Saudi Arabia’s New Tourist Hotspots: Why It’s the Middle East’s Hidden Gem!

When we think of planning a trip to the Middle East, most Indian families immediately think of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or maybe even Egypt. But one destination that’s now opening its doors to tourists and quickly becoming a top travel spot is Saudi Arabia.

Yes, the same country known for religious tourism to Mecca and Medina is now inviting the world to explore its ancient heritage, modern cities, natural beauty, and rich culture. The country is changing fast and wants to show the world that it’s more than oil and deserts. With the launch of the Saudi e-visa and growing infrastructure for tourism, now is the perfect time to explore this hidden gem.

Let’s take a deep look into the top new tourist hotspots in Saudi Arabia and why Indian families should seriously consider it for their next international trip.

1. AlUla – The Land of Ancient Wonders

AlUla is one of the most talked-about destinations in Saudi Arabia today. It’s often compared to Petra in Jordan and rightly so. The area is home to Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Imagine walking among ancient tombs carved into rocks, desert canyons, and historical sites that are more than 2,000 years old.

Apart from history, AlUla is now becoming a hub for events and festivals. From desert concerts to balloon festivals and light shows, the tourism department is making this place an all-round attraction.

Why you should visit:

• Explore Hegra and other Nabatean ruins
• Experience unique desert landscapes and stargazing
• Attend international music and cultural festivals in a historic setting

2. Riyadh – A City That’s Quickly Transforming

Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, is no longer just a business hub. The city has been undergoing a huge transformation under the country’s Vision 2030 plan. New entertainment complexes, amusement parks, heritage sites, and shopping destinations are being developed.

Places to explore in Riyadh:

• Boulevard Riyadh City – a modern entertainment zone with cafes, shows, shopping, and fun for families
• Diriyah – a UNESCO heritage site where you can experience traditional Saudi life
• Kingdom Centre Tower – offering stunning views of the city from the sky bridge

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll love the newly opened Winter Wonderland, a seasonal amusement park filled with rides and fun activities.

3. Jeddah – The Gateway to the Red Sea

Jeddah has always been a port city, but now it’s also becoming a tourist paradise. Located on the western coast, this city is perfect for beach lovers and water sport enthusiasts.

The Jeddah Waterfront is clean, modern, and family-friendly. You can enjoy long walks by the sea, dine at international restaurants, or take a boat ride along the coast. But that’s not all – Coral diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea are world-class experiences here.

Also, don’t miss Al-Balad, the old town of Jeddah. It’s full of traditional houses made from coral stone and has a charm of its own.

Highlights:

• Red Sea water sports and coral diving
• Heritage streets of Al-Balad
• Beautiful coastline and new entertainment zones

4. Abha – The Cool Hill Station of Saudi Arabia

Yes, Saudi Arabia has a hill station too! Abha, located in the south-western Asir region, is a complete surprise. With pleasant weather, green mountains, and foggy mornings, this place is a great retreat from the desert heat.

Abha is perfect for those who love nature and peace. You can ride the cable car, hike through the green mountains, or explore traditional markets and local Saudi culture. The Asir National Park is another must-visit for nature lovers.

Why Abha is worth a visit:

• Cool climate and green landscapes
• Stunning mountain views and cable car rides
• A peek into the southern tribal culture of Saudi Arabia

5. NEOM – The City of the Future

NEOM is one of the most ambitious projects in the world. It’s a futuristic smart city being built from scratch and will be filled with eco-friendly architecture, technology, and innovation. While most parts of NEOM are still under construction, some areas like the Red Sea coast are already open for eco-tourism.

For example, Sindalah Island, one of the first luxury islands of NEOM, is set to open for tourists very soon. It will offer world-class resorts, beaches, and underwater activities.

Even though it’s in early stages, it’s a good idea to keep this destination on your radar. Within a couple of years, NEOM is going to become a global tourism highlight.

Is Saudi Arabia Safe for Indian Tourists?

Yes. Saudi Arabia has made big changes to welcome tourists. The cities are clean, the roads are good, and safety is a top priority for the government. Indian families will find plenty of Indian restaurants, especially in Jeddah and Riyadh, and the people are friendly and respectful.

The country is also offering e-visas for Indian passport holders, which makes travel planning much easier. Women tourists are also welcome, and dress codes have been relaxed. A modest, respectful dress style is still recommended, but covering the head is not mandatory anymore for foreign tourists.

Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia

The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is between October and March when the weather is cooler. Summer months can be very hot, especially in the desert areas.

If you’re planning after March, April is still good, especially in places like Abha and the Red Sea coast.

Travel Tips for Indian Families

• Currency: 1 Saudi Riyal = approx. 22 INR (check latest rate)
• Language: Arabic is official, but English is widely spoken in cities
• Food: Indian food is easily available, especially in Jeddah and Riyadh
• Dress code: Wear modest clothes; jeans and full sleeves are fine
• Transport: Taxis, Uber, and modern metros are available in big cities

Why Saudi Arabia is the Middle East’s Hidden Gem
Saudi Arabia is going through a tourism revolution. It is modernizing fast, yet it still holds on to its deep traditions and culture. For Indian families looking for something new, exciting, and different from the usual Dubai or Europe holiday, Saudi Arabia offers a fresh and rich experience.
From historical sites to futuristic cities, peaceful landscapes to fun adventures, it has everything a traveler can ask for. And the best part? It’s still under-explored – so you get to enjoy its beauty without the crowds.

So if you’re planning your next family vacation, think beyond the usual. Discover Saudi Arabia – a land of heritage, hospitality, and hidden treasures.