Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia – Top Attractions & Best Things to Do
Saudi Arabia offers a blend of ancient history, modern cities, vast deserts, coastal landscapes, and cultural heritage. From Riyadh’s skyline to AlUla’s rock formations and Jeddah’s Red Sea coastline, the country provides a wide range of peaceful and scenic places to explore. Below are the top attractions and best things to do in Saudi Arabia.
For accommodation options, explore the Best Hotels in Saudi Arabia.
You may also visit the Saudi Arabia Country Page for more travel details.
Top Attractions & Best Things to Do in Saudi Arabia
1. Riyadh
Riyadh is the capital and a major business and cultural center with modern architecture, museums, and desert surroundings.
Why Visit?
Ideal for visitors who enjoy a mix of modern city life, cultural exhibits, and desert viewpoints.
What to Do
- Explore city districts and cultural areas.
- Visit scenic viewpoints on the outskirts.
- Walk through calm plazas and modern urban streets.
Best Time to Visit
November–March for pleasant weather.
2. Jeddah
Jeddah lies on the Red Sea and is known for its coastal promenades, historic quarters, and relaxed waterfront atmosphere.
Why Visit?
Perfect for travelers who enjoy seaside views, historic areas, and open-air coastal paths.
What to Do
- Walk along the Red Sea Corniche.
- Explore Jeddah’s historic quarters.
- Enjoy peaceful waterfront seating areas.
Best Time to Visit
November–March.
3. AlUla
AlUla is known for dramatic rock formations, wide desert landscapes, and ancient sites set in scenic valleys.
Why Visit?
Great for visitors interested in natural scenery, desert viewpoints, and historic open-air areas.
What to Do
- Walk designated paths near unique rock formations.
- Enjoy wide desert viewpoints.
- Explore open landscapes and scenic valley areas.
Best Time to Visit
October–March.
4. Dammam & Al Khobar
These coastal cities offer seaside roads, modern districts, and calm public waterfronts.
Why Visit?
Ideal for relaxing walks, sea views, and enjoying a calm urban coastal environment.
What to Do
- Walk along coastal roads and green waterfront parks.
- Visit open plazas and modern shopping districts.
- Enjoy shaded seaside seating areas.
Best Time to Visit
November–March.
5. Taif
Taif is a mountain city with cooler weather, green landscapes, and scenic viewpoints.
Why Visit?
Excellent for visitors who enjoy fresh mountain air and gentle highland scenery.
What to Do
- Enjoy hillside viewpoints and mountain roads.
- Walk through calm parks and shaded areas.
- Relax in cooler mountain climates.
Best Time to Visit
March–May and September–November.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Saudi Arabia known for?
The country is known for its deserts, modern cities, Red Sea coastline, mountain towns, and historic landscapes.
Is Saudi Arabia suitable for family travel?
Yes. Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Al Khobar, and Taif offer family-friendly parks, waterfronts, and scenic areas.
What is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia?
November to March offers the most comfortable weather in most regions.
Which destinations are best for first-time visitors?
Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, Dammam, Al Khobar, and Taif are excellent starting points.
Summary
Saudi Arabia features modern skylines, Red Sea shores, vast desert formations, and mountain retreats. Whether enjoying coastal promenades in Jeddah or the sandstone scenery of AlUla, the country offers a wide variety of peaceful and scenic locations. For hotel options, visit the Best Hotels in Saudi Arabia.
