By Rina Chandarana

Saudi Arabia’s over 10,000-year-old archaeological spots and sandstone sites are having a moment on the world stage. Once mostly closed off to anyone except oil workers and those visiting Mecca and Medina—Islam’s holiest sites—the country is now open for curious travelers wanting to discover its decadent properties and intriguing past. 

Ancient Past

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia may be progressing to the future at hastened speed, but its history dates all the way back to the Al Saud dynasty in 1744. With the opening of the UNESCO-listed Hegra site, a collection of ancient, preserved tombs and rock formations carved in the first century by Nabatean tribes, visitors are flocking to Saudi Arabia. History buffs have no shortage of options between the six UNESCO World Heritage sites. Archaeological landmarks showing traces of Neolithic period human settlement can be found in the verdant Al Ahsa Oasis where millions of date trees sprout from the ground and hot and cold springs refresh. Alternatively, wander the mudbrick home-lined alleyways at the 15^th century Al Turaif. And then there’s Hima in the southwest, which is situated on an old caravan route with some of the oldest inscriptions and rock carvings in the world. Animal and human scenes spanning thousands of years abound at two petroglyph sites in Al Hail. 

City Sites

Haggle for jewelry and textiles in Riyadh’s souks, explore the old fortress, and learn about Arab Islamic art at the Al Faisal Museum. And then there’s Jeddah. Well-trodden by those on a Hajj pilgrimage, Jeddah is a historic hub located on the Red Sea. Established in the 7^th century, Jeddah was once a port hub for traders journeying along the Indian Ocean. The old town, Al Balad, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with dazzling, intricate lattice wood and Red Sea coral structures. Take a pause with a relaxing hot tea infused with mint before wandering to the many historic homes and museums, or to the Souq Al Alawi, serving pilgrims for centuries, to sample the street food. 

While the accommodation options in Saudia Arabia range in location and level of luxury, the luxe villas at Habitas AlUla are unmatched. It's a dreamy home base for immersive explorations with drop-dead gorgeous views of the Ashar Valley and sandstone canyons. The swimming pool sparkles like a miraculous oasis in the middle of the desert, and roses used in facials and massages pay homage to Middle Eastern culture in its Thuraya Wellness Center, named after a constellation used by Bedouins to navigate the endless expanse.  

Out & About

Depending on the time of year, outdoor activities in Saudi Arabia are plentiful. Soar high above the landscape in a hot air balloon during a November visit or opt for a helicopter tour. Saudi Arabia is a year-round destination with outstanding topography. While some may think of sand more than sea, the country actually boasts an exquisite coastline too. Further inland, go on a moonlit hike in AlUla admiring the blanket of stars and the imposing shadows of the massive rock formations, which offer a glimpse of what life must have been like for traders and the faithful so many centuries ago. 

So, while Saudi Arabia may be plummeting head-first into the promises of the future, it is doing so without sacrificing its ancient legacy.  

Pro Tip: "Consider adding on to your trip and visiting one of more of Saudi's other areas; both Jeddah and Riyadh have many fascinating sites, both man-made and natural wonders." - Nicole, Designer