquisite inscriptions and texts leading back to the first century BC.
Qasr Al Farid (the “lonely castle”) is Hegra’s most iconic symbol and one of the places in Saudi Arabia that is most photographed. It’s an incomplete carved tomb that stands away from the rest of the tombs in the Ashar Valley, AlUla.
Al Gharameel desert, AlUla
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AlUla is one of the best places in Saudi Arabia (and the world, for that matter), to get an up-close view of unique natural rock and geographical formations.
Some of the most popular points of interest include rock pillars in the Al Gharameel desert, that are actually the remains of of a huge mountain that once existed in Hail, north AlUla.
Jabal AlFil, otherwise known as the “Elephant Rock”, is perhaps the most popular mighty geological marvel of AlUla that attracts a lot of tourists throughout the year.
Neom
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Quite literally other-wordly, NEOM is the future of Saudi Arabia. Building revolutionary infrastructure on the already Mars-like landscape, this is a spot that is absolutely deserving of a place on everyone’s bucket list. In what will eventually become a ski resort (yes, really), the Trojena Mountains in NEOM is indeed one of the most spectacular developments in the Kingdom.
Maraya, AlUla
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Maraya, also known as “Al Maraya” is a hugely popular spot, being the world’s largest mirror building. In the middle of the desert, Maraya is a stunning piece of architecture that seamlessly blends in with the surrounding desert landscape. The structure has 9740 mirrored panels that create a mirage in the desert destination. Without a doubt one of the most Instagrammable places in Saudi Arabia!
Wadi Disah
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Wadi Al Disah is a mountainous area located in the southwest Province of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Picture giant sandstone cliffs and pilars, lush valleys and endless opportunity for exploration. If you’re looking for insane mountains, palm trees and desert vibes, head to Wadi Al Disah. It is also a desirable spot for some hiking.
The Judah Thumb
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This insane structure lies in the city of Judah, between Riyadh and Dammam in Eastern Saudi Arabia. In the vast, barren desert, this stone structure quite literally sticks out like a thumb. It is also referred to as the ‘Devil’s Thumb’.
Ushaiger Heritage Village, Najd
Via @visit.saudi on Instagram
Ushaiger is a small village in the Najd Area, not far from Riyadh. A popular tourist attraction, you can meander along the narrow heritage lanes and discover shops, mosques and more in he village.
Georgios G shipwreck, Tabuk
Via @visit.saudi on Instagram
This semi-submerged Georgios G shipwreck just outside Haql is a sight worth seeing. A rare opportunity to see a shipwreck up-close, this spot is worth a visit. It is known as the ‘Saudi Titanic’, and lies in a stunning bay with clear blue water. This is truly one of the places in Saudi Arabia that you won’t believe exists until you’ve seen it!