Five Must-Do Winter Adventures in Saudi Arabia.
Whether you are in search of a warm winter getaway, a cultural excursion, a thrilling adventure, or deeply engaging experiences, the Saudi winter season is brimming with unmissable moments, adventures, and events.
Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of the top destinations for travellers seeking new horizons to discover, boasting more exhilarating activities and experiences than ever before. With something to offer everyone, here are five places you should consider placing at the top of your travel wish list…
Riyadh.
The capital city of Riyadh is teeming with events - there were more than 17,000 during the last winter season alone - and also hosts numerous historical sites that are well worth visiting. For instance, Diriyah, known as “The City of Earth”, is the birthplace of the first Saudi State in 1727 and houses the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, a cornerstone of Saudi culture.
Moreover, the Bujairi Terrace offers an array of dining options, featuring both Saudi culinary traditions and 4-star Michelin-starred restaurants. Additionally, the Kingdom Tower, with its Sky Bridge, provides breathtaking panoramic views of Riyadh, while the King Abdullah Financial District showcases contemporary architectural marvels.
Jeddah.
The coastal city of Jeddah, serving as the gateway to the Red Sea, is a hive of activity with its markets, bookshops, and vibrant local scene, not to mention its iconic corniche. The historic district of Al-Balad boasts 7th-century houses and narrow streets filled with stalls selling spices, jewellery, textiles, and perfumes. This historic charm is complemented by new cafés and modern art galleries, fostering a burgeoning art scene in recent years.
For those seeking luxurious accommodations, the Shangri-La Jeddah offers stylish interiors, while the newly inaugurated Jeddah Edition, situated near the Yacht Club and Marina and the F1 racetrack, provides another opulent option.
The Red Sea.
The thriving coral reefs of the Red Sea are perfect for snorkelling and diving, and many resorts in the area offer additional activities such as kayaking, sailing, and wing-foiling. One notable highlight is the Ummahat archipelago, accessible from the Saudi coast via chartered boat or seaplane, featuring overwater and beachfront villas. The region is also renowned for its stunningly dark night skies.
Accommodations in this area include the St. Regis Red Sea Resort and the recently opened Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve situated on a series of pristine private islands.
Hegra & AlUla.
The ancient city of Hegra boasts over 110 well-preserved burial tombs intricately carved from desert rock, some of which bear inscriptions from those interred within. Awarded Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2008, Hegra is a site of great historical significance.
Nearby, the historic city of AlUla offers 200,000 years of largely unexplored human history. The imposing rock formation Jabal AlFil, also known as Elephant Rock, stands alongside archaeological ruins, ancient rock art, and tombs.
AlUla also hosts numerous food festivals and exhibitions, as well as performances at Maraya — the world’s largest mirrored building. Its six nature reserves are integral to a flourishing rewilding and regreening initiative.
A variety of boutique hotels, resorts, and guesthouses are available nearby, including The Banyan Tree AlUla, Habitas AlUla, and The Shaden Resort.
Aseer & the Sarawat Mountains.
The Aseer region is home to Saudi Arabia’s highest peak, the 3,000-metre Al Soudah, an ideal destination for hikers wishing to explore its lush, green landscapes. The region also encompasses the Jurf Raydah Reserve, established in 1989, which includes the Sarawat Mountains.
Blessed with ample rainfall, this area serves as a sanctuary for rare wildlife and vegetation, including juniper forests, diverse cacti, and ancient wild olive trees. It is also home to elusive creatures such as the Arabian Wolf, Rock Hyrax, Caracal, Mongoose, and various bird species, including the Arabian woodpecker and the native Aseer magpie. Cable cars are also available for a unique perspective of this remarkable region.
For more information visit: https://www.visitsaudi.com/en