Saudi is rapidly becoming very popular with foreign visitors and is now one of the world’s fastest
Saudi is rapidly becoming very popular with foreign visitors and is now one of the world’s fastest growing holiday destinations: According to the recent UN World Tourism Barometer, it was the fastest-growing G20 country in terms of tourism.
For those looking to avoid the crowds and discover Saudi’s hidden gems, below are some alternative examples of less explored places to visit.
Jeddah
The coastal city of Jeddah, which is the gateway to the Red Sea, is full of markets, bookshops, bustling locals and a distinctive corniche. The historic district of Al-Balad has 7th-century houses and narrow streets filled with stalls offering spices, jewellery, textiles, & perfumes. Alongside the history are new cafés and modern art galleries supporting a thriving art scene, which has emerged in recent years.
For those looking for a luxurious stay, the Shangri-La Jeddah, has stylish interiors, or the newly opened Jeddah Edition, which is adjacent to the Yacht Club and Marina and the F1 racetrack.
Aseer & the Sarawat Mountains
The region of Aseer is home to Saudi’s tallest peak, the 3,000m Al Soudah, which is ideal for hikers looking to explore the area’s lush, green landscape. It’s also home to the The Jurf Raydah Reserve, which was established in 1989 and includes the Sarawat Mountains.
With ample rainfall, this area is a sanctuary of rare wildlife and vegetation, including juniper forests, diverse cacti, and ancient wild olive trees. It is also home to the elusive Arabian Wolf, Rock Hyrax, Caracal, Mongoose, and various bird species, including the Arabian woodpecker and the native Aseer magpie. Cable cars are also available.
Hegra & AlUla
The ancient city of Hegra has over 110 well-preserved burial tombs intricately carved from desert rock, some of which bear the inscriptions of those interred within. The city was Saudi’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, awarded in 2008.
Nearby is the historic city of AlUla, which has 200,000 years of largely unexplored human history. Here, the gigantic rock formation Jabal AlFil, also known as Elephant Rock, stands alongside archaeological ruins, ancient rock art, and tombs.
There are also many food festivals and exhibitions here, alongside performances at Maraya — the world’s largest mirrored building. Its six nature reserves are also part of a flourishing rewilding and regreening programme.
A number of boutique hotels, resorts and guest houses are located nearby including The Banyan Tree AlUla, Habitas AlUla & The Shaden Resort.
Taif
Set among the clouds on the eastern slopes of the Sararwat Mountains, with cool weather, are the traditional rice terraces and lush green landscapes of Taif. Here, farms produce grapes, berries, pomegranates, figs and scented roses, while the city itself has many historical monuments, markets, gardens and the local Al-Shareef Museum.
The mountains and waterfall at Al Hada are ideal for hiking as is the Sesed National Park, which is more family focused.
Riyadh
While the capital city itself is packed with events – there were more than 17,000 during last winter’s season – it also has many historical sites that are worth a visit. For example, Diriyah, “The City of Earth”, is the founding place of the first Saudi State in 1727 and where the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, a cradle of Saudi culture, can be found.
There is also the Bujairi Terrace, which has restaurants featuring a wide range of culinary traditions, including Saudi, alongside 4-star Michelin-star restaurants. Then there’s the Kingdom Tower, with its Sky Bridge offering panoramic views of Riyadh or the modern architecture on display in the King Abdullah Financial District.
The Red Sea
The Red Sea’s thriving coral reefs, are ideal for snorkeling and diving, and many of the resorts here offer kayaking, sailing, and wing-foiling too. One highlight is the Ummahat archipelago which is accessible from the Saudi coast via a chartered boat or seaplane, and has overwater and beachfront villas. The area is also renowned for its magnificently dark, night-time skies.
Places to stay include the St. Regis Red Sea Resort and the recently opened Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve situated on a set of unspoiled private islands.
Lough Erne Resort in Enniskillen is a mesmerising blend of old-world charm and modern luxury