At Hegra, 111 monumental tombs are carved directly into the sandstone; 94 of them are decorated. Water wells are also part of the archaeological site. The tomb architecture and wells offer two different perspectives on the same place.
Hegra and the traces of ancient trade routes
Hegra lay on a trade route linking the Arabian Peninsula, the Mediterranean region and Asia. The site can therefore be viewed both through its monuments carved into the rock and through this historical connection. Those interested in architecture and trade history will find two specific themes here that belong together, without the tombs losing their own impact.
Oasis landscapes and regional discoveries
The Al-Ahsa Oasis comprises gardens, canals, springs, wells and a drainage lake. It also includes historic buildings, urban structures and archaeological sites. More than 2.5 million palm trees shape the oasis. Traditional historic souks are also part of it, including Al-Qaysariyah in Al-Hofuf. The aspects of this cultural landscape mentioned here therefore range from water and palms to historic markets.
In the AlUla Oasis, visitors can explore the palm groves by camel or on foot. They can also taste fresh fruit straight from the trees; seasonal availability of citrus fruit may vary. The oasis produces more than 90,000 tonnes of dates each year. This brings different aspects of oasis life into focus: exploring the groves and the products of agriculture. If you plan a particular way to explore, check what is currently available, as arrangements may change.
Rock art and archaeological landscapes
In the Ḥimā Cultural Area, rock art depicts hunting, animals, plants and ways of life. It represents cultural continuity spanning 7,000 years. The area lies at the oldest known toll station on a major ancient desert caravan route. The wells of Bi’r Ḥimā still provide fresh water today. Rock art, the historic route and water resources give the landscape several distinct layers of significance.
At the rock art sites in the Ha'il region, the local community contributes to their protection and welcomes visitors. The community’s role is therefore also part of the picture of these sites, alongside the depictions themselves.
The cultural landscape of the Al-Faw archaeological area includes nearly 12,000 archaeological remains. They span the period from prehistory to the later pre-Islamic era. Al-Faw was an important caravan station on the route from Najran to central and eastern Arabia. Those interested in early settlement and trade routes will find a long sequence of archaeological evidence here, along with a clearly identified historic route connection.
Nature, hiking trails and outdoor experiences
In Aseer, hiking trails range from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs. In Aseer National Park, a variety of trails wind through forests, valleys and mountains. This highlights both the different levels of difficulty and the varied landscapes as points of reference for hikers.
In Abha, the Fog Walkway is seven kilometres long and has seating areas, green spaces and playgrounds. Facilities may change; if a particular feature matters for your visit, check in advance.
The Farasan Islands have the richest combination of marine and terrestrial biodiversity of all areas in Saudi Arabia. Diving is possible year-round along the Saudi Arabian coast of the Red Sea. Sea conditions and operator offerings may vary; check in advance if you are planning a dive.
In Taif, visitors can experience the rosewater-making process at farms such as Alshiokh Farm and Factory. There is a café with views of the rose fields. Farm operations and seasonal timing may change. If you want to plan this visit, check in advance what is currently available.
Discover more destinations: Yanbu, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Riyadh, Khamis Mushayt, Buraida, Ḩāʼil, Eastern Province, Dammam, Quassim, Mecca, Jazan, Medina, Tabuk, Ash Sharqiyah, Asir, Riyadh, Al-Bahah, Northern Borders, Najran, Al Jowf, Al Madinah Province, Hail Province, Northern Borders Province and Al Ahsa.
