By Jude 
Saudi Arabia, the country of rich heritage and varied topography, has become a top destination for adventure tourists in recent times. From the expansive deserts to the high mountains and unspoiled coastlines, the Kingdom boasts a wide range of experiences suited to thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. In this ultimate guide, we explore the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia, the best times to visit, budget-friendly hotels, off-the-beaten-path gems, desert tours, spiritual landmarks, and staying connected with the Zetexa Saudi Arabia eSIM.
Top Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia
- Riyadh – The City of Contrasts
Riyadh, the capital of the country, expertly integrates modernity with tradition. Tourists can experience the high-rise skyscrapers, like the Kingdom Centre Tower, and learn about the country’s rich past at the National Museum. The city’s lively markets and historic souks give a glimpse of Saudi Arabia’s heritage.
2. Jeddah – The Gateway to the Red Sea
Jeddah, on the Red Sea coast, is famous for its stunning beaches and historical landmarks. The UNESCO-listed Al-Balad district has traditional coral houses, and the Jeddah Corniche provides a picturesque view of the sea. The city’s thriving art scene and rich cuisine make it a place to visit.
3. AlUla – An Archaeological Marvel
AlUla is also home to the historic Nabatean city of Hegra, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saudi Arabia. The area is filled with awe-inspiring sandstone structures and archaeological sites spanning thousands of years, and a paradise for those who love history.
4. Abha – The Mountain Retreat
Situated within the Asir Mountains, Abha provides a cool relief from desert temperatures. Abha’s verdant surroundings, rural villages, and Jabal Soudah, Saudi Arabia’s highest point at 3,015 meters, present good opportunities for trekking and exploration of nature.
Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia
The best time to tour Saudi Arabia is between the autumn and winter seasons, between the months of October and March. At this time, the temperature is easier to handle, ensuring outdoor excursions and tourism activities are pleasant. The months from December to February are best to explore the desert and mountains as the weather for hiking, camping, and the like is most favourable.
How to Find Budget Hospitality in Saudi Arabia
Though Saudi Arabia is famous for its luxury hotels, budget travellers have options too:
Local Guesthouses and Hotels: Riyadh, Jeddah, and Medina have a variety of budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses that are affordable without sacrificing comfort.
Camping: For the adventurous type, camping in the mountains or desert is an affordable way to enjoy the natural beauty of Saudi Arabia.
Zetexa eSIM: Remain connected and gain access to local accommodation platforms to obtain the best offers on accommodation services.
Saudi Arabia’s Hidden Gems
In addition to the popular destinations, Saudi Arabia has a number of hidden gems:
Al Ahsa Oasis: The largest oasis in the world, Al Ahsa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with dense palm groves and historical sites.
Najran: On the border with Yemen, Najran provides an interesting mix of Arabian and Yemeni culture, ancient mud-brick forts and bustling markets.
Farasan Islands: An island chain off Jizan coast, Farasan is a divers’ and nature lover’s paradise with coral reefs and varied sea life.
Zetexa eSIM: Take advantage of the Zetexa eSIM to find and explore these off-the-beaten-path locations with ease.
Desert Adventures of Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s extensive deserts provide a multitude of exciting experiences:
Dune Bashing: Get the excitement of navigating through the massive sand dunes in a 4×4 SUV. The hotspots are the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter) and the Najd region.
Camel Trekking: Go for a conventional camel trek along the desert, viewing the world as the Bedouins did centuries ago.
Sandboarding: For adventure lovers, sandboarding down the yellow dunes offers an adrenaline-rushing experience.
Camping Under the Stars: Camp in the desert for an evening, and slumber beneath the endless, starry night sky, with peace enveloping everything around.
Zetexa eSIM: Have quality connectivity to be able to plan and book your tours, move about in unconnected areas, and post real-time updates from there.
Spiritual Places and Sacred Cities
The spiritual centre of the Islamic world is Saudi Arabia:
Makkah (Mecca): Birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad, Makkah contains the Masjid al-Haram and the Kaaba. Though non-Muslims are not allowed access, the city has deep meaning.
Madinah (Medina): Islam’s second most holy city, Madinah contains the Prophet’s Mosque, a place of great religious significance.
Diriyah: The historic city of Diriyah, near Riyadh, was the original seat of power for the Saudi royal family and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Zetexa eSIM: Use the Zetexa eSIM to access religious apps, prayer times, and maps to navigate these sacred sites.
Adventures in Saudi Arabia for Travelers
Saudi Arabia offers a myriad of adventure activities for travellers:
Hiking in the Asir Mountains: With winding paths through dense forests and breathtaking panoramas, the Asir Mountains are a hiking dream come true.
Scuba Diving in the Red Sea: The transparent waters of the Red Sea shelter colourful coral reefs and a multitude of marine creatures, making it a favourite spot for divers.
Wadi Al Disah Trekking: The beautiful valley located in the Tabuk area boasts dramatic scenery and is ideal for trekking and photography.
Taif and Abha Paragliding: For a flying experience, paragliding over the mountains offers breathtaking sights.
Zetexa eSIM: Get connected to share your experiences, view maps, and book activities while on the move.
Download:
ZetSIM App from the APP Store
ZetSIM App from the Google Play Store
FAQs
Q1: Is Saudi Arabia safe for tourists?
Yes, Saudi Arabia is safe for travellers. The government has made significant investments in tourism infrastructure and takes care to ensure the safety of tourists.
Q2: Do I need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia?
The majority of travellers need a visa to travel to Saudi Arabia. Nevertheless, the nation has launched an eVisa system for citizens of various nations. It’s recommended that you verify the current visa requirements prior to organizing your trip.
Q3: What do I need to dress in when travelling to Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is a country with a conservative dress code. Men must have long trousers on and not use sleeveless tops. Women have to wear an abaya if they go into public, though it is not necessary to have the face covered.
Q4: How can I remain in touch while visiting Saudi Arabia?
The Zetexa eSIM provides a hassle-free option for staying online. With instant activation of a local data plan, you can use maps, translation software, and stay connected with loved ones without the nuisance
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia tourism is a mix of profound spirituality, endless deserts, livewire cities, and hidden treasures. From searching ancient tombs at AlUla, swimming in the Red Sea, or strolling down historic alleys of Jeddah, you’re in for a treat. Plan smart—and explore Saudi Arabia in the cooler months, find budget accommodations, and stay connected with Zetexa eSIM—and your travel experience can take on an incredible dimension.
So pack your bags, download your eVisa, activate your Zetexa eSIM, and get ready to witness the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia.