While Makkah and Madinah are the spiritual heartlands of Islam, Saudi Arabia is much more than its sacred cities. From ancient ruins and modern art hubs to red sand deserts and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Kingdom offers a vast array of experiences for the curious traveler.
In recent years, under the Saudi Vision 2030 plan, the country has opened up dramatically, offering international tourists unprecedented access to its natural beauty, rich history, and dynamic culture. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history buff, or foodie, Saudi Arabia beyond the holy cities is ready to surprise you.
Table of Contents
Hidden Gems in Riyadh and Jeddah
Riyadh: The Capital of Contrasts
Riyadh, the capital, is a modern metropolis with a deep historical core. Beyond the glass skyscrapers and shopping malls, you’ll discover ancient mudbrick fortresses and lively souks.
- Diriyah: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Diriyah is the birthplace of the first Saudi state. The At-Turaif district, with its mudbrick palaces and winding alleys, transports you back to the 18th century.
- National Museum of Saudi Arabia: Offers a world-class overview of Islamic history, Arabian heritage, and the Kingdom’s unification story.
- Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn): A dramatic desert cliff about 90 km from Riyadh, offering panoramic views that seem to go on forever.
Jeddah: The Gateway to the Red Sea
Jeddah is known for its relaxed atmosphere, historic districts, and vibrant art scene.
- Al-Balad: Jeddah’s Old Town features coral-stone buildings, traditional souks, and historic mosques. A walk here is like stepping into a living museum.
- Jeddah Waterfront: A beautifully developed promenade with public art installations, restaurants, and a stunning view of the Red Sea.
- Athr Gallery & Hayy Jameel: For those interested in modern and contemporary art, Jeddah offers world-class galleries showcasing Saudi and international artists.
Adventure Tourism in AlUla and the Empty Quarter
Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming a new frontier for adventure tourism, with destinations like AlUla and the Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali) offering unforgettable outdoor experiences.
AlUla: Nature Meets History
Once a crossroads for ancient trade routes, AlUla is home to Hegra (Madain Salih)—Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and the sister city of Petra in Jordan.
- Hegra Tombs: Carved into sandstone cliffs by the Nabateans over 2,000 years ago.
- Elephant Rock: A giant sandstone formation shaped like an elephant, especially magical at sunset.
- AlUla Old Town: Explore narrow alleyways, centuries-old homes, and mudbrick mosques.
- Adventure Activities: Hot air ballooning, zip-lining, rock climbing, and hiking trails make AlUla perfect for thrill-seekers.
The Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali): Desert of Dreams
The Empty Quarter is the largest continuous sand desert in the world and offers a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
- 4×4 Desert Safaris: Traverse massive sand dunes with experienced guides.
- Camel Treks: Experience the ancient Bedouin way of life.
- Stargazing: With no light pollution, the night sky is a dazzling spectacle.
- Camping under the stars: Luxury desert camps provide comfort while preserving the raw desert experience.
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Culinary Journeys Through Traditional Saudi Cuisine
Saudi cuisine reflects a mix of Bedouin, regional, and modern influences. Food is a powerful window into the culture, and every region has its own signature dishes and flavors.
Must-Try Dishes
- Kabsa: The national dish, a flavorful rice and meat dish cooked with saffron, cloves, and cardamom.
- Mandi: Originating from the south, it’s slow-cooked meat with rice, often cooked underground.
- Mutabbaq: A stuffed savory pancake, often sold by street vendors.
- Jareesh: Cracked wheat cooked with meat and yogurt, popular in the central region.
Culinary Experiences
- Najd Village Restaurant (Riyadh): Traditional seating and authentic dishes served in a mudbrick villa.
- Al Khodariyah (Jeddah): A top spot for seafood lovers, serving freshly caught Red Sea fish.
- Farm-to-table tours in AlUla: Explore date farms and sample locally grown citrus, olives, and pomegranates.
Opportunities for culinary tourism in Saudi Arabia are growing rapidly, with food festivals, cooking classes, and guided tasting tours becoming increasingly popular.
Cultural Festivals and Events You Can Attend
As Saudi Arabia opens its doors to the world, its cultural calendar has become packed with world-class festivals, concerts, and traditional celebrations.
Riyadh Season
Held every winter, Riyadh Season features:
- International music concerts
- Food and fashion expos
- Interactive zones like Winter Wonderland and Boulevard World
- Traditional Saudi performances and folklore
AlUla Moments
This cultural initiative runs year-round in AlUla and includes:
- Winter at Tantora: A festival combining music, heritage, and gastronomy
- Maraya Concerts: World-famous artists perform in the world’s largest mirrored building
- AlUla Skies Festival: Featuring hot air balloons, drone shows, and stargazing
Jeddah Season
Focuses on art, cuisine, and maritime heritage. Highlights include:
- Red Sea Film Festival
- Traditional dhow parades
- Live theater and dance shows
Janadriyah Festival (near Riyadh)
Saudi Arabia’s oldest cultural festival, celebrating:
- Bedouin crafts and dances
- Camel races and falconry
- Regional food and traditional costumes
These festivals not only entertain but also offer deep insight into the Kingdom’s identity, balancing the old and the new.
Also, get to know Discover Saudi Arabia: A Land of Heritage and Wonders
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia is in the midst of a tourism renaissance, and there’s no better time to explore it beyond the boundaries of the holy cities. From the modern sophistication of Riyadh and Jeddah to the ancient wonders of AlUla and the raw majesty of the Empty Quarter, the Kingdom is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
Add to that its rich culinary heritage and a growing calendar of cultural festivals, and you have a destination that satisfies the soul, mind, and senses. Whether you’re looking for history, adventure, or authentic cultural immersion, Saudi Arabia offers a unique blend of all three.
Plan your next journey today—and go beyond.
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