6 Rich Experiences to Try on Saudi's Coasts

Looking for some adventure in the Middle East? How about a trip to the unexplored coasts of Saudi Arabia? From swimming with exotic fishes, sailing through lush mangroves, to relaxing on pristine, golden beaches, you are bound to find something that will attract you to the Saudi coasts. Let's have a look at 6 experiences that will bring you back to Saudi again and again.

1. Scuba Diving Along the Red Sea

Sea activities like scuba diving can make any holiday memorable! In Saudi Arabia, scuba diving in the Red Sea allows you to swim amongst nearly 1,200 species of fish, almost 20 per cent of which are unique to the area. Explore the coral reefs and discover the ruins and treasures of shipwrecks from throughout history.

2. Explore the Farasan Islands

Some parts of the world are home to stunning natural ecosystems. Explore the rich history and marine life while sailing through the azure waters and mangroves of the Farasan Islands. Check out manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins and sea turtles in the bays and inlets of the island. Step ashore and lose yourself in the depths of the Al-Qandal forest, visit Al-Qassar village and the islands' past as a Roman garrison, the furthest outpost of the empire.

3. Kiteboard in Jeddah

Take advantage of soft, sandy beaches, clear, shallow waters, and consistent year-round winds when kiteboarding off the coast of Jeddah. Feel the cool, temperate, yet sunny winters that coincide with ideal wind speeds to create the perfect winter getaway for water-sports enthusiasts.

4. Relax on the Beaches of Umluj

Are you a beach person? The secluded beaches of Umluj, in the northern province of Tabuk, provide the ideal opportunity to escape and immerse yourself in unspoiled nature. The pristine waters allow you to observe marine life without the need for a mask and snorkel. Enjoy a picnic on the beach or rent a boat from the village's port to explore the untouched islands a short sail from the coast.

5. Sample the Day’s Catch At Jeddah’s Seafood Market

For a taste of the sea, make your way to Jeddah's port and watch the local fisherman offload their hauls at sunrise before jostling with other buyers to bid on the freshest catch at Central Fish Market. Tuck into an unrivalled variety of seafood that has been prepared, cooked and served mere hours after being caught while learning of the port's fascinating role in Jeddah's history as a global trading hub and entry point for pilgrims travelling onto the two holy cities.

6. Enjoy an Eco-Friendly Holiday at the Red Sea Project

Unwind at Saudi Arabia's latest coastal retreat that caters to the environmentally conscious traveller. This luxury tourism development project spans an archipelago of 90 islands along the shores of the Tabuk province on the west coast of the Kingdom. The resort - set to open its first rooms in 2022 - is being developed with the protection of the Red Sea's ecosystem in mind. It will aim to be powered by 100% renewable energy, eventually generating and storing energy used onsite from renewable sources. Single-use plastics will be completely banned as carbon-neutral, yet the luxurious experience will signal a sustainable future for holidaying. So, it's a win-win situation for nature as well as the tourists!

If the sea is where your heart is then Saudi Arabia can be your perfect pick for your next trip. If not all, try at least a few of these Red Sea experiences for a refreshing break in the Middle East!