Perhaps Spring is the best time to wander around the crispy sands of Saudi Arabia. Many foreign guests, who are invited to attend the yearly Janadriyah cultural festival, find it a great opportunity to try and see more of the historical and intriguing landmarks of the Kingdom.
So the first place to visit and to find out more about the history of Saudi Arabia, its heritage and culture would be in the area of Janadriyah, 42 km northeast of Riyadh. They will have the joyful opportunity to witness the recreation of many traditional foods, dances, costumes, and crafts, providing them with a colorful experience of Saudi Arabia’s past.
The second place that nobody should miss is the mystical land at the Northeast of the country known as Mada’in Saleh. The magnificent archaeological site of the ancient Nabateans’ tombs is a breathtaking experience for first-time visitors. The Ottomans’ old Hejaz railway, museums, oasis, and the mud village, are all part of the unforgettable sightseeing journey in that area.
Another distinctive archaeological site can be found in the southern city of Najran. Al-Ukhdood lands are one of the most significant ancient sites in Saudi Arabia. Historically, it has been identified as the place where early Christians in the Arab peninsula were massacred — circa the 6th century A.D. and before Islam. Traces of bones and burned ashes can still be seen at the archaeological site, which gives you a feeling of reliving that tragic historical moment.
For a change of scenery, go visit the Wabha Crater that is located between the cities of Riyadh and Taif. It is one of the most unforgettable and amazing landmarks in Saudi Arabia. It is still unknown whether this remarkable landmark was formed by a huge meteorite impact or by volcanic activity. You can see and touch the old dark lava fields and white saltpans that are mixed to create this wonderful camping site.
If you want to move from landscape to seascape, then the best place would be the secluded Farasan Islands that used to be the favorite diving destination for the famous late marine biologist, Jacques Cousteau. The islands are known worldwide for their breathtaking coral reefs. It is considered a safe haven for many birds and rare animals and within reach of many historical sites on the mainland.
However, no trip will ever be complete without having a desert safari in the wild open spaces of the Empty Quarter. Despite its name, the Empty Quarter is everything but empty. A four-wheel drive in this breathtaking area will reveal the wildlife hidden behind the largest sand dunes in the world. It would certainly make an unforgettable and adventurous journey and reveal the real beauty of Saudi Arabia.
A tweet: “As a matter of fact, an ordinary desert supports a much greater variety of plants than does either a forest or a prairie.”
— Ellsworth Huntington
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