10 Incredible Arabian Experiences That Will Take You on a Journey You’ve Never Imagined!

Opened for international visitors only in 2019, the gems of Saudi Arabia are not as popular as they deserve to be. Home to sparkling modern cities with stunning engineering marvels as well as vast mountains and lush green oases, Saudi is full of awe-inspiring tourist elements that easily compete with more popular destinations in the world. The landscape of this country is as diverse as its culture of poets, pilgrims, and merchants.

With the nation gearing up to welcome visitors after the pandemic, here is a glimpse of incredible experiences you can enjoy in this Arabian land.

1. Embark on a Scenic Road Trip in the Arabian Mountains

Located at a height of 1,879 m (6,165 ft) in the slopes of the Hejaz Mountains, Taif is the unofficial summer capital of Saudi Arabia. The road to the city meanders through the hilly Al-Hada region, an impressive route that runs up a rocky hill high into the clouds. You’ll be delighted to find out that Taif is located in an area where the best grapes, pomegranates, figs, roses and honey are found. Be prepared for some interesting agricultural tours as well!

2. Step Back in Time at the Splendid Al Masmak Fortress in Riyadh

Al Masmak Fortress is a vast clay and mud-brick citadel built in 1865 by the then Prince of Riyadh, Abdulrahman ibn Sulaiman ibn Dabaan. Apart from serving many other services over time, this fort has also been a residence of the king!

Today it is restored as a museum where historical artefacts, works of art and audiovisual presentations can be enjoyed. For people who want to step back in time and explore the roots of Saudi Arabia, a visit to this museum is a must!

3. Camp  Out on the Dunes of the Unbroken Sea of Sand

Satisfy your thirst for adventure in the Empty Quarter (Rub' al Khali), the world’s largest contiguous desert! Plan a day trip to explore the region and drive through the wilderness with a skilled Bedouin guide. To make your journey more exciting, set up your camp under the stars, listen to the stories about Bedouin culture and experience the Arabian desert through storytelling.

4. Visit the Famous Floating Mosque of Jeddah

Known as the floating mosque, Al Rahma is a turquoise-domed structure built across the Red Sea. It is anchored to the shore by a low walkway and there are white stilts that suspend the mosque above the edge of the water. During the high tide, due to light reflection, the structure appears to hover magically over the waves. The architectural style of the religious place is a blend of classical Islamic design with a contemporary take.

5. Dine in a Glass Ball up in the Air in Riyadh

If you are in Saudi, then you should visit Riyadh for all the finer things in life! Tour Al Faisaliah Centre, a commercial skyscraper that was once the tallest building in Saudi Arabia. This tower has an iconic form and hosts a sphere-shaped restaurant at the top. Known as The Globe, the restaurant is renowned for its dramatic shape and spectacular, panoramic views of the city, complementing a truly ethereal fine dining experience. So, if you’re looking for some delicious gourmet affair, don’t miss out on this when you visit Riyadh.

6. Trek to Jebel Fihrayn, the Edge of the World

Jebel Fihrayn or the Edge of the World is a dramatic geological wonder in the rocky desert of north-western Riyadh! It got its nickname because, from the top of the escarpment, one can witness jaw dropping views of the horizon. Hiking to the top is a pretty enthralling experience for adventure lovers. Steep climbs and rugged terrain make the hike even more exciting! You may also get to see some precious fossils from yesteryears lying around on this trail.

7. Dive Among the Technicolour Reefs of the Red Sea

Want to chase the solitary sailfish that can swim more than 109 kilometres per hour? Scuba dive in Saudi’s Red Sea and catch a glimpse of over 1,000 marine species and 200 types of soft and hard corals. Be it in Jeddah, King Abdullah Economic City or the port city of Yanbu, you will find a scuba diving or snorkelling tour for sure if you are interested. 

8. Spend Time Amidst Nature in the Fifa Mountains

Fifa Mountains lie in the lofty Jizan region and due to the moderate climate, these mountains are lush green. Plan an excursion to the peak for sweeping views over old forts and the coffee and maize plantations. If you love hiking, you can walk on the less travelled paths to lose yourself in the lap of nature. Soothe those tired muscles by taking a bath at the nearby Al-Khoubah hot springs on your Saudi Arabia escapade.

9. Marvel at the Picturesque Asir Mountains

Despite being part of a country full of deserts, the landscape of Asir Mountain remains lush and verdant even in great summer. This jewel in the far south-west corner of the country, close to Yemen, runs parallel to the Red Sea. Known for housing beautiful gardens and palaces, the mountain features beautiful views of the valleys of Tihamah!

Did you know that the watchtower found in the region talks about the legacy of the tribal fighting that used to take place a century ago? If time permits, take a round of Abha, a fascinating region known for its valuable legacy, food and magnificent scenery. Also visit the prehistoric caves of the Shada Mountain, the Al-Qatt Al-Asiri museum, Bin Adhwan Tourist Village and other vacationing spots of the stretch.

10. Witness the Sand Falls of Saudi Arabia!

You must have heard of waterfalls since your childhood, but have you ever heard of sand falls? If not, then you should witness this rare natural phenomenon after heavy rain in Aflaj and near Riyadh. It is very much like a waterfall and in this case, sand drops like water!

This is definitely not the end of the list, rather it’s just a glimpse of what is waiting for you in Saudi Arabia. There are many rare gems in this Middle Eastern country like Al Hamra, the largest open-air museum in Saudi, or Reem Reserve where you can meet the camels and enjoy Arabian camping. Hopefully, after this pandemic is over, more attractions will be open for tourists and you can make visit this mysterious kingdom soon.