Things To Do in Saudi Arabia

There’s a lot to do in Saudi Arabia that goes beyond the usual tourist stops. You can wander the ancient ruins of Al-Ula and feel like you've stepped back thousands of years, or head to Jeddah's historic Al-Balad district where the old coral stone buildings tell stories you won’t find in any guidebook.

Don’t underestimate the appeal of the Red Sea coast either – whether it’s jumping into the clear waters around Yanbu or taking a boat trip near Dammam. If you’re visiting in winter, the cooler months are perfect for hiking in the Asir Mountains near Abha; the views and the rich local culture make it well worth the trip.

A quick tip from someone who’s lived here: visit a traditional souq, like Souq Al-Thumairi in Riyadh. It’s chaotic, a bit smelly, but the falafel is one of the best you’ll find anywhere. And if you time it right, you might catch a local festival or camel race. Just don’t expect everything to run like clockwork. That’s part of the charm of exploring Saudi Arabia – it’s full of surprises and contrasts.