Popular Destinations in Saudi Arabia
Riyadh
Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh is situated on a desert plateau in the heart
of the country. Once a stop along desert trading routes, the city is among
the wealthiest cities in the world today. Riyadh is the political and
financial center of Saudi Arabia and has an extensive business district.
Visitors will find here iconic structures including the 267-meter Al
Faisaliah Centre, which has a glass-globe summit, and the 302-meter Kingdom
Centre, which has a skybridge observation deck. Deira is the historical
district lined with several landmarks such as the earthen-brick Masmak
Fortress which marks the site of the 1902 raids, which gave Al Saud dynasty
the control of Riyadh. Major attractions in Riyadh are Royal Saudi Air
Force Museum, Al Hokair Land, Riyadh Zoo, King Salman Safari Park, and Al
Yamamah Palace. The city is known for its luxurious malls and souqs.
Mecca
Located in a desert valley, in western Saudi Arabia, Mecca is the
birthplace of Prophet Muhammad and Islam’s holiest city. Only Muslims are
allowed in this pilgrimage city with millions flocking to the city for
annual Haj (pilgrimage). For Muslims worldwide, a visit to Mecca is a
lifelong dream and an emotionally overwhelming experience. The major
landmark here is the Masjid al-Haram (Sacred Mosque) which dates back to
the 7th century and surrounds the Kaaba (cloth-covered cubic
structure) which is Islam’s most sacred shrine. Part of the Abraj Al Bait
complex is the 601-meter Makkah Clock Royal Tower Hotel which overlooks the
Masjid al-Haram. The complex also features upscale shopping malls. Many
significant Haj sites are located just outside the city. There is Mount
Arafat where Muhammad gave his last sermon and Jabal al-Nour cave where
Muhammad received his first revelation. Major attractions in Mecca are
Zamzam Well, Black Stone, Jabal Thawr, Jamaraat Bridge, Hira Cave, Masjid e
Taneem, Mecca Museum, and Cemetery of Ma'la and Al-Hajun.
Jeddah
A port city on the Red Sea, Jeddah is the gateway to the holy cities of
Medina and Mecca. The modern commercial hub is famed for its sandy beaches,
traditional souks, and reef diving. At the heart of Jeddah is Corniche, the
seafront promenade which is anchored by the emblematic King Fahd’s Fountain
and lined with a number of luxury resorts, towering hotels, and outdoor
sculptures. Jeddah is a vibrant city with several museums, cultural
institutions, and parks such as Al Tayebat International City Museum, Al
Shallal Theme Park, Jeddah Regional Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography,
Dhahban Marine Park, Athr Gallery, Fakieh Planetarium, Park Reem, and
Matbouli House Museum.