Hidden Gems of Saudi Arabia: Underrated Tourist Spots You Shouldn’t Miss

The first pictures that pop into travellers’ minds when they hear about Saudi Arabia are often Riyadh, the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah and the beautiful sand dunes of the Empty Quarter. But behind these famous landmarks are numerous undiscovered treasures, marvellous natural areas and a strong cultural heritage to explore. Now that Saudi Arabia is making tourism easier, people are discovering new, beautiful places that are full of history.

It is now easier than ever for UAE travelers to find these places. Tourists can now use Saudi Visa from UAE and Saudi Visa from Abu Dhabi to easily enter Saudi Arabia and discover places that are not often visited by tourists. They are great places to enjoy adventure, relax and explore the different areas and traditions of Saudi Arabia. In this guide, we introduce you to some of Saudi Arabia’s most beautiful yet unrecognized spots that you should put on your travel list.

Here are some of the hidden gems of Saudi Arabia: Underrated Tourist Spots You Shouldn’t Miss:

1. Al Ula – The Museum of the Desert

Al Ula which is situated in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, is frequently compared to Petra in Jordan, though it attracts much fewer tourists. Here you can find Hegra (Madain Saleh), Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, with many Nabataean tombs carved in rose-colored rocks. As well as its archeological sites, Al Ula has landscapes, canyons and Elephant Rock that are truly unique. Luxury camps and cultural festivals all year round make Nepal an excellent place for anyone looking for history and nature together.

2. Farasan Islands – An Exclusive Marine Place

The Farasan Islands sit in the Red Sea near Jizan and have crystal waters, white sandy beaches and colorful coral reefs. While the beaches in the Gulf are always busy, the islands here are mostly undeveloped, so they are perfect for snorkelers, divers and those who love nature. The islands are home to many endangered and migrating species of wildlife such as the Arabian gazelle and many birds. Applying for a Saudi Visa from UAE allows UAE travelers to enjoy the peacefulness of these unspoiled Saudi islands, a unique tropical destination.

3. Abha is the mountain jewel in the Asir Province.

The town of Abha which is located in the Asir Mountains, is very different from Saudi Arabia’s usual desert landscape. Because of its cool weather, green surroundings and cloudy mountains, people from the region like to visit Abha in summer, but it is not well-known among foreign tourists. Some of the main attractions are the Asir National Park, the cable car to Al-Soudah Park and the special mud-brick buildings at Al-Muftaha village. In addition, the city is famous for its art and friendly residents which make it both culturally rich and lovely to behold.

4. Najran – Where Tradition Meets Modern Life

Najran which lies along the Yemeni border, displays a beautiful mix of Saudi and Yemeni traditions. It is famous for its adobe castles, valleys full of palm trees and old rock art sites. The stories at the Al-Ukhdood archaeological site date back thousands of years and the city’s souks have crafts that are rarely seen elsewhere. Those applying for a Saudi Visa in Abu Dhabi can enjoy a trip to Najran which gives a different experience and is full of interesting history and welcoming people.

5. Al Ahsa Oasis is recognized as a UNESCO Natural Wonder.

Al Ahsa, the world’s biggest oasis and a UNESCO site, is in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. The greenness of the land stands out against the desert and there are more than 2.5 million palm trees here. Qaisariah Souq, Al Qarah Mountain caves and the old mosques show the history of Saudi Arabia’s farming and religious life. Because of its culture and natural attractions, Al Ahsa attracts travelers who want to explore nature and experience local traditions.

6. Haql – The Beautiful Town on the Border

In the northwest corner of Saudi Arabia, close to Jordan, Haql has quiet beaches and beautiful, untouched coral reefs. A special feature of Haql is that you can see the sights of Egypt, Jordan and Israel from across the Gulf of Aqaba. Photographers and divers are drawn to the “Saudi Titanic,” a shipwreck right off the coast. Having a Saudi Visa from UAE, UAE residents can easily visit this town which merges sea, history and wonderful views.

7. Taif – City of Roses

Many people prefer Riyadh or Jeddah over Taif which is a wonderful city found on the slopes of the Sarawat Mountains. Its name, “City of Roses,” is given for its lovely rose gardens and the refreshing mountain air. The cooling rosewater, lively markets and stunning places such as Al Hada and Al Shafa attract many. Traditional palaces and colorful markets also make it a cultural highlight. Taking a trip to Taif will make your journey through Saudi Arabia more attractive and fragrant.

8. Dhee Ayn – The Village of Marble

A major highlight in Saudi Arabia is Dhee Ayn which is commonly referred to as the “Marble Village.” This old village, built on a white-stone hill in Al-Baha, shows stone houses that sparkle when seen against the palm trees and springs. The village gives off a special feeling because of its old, empty buildings and beautiful views. Because it is not well-known, there are fewer tourists, so you can enjoy a more authentic look at Saudi architecture and history.

9. Umluj is often called the ‘Maldives of Saudi Arabia.’

Many refer to Umluj as the “Maldives of Saudi Arabia” because of its white beaches, blue waters and colorful coral reefs. Boating, diving and dolphin-watching tours are offered in this peaceful town by the Red Sea. The Red Sea Project is very ambitious, yet the site is currently unspoiled and remains a paradise. Anyone with a Saudi Visa from Abu Dhabi can experience the peace of this lovely place before it becomes very popular with tourists.

Conclusion: 

Because of its cultural, natural and technological diversity, Saudi Arabia is becoming a top choice for travelers. Yet beyond the things everyone knows lies a whole world of beauty that many travelers are not familiar with. The rocky landscape of Al Ula and the amazing marine life in Farasan and Umluj give visitors both memorable experiences and a strong link to Saudi Arabia’s heritage and nature. They highlight an untouched, real and amazing part of Saudi Arabia.

Residents of the UAE can now easily reach these places. Because it is simpler to get a Saudi Visa from UAE or Saudi Visa from Abu Dhabi, many more tourists can now explore hidden gems in the country. Nature lovers, history fans and people who love culture will all find something special in Saudi Arabia’s hidden treasures. Try not to stick to the same places on your next trip and go somewhere new — you’ll uncover a part of Saudi Arabia you’ve never seen.