Saudi Arabia boasts an array of tourist attractions that draw visitors from around the globe. As the birthplace of Islam, it is home to significant religious sites, including two of the holiest mosques. The country also features a captivating mix of modern skyscrapers and ancient historical landmarks, offering a contrast between the new and the traditional. Let’s explore some of the most famous tourist attractions in Saudi Arabia.
1. Al-Masjid Al-Haram
Among the most important religious landmarks in Saudi Arabia, Al-Masjid Al-Haram attracts millions of visitors year-round. As the most sacred site in Islam and the center of the Hajj pilgrimage, it holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims. The mosque includes the Maqam Ibrahim, the Stone of Ismail, and the Sa'i area between Safa and Marwah, as well as the sacred Zamzam well.
The mosque is equipped with 13 minarets, five main gates, and ten additional entrances, along with a vast prayer area spanning four levels and covering an area between 400 to 800 meters.
2. Masmak Fortress
One of Saudi Arabia's most prominent historical landmarks, the Masmak Fortress dates back to the late 19th century. Located in the heart of the old city "Ad-Diriyah," this mudbrick fortress stands tall with cylindrical towers at each corner, each reaching a height of 18 meters.
The fortress holds significant historical importance, as it played a key role in the formation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, symbolizing the beginning of the unification under the leadership of the Al Saud family.
3. The Floating Mosque
The Floating Mosque, also known as Fatimah Al-Zahra or Al-Rahma Mosque, is one of Saudi Arabia’s most unique landmarks. This beautiful mosque, located on the Jeddah Corniche, appears to float on the sea, drawing tourists from various backgrounds.
Its distinctive design, combining both traditional and modern architecture, is further enhanced by the evening lights that illuminate the mosque at night. Built in the mid-1980s, it is considered the oldest mosque constructed over the sea.
4. King Abdullah Park
A popular tourist spot located in the heart of Riyadh, King Abdullah Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Saudi Arabia. Situated in the Al-Malaz district, the park features expansive green spaces, large fountains, and a variety of sports facilities. It also includes a dedicated children’s entertainment area and recreational activities for families.
5. Al-Masjid An-Nabawi
Al-Masjid An-Nabawi, one of the largest mosques in the world, is one of the most significant religious sites in Saudi Arabia. Located in Medina, it is the second holiest mosque after Al-Masjid Al-Haram, welcoming millions of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah.
The mosque was built by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) next to his home, and it contains the Prophet's grave along with the graves of his companions, Umar ibn Al-Khattab and Abu Bakr As-Siddiq. Over the centuries, the mosque has been expanded several times and is known for its iconic green dome and 85 entrances, including five main ones.
