5 Hidden Gems In Saudi To Escape The City Life
From Hegra to Al Souda, Harper’s Bazaar Arabia shares a list of must-visit spots in the Kingdom
5 Hidden Gems in Saudi To Visit This Season…
As winter’s chill settles in and the allure of urban escapades beckons, consider Saudi Arabia for a soul-stirring retreat. Amidst its enchanting landscapes and cultural marvels, discover the perfect sanctuary to escape the city life hustle within the vast regions of the Kingdom. Embrace the serenity of a country where tradition meets modernity, promising an unforgettable winter getaway like no other.
Join a growing community of travellers as the kingdom reports a staggering 58% increase in tourism, making it the world’s second-most visited destination in the initial seven months of the year. We have a sneaky feeling this statistic is on the rise with these retreats readily available to stay this winter.
5 Hidden Gems in Saudi
Hegra
Embark on a mesmerising journey through time at Al-Hijir, Saudi Arabia’s inaugural UNESCO World Heritage Site. Crafted by the Nabataeans, architects of Petra, this archaeological marvel unveils over a hundred impeccably preserved memorial tombs and facades from the 1st Century BC. It’s an unmissable testament to ancient craftsmanship and history.
Umluj Island
A captivating voyage to Umluj, a quaint coastal town nestled beside the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, offers a getaway like no other. This hidden gem invites the exploration of its pristine white sand beaches and Saudi’s vibrant coral reefs, which is the fourth largest barrier reef system in the world. A truly well-guarded secret. Rent a boat and venture amidst a hundred picturesque islands, culminating in delightful traditional seafood feasts, offering an unforgettable adventure.
The Red Sea
Discover the allure of the Red Sea, gracing Saudi Arabia’s western coast with a myriad of activities: diving, kayaking, sailing, or simply basking on its pristine white sands. International fascination has spawned luxurious resorts, crafted by world-renowned hotel brands, inviting travellers to indulge in the splendour of this captivating corner of the world.
Al Souda
Dense forest jungle is defiantly not what immediately comes to mind when considering a trip to Saudi Arabia, yet Abha is one of the most famous attractions in the kingdom. This is partially due to the stunning ecology, and partly because the jungle and above sea elevation allows for moderate atmosphere throughout the year. Overlooking the province of Tihama, this is chrematistic of breath-taking views.
AlUla
This enchanting district has captured the whole world as a result of its unique landscapes and terracotta-rocks. Al Ulla unveils its treasures to those seeking adventure. Here, ancient rock formations whisper tales of civilisations past, while palm groves and desert oases paint a vivid picture of natural splendour. It’s a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered and cherished.
Lead Photos: Aline Coquelle, Courtesy of Assouline
Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s September 2022 issue.