Top 10 Historical Sites to Explore in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is a country of modern cities, holy places of religion, and the historical sites are among the most impressive ones in the world. The Kingdom has centuries-old heritage incorporated into its deserts, valleys, and mountains, which makes it a time travel journey to the people interested in exploring ancient civilizations, traditional buildings, and important archaeological discoveries. Be it a history lover or a traveler with curiosity, Saudi Arabia has a lot to offer in terms of culture.

As a foreigner, before visiting Saudi Arabia it is necessary to learn about the procedure of obtaining a visa. Fortunately, the government has simplified the process to make it easier than ever to obtain Saudi Arabia visa. Having a valid visa, tourists are able to reveal some of the most interesting historical treasures of the region. This is the top 10 historical sites that you cannot afford to miss when you come to the Kingdom.

1. AlUla (Madain Saleh)

AlUla, especially Madain Saleh (also referred to as Hegra) is among the most notable archaeological sites in Saudi Arabia. It is the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Kingdom and is composed of well-maintained tombs cut into the sandstone mountains by the Nabateans- analogous to Petra in Jordan. The site provides a reflection of an ancient trading civilization that used to thrive in this desert oasis.

2. Diriyah (At-Turaif District)

Diriyah is a place of the first Saudi state birth and a source of national pride, as it is not far from Riyadh. The At-Turaif District, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, has mud-brick palaces and historic museums providing the history of the Al Saud royal family and the establishment of the modern Saudi state. The rehabilitation efforts have made it a tourist attraction in terms of culture.

3. Jubbah Rock Carvings (Hail Region)

Located in the Hail Region is Jubbah which has some of the most outstanding rock art in the Arabian Peninsula. The petroglyphs, which are more than 7,000 years old, show the scenes of everyday life, hunting, and animal images. These engravings provide an interesting experience into the prehistoric existence in Arabia and have received UNESCO status.

4. Al-Balad (Old Jeddah)

Al-Balad or the historic old city of Jeddah is a relic of the rich trading history of the city. This is a UNESCO site which has coral-stone buildings, traditional markets (souks) and ornate wooden balconies (rawasheen). Walk its winding streets and find centuries-old homes, like Beit Nassif and Beit Al Jamjoom, that have been tried and proved the test of time.

5. Najran’s Al-Ukhdood

Al-Ukhdood is an important archaeological site in Najran, south of Saudi Arabia. This is an ancient city referred to in the Quran and it was a sad story of persecution. The ruins feature ancient walls, inscriptions and even human remains and present a solemn but an insightful experience to the history of religion.

6. Tayma Oasis

Tayma is among the ancient continuously occupied regions of the Arabian Peninsula. It is associated with the ancient civilizations such as Babylonians and Israelites. Bir Haddaj (an ancient well) and Aramaic inscriptions made the oasis famous, as it was one of the major trade centers in the ancient times.

7. Qaryat Al-Faw

Qaryat Al-Faw is a former caravan city, located close to the Empty Quarter desert, which was once the "Capital of the Kindah Kingdom." Archeological diggings have revealed houses, markets and tombs making it of importance in pre-Islamic Arabia.

8. Dumat Al-Jandal

Another ancient city with a history dating back to thousands of years is Dumat Al-Jandal, which is in the Al-Jawf province. The location consists of Marid Castle that was constructed on a hill and the old Omar Mosque. The area of Dumat Al-Jandal has served as a strategic site on the ancient trade routes and therefore is a historical treasure.

9. Tarout Island

Tarout Island is one of the oldest inhabited regions in Saudi Arabia, and it is found out in the coast of the Eastern Province. Archaeological discoveries here are of over 5,000 years old potteries, statues and fortresses. The island demonstrates the long-term associations of the Kingdom with the sea trade and the Gulf history.

10. Al-Qarah Mountain and Village (Al-Ahsa)

Al-Qarah Mountain is a historical site and a geological marvel that is located in the Al- Ahsa region. Its shady caves and dark passages have been used as refuge and repository in ages of centuries. At nearby Al-Ahsa Oasis, a UNESCO site, the largest natural oasis in the world, ancient irrigation systems and historic mosques can be found.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia is not only about deserts and skyscrapers, but it is the land full of history and cultural heritage. With ancient rock art and Nabatean tombs, historic mosques and bustling ancient towns, the Kingdom presents a time travel experience to all visiting tourists. Every location is a story on its own with regards to the variety of civilizations that existed in this region.

To make the most of your historical journey, ensure you start with the correct travel documentation. With the streamlined visa process for Saudi Arabia, it’s now easier than ever to get a visa for Saudi Arabia and begin your adventure. Whether you're a historian, a culture lover, or a curious traveler, Saudi Arabia’s historical wonders await you with open arms.