Each year, millions of people go to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah and seek Allah’s mercy. They take up this holy journey as a chance to get closer to the Almighty and return with refreshed faith. As they find it hard to plan the whole trip on their own, they prefer to book Umrah Packages. These deals ensure a smooth Umrah experience for them by handling their visa process, hotel stays, and on-ground transportation during the trip. Hence, pilgrims can focus on their worship, explore various spots, and immerse themselves in the calm atmosphere of the holy land.
However, little do people know that KSA is also emerging as a new hub for tourism. For a long time, it has been wrapped in mystery and tradition but not anymore as Kingdom is opening its doors to global travelers under the vision 2030. So, if you are also planning an Umrah this year, make sure to book all inclusive Umrah packages in which you can ask your travel agency to add the following tourist spots in your itinerary for a much more memorable experience. In this guide, we will mention some of the hidden spots in Saudi Arabia that are a must-visit if you like exploring unique places.
A Guide to Saudi Arabia’s Hidden Treasures
The World Travel and Tourism Council honoured Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector for a noticeable increase in its international tourist arrivals that hiked up to 156% in 2023. This milestone marked it as a top and booming travel destination in the world. Hence, it is the perfect time to uncover the Kingdom’s secret gems that gave it this rank. It is best to book Family Umrah packages and explore these treasure troves with your loved ones while performing Umrah. This is the best way to refresh your faith and explore the country’s touristic side in one go.
Al Ula
This hidden gem in the northwest of Saudi Arabia is quickly gaining attention as a luxury destination because of its rich history, landscapes, and upscale accommodations. Al Ula is known for its historical significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with preserved tombs with intricate carvings and a sense of mystery that envelops visitors as they explore its pathway. Hence, it is like a step back in time spot. Beyond this, it is a land of natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy desert landscapes, rugged mountains and lush oases here that make Al Ula a paradise for nature lovers. All these factors blend to make it an appealing choice for adventurous travellers looking for an unforgettable experience.
Harrat Khaybar – A Volcanic Marvel
Pilgrims that visit the Prophet’s mosque in the holy city of Madinah are not fully aware that the city is built upon the basalt flows of a past volcano. They also do not know much about the now-latent volcanoes lying very close to the city. This volcanic field, Harray Khaybar, lies in the northeast of Madinah and spans over 14,000 sq km, having 2,000 volcanoes. It contains some of the rarest examples of white volcanoes, famous because of their light-coloured rocks. This white colour is due to the presence of a kind of alkali and silica-rich rock called comendite. Pilgrims looking to spend a day here can set up a picnic with traditional Saudi tea at the base of the white volcano for a memorable time.
Sandfalls in Saudi Deserts
You might have heard of waterfalls, but have you ever heard of or seen a sandfall? It was seen in Saudi Arabia after a sandstorm and heavy rain hit the country. It is a new and rare phenomenon that has happened due to climate change. This incident was reported in Aflaj and outside Riyadh, where during the start of the sandstorm and after heavy rain, the sand was seen cascading down from the hill. It looked like a waterfall and beheld the sight of many present there.
Al Ahsa Oasis – A Historical Gem
One of the biggest oases in the world, Al Ahsa is a dream spot for lovers of nature and explorers of history. It is home to ancient mountains and mosques spread over 85.4 sq km and 2.5 million date palms. Every July, the Al Ahsa Dates Festival is held here, allowing guests to sample the local harvest.
Compared to the rest of Saudi Arabia, the climate here is mild as temperatures remain around 23 °C, especially from October to April. So, pilgrims can book an Umrah package during this time to make the most of their holy trip. They can come here after performing Umrah for a refreshing retreat and immerse themselves in its rich history and charm.
Jeddah Outdoor Sculpture Park
As evident from the discussion above, Saudi Arabia is becoming a famous place due to its rich landmarks, adventures, and other tourist spots. One of such places is the Jeddah Outdoor Sculpture Park. If you are an art lover and want to explore some rare pieces, then don’t skip visiting this stunning place when you are in Saudi Arabia for Umrah or tourism. Many tour companies offer special Family Umrah Packages that provide stay in Jeddah for a couple of days. Make sure you ask your travel agent to book such a package for you. Other than the Jeddah Sculpture Park, there are countless places to explore in the city.
Wrap Up
Saudi Arabia is more than just a land of holy experiences for pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah – it is a destination that offers adventure and charming landscapes. From the rugged landscape of Al Ula to the volcanic marvels of Harrat Khayabar, every moment spent in this country will leave pilgrims in awe. As Saudi Arabia is just starting out in its tourism sector, now is the best time to explore its hidden gems. So, all pilgrims must pack their bags, book Umrah packages, and set out to uncover the Kingdom’s charms. Contact Muslims Holy Travel and get affordable Umrah deals with customised options to experience the holy land beyond Makkah and Madinah.
