7 beautiful places in Saudi Arabia you didn’t know existed
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We already know Saudi Arabia is one of the most gorgeous destinations in the world. Complete with unmissable UNESCO World Heritage Sites, tropical paradise destinations, and so much more, there are so many things happening right here at our back door. Here are some beautiful places in Saudi Arabia you simply need to see.
Al Bahah
Al Bahah is a gorgeous city in southwestern Saudi Arabia. The city is known for its enjoyable climate, and it’s surrounded by more than 40 forests, including Raghdan, Al-Zaraeb and Baidan. Al Bahah is often called the “Pearl of Resorts” by locals for its scenic views, high mountains, and Tehama coastal area of the province.
When the city temperatures soar, Al Baha is most beautiful in the spring and summer, making it the perfect spot to get away this season. Thanks to its moderate climate and cool breeze from May to August, visitors can look forward to days spent basking in nature at Al Baha’s many verdant parks, gorgeous gardens, and dense forests. In the summer, a layer of thick fog regularly blankets the mountainside of the city, keeping the heat at bay and inviting visitors to enjoy the fertile lands that produce an array of fruit and vegetable crops.
Al Soudah
Located in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia, the mountainous area of Al Soudah is roughly 3,015 metres above sea level, so gear up for picturesque views, long road trips, and more.
Farasan Islands
One of Saudi Arabia’s best-kept secrets is the Farasan Islands. Located 40 kilometres off the coast of Jazan in the Red Sea, the getaway features over 170 islands and islets of uplifted coral reef and is a year-round tourist location; the climate is summery during April to October and is followed by a short cooler period from November to March. If you’re looking for an island escape, this is truly where you’ll get it.
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Rijal Almaa
If you haven’t heard of Rijal Almaa, Saudi Arabia’s very own cutesy gingerbread village, then you absolutely need to see it. Making it onto the UN’s Best Tourism Villages in the world list, the nearly 900-year-old village is located 45 minutes away from Abha in the Asir region. If you’re lucky, you can even catch one of the famous celebrations and festivals.
Thuwal
Thuwal is a gorgeous coastal village in Jeddah Governorate, Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia. Perfectly poised along the coast of the Red Sea in the Hejaz region, the village is located 30 kilometres south of King Abdullah Economic City and 80 kilometres north of Jeddah. There are so many activities for families and solo travellers to enjoy, including taking strolls between the palm trees, walking on the sand beach, and, of course, swimming in the pristine waters too.
Umm Al-Oud Island
Slowly creeping up the radar, Umm Al-Oud Island is one of the most breathtaking islands. The gorgeous island lies in the Red Sea, specifically in Ras Mohaisen, in the Makkah Region. Complete with white sand beaches, a variety of trees, and colourful coral reefs, it’s safe to say this is one beach getaway to have on your list.
Umluj
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Known as the Maldives of Saudi Arabia, Umluj is one of the most picturesque locations in the Kingdom. It’s a Saudi Arabian island located in the Red Sea. Known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs, Umluj is definitely high on our must-visit list.
Images: Getty
