WIDE-OFF Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia is home to some of the world’s most beautiful — and surprising — landscapes, albeit these are less well-known than the kingdom’s vast deserts and bustling cities. Locations such as Mecca, Riyadh, and Jeddah are well known. Still, the Kingdom bristles with hidden treasures that rival these urban centres for breathtaking natural beauty and rich, historical, and cultural heritage. From ancient ruins to calm coastlines, the Middle Eastern destination is home to some of the most incredible experiences for an intrepid traveller keen on finding their secret spot.
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Southwest of Saudi Arabia, along the coast of Jizan, you will find the Farasan Islands, an unspoilt archipelago in the Red Sea that is one of the Kingdom’s best-kept secrets. These islands are a paradise for naturalists— sparkling clear waters, sandy shores, and coral reefs that shelter tripped-out fish, sea snakes, and more. Farasan Island is the perfect site for snorkelling, diving, and birdwatching because of the flocks of rare migrant birds that visit the island.
Aside from being a stunning area of natural beauty, the Farasan Islands are also rich in history. Once-thriving trading ports in the region, the islands boast traces of stone houses, mosques, and forts, where visitors can read about a history once buoyed by an influx of Chinese and Arabs who came to East Africa to trade. What’s particularly magical about Farasan is the seclusion: a restful escape from the hordes that swarm more touristy spots. It’s an exceptional and relatively undiscovered gem in Saudi Arabia, with a mix of peaceful beaches and historical heritage.
Al-Ula: A City Frozen in Time
Located in the northwest of the kingdom, Al-Ula is a UNESCO World Heritage site housing some of the Arabian Peninsula’s most captivating remnants of antiquity. Once an important commercial hub for trade routes, the ancient city features picturesque sandstone cliffs, historic rock tombs, and the impressive ruins of Madain Saleh—dubbed the “Petra of Saudi Arabia.” The Nabatean rock-carved tombs are meticulously detailed and have impressive facades, which reveal some of the history of an ancient people.
Al-Ula’s landscape is just as beautiful but features towering rocks and endless desert views. Its natural beauty is enhanced by the stark contrast of luminous green oases that stagger the area. Steeped in history and with breathtaking landscapes, Al-Ula is a destination not to be missed by travelers seeking to learn more about Saudi Arabia’s best-kept secrets away from the traditional tourist trails.
The Empty Quarter: Desert in Wonderland
Saudi Arabia contains the world’s largest continuous sand desert, the Rub al Khali, or the Empty Quarter. Spreading more than 250,000 square miles, the Empty Quarter is one of the most remote and majestic corners of the Earth. The desert is a barren place, yet it has beauty that few can say they have been exposed to.
For the hardcore few, the Empty Quarter offers the promise of more of the same. This field of the largest dunes stretches endlessly in front of our eyes, with golden waves of sand, as high as 250m and more, then receding and beyond our reach. It is so quiet; the only sound seems to be the wind whispers of the desert, which is peaceful and lonely in a way not many places can be. Visitors to the Empty Quarter can ride camels or 4x4s in the dunes, gazing at the serenely desolate expanse of the remote region.
Yet, harsh as it is, the desert is also rich with signs of life, from resilient plants and animals to the Bedouin tribes that have called it home for centuries. Traversing the Empty Quarter is not just a passage across Saudi Arabia’s landscape—it’s a passage through time, as visitors are connected back to the Kingdom and its ancient roots and traditions.
Asir National Park: A Green Jewel in the Mountains
Set in stark contrast to the arid wonders of the Empty Quarter, the lush, misty paradise of Asir National Park stands in the south-west of Saudi Arabia. The park is located in the Asir Mountains, which tower steeply over the surrounding plains and are famous for their greenery, cool climate, and spectacular views.
Asir National Park offers hikers, wildlife fans, and desert heat fleeers a sanctuary. The park is rich in flora and fauna, with common animals such as the Arabian leopard. The region is beautiful too, with wild, mountainous landscapes punctuated by scattered village settlements and terraced farms. There are plenty of scenic walking trails, the idyllic Al-Soudah village can be visited, and visitors can take the cable car up to the mountain tops to see the extensive valleys and peaks. The cool temps and beautiful vistas make Asir a refreshing and often forgotten stop for those wanting an escape from the desert heat.
Jeddah’s Secret Beaches: Peaceful Refuges on the Red Sea
Though Jeddah is known for its busy cosmopolitan life and for serving as a gateway to the holiest cities in Islam—Mecca and Medina—it’s not just the city itself that is a treasure trove; its coastlines along the Red Sea are a hidden treasure. Not every visitor immediately associates Jeddah with places of tranquility, but the coastline hides some relaxing corners in which to escape.
One such area is Silver Sands Beach, a private, members-only hideaway with crystal clear waters, white sands, and a tranquil, carefree vibe, set away from the bustling city life. Obhur Creek -Another secret delight in Saudi Arabia is known as the Obhur Creek, a peaceful channel just north of Jeddah with calm waters and good-looking coral reefs that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
These beaches are the perfect place to relax, to enjoy water activities, or to admire the Red Sea. Although Jeddah is a cosmopolitan city, these off-brand shores are quiet and ideal for those looking for a bit of isolation.
The Edge of the World: A Perspective Like No Other
The edge of the World in Saudi Arabia is a dramatic escarpment about 90 kilometres northwest of Riyadh—one of the most stunning views in the kingdom, hence the name. The cliff drops over the vast desert below, offering panoramic views that spread for miles. The geology and juxtaposition of the rugged cliffs against the desert are enough to make your jaw drop.
The Edge of the World is popular among adventure seekers, photographers, and anyone seeking a direct experience of Saudi Arabia’s raw beauty. The site’s isolation creates a sense of being far removed from time, providing a serene and almost mystical atmosphere. But for those who make the effort to get to this unforgettable place, it is well worth the long walk.
Conclusion: The Exposed Gem Saudi Arabia is not what you have seen.
Saudi Arabia is known for its vibrant cities and great reserves of oil, but it is also home to hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From the immaculate beaches of the Red Sea to the ancient tombs of Al-Ula and the otherworldly surreal of the Empty Quarter, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s yet-to-be-discovered treasures present a smattering of experiences to introduce the country’s diversity and natural beauty. Surely, the lesser-known destinations are ideal for travellers wanting to see the Kingdom beyond the camels, deserts, and oil because many destinations in Saudi Arabia offer you a chance to see the rich history, culture, and landscapes that make Saudi Arabia truly exclusive. Whether you are an adventurer at heart or a history buff, Saudi Arabia’s hidden havens will wow and enchant.
Also read: How Saudi Arabia is Shaping the Future of Business in the Middle East
