Saudi Arabia is home to several amazing heritage sites. These cultural and heritage sites are not only liked by the visitors and locals but also recognised by UNESCO. These sites are highly captivating and they offer magnificent insight into the Saudi’s bygone era.
In this blog, we are going to talk about the 8 unique marvels of the nation that are no less than a gem for them. These unique historical places are preserved to date so that people can know witness the glorious past of Saudi and enjoy exploring it during their visit.
Taking a dig into the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Saudi Arabia
1. Hegra
Hegra one of Saudi’s heritage sites located in AlUla is often compared to the marvels like the Pyramid of Giza and Jordon’s Petra. Also known as Al Hijr and Madain Saleh this was the first UNESCO World Heritage Site of the nation. It is now an open-air museum where visitors can witness 110 ancient tombs and ancient rock art.
You can explore this archaeological site even during the night with an expert guide. Those who are interested can pick between taking a bicycle ride or a horse-drawn carriage. This makes exploring the site even more thrilling and fun.
2. At-Turaif District in ad-Dir’iyah
At-Turaif District in ad-Dir’iyah has been a great addition to the world heritage sites of Saudi. It is a 15th-century restored mud-brick city with tombs and palaces. This was the first capital of the nation located northwest of Riyadh and in the centre of the Arabian Peninsula. Visitors can witness the ancient Najdi and Islamic architectural style architecture here.
Apart from the design and materials used in constructing the city, the Salwa Palace catches the eye of the travellers. It is an important historical attraction that also dates back to 1765 AD. You can take a guided tour of the entire district.
3. Historic Jeddah
Historic Jeddah is known to be the gate to Makkah and one of the most popular attractions in Saudi Arabia. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015; this place has been luring tourists forever. Be it an explorer, traveller, or someone who has an eye for history; each of them finds this place interesting.
Apart from being an explorer’s paradise, this place also offers a generous number of shopping areas and markets. You can find several residential areas and in time cultural events also happen here.
4. Rock Art in the Hail Region of Saudi Arabia
The Hail region is located in Jubbah and is one of the top 5 historical sites of the nation. There are two major components of this region Jabel Umm Sinman (Jubbah) and the Jabal al-Manjor and Raat (Shuwaymis). Overlooking the desert was a freshwater lake once but the current attraction of this place is the tons of art that can be seen on the rocks here.
This is the largest collection of rock art that has approximately 10,000 years of history engraved on it. Apart from ancient writings and symbols, there are camels and human figures that people can see on the rocks.
5. Al-Ahsa Oasis
Al-Ahsa Oasis is beautifully located between Riyadh and Dammam and it is one of the best places to explore and witness the remains of the bygone era. Known to be one of the largest natural oases in the world; Al-Ahsa has always found a lot of eyes every year. There are natural springs, date palm groves, and traces of settlements that date back to the Neolithic period.
Taking the tour around is one of the activities that you can enjoy while spotting some mosques and fortresses. Al Ahsa National Park and Yellow Lake (a unique desert lake) are two attractions that you should not miss out on.
6. Ḥimā Cultural Area
The Ḥimā Cultural Area in Saudi Arabia is another remarkable attraction for history and culture enthusiasts. It features ancient rock art and inscriptions that date back thousands of years, offering insight into early human civilisations. It is located along the ancient caravan routes.
Ḥimā showcases over 34,000 petroglyphs, depicting animals, human figures, and symbols. Its rich archaeological significance, coupled with stunning desert landscapes, makes it a fascinating attraction to the nation.
7. Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve
The Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve in Saudi Arabia is a place that has nature and wildlife at its core and those interested will find it a wonderful attraction of the country. It is part of the Rub’ al Khali which is one of the world’s largest sand deserts.
It offers breathtaking desert landscapes and massive dunes. The reserve is home to rare wildlife, including Arabian oryx, sand gazelles, and the elusive Arabian leopard. Its vast, unspoiled beauty provides a unique experience for visitors, making it perfect for eco-tourism, desert safaris, and stargazing under the clear night sky.
8. Al-Faw Archaeological Area
Al-Faw Archaeological Area is a must-visit for history enthusiasts! This place is situated in Saudi Arabia, this ancient city offers a fascinating glimpse into pre-Islamic Arabian culture. It was once a thriving trade hub with impressive ruins. You can find temples, houses, tombs, and inscriptions that showcase the city’s advanced civilisation.
The site is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, making it a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Visiting Al-Faw provides a deeper understanding of Arabia’s rich heritage and ancient architecture.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s World Heritage Sites offer a captivating journey through history while showcasing ancient civilisations. Their stunning architecture and cultural significance have lured a lot of visitors throughout the year. From the rock-cut tombs of Al-Hijr to the archaeological treasures of Diriyah, these sites highlight the kingdom’s rich heritage, making them must-visit destinations for history buffs and cultural explorers alike.
Read Also: Best time to visit Saudi Arabia | Things to do in Saudi Arabia
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