Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a top travel destination, blending ancient history, modern marvels, and unique natural landscapes. With the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative boosting tourism, 2025 is shaping up to be the perfect year to explore the hidden gems of the Arabian Peninsula.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, international tourist arrivals are expected to reach 25 million by the end of 2025, thanks to e-visas, luxury developments, and cultural festivals. If you’re planning a trip, here are the top 10 destinations you must include—and a suggested tour plan to help you explore them all.
Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Saudi Arabia (2025)
1. AlUla
- Why Visit: A living museum with 200,000 years of history, home to Hegra (UNESCO site).
- Don’t Miss: Elephant Rock, AlUla Old Town, Maraya Concert Hall.
- New in 2025: Luxury eco-lodges and sky balloon rides over ancient tombs.
2. Riyadh
- Why Visit: The vibrant capital blends tradition with futuristic architecture.
- Don’t Miss: Kingdom Centre Tower, Diriyah Gate, Riyadh Season Festival.
- Data Point: Over 7.5 million tourists visited Riyadh in 2024.
3. Jeddah
- Why Visit: Gateway to the Red Sea with historic charm and modern malls.
- Don’t Miss: Al-Balad (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Jeddah Corniche, floating mosque.
- Unique Experience: Red Sea diving adventures.
4. NEOM
- Why Visit: The city of the future under construction—The Line, Oxagon, and Trojena.
- Don’t Miss: Futuristic exhibitions, nature reserves, ski resorts (Trojena opens late 2025).
- Fun Fact: NEOM is a $500 billion mega-project.
5. Abha & Asir Region
- Why Visit: Lush green mountains, foggy skies, and rich tribal heritage.
- Don’t Miss: Al-Soudah Park, Habala Village, cable cars.
- Ideal Time: Summer months for cooler weather.
6. Al Khobar / Dammam (Eastern Province)
- Why Visit: Coastal cities perfect for relaxation and culture.
- Don’t Miss: Half Moon Bay, King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), corniche views.
7. Taif
- Why Visit: City of roses, mountains, and cool climate.
- Don’t Miss: Rose gardens, Shubra Palace, Al Hada road cable cars.
8. Mada’in Saleh (Hegra)
- Why Visit: The first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia.
- Don’t Miss: Nabataean tombs, ancient inscriptions, desert excursions.
9. Al Ahsa Oasis
- Why Visit: Largest oasis in the world with natural springs and palm trees.
- Don’t Miss: Qaisariah Souq, Al Qarah Mountain.
- UNESCO Status: Recognized as a World Heritage Site.
10. Farasan Islands
- Why Visit: Untouched islands with coral reefs, white beaches, and wildlife.
- Don’t Miss: Snorkeling, birdwatching, and heritage villages.
10-Day Tour Plan for Saudi Arabia (2025)
| Day | Location | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Riyadh | Explore Diriyah, Kingdom Centre, and National Museum |
| 2 | Riyadh to AlUla | Fly to AlUla, visit Maraya Hall, Elephant Rock |
| 3 | AlUla | Full day at Hegra, Old Town tour, desert stargazing |
| 4 | NEOM (Tabuk) | Explore The Line and Trojena, nature photography |
| 5 | Abha | Hike in Al-Soudah, visit Habala Village |
| 6 | Taif | Rose garden tour, cable car ride, fruit market |
| 7 | Jeddah | Al-Balad tour, Jeddah Waterfront, seafood dinner |
| 8 | Farasan Islands | Fly to Jizan, ferry to islands, beach day and snorkeling |
| 9 | Dammam | Ithra Museum, corniche walk, relax at Half Moon Bay |
| 10 | Al Ahsa | Oasis tour, Qaisariah market, return flight from Dammam |
Travel Tips
- Visa: Use Saudi eVisa (available for 60+ countries) – easy online application.
- Dress Code: Modest attire; women visitors now have more relaxed guidelines.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April for pleasant weather.
- Language: Arabic is official, but English is widely spoken in major cities.
Tourism Outlook (2025)
- Estimated Visitors: 25M (up from 18M in 2023)
- Most Booked City (2024): Riyadh, followed by Jeddah
- Hotel Growth: Over 315,000 rooms expected to be added by 2030 (Statista, 2024)
Conclusion
From deserts to futuristic cities, ancient tombs to lush mountains, Saudi Arabia offers a remarkable blend of experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re chasing culture, adventure, or relaxation, 2025 is your year to discover the Kingdom’s secrets.