Most recently, Saudi Arabia has opened its borders to tourists. This country will show you the entire coloring of the ancient deserts and some of the shrines of the Muslim world. The combination of modernity and the ancient traditions of the East make it attractive enough for cultural recreation. Diving became a distinctive feature of the tourism business of Saudi Arabia. Exclusive underwater world and rest on the Red Sea will be an unforgettable adventure.
Most recently, Saudi Arabia has opened its borders to tourists. This country will show you the entire coloring of the ancient deserts and some of the shrines of the Muslim world. The combination of modernity and the ancient traditions of the East make it attractive enough for cultural recreation. Diving became a distinctive feature of the tourism business of Saudi Arabia. Exclusive underwater world and rest on the Red Sea will be an unforgettable adventure. For completeness of sensations it is necessary to visit a camel beauty contest or take part in royal fun - falconry. Tourism in Saudi Arabia will give you a sea of new impressions. Let's find out which ones!
When to go to Saudi Arabia?
The most successful time for visiting Saudi Arabia is the November-February period. The air temperature at this time goes down, and rest on the coast of the Red Sea becomes comfortable. In the summer months, the air is very hot, and it's physically difficult for travelers to be outdoors.
In addition, when visiting Arabia, it is worth considering the period of the holy feast of Ramadan and Hajj. Each year these events take place in different months, shifting because of the Islamic calendar, tied to the lunar cycle. If you do not profess Islam, at this time you should not go here: the pilgrims' confinement does not facilitate a convenient transfer to the cities of the country.
Types of recreation in Saudi Arabia
The main types of tourism in this country are:
- religious;
- sightseeing;
- beach;
- active;
- archaeological.
Let's consider each of them in more detail.
Religious tourism
Saudi Arabia is the very country where the religion of Islam was founded. Pilgrims from all over the world come to Mecca - the most sacred place of all Muslims. It is worth noting that the Gentiles are not allowed there, as in the Medina . On the territory of this ancient city is the Al-Haram mosque and the main sanctuary of Muslims - Kaaba . The second sacred city of Saudi Arabia is Medina. Among the many magnificent mosques, the most important is the Mosque of the Prophet .
Excursion tourism in Saudi Arabia
Over the past few years, the demand for cognitive tourism has increased significantly. Begin acquaintance with the country better from the capital - Riyadh . The city has many opportunities to get acquainted with both cultural values that have come down to us through the centuries, and with modern sights . The main places to visit the capital of Saudi Arabia are:
- the historical center of King Abdul-Aziz, whose complex includes the National Museum of Saudi Arabia ;
- Al-Madi mosque;
- the fortress Masmak ;
- 267-meter tower of Al Faisaly, decorating the center of the city;
- the television tower of Riyadh;
- the Royal Center of Saudi Arabia, which is the tallest building in the country;
- King Abdullah's Park and Dhira Park;
- Zoo of Riyadh;
- public library of King Abdul-Aziz.
Tourism in Saudi Arabia means visiting other cities, where the main attractions are museums, parks, fortresses and old markets. The most popular for excursions are:
- Jeddah is a city on the Red Sea. The most picturesque place is the El Balad area, Nasif and Sharbatly mansions, a municipality museum built of coral. It is interesting to visit the ancient market of El Alawi, where the most traditional eastern products are abundant.
- Abha is a green oasis. The city is famous for plantations of fruits and coffee. The main pride is the National Park of Asher . Also it is worth to visit the art village of Al-Miftaha and enjoy the works created by the best sculptors and artists of the country.
- Buraida is a city of parks. In addition to the magnificent parks, it is worth visiting the historical museum, cultural center and shopping centers.
- Dammam is a sea city. Be sure to visit the magnificent park of King Fadh, the Dammam Heritage Museum, the National Museum and the Zoo.
- Dahran - worth visiting the islands - Darin and Tarut, where the ancient fortresses were preserved. In the city itself is interesting business center and the embankment Cornish.
Beach holiday in Saudi Arabia
All year round, the hot sun gives tourists the opportunity to swim in warm waters and luxuriate on snow-white sand. For tourists resting on the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia - this is primarily Jeddah. There are comfortable beaches and luxury hotels . The city is also interesting museums and ancient quarters. Many tourists come here to see the tomb of the ancestor of mankind - Eva .
Activities in Saudi Arabia
A variety of outdoor activities will pleasantly surprise even the most sophisticated travelers. In Saudi Arabia, you can participate in the following events:
- Falcon hunting. Today this is one of the most popular entertainment, but not the cheapest, because one hunting falcon costs about $ 80 thousand.
- Camel Race. In the capital and any Bedouin settlement, at any time of the year you can visit such an event. In addition, the country holds beauty contests for camels - very gambling.
- Horse Racing. Arabian horses are considered the best in the world, therefore it is not surprising that a lot of attention is paid to these animals. Horse racing, competitions and various events are held every year.
- Diving. Next to Jeddah is a diving paradise in the suburbs - Obir, where divers gather from around the world during the season. The Red Sea has a unique and rich underwater world, you can admire the untouched coral reefs.
- Fishing. It will be interesting for those who want to learn the original ancient methods of fishing. Such tours are very popular in Saudi Arabia.
- Cruise on the yacht. A wonderful entertainment along the coastal islands. Yachts have everything they need on board. You can stop the ship in a fishing place and arrange an excellent fishing.
- Safari. From Jeddah, tourists go on trips not only on off-road cars, but also on camels. The tour includes a trip to the desert and the study of the richest heritage of the ancient Arabian Peninsula, including the mountains of Sarawat and Al-Hijaz.
Archaeological tourism
An ancient country with a history that keeps many secrets in its sands. Archaeological excavations in Saudi Arabia will bring tourists a lot of rewards in the form of artifacts found. The best places for this are:
- Archaeological complex Madain Salih . It is located in the north-west of the country in El Madina. These are rock burials belonging to the 1st century AD. The complex includes many unexplored structures and massive rock tombs.
- Abha. In this city there is an ancient and unique palace of Shada. Its walls contain many archaeological artifacts.
- Ed Diria . It is the first capital of the kingdom and the best archaeological site in Saudi Arabia. Among the ruins you can see mosques , the old city wall and several palaces.
Features of Tourism in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a very conservative country, and here they live in strict observance of Sharia law. Tourists need to remember the following:
- Night entertainment here is banned.
- Tourism for women in Saudi Arabia involves many bans: in particular, to wear open clothes and even drive cars. All women under 40 years of age must be accompanied by a close male relative. It should also be borne in mind that many places are divided into "male" and "female": beaches, museums, shops. In the mosques for the ladies separate rooms and entrances are provided.
- In Saudi Arabia, tourism itself is also not allowed. Moving around the country can only be groups with tour operators.
- Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited, violation of which is punishable by death, and it does not matter whether you are a tourist or a local.
- If your trip to Saudi Arabia coincided with the holy feast, then you will also have to observe a strict fast.