Saudi Arabia is changing fast. With new roads opening, flights connecting remote corners, and a growing buzz around domestic travel, 2025 feels like the moment everything is coming together. But as the spotlight grows brighter, so does the crowd. That’s why now is the perfect time to explore the lesser-known corners of the Kingdom, before they turn into the next big destinations.
In this guide, we uncover the Saudi tourism hidden gems worth seeing while they’re still quiet, raw, and full of soul.
The Tourism Boom and Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia has made tourism a national priority. Under Vision 2030, the Kingdom is opening up to international visitors, creating a new wave of experiences across landscapes, cultures, and history. The plan isn’t just about luxury resorts or flashy festivals. It’s about celebrating what already exists: the deserts, the mountains, the old towns, the people.
With more than 100 million visitors expected annually by 2030, the race is on to discover hidden places to visit in Saudi Arabia before they become household names.
Why You Should Visit Saudi Arabia Now
The beauty of Saudi Arabia’s secret destinations lies in how untouched they still feel. You can walk through a quiet mountain village where life moves slowly. Or sit by the sea with no one else around. These places give you the rare chance to experience Saudi tourism hidden gems, with room to breathe and time to connect.
Many of these spots don’t have tour buses or ticket booths yet. You get the real thing—and maybe a warm cup of tea from someone who lives there.
Hidden Gems to Explore in 2025
Here are some of the best unexplored places in Saudi Arabia to add to your travel plans this year.
1. AlUla Beyond the Main Sites
Most travelers know AlUla for Hegra and the mirrored Maraya Hall. But there’s more if you wander a little further. Drive out to Al Gharameel rocks, where the sandstone pillars rise from the desert like sculptures. Or hike in Ashar Valley, where trails cut between high cliffs and ancient carvings.
Small villages around AlUla still grow dates in quiet groves. You can meet local artisans making incense, pottery, or weaving palm leaves. It’s peaceful, grounded, and feels completely separate from the buzz of the big attractions.
2. Al Ahsa Oasis
Al Ahsa is the world’s largest oasis and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but somehow it still slips under the radar. Palm trees stretch for miles, broken only by canals, springs, and old mud-brick buildings.
Wander the old market in Al Hofuf, explore Qaisariah Souq, or take a picnic to Al Qarah Mountain, where wind-carved caves offer a cool break from the sun. It’s one of those secret destinations in Saudi Arabia that balances history, nature, and calm.
3. Farasan Islands
Off the coast of Jazan, the Farasan Islands feel like another world. White sand, coral reefs, and water so clear you can see every fish beneath your feet. These islands are part of a marine reserve, home to rare birds and gazelles, and perfect for diving or quiet beach days.
Ferries from Jazan run regularly, and there are simple guesthouses for overnight stays. For travelers looking for hidden places to visit in Saudi Arabia with a tropical twist, this is the place.
4. The Edge of the World (with New Access)
The Edge of the World is no secret anymore, but what many miss is that newer, safer access routes now make it easier to explore. This dramatic cliff, part of the Tuwaiq escarpment near Riyadh, still delivers a jaw-dropping view that stretches into what feels like forever.
Go early in the morning when the light hits the rock just right, and you may still find moments of quiet. It’s a reminder that even famous spots can feel fresh when you come at the right time.
5. Rijal Almaa Village
In the Asir mountains, not far from Abha, sits Rijal Almaa, a historic village of stone towers painted in earthy tones. Walk through narrow alleys, visit the museum, and see traditional architecture that feels like it grew straight from the mountain.
This area comes alive in summer, when fog drifts through the hills and everything turns green. It’s a calm, beautiful place where culture and nature come together in the quietest way.
6. Jazan Mountains
The mountains around Jazan offer a cooler, greener side of Saudi Arabia. You’ll find terraced farms, twisting roads, and villages tucked into high valleys here. It’s the kind of landscape that surprises people who imagine the country as only desert.
Explore Fayfa Mountain for panoramic views, or Wadi Lajab for narrow canyons and natural pools. The people here are warm, and the pace is slow, perfect for travelers seeking Saudi Arabia off the beaten path.
7. Umluj’s Quiet Beaches and Islands
Often called the “Saudi Maldives,” Umluj has become more known in recent years. But away from the main town, there are islands and coves that still feel untouched. Take a small boat out to explore sandbanks and reef spots. Some islands have no names, no signs, no shops—just sea and sky.
This area is ideal for snorkeling, relaxing, or simply watching the sun dip into the Red Sea. For a quiet coastal escape, Umluj is one of the best unexplored places in Saudi Arabia.
Tips for Exploring Saudi Arabia’s Hidden Spots
- Timing matters: October to April offers cooler weather for most locations.
- Pack layers: Mountain areas like Asir or Jazan can get chilly at night.
- Travel smart: Many places require a 4×4 vehicle or local guide.
- Respect local customs: Some remote villages follow traditional practices more closely.
- Go slow: These aren’t places to rush through. Give yourself time.
How the Kingdom is Protecting Its Natural and Cultural Sites
As Saudi tourism grows, so does the focus on preserving what makes these places special. New efforts include:
- Limiting visitor numbers in protected areas like AlUla
- Investing in eco-tourism and sustainable lodging
- Training locals to guide, host, and share their heritage
It’s all part of a longer plan to grow tourism in a way that respects land, culture, and community.
Why These Hidden Gems Matter Now
The Saudi tourism hidden gems are more than scenic. They tell stories. They offer moments of stillness. And they give visitors a chance to connect with places that feel real and rooted.
In a few years, more hotels will rise. More roads will be paved. And these quiet corners will grow busier. That doesn’t make them less beautiful, but it makes now a special window.
For anyone asking where to visit in Saudi Arabia in 2025, start here. These hidden gems carry the spirit of the place. They remind you why people travel at all.
And they’re waiting.
FAQs
What are the top hidden gems to visit in Saudi Arabia in 2025?
Some of the best hidden places to visit in Saudi Arabia include Al Ahsa Oasis, Farasan Islands, Rijal Almaa Village, and the Jazan Mountains. These destinations offer natural beauty, cultural depth, and fewer crowds.
Where can I find underrated tourist spots in Saudi Arabia?
Underrated tourist spots in Saudi Arabia include the quieter parts of AlUla, remote islands near Umluj, and mountain regions like Fayfa and Asir. These areas show a different side of Saudi Arabia off the beaten path.
Why should I explore Saudi Arabia’s hidden gems now?
With Saudi tourism growing fast, now is the time to see hidden gems before they become mainstream. Visiting in 2025 means you’ll experience authentic places with fewer visitors and more connection.
Is it safe to travel to secret destinations in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Saudi Arabia continues to invest in tourism infrastructure and safety. However, some remote locations require proper planning, local guides, and 4×4 vehicles. Always check local advice before traveling.
How is Saudi Arabia protecting its natural and cultural sites?
Saudi Arabia is preserving its secret destinations through eco-tourism initiatives, heritage conservation, and limiting access to sensitive areas. Local communities are also being trained as part of sustainable tourism efforts.
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This article is brought to you by Soul of Saudi — a Saudi travel blog dedicated to uncovering the heart and soul of the Kingdom.
