Mostly Muslims travel from the UK and other countries to Saudi Arabia to perform the Holy Umrah journey. Once they have completed the Umrah rituals, they return home without realising that just a few hours north lie breathtaking, history-soaked, and mesmerising landscapes. Nowadays, recent advancements in tourist places in north area of Saudi Arabia it is no more best-kept secret. The northern valleys of Saudi Arabia are calling your name loudly. This ultimate guide to hidden Gems of the north is going to unveil several worthwhile places for recreation.
The religious citizens of the UK travel during their holidays for religious purposes. They choose Citi Wise Umrah packages for departure convenience. As Birmingham residents book Birmingham Umrah packages to perform Umrah, they are unaware that Hidden Gems of Northern Saudi Arabia lie just 1000 Km away from the Holy sites, they are already in. Therefore, we encourage them to book our Halal holiday packages to explore the beauty of natural and historically famous spots.
AlUla- Saudi Arabia Ancient and speechless Wonder
The world’s great archeological place in Saudi Arabia is located 11000 Km North of Holy Land of Makah. AlUla is now turned into an open-air museum civilisation unlike anything else. The beauty of this site lies in events and festivals that foster more tourists to visit and explore ancient-style infrastructure combined with modern lighting.
The winter “Tentora festival” is held annually at AlUla from December to March. It exhibits world-class arts and cultural festivals that invite international performers, stargazing events, desert dining and a variety of art installations.
The must-visit places in AlUla include:
- Hegra (Madain Saleh)
- Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil)
- Maraya Concert Hall
- Jabal Ikmah
- Old Town AlUla
Travel Tips to AlUla:
- The Best time to visit is from October to April for comfortable temperatures (12℃- 27℃).
- Try to book accommodations in AlUla in advance to attend festivals.
- It is very important to book the earliest morning slots, as the sandstone tombs glow warmest in the first two hours after sunrise.
- For photography, choose a time when the sun dips behind the desert horizon, and the rocks turn deep fiery orange.
Wadi Al Disah, Tabuk- the valley that will steal your breath
The amazing gem is nestled approximately 220 km south of Tabuk city and termed “The Valley of Palm Trees.” The dramatic canyon landscape is catching the attention of tourists with towering sandstone pillars/cliffs, freshwater springs, lush palm groves, ancient rock carvings, and seasonal waterfalls. Wadi Al Disah is a protected nature reserve for the recreation of tourists.
Must-Do activities in Wadi Al Disah
The tourists can go for hiking, Rock climbing, camping under the stars, picnicking (traditional Saudi Style), and capturing photographs.
Travel Tips for Wadi Al Disah
- Start the journey to Wadi Al Disah in the early morning before the temperature rises.
- Wear the comfortable and hiking shoes to travel on terrain and uneven sites in sections.
- Carry plenty of water in all-weather conditions to avoid dehydration.
- Try to visit between November and March to experience cooler weather and seasonal water flow.
Tayma-An Old Oasis
It was once known as the Babylonian King’s land, as the King abandoned his own capital city and resided in Tayma for an extraordinary period. It is an ancient oasis at the crossroads of major north-south and east-west caravan trade routes. Tayma is an ancient walled oasis of Northern Arabia. It is also standing on the UNESCO Tentative nomination list.
Must-See in Tayma:
- Bir Haddaj
- Qasr Al Hamra Palace
- Al Naslaa Rock Formation
- Ancient Rock inscriptions
Traveller tips for Tayma:
- After visiting AlUla, visit via Tabuk to Tayma by driving (230 km away, takes 3 hours to reach)
- Avoid July and August when temperatures hit 45℃
- Book accommodations, meals and local transport in advance.
- Dress modestly and respectfully to visit all heritage and cultural sites in Tayma.
Dumat Al Jandal- Hub of Islamic Trade in the early days of Islam
It is a destination rich in layered history and positioned at the crossroads of ancient east-west and north-south trade routes. This site is hidden in Al Jawf Province, located very far north of the Kingdom. The land is worthy to explore for ingenious ancient hydraulic system of wells, underground channels, and Qanat tunnels. The Lush palm oasis is also located in the Damat Al Jandal with its olive trees, grapevines, and dense date palms.
Top attractions in Dumat Al Jandal
- Marid Castle
- Omar Ibn al-Khattab Mosque
- Ancient City Ruins
- Dumat Al Jandal Lake
Traveller’s tips for Damat Al Jandal
- For a direct approach, fly into Al Jouf Domestic Airport in Sakaka. Use a local taxi to reach the desired place located 29-40 km away from the airport.
- Don’t forget to explore the Local palm groves, highly lush, peaceful and utterly unlike anything else.
- Visit the Omar Mosque with the reverence it deserves. The Omar Mosque is one of the earliest mosques in Islam.
Why is it the best time to travel to Northern Saudi Arabia?
Saudi land has been completely transformed by Vision 2030, and now the country has pursued tourism at breathtaking speed. The recent advancements, such as new roads, upgraded airports, luxury desert camps, and world-class guided experiences, warmly welcome dozens of tourists every week. The Saudi land has never been more accessible, more comfortable, and ready to welcome international visitors, including those from the United Kingdom. Some travellers from the UK combine the Umrah with an unforgettable lifetime journey to North Saudi Arabia. They are advised to make it more precise and comfortable by booking Umrah packages 2027 from the most thriving Islamic travel the bestest Umrah agency in the UK. It makes the entire trip utterly speechless with smooth flights and easy walkways in vast deserts under the guidance of expert guides
