Saudi Arabia’s Top Cultural Attractions
Saudi Arabia’s Best Experiences for Culture Seekers
Saudi Arabia is an emerging tourist destination with much to offer travelers in 2023. After all, the sprawling Kingdom offers unique experiences appealing to visitors of all types, whether they’re passionate about trying new food, want to get their heart racing on a fast-paced adventure through the desert, mountains, on or under the Red Sea, or want to learn about this country’s fascinating history and one-of-a-kind culture. Getting to know and soon love Saudi culture is far more than touring a few museums. This destination features charm at every turn but these are the attractions that visitors won’t want to miss.
Riyadh
No proper visit to Saudi Arabia is complete without a trip to the capital city of Riyadh. Here, travelers can immerse themselves in a burgeoning arts scene highlighted by vibrant galleries, lively markets and fascinating museums in addition to a handful of worthwhile heritage sites.
Floating Mosque
The famed Al-Rahmah mosque, also known as the floating mosque is one of the top attractions in all of Jeddah and a must-visit for culture seekers. Constructed on the water’s surface nearly four decades ago, this one-of-a-kind and photogenic site seamlessly blends tradition, technology and innovation. Visitors are encouraged to visit between the five daily prayers.
AlUla
The Kingdom’s mesmerizing oasis city is not to be missed and will undoubtedly wow those visitors in search of cultural immersion. Whether taking this epic locale in via hot air balloon, zipline, bike, camel or dune buggy, it won’t take long to understand the allure of Saudi Arabia and its culture.
Hegra
While exploring AlUla, travelers will want to make time for Hegra, an architectural marvel that’s home to more than 130 tombs—including the 72-foot-tall Tomb of Lihyan Son of Kuza—in addition to a plethora of captivating rock formations. Visitors can also tour the Hijaz Railway Museum and Jabal Ithlib to see where the ancient Nabataeans practiced their religion.
Arabic Cuisine
One of the greatest ways to experience Saudi culture is through the country’s phenomenal cuisine. Even if you’re too picky for an authentic Arabian food tour, you’re certain to find a dish to suit your taste buds for breakfast, lunch and dinner. When in doubt, seek out some of the regional standouts such as masoub, kabsa and jareesh.
Saudi National Museum
The Saudi National Museum in Riyadh boasts some 3,700 artifacts including statues, scripts and unique sculptures spanning eight inviting galleries showcasing the country’s past and present from the prehistoric ages to the modern ages. The museum is closed on Sundays but open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday to Wednesday, and from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays.
Tayebat Museum
Visitors to Jeddah will want to take a trip into the past at the Tayebat Museum, a one-of-a-kind attraction serving as a living history lesson. Guests will uncover a whopping 2,500 years of history and heritage as they tour in-depth exhibits spanning several floors.
Al Balad
Jeddah is also home to one of the country’s most beloved sites in the UNESCO World Heritage listed Al Balad, otherwise known as Historic Jeddah. Visitors can look forward to plenty of authentic architecture and charm and will be within close proximity to excellent shops and restaurants.