Saudi Arabia is one of the most popular destinations in the Middle East that offers a complete package for vacationers, adventure junkies, and those who love trying new cuisine palettes. With some common and popular activities, there is no dearth of even unique things to do in Saudi Arabia. From relaxing at the white sandy beaches to trying out new and flavoursome cuisines; there is a lot on offer here.
This appealing destination offers tons of activities and experiences to all visitors. From dune bashing in Riyadh to visiting the Wadi Hanifa Wetlands; let’s have a look at the 10 best things to do in Saudi Arabia.
Some of the best amusing and thrilling activities to do in Saudi Arabia
1. Discover AlUla
AlUla is one of the most important places to visit in Saudi Arabia as it holds a lot of historic significance for the country. Situated towards the northwestern side of the country, this city also houses the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al-Hijr (MAdain Salih). The sites of AlUla feature multiple well-preserved rock-cut facades and tombs, some of which date back to the Nabataean civilization.
This place is a heaven for explorers, archeology lovers, and those who wish to understand the past of the country. If you are visiting AlUla in winter, stay prepared to be a part of the amazing Tantora annual festival.
Places to visit in Al Ula |
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Activities to enjoy in Al Ula |
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Best time to visit Al Ula | October to April (Winter Month) |
2. Outdoor Activities in the Red Sea
The coastal area around the Red Sea is another exquisite place you can visit on your trip to Saudi Arabia. There is an array of adventurous and relaxing activities that one can enjoy at the beaches here. Nevertheless, the coastline of the Red Sea is quite stunning, with all the coral reefs and crystal-clear water. Adventure seekers and watersport enthusiasts will surely have a great time visiting the coastal area along the Red Sea.
The beauty of coral reefs teams up with the kaleidoscope of marine life to give a blissful experience to all visitors. From solo travellers to those on a family vacation; this place has something for everyone. If you are visiting here for the first time and are stuck with “What to do in Saudi Arabia” then here are some activities you can indulge in.
Best time to visit | October to April |
Places you visit for fun at the Red Sea |
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Top activities to enjoy at Red Sea |
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3. Discover Saudi’s ‘Petra’ at Mada’in Saleh
Yet another amazing destination for explorers is the Mada’in Saleh which is filled with a lot of ancient ruins. It was once the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom and is now a leading tourist destination in the country. The place is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to hundreds of tombs and temples. Mada’in Saleh is also known to be one of the largest ancient sites in the country.
From guided tours to exploring the facades and tombs of this town, one can enjoy multiple things here. There are several cultural events that take place here but you will have to keep an eye on the dates. By indulging in these events you get a chance to watch the traditional dance performances, music, crafts, and local arts helping in getting better insights about the heritage of this place. Here are some famous things to do in Saudi Arabia.
- Taking a guided tour of the entire town to know more about its heritage and past
- Closely understanding and exploring the ruins and tombs of the town
- Do not forget to click pictures at the allowed places
- Go on a short hiking and trekking tour at Mada’in Saleh
4. Visit the Water Village in Taif
Visiting the water village in Taif is probably one of the top things to do in Saudi Arabia, especially when you are visiting in the summer. The town is located in Al Hada and it attracts hundreds of tourists every year. The water village here is actually a fun place to visit for kids and even adults. While visiting here you get to enjoy the delightful water rides and other water games. The village is actually a park that has been a leading tourist attraction in Saudi Arabia for quite some time now.
In multiple sections of the park, you get swimming pools and wave pools to enjoy your time throughout the stay. Water Village in Taif is also an excellent place to visit with your family.
Activities to enjoy at the Water Village |
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Opening hours of the Water Village | Monday to Thursday (10 am to 10 pm) |
Average Package cost |
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5. Take a Desert Safari in Saudi Arabia
One of the best things to do in Saudi Arabia is to go on a desert safari with your family or friends. It is going to be a unique experience in the golden desert of the Middle East. The best part of enjoying this activity here is that you get to choose between three types of safaris, namely Morning, Evening, and Overnight safaris. There are multiple places where you can enjoy this activity and each of those places has its own perks.
While visiting this country, do not miss out on enjoying this activity because one can have more than just fun. Enjoying various activities in the sand is above everything else when it comes to exploring Saudi Arabia. Here are some important things that will help you in elevating the experience of desert safari.
Best places for desert safari in Saudi Arabia
- Riyadh
- Jeddah
- Abha
Types of Desert Safaris | Timings | Activities to enjoy |
Morning Safari | 7 am till 11 am |
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Evening Safari | 2:30 pm till 6:30 pm |
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Overnight Safari | Sunset to Sunrise |
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6. Enjoy the traditional cuisines of Saudi Arabia
One of the top things to do in Saudi Arabia because it has a distinct food palette to offer to all its visitors. You will get an essence of the nomadic culture and tribal tastes in the traditional cuisines of Saudi. The basic ingredients that people pick in multiple regions of the country include meat, spices, dates, rice, milk, and fruits. The cuisines of the country have always been evolving and becoming better with modern twists.
The hot and dry climate of this country has steered the people to bank on items that are mostly uncommon in many countries. Also, the flavours of food items you get here are quite distinctive. Here is a list of some amazing food items that you should try while visiting Saudi Arabia.
Delightful food items that you must try while visiting Saudi Arabia | ||
Tharid | Kabsa | Hanith |
Harees | Dajaj mashwi | Ma’amoul |
Gursan | Kozi Samak | Shawarma |
7. Visiting Museums
If you are a history buff, then exploring multiple museums across Saudi Arabia will be your go-to activity for sure. Some of the bigger museums of the country have preserved the heritage and cultural properties of the past. You can get an insight into the history of this country by just exploring or visiting these museums. There are multiple artefacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that will tell you the emphatic history of the nation. While visiting here do mention this in the list of Saudi Arabia things to do. And do give it a place in your itinerary!
Names of the popular museums | Location of these museums |
National Museum of Saudi Arabia | Riyadh |
King Abdulaziz Historical Centre | Riyadh |
King Fahd Cultural Centre | Riyadh |
King Abdulaziz centre of world culture | Dhahran |
Al Diriyah Museum | Diriyah |
Taif Regional Museum | Taif |
Abha Palace Museum | Abha |
Jeddah Regional Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography | Jeddah |
Tabuk Castle Museum | Tabuk |
8. Swim with dolphins at Fakieh Aquarium
If you are out of options for unique things to do in Saudi Arabia don’t worry, just head to the Fakieh Aquarium. It is one of a kind public aquariums in the country. While visiting here you and your family can understand, learn, and get a lot of entertainment in the underwater environment of this aquarium. There are approximately 200 species of fish including String Rays, Sharks, Groupies, Sea Horses, Murray, and Dolphins.
One of the best things about this aquarium is its dolphin shows that attract a huge crowd every day throughout the year. Here is something you should know about the place before visiting or getting your tickets booked.
Location of the aquarium | Al Kurnaysh Br Rd، Al Nawras، Next to, Al Kuranaysh Rd, Jeddah 23413, Saudi Arabia |
Timings of the aquarium | 10 am to 11 pm (Saturday to Thursday)1:30 pm to 11 pm (Friday) |
Timings of the Dolphin show | 6:30 onwards (Saturday, Monday to Wednesday) (Only single show)Thursday and Friday: 1st show- 6:30 pm; 2nd show 9:30 pm
Sunday- No show day |
Price chart |
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9. Trek to the edge of the world
If you want to indulge in an adrenaline-rushing activity then visit the “Edge of the World” in Saudi Arabia. Trekking or visiting here is one of the best things to do in Saudi Arabia for adventurous souls. Actually, this is the name of a mountain cliff that throws an adrenaline-spiking moment for the visitors. The cliff is situated approximately 100 km from Riyadh and is almost 1.131 m high. It is also one of the end points of the Tuwaik Mountain range.
Not just the adventurous sport that it has on offer but also the spectacular view from here will captivate you for quite a long time. It is going to be an unforgettable journey or activity to do in Saudi Arabia. Filled with thrill, admiration, and amusement- if you dare to; try not to miss out on visiting the “Edge of the World.”
10. Watch King Fahd’s Fountain
Saudi Arabia is a country filled with a lot of gems and things that are one of a kind. Apart from them, the country also houses some of the best monuments, activities, and even the fountain. Yes, you heard that right! Fahd’s Fountain is known for its height and according to the “Guinness Book of World Records”- it is the highest fountain jet in the world.
The maximum height that this fountain jet attains is approximately 260 m and it offers a spectacular view to the visitors. There is a fountain show that happens every evening, if you are planning on covering this attraction, do not miss that.
Location of the fountain | Meeza International Tourism Services Co. Ltd, Al Andalus, Jeddah 23311, Saudi Arabia |
Timings | Sunset till 3 am |
Facilities available | Food stalls, Shops, Walkways, Cycle track, Recreational Area |
Conclusion
If you are looking for an unforgettable trip, do pick these top things to do in Saudi Arabia. They not only offer you a great experience but memories for life. The best part is, these are just a few of many activities that can be enjoyed in various cities and towns of this country. While visiting Saudi, get ready to receive the surprises it has in store for you.
See Also: Best time to visit Saudi Arabia | Things to do in Qatar
FAQs for Best Things to Do in Saudi Arabia
You can go for Dune Bashing, Camping, Overnight safari, enjoying various local cuisines, and much more. Also, it highly depends on your choices and interests.
Yes! Saudi Arabia is tourist friendly and you will see a lot of visitors here throughout the year, enjoying their time and indulging in multiple activities.
Saudi Arabia is famous for its Arabian horses, dates, the world’s largest oasis, the world’s highest waterfalls, museums, ruins, cuisines, and many more things.