Things to do in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is an exceptional country that offers its visitors a magnificent holiday. Now you can explore Saudi Arabia and its marvelous sites and beaches with Ootlah. From heritage and culture to nature and adventure, Saudi offers a sense of true discovery and profound Arabian journeys.

Saudi Arabia stretches from the vast coral seas and cliffs to green oases and ancient cities. It is a land of adventures, stories, and remote mountain villages. It is a spiritual sanctuary for Muslims, and it gives a rare insight into the Arabian Peninsula before Islam. Saudi Arabia is also diverse in history: from sites related to local rulers, such as the Barzan region in Hail, the Shubra Palace in Taif, and the famous fortress of Masmak in Riyadh, to sites related to the major Islamic empires, including a dam from the Umayyad Empire, the Abbasid Darb Zubaydah, and Tabuk Castle The Ottoman.

Saudi Arabia features endless beaches on the Red Sea, and many of them are untouched. Vendors now offer boat trips from cities such as Jeddah, Yanbu, and Al Lith. The Red Sea offers the best diving experiences, warm temperatures, and great visibility. You can meet sharks, barracuda, rays, turtles, moories, and a large number of colorful coral reef fish. Dolphins are also a popular encounter when sailing. Saudi Arabia is also environmentally diverse. Mountains in the west and south provide stunning locations for nature lovers, history, heritage, and photography. Landscape pictures in and around mountain cities such as Taif, Al Baha, and Tabuk contrast sharply with popular images of the Saudi desert. But the city of Abha in the south is perhaps the most impressive, with breathtaking views of the clouds at the highest peak in Saudi Arabia, Jabal Soda. Abha was chosen as the capital of Arab tourism in 2017 and offers a number of parks, historical sites, and festivals.

Saudi Arabia is full of adventures and experiences that will absolutely make your heart burst with happiness. Saudi Arabia’s activities offer amazing and fascinating experiences, from diving in the coral reefs of the Red Sea to stargazing in the vast, golden, and empty deserts. So imagine yourself trying the following things to do when you are in Saudi Arabia:  

Desert Safari and Stargazing in Al Ula

Saudi Arabia is perfectly suited for camping and enjoying desert safaris. Al Ula desert is one of the most beautiful Saudi arabia tourist sites to set up camp in the desert. It will make you close to Arabian and Bedouin life. Forget the city, which is crowded, and indulge in nighttime stargazing with your friends for a quiet vibe and atmosphere. The iconic Al Ula observation arch sets the stage for this celestial spectacle, making it an ideal gateway to stargazing during your hiking in Al-Ula too.

Additionally, savour a Bedouin-style dinner in this serene desert setting, surrounded by countless twinkling lights. So, when you visit Al-Ula you will discover the best things to do there besides Safari desert and hiking in Al-Ula.

Tour around Al Balad, Jeddah

Al Balad is more than just a historic site; it's a vibrant area that presents the tradition, hospitality, and echoes of a glorious past. So you have to explore its labyrinthine streets and let Jeddah's ancient heart steal yours by stepping into a thrilling adventure that will leave a remarkable influence in your mind and heart forever. You will have the chance to see the old, unique architecture of the city and try the tasty street food for the first time. This experience will be a mix of the past, different cultures, and the traditions of Jeddah.

Water Activities at the Red Sea

When you visit Saudi Arabia, you can’t ever miss the water activities at the Red Sea, which will make you try diving, snorkelling, and boat trips. Plunge into a world of underwater wonder, sun-kissed adventures, and endless excitement at the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia. Imagine yourself diving among crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.

Explore Famous Landmarks

Besides all the previous things and activities to do in Saudi Arabia, there are a lot of landmarks, Saudi attractions and famous tourist spots, that you have to visit to know the heritage, customs, and traditions of the kingdom, such as the following:

• The floating mosque in Jeddah. 
• King Fahd’s Fountain, or Jeddah.
• Nasseef House. 
• Al-Baqi Cemetery.

Explore Edge of the World

The Edge of the World, also known as Jebel Fihrayn, is a breathtaking cliff located on the Tuwaiq Mountains in Saudi Arabia.

Near Riyadh, you'll find the breathtaking Edge of the World, a dramatic cliff that seems endless, offering spectacular views of the sprawling, empty plains below. Locally known as Jabal Fihrayn, this natural marvel sits atop the Tuwaiq Escarpment, making you feel like you're at the edge of a fantasy world, especially at dawn or dusk.

The journey itself is a thrilling adventure: a four-wheel drive across desert tracks, culminating in a short walk that unveils breathtaking panoramic vistas, ancient marine fossils, and the tranquil beauty of the Arabian wilderness.  Whether you're seeking a hike, a starlit picnic, or simply to soak in the stunning scenery, this isolated sanctuary is an essential destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature aficionados.

Horse Riding

Horse riding in KSA offers an exciting adventure and a memorable way to see the country's stunning landscapes. 

You can trot along the shoreline at sunset or venture into the Jeddah and Umluj desert trails that edge the sea. Riyadh's renowned stables offer top-notch horse riding schools, extensive desert excursions, and the unique experience of horseback archery. 

In the eastern province, Dammam, Khobar, and Half Moon Bay, you will find a unique blend of tranquil beaches, horseback riding, and guided adventures across sparkling dunes.  King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) provides elegant beach tours near the marina, perfect for families and those seeking a peaceful escape.

Abha and AlUla are famous for their mountains and long history. You will find local tour guides organize breathtaking horseback rides through their high valleys.  No matter your experience, whether you're a seasoned weekend rider or a complete beginner, you'll find a trail waiting for you somewhere in Saudi Arabia.