Saudi Arabia, a land once hidden from much of the world, is now opening its doors wider than ever. As tourism continues to grow, the Kingdom is inviting travelers to explore its rare natural wonders, deep-rooted traditions, and thrilling adventures. From sleeping under the stars in ancient deserts to diving into untouched coral reefs, Saudi Arabia offers experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else.
This article highlights five unique things to do in Saudi Arabia—epic, once-in-a-lifetime activities that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
1. Explore the Ancient Wonder of AlUla’s Rock Formations
Nestled in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, AlUla is one of the country’s most iconic tourist destinations. What makes it special? It’s home to Hegra (Madain Salih), a UNESCO World Heritage site that many compare to Petra in Jordan. But AlUla’s charm goes far beyond that.
Giant sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and rock formations like Elephant Rock give the region a truly surreal feel. You can even take a helicopter ride to see these formations from above or hike through scenic desert trails. The region also hosts cultural festivals, concerts, and art installations year-round.
Why it’s special:
This is the only place in the Arabian Peninsula where you can see over 100 well-preserved tombs carved into rocks by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago.
2. Dive in the Red Sea’s Untouched Coral Reefs
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast remains one of the best-kept secrets for divers and marine lovers. While Egypt’s Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada are well known globally, Saudi Arabia offers a quieter, more untouched underwater world.
Here, you can explore pristine coral reefs, swim with dolphins, and even dive alongside shipwrecks. The Red Sea Project is developing luxury resorts and marine activities along the coastline, but many areas still remain beautifully raw and undeveloped.
Top spots to dive:
Yanbu, Umluj (called the “Saudi Maldives”), and Jeddah’s coastlines.
Why it’s special:
These coral reefs have remained protected for years and offer a rare glimpse into one of the healthiest marine ecosystems in the world.
3. Hike the Edge of the World for Jaw-Dropping Views
Located just outside Riyadh, the Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn) is a towering cliff with dramatic views over an endless desert. It’s one of the most breathtaking natural spots in Saudi Arabia and has earned its nickname for a reason—the view makes you feel like you’re standing at the end of the Earth.
The hike isn’t too challenging, making it accessible even for beginners. But the real magic happens at sunrise or sunset when the golden light stretches across the vast valley below.
Pro tip:
Bring a picnic, a camera, and a guide (especially if you’re not familiar with desert routes).
Why it’s special:
There’s no other place in the Middle East that offers such surreal views paired with absolute silence—perfect for travelers seeking awe and calm.
4. Camp Under the Stars in the Empty Quarter Desert
The Rub’ al Khali, or Empty Quarter, is the largest continuous sand desert in the world. It stretches across Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE, and Yemen—but the most untouched part lies within Saudi Arabia.
Visitors can now book luxury desert camping experiences or go on guided 4×4 adventures that include dune bashing, sandboarding, and cultural storytelling sessions under the stars.
What makes it unforgettable is the sheer silence and beauty of this massive desert. The golden dunes seem to go on forever, and when night falls, the sky fills with stars.
Why it’s special:
Spending the night here is like stepping into another planet. It’s one of the most isolated places on Earth, yet now surprisingly accessible to travelers.
5. Witness Camel Racing and Falconry Like a Local
If you want to truly understand Saudi Arabia’s cultural roots, you can’t miss camel racing and falconry. These are more than just pastimes—they are part of the national identity.
Camel races are hosted across the country, especially during the winter months. The King Abdulaziz Camel Festival near Riyadh is the largest of its kind and draws visitors from across the Gulf. Watching sleek, muscular camels sprint across the desert is an experience unlike any other.
Falconry, on the other hand, is a quiet, majestic tradition. Visitors can interact with trained falcons, learn about the centuries-old bond between birds and Bedouins, and even attend the International Falconry Festival.
Why it’s special:
These aren’t tourist shows—they’re real events that have been passed down through generations, giving travelers a deeper connection to the Saudi way of life.
Saudi Arabia Is Ready for the World
Until a few years ago, Saudi Arabia was mostly closed off to international tourism. Now, with the launch of the Vision 2030 initiative and the introduction of tourist visas, the Kingdom is transforming fast.
Tourists can now get e-visas in minutes, and new hotels, museums, theme parks, and infrastructure projects are rapidly making the country more accessible.
Yet what makes Saudi Arabia truly unique isn’t just development—it’s the untouched natural beauty, ancient stories carved into rock, and centuries-old traditions still alive today.
Quick Travel Tips for Visiting Saudi Arabia
- Visa: Most nationalities can now apply for an e-visa online.
- Best Time to Visit: November to March for cooler weather.
- Dress Code: Respectful dress is advised, especially in rural areas.
- Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in cities.
- Local Etiquette: Always ask before photographing people, and try local dishes like kabsa and dates with Arabic coffee.
Final Thoughts
There are many countries that offer sun, sand, and history—but the unique things to do in Saudi Arabia truly stand apart. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history lover, or a cultural explorer, the Kingdom has something that can’t be found anywhere else.
So if you’re building your next travel bucket list, don’t overlook Saudi Arabia. These five once-in-a-lifetime experiences could just become the highlights of your journey.
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