TIL Desk/World/Riyadh:👉There is always something exquisite about venturing into the unexplored. Traveling along less known paths, where each step leads to an extraordinary discovery. In the heart of Arabia, unforgettable experiences await, ready to surprise those who dare to wander.
A treat for the eyes and soul, Saudi is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking hidden gems that lie well beyond its majestic deserts.
Imagine wandering through ancient alleyways of UNESCO World Heritage sites, sipping authentic Arabian coffee, or diving into underwater adventures in the Saudi Red Sea. Add in the luxury beach resorts, and Saudi becomes a place of endless surprises. It is a land of unexpected and spectacular wonders that will leave you craving more.
Here are some of the country’s iconic sites that need to be on your travel itinerary:
AlUla Old Town:
AlUla’s beauty is visible throughout – from the breathtaking sunsets at Maraya Concert Hall, wellness retreats at Habitas AlUla, and hot air ballooning over Hegra, AlUla’s very own UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are a myriad experiences that have made their way to people’s travel bucket lists. AlUla Old Town is the quaint little town where it all started.
A settlement from the 12th century with strong incense trading routes has a never-seen-before maze of historic alleyways and mud-brick houses. The bazaars are unique, run by locals who sell elegant antiques and souvenirs. Qurmoz, a luxury store deeply rooted in Saudi’s heritage and culture, showcases authentic, handwoven designs crafted by Saudi artisans. Nestled within the charming mud-brick alleyways of the old town, it embodies the rich heritage and artistic spirit of the country.
During your time in AlUla Old Town, a Rawi (guide) will lead you through AlUla’s Old Town, where pilgrims, travellers and permanent settlers congregated through the ages. With 900 houses, 500 shops, and 5 town squares, explore the remnants of a town dating back to the 10th century, stepping back in time to marvel at the original stone and mud-brick structures, offering a glimpse into the lives of the settlers and pilgrims who once inhabited AlUla Old Town.
The Red Sea:
Nestled along the west coast of Saudi, the 28,000 square kilometre paradise is home to a vast archipelago of more than 90 islands, stunning beaches, sweeping desert dunes and natural wonders including one of the world’s few thriving reefs, dormant volcanoes, ancient heritage sites and mountain canyons. An underwater wonderland, The Saudi Red Sea is home to 175 species of coral reefs, 195 species of fish and critically endangered species such as the hawksbill sea turtle.
Six Senses Southern Dunes and The St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Nujuma, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East and seventh in the world, are already open. Plus, Shebara Resort with its futuristic overwater orbs and the resort at Desert Rock remain on track to welcome their first guests later this year.
Historic Jeddah:
Historic Jeddah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the bustling coastal city of Jeddah, allows visitors to immerse themselves in Saudi’s rich history and distinct Hijazi architecture. This part of the city contains towers and houses built by the city’s elite merchants in the late 19th century – with lots of coral stone, wood, roshan box balconies and intricately carved doors. Established as the primary port for trade routes from the Indian Ocean in the 7th century AD, many buildings are up to 400 years old.
Evenings in the city are for soaking up the Jeddah skyline, amidst the hundreds of antiques on display at local favourite Historic Nights Rooftop Cafe Hunt for treasures in Historic Jeddah’s bustling markets – there are seven souks in the old town alone including Souk Al Alawi – the oldest souk in the city. Here you’ll find leather goods, Arabic perfumes, jewellery, clothes and much more. To pack the most into your days, take a for local insights.
