5 Unsung Places Of Saudi Arabia

1. Rock-Cut Tombs of Hegra, AlUla
2. Desert City of Diriyah
3. Rock-Hewn Caves of Al Qarah Mountain, Al Ahsa
4. The Edge of the World near Riyadh
5. Al-Muftaha Village, Asir

Rock-Cut Tombs of Hegra, AlUla

The sweltering desert of AlUla in Saudi Arabia hides in its midst the remnants of the mysterious Nabataean kingdom in the form of beautifully carved rocky outcrops and giant boulders the size of buildings. Bearing a look similar to the site in Petra, Jordan, the rock-cut formations of Hegra features 131 massive tombs, decorated with facades and spread out over 13 kms. Some of the tombs are carved with Nabataen epigraphs, dating back to the 1st century BC. And these millennia-old creations might just hold the key to understanding the secrets of an ancient civilization that almost got lost in the pages of history.

 

Hegra's charm lies in its fascinating planning and its mysteriousness – the fact that it remained hidden from the world for almost 2000 years. And that's why it makes it to the top of must-visit places in Saudi Arabia for travellers. 

 

Look Closer: Don’t Leave AlUla Without Trying These Awesome Experiences! 

Desert City of Diriyah

Once the original seat of power of the first Saudi dynasty from 1744, the desert city of Diriyah tells a fascinating tale of struggle, triumph and ultimate defeat. Designated as a UNESCO Heritage Site in 2010, the ruins of Diriyah has spectacular mud-brick architecture and sultry palm-lined avenues. Built on an oasis near Riyadh, these dilapidated structures once housed a thriving city that was a powerhouse of culture and commerce. Destroyed in 1818 at the end of the Wahhabi war, the desert city of Diriyah is one of the most spectacular yet ultimately little-known ancient sites of Saudi Arabia.

 

If you're an adventurer at heart, go inside the mud buildings. But take a torch since they get very dark. Go up to the roof and enjoy a magnificent view of the entire city and of the vibrant oasis that surrounds it.  

 

Look Closer: Lesser-Known Places From Riyadh That You Won’t Want To Miss

Rock-Hewn Caves of Al Qarah Mountain, Al Ahsa

Another mysterious and fascinating site of Saudi Arabia is the rock-hewn caves of Al Qarah Mountain. Formed over millennia, this network of honeycomb caves is one of the oldest sites in Arabia and thus a popular tourist attraction. Interestingly, the high limestone walls in the caves always manage to regulate the temperature, making these caverns cool in summer yet warm in winter.

 

Enjoy the stunning views of the caves from the top of Al Qarah mountain. Witness the unbelievable 360-degree views of the Al Ahsa oasis and the jagged rock caves. This is one experience that will be etched in your memory forever.

 

Look Closer: 5 Spectacular Things That Will Convince You to Visit Al Ahsa Right Now 

The Edge of the World near Riyadh

As dramatic as the name sounds, the view from this place is even more mind-blowing. The Edge of the World, or Jebel Fihrayn, is a geographical wonder in a rocky desert near Riyadh. It is popular among travellers because of the unending view of the horizon offered from the top of its cliffs here. A part of the Tuwaiq escarpment, the rugged ridges plunge to 1000 feet into an ancient ocean bed. While standing on top of the cliffs, you can spot dried rivers and even remnants of a historic caravan route.

 

A haven for adventure enthusiasts, there are several hiking trails in the area. You can camp in the area for the night to witness the true beauty of this stunning geological wonder. 

 

Look Closer: 4 Reasons Why You Need to Put Jebel Fihrayn on Your Travel Bucket List Now! 

 

 

 

 

Al Muftaha Village, Asir

The historic village of Al Muftaha represents the bohemian and artistic spirit of the Asir region in Saudi Arabia. A 260-year-old cluster of traditionally Aseri buildings distinguished by colourful mud walls, the village is a beautiful neighbourhood built around a mosque. The village walls are adorned with beautiful murals and stunning calligraphy that have come to symbolise the area. There are a few museums and galleries in the village that showcase the work of regional artists. 

 

The Al Muftaha village underwent a restoration to promote tourism in the area. It has become a place for creativity and a great place to relax and enjoy your vacation.

 

Look Closer: 9 Lesser-Known Places in Asir That Will Inspire the Adventurer In You