Cities in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East and is home to dozens of cities. While the country has many urban areas, Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, and Dhahran are widely considered the most significant.
Best Places To Visit In Saudi Arabia
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Thinking of travelling to Saudi Arabia? As the largest country in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has a diverse landscape, from vast deserts to stunning coastlines along the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf.
In addition to the religious significance of its holy cities Mecca and Medina, Saudi Arabia is also known for its modern cities, such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. These offer metropolises with skyscrapers, shopping malls, and vibrant cultural scenes.
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Things to do in Riyadh
With Riyadh being the largest city in Saudi Arabia, there is lots to do and see.
The deserts in Riyadh are huge and some of the activities that take place there include horse riding, morning hikes, camel riding, bat cave trials, Safari tours and dune bashing.
However, the top attractions in Riyadh include the Edge of the World landmark, the zoo and the Boulevard entertainment which are all perfect for families to visit.
Riyadh is very busy and a lot more modern than Jeddah or Mecca, with lots to do and see for tourists. If you are thinking of visiting Riyadh then the closest airport is King Khalid International Airport.
Things to do in Jeddah
Jeddah is the second largest city in Saudi Arabia, after the capital Riyadh.
The top sites for tourists in Jeddah include King Fahad's Fountain, Red Sea Mall, Silver Sands Beach, Fakieh Aquarium and many more.
There is an airport in Jeddah for those considering visiting and it's called King Abdulaziz International Airport, also known as Jeddah International Airport. The airport is the third-largest and the busiest airport of Saudi Arabia.
If you're considering going scuba diving then Jeddah is known as one of the best places to go due to the beautiful weather, it's the perfect temperature for scuba diving all year round.
The Red Sea has lots of underwater caves that were formed thousands of years ago, making it a popular destination for divers and other water sports enthusiasts. This city is perfect for solo female travellers as it has been ranked one of the safest places in Saudi
Things to do in Medina
If you're planning a trip to Medina, you're in for a treat as the city is steeped in Islamic history and culture.
Medina is home to several significant religious sites, including the Prophet’s Mosque, Quba Mosque, and Al-Baqi Cemetery.
In addition to religious landmarks, tourists have the chance to visit the city's cultural legacy through visits to attractions like the Madinah Museum and the Traditional Mark.
If you are considering travelling to Medina then the closest airport is Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport as it's only 15km north-east of Madinah and you can take a taxi from the airport.
Things to do in Dhahran
Dhahran offers a mix of attractions, cultural experiences and relaxing green spaces, making it a great place to spend a day or two.
One of the top places to visit is the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), a landmark destination featuring museums, exhibitions, a theatre, a cinema and interactive activities for all ages.
If you’re looking to unwind, Dhahran also has several parks and open spaces, including Dhahran Hills Park, which is ideal for a relaxed walk or picnic.
For shopping and dining, Dhahran Mall is a great option, offering a wide range of international brands, restaurants and cafés.
Dhahran is also well located for day trips, with nearby cities like Al Khobar and Dammam offering waterfront promenades, beaches and lively dining spots just a short drive away.
Saudi Arabia by famous landmarks
Wondering what landmarks you can visit in Saudi Arabia? We've highlighted what you can expect from each famous landmark, so you can decide which is the best one to visit for you.
Fahd's Fountain
Recognised as the world’s tallest jet in "The Guinness Book Of World Records," Fahd’s Fountain stands as a remarkable marvel in Saudi Arabia.
Soaring to a height of 260 meters and boasting water speeds of up to 375 km/h, this fountain offers visitors a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. The highlight of this site is its evening fountain show, a must-see experience included in the list of nighttime activities in Saudi Arabia.
The mesmerising display of the fountain show captivates viewers throughout the vicinity of Jeddah, thanks to its substantial airborne mass, which can exceed 18 short tons.
When planning your trip to Saudi Arabia, be sure to include Fahd’s Fountain show in your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
Hajar al-Aswad
The Black Stone of Mecca, also known as the Hajar al-Aswad, is an important relic within the Islamic faith.
It is located in the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Many Muslims believe that the stone (originally white but now black from absorbing the sins of man) fell from heaven during the time of Adam and Eve.
This is a very well-known landmark in Saudi Arabia. Please note, only Muslims are allowed to enter the city of Mecca due to religious reasons.
Al Masjid an Nabawi
Masjid Nabawi was originally constructed and established by Prophet Muhammad.
It is located in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, and is considered the second holiest mosque in Islam after the Great Mosque in Makkah.
Throughout history, Masjid al Nabawi has been renovated many times. Masjid Nabawi is one of the most important landmarks in the history of Islam. Visiting this larger-than-life landmark is a dream for Muslims around the world.
Al Masmak Fortress
The splendid Al Masmak Palace gracefully dominates the skyline of Riyadh city, beckoning tourists to explore its historical charm.
It looks like a giant sand castle and today, the palace stands as a testament to the historical narrative of reclaiming power and governance in the country, showcasing within its corridors the characteristics of that period and its leaders, following its transformation into a museum in 1995.
Enjoy the experience of visiting the historical heritage of Al Masmak Museum educating yourself about all features and transitions of rule of the Kingdom any day of the week from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm.
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Frequently asked questions
Which airlines fly to Saudi Arabia?
Pegasus Airlines, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Etihad Airways, Saudia, Ethiopian Airlines, Air India, EgyptAir, Lufthansa, Gulf Air, Royal Jordanian, Qatar Airways, Aegean, Cathay Pacific and Wizz Air are all airlines that fly to Saudi Arabia
Is Saudi Arabia tourist friendly?
Saudi Arabia is one of the most popular destinations in the Middle East that offers a complete package for vacationers, thrill-seekers and those who love trying new cuisine palettes. With some common and popular activities, Saudi Arabia ensures there's something for everyone.
What is the most visited place in Saudi Arabia?
One prominent destination among Saudi Arabia's tourist attractions is Mecca. For Muslims worldwide, Mecca serves as the focal point of Muslim life, housing Islam's holiest mosque and a diverse array of captivating landmarks within its boundaries.
Do I need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia?
A few things you need to know include travel documents such as visas and a valid passport. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months of validity before the date of your departure. You may be required to have 2 recent passport-sized photographs with you as well! Your visa application form is essential - you need to make sure it’s accurate too. Find out more on our blog about travel advice on visas.
What is the currency in Saudi Arabia?
The official currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Keep an eye on currency exchange rates before your trip to get an idea of how much your money will be worth in Saudi Riyals.
Which city in Saudi Arabia is the busiest?
Riyadh is the busiest city as well as being the capital, it also has a population of 7 million people!
What are the best things to do in Saudi Arabia?
Some of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia include Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, AlUla, Abha, and the Eastern Province cities of Dammam, Dhahran and Al Khobar. Each destination offers something unique, from historic sites and religious landmarks to beaches and desert landscapes. To find out more on things to do in Saudi Arabia take a look at our page.
When is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia?
For more information on the best time to visit Saudi visit our page.
Is Saudi Arabia expensive to visit?
Costs can vary depending on your travel style. Major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah offer luxury hotels and fine dining, but there are also affordable accommodation and dining options available.