Discover the magic of Saudi Arabia: a tourism and football guide

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Saudi Arabia, a hidden jewel in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, has opened its doors to tourism in recent years, revealing its cultural, historical, and natural riches to the world. Beyond being an economic powerhouse and one of the birthplaces of Islam, the kingdom also has a growing passion for football. As a tourism specialist, here’s a complete guide to experiencing the very best that Saudi Arabia has to offer.

Places to Visit

Mecca and Medina

Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. Every year, millions of Muslims from around the world visit Mecca to perform the Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The Great Mosque of Mecca (Masjid al-Haram) is the largest mosque in the world and houses the Kaaba, the cubic structure Muslims face during their daily prayers. In addition to the Hajj pilgrimage, visitors can also perform the Umrah, a similar pilgrimage that can be completed at any time of year.

Medina, known as the “City of the Prophet,” is where Muhammad sought refuge after persecution in Mecca and where he was ultimately buried. The Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi) is a major site of worship and pilgrimage, housing the Prophet’s tomb. Its peaceful atmosphere and stunning architecture make Medina a deeply spiritual destination.

Riyadh

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, blends the kingdom’s rich history with a rapidly expanding modern skyline. The Masmak Fortress, a 19th-century mud-brick structure, is a reminder of Riyadh’s historical past. It was here that King Abdulaziz Al Saud retook control of the city in 1902, paving the way for the foundation of modern Saudi Arabia. Today, the fortress houses a museum exploring the city’s and the kingdom’s history.

The lively Deira Souk (Zoco de Deira) also evokes Riyadh’s heritage. This bustling market offers traditional products such as jewelry, spices, textiles, and handicrafts—perfect for immersing yourself in the local culture.

On the modern side, the King Abdullah Financial District contrasts sharply with the historic sites. Riyadh’s iconic skyscrapers—Kingdom Centre and Al Faisaliyah Centre—offer panoramic views, luxury shopping, and upscale dining, showcasing the futuristic vision of the capital.

Al-Ula and Madain Salih

Al-Ula, a desert region in northwest Saudi Arabia, is home to the archaeological site of Madain Salih (Al-Hijr). Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Madain Salih is famous for its rock-carved tombs dating back to the 1st century CE, built by the Nabataean civilization. These tombs feature intricate carvings and ancient Aramaic inscriptions.

Saudi Arabia’s “AlUla Vision” project aims to preserve and revitalize the area’s cultural and natural heritage. The initiative includes museums, visitor centers, luxury resorts, and cultural venues—making Al-Ula a dream destination for lovers of history, archaeology, and nature.

The Al-Ula desert also offers outdoor adventures such as 4×4 excursions, horseback riding, and hiking through breathtaking desert landscapes. Cultural and musical events like the “Winter at Tantora” festival attract visitors and international artists year after year.

Activities to Enjoy

Desert Adventures

Saudi Arabia is covered by vast deserts that invite travelers to experience the peace and majesty of the dunes. The Rub al-Khali (Empty Quarter) is one of the largest sand deserts on Earth, famous for its towering red sand dunes—a perfect setting for thrilling 4×4 adventures.

Desert tours often include exciting activities such as sandboarding, where you slide down dunes on a board, and camel trekking, the traditional Bedouin way of traveling across the desert.

A truly special experience is spending a night in a Bedouin desert camp under the stars. Visitors are welcomed with the warmth and hospitality characteristic of Bedouin culture. Traditional meals—like lamb slow-cooked in an underground pit—are often shared along with stories from desert life. The absence of light pollution also makes the desert ideal for stargazing, revealing a spectacular night sky.

Diving in the Red Sea

The Red Sea is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and remarkable marine biodiversity, making it one of the best diving destinations in the world. The west coast of Saudi Arabia, bordering the Red Sea, offers numerous dive sites to explore.

In places like Yanbu and Jeddah, divers can explore coral reefs teeming with vibrant fish, rays, turtles, and sharks. Many shipwrecks along the coast have become artificial reefs rich in marine life, offering divers the chance to swim through fascinating submerged structures.

The Red Sea welcomes divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Dive centers along the coast offer courses, equipment rentals, and guided excursions to top dive spots. Warm weather, calm seas, and excellent visibility make diving enjoyable year-round. The west coast also features beautiful beaches and resorts, ideal for relaxing after an exciting day underwater.

Football in Saudi Arabia

Football is the most popular sport in Saudi Arabia, and the country has hosted major international events. Visitors can attend exhilarating matches from the Saudi Professional League, as well as international competitions in state-of-the-art stadiums like the King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh.

The most beloved clubs include Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, and Al-Ittihad. The intense rivalry among these teams creates an electrifying atmosphere, making a live football match in Saudi Arabia a truly unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia is a destination full of contrasts—where ancient traditions coexist with modern innovation, and where spirituality meets adventure. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and a growing love for football, the kingdom offers a truly unique experience for travelers seeking something new and unforgettable.

Whether you’re a football fan, a history lover, or an adventurer at heart, Saudi Arabia awaits with open arms.