Top Attractions in Saudi Arabia: Your 2025 Travel Destination Guide

As Saudi Arabia continues to open its doors to global tourism, the Kingdom emerges as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking rich history, cultural depth, modern luxury, and stunning natural landscapes. From the towering skyscrapers of Riyadh to the rock-carved tombs of AlUla, Saudi Arabia offers a one-of-a-kind journey into the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.

This 2025 travel destination guide to Saudi Arabia is your complete resource for exploring the Kingdom’s top attractions, cultural experiences, itinerary planning, travel costs, and insider tips.

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a tourism renaissance, led by Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious plan to diversify its economy and showcase its historical and natural assets. 2025 is the perfect time to visit, as new tourism infrastructure, experiences, and destinations are rapidly developing.

Key Highlights:

• Ancient cities and archaeological marvels
• Luxury eco-resorts and desert adventures
• Red Sea beaches and coral reefs
• UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Immersive cultural and religious experiences

1. AlUla & Hegra (Madain Saleh)

One of the most extraordinary destinations in the Middle East, AlUla is home to Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site. These Nabataean tombs carved into sandstone cliffs are often compared to Petra in Jordan but with far fewer crowds.

Explore:

• Elephant Rock (Jabal Al-Fil)
• Old Town of AlUla
• Maraya Concert Hall, the world’s largest mirrored building

Travel Tip: Book a guided tour to learn about AlUla’s rich history and natural wonders.

2. Riyadh – The Modern Capital

The capital city of Riyadh blends history and modernity. It’s a vibrant metropolis offering museums, mega-malls, and luxury dining alongside desert adventures.

Top Attractions:

• Kingdom Centre Tower (Sky Bridge views)
• National Museum of Saudi Arabia
• Diriyah Gate – the birthplace of the Saudi state

Internal Link: Explore more cultural heritage sites in our [Middle Eastern Travel Experience Guide].

3. Jeddah – The Gateway to the Red Sea

Jeddah, the cosmopolitan city by the sea, is known for its relaxed vibe, beautiful corniche, and access to Islamic history.

Don’t miss:

• Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad) – a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Floating Mosque (Al Rahma Mosque)
• Jeddah Waterfront and art installations

Jeddah is also the entry point for Umrah pilgrims visiting Makkah.

4. The Red Sea Project

Launching full swing in 2025, the Red Sea Project is a futuristic luxury tourism development featuring coral-fringed islands, diving resorts, and eco-friendly design.

Highlights include:

• Amaala – focused on wellness and arts
• Luxury overwater villas
• Marine adventures like snorkeling and sailing

5. Abha & Asir Region

Located in the southwestern highlands, Abha offers cool temperatures, mountain vistas, and unique culture.

Attractions:

• Rijal Alma Village – historic mud-brick houses
• Asir National Park – lush forests and hiking trails
• Cable car ride in Al-Soudah Mountains

Travel Tip: Visit during summer to escape the desert heat and enjoy cultural festivals.

6. Makkah and Madinah

For Muslims, visiting Makkah and Madinah is a spiritual journey of a lifetime. Even for non-Muslims (who cannot enter the holy cities), the surrounding regions offer insight into Islamic culture.

Key Spots:

• Masjid Al-Haram and the Kaaba in Makkah
• Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah
• Mount Uhud and Quba Mosque

Cultural Insight: Respect local customs and religious rules, especially during Hajj and Ramadan seasons.

Travel Tips for Visiting Saudi Arabia
 

1. Visa: Apply for an eVisa through Saudi Arabia’s official tourism site
2. Dress Code: Modest clothing is required. Women are not required to wear abayas but should dress respectfully.
3. Language: Arabic is official; English is spoken in tourist areas
4. Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)
5. Internet & SIM: Widely available; buy SIM at the airport (STC, Mobily)

Saudi Arabia has a deeply rooted culture influenced by Islam and tribal traditions.

Respectful Practices:

• Avoid public displays of affection
• Always ask before taking photos of people
• Follow prayer time etiquette (some businesses may close temporarily)
• Friday is the weekly holy day – expect reduced business hours

Food Note: Alcohol is strictly prohibited; try local drinks like qahwa (Arabic coffee) and mint tea.

Beyond culture and cities, Saudi Arabia’s landscapes offer plenty of adventure:

• Edge of the World (Riyadh): Dramatic cliffs and desert hiking
• Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali): One of the largest sand deserts in the world
• Farasan Islands: Pristine nature reserve in the Red Sea

1. Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, Habitas AlUla, Jeddah Hilton
2. Mid-range: Centro Hotels, Swiss-Belhotel, Courtyard by Marriott
3. Budget: OYO Hotels, local guesthouses in heritage areas

Use platforms like Booking.com or Agoda for reservations with flexible cancellation policies.

Saudi Arabia is transforming into a world-class destination where heritage meets hospitality, and adventure blends with spirituality. Whether you're exploring archaeological wonders, lounging on untouched beaches, or sharing qahwa with locals, your experience in Saudi Arabia will be unforgettable.

As the Kingdom continues to develop its tourism sector in 2025 and beyond, now is the time to visit before the secret gets out.