Al-Ula and Madain Saleh
Madain Saleh, the jewel of Al-Ula, is a breathtaking testament to ancient civilizations. Recognized as Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the allure of Madain Saleh lies in its well-preserved tombs, with intricate facades carved straight from giant boulders. Dive into history as you wander through a city that thrived during the Nabatean Kingdom over 2,000 years ago. Feel the echoes of the past among the same sandstone outcrops that dazzle with their untouched beauty, similar to their famous counterpart, Petra, in Jordan.
Kaaba and the Grand Mosque in Mecca
For Muslims worldwide, the Kaaba is the qibla (direction) towards which they turn in prayer each day. Situated in the heart of the Grand Mosque (Al-Masjid Al-Haram) in Mecca, it is the most sacred site in Islam. The majestic grandeur of the mosque and the spiritual gravity of the Kaaba draw millions during Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage. Although non-Muslims are not permitted entry, the site's significance and magnetism reverberate globally.
The Riyadh Skyline Featuring Kingdom Tower
Riyadh's ever-changing skyline is a canvas that paints modernity and ambition, with the Kingdom Tower as a striking highlight. This 99-story skyscraper, with its distinctive hole near the top, offers an observation deck for panoramic views of the sprawling urban landscape below. Marvel at the architectural feats and the lively pulse of the city as balmy nights twinkle with the city lights. This is where Saudi's progressive future meets luxury and innovation.
Red Sea Diving in Jeddah
The Red Sea coast of Jeddah opens a kaleidoscopic underwater world for divers and snorkelers. The vibrant coral beds and the myriad of marine life offer an underwater extravaganza to those seeking the embrace of the sea. Jeddah's warm waters are an accessible gateway to exotic sea creatures and shipwrecks, weaving an aquatic tapestry ripe for exploration. A dive here isn't just a splash; it's an immersion into liquid paradise.
The Edge of the World
Venture out to where the earth meets the sky at the awe-inspiring Tuwaiq Cliff, known colloquially as The Edge of the World. This natural wonder stands tall with dramatic views that plunge down into an ancient ocean bed. Hiking to the precipice offers a heart-racing experience only equaled by the unparalleled vistas of the barren, yet beautiful, hauntingly empty landscape that stretches infinitely. It’s an epic journey that promises solitude and serenity in the vast expanse of the Arabian Desert.
Diriyah, the Birthplace of a Kingdom
Step back in time in Diriyah, a historic site proudly recognized as the birthplace of the first Saudi state. Marvel at the traditional mud-brick architecture of At-Turaif district and walk through the paths that witnessed the foundations of a Kingdom. Its UNESCO-listed ruins and the restoration efforts tell tales of power, politics, and perseverance. A visit to Diriyah is a homage to the ancestral legacy and the enduring spirit that shapes Saudi culture to this day.
