Top 5 Up-and-Coming Travel Destinations in Saudi Arabia

Not too long ago, visiting Saudi Arabia was primarily for business or the Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah. The country's stunning landscapes—such as the Nabataean ruins in AlUla, the expansive 1,100-mile Red Sea coastline, the lush date palms of the Al Ahsa oasis, and the terraced farms in the south—remained largely undiscovered by international travelers. However, with the introduction of e-visas in 2019, Saudi Arabia is rapidly evolving into a tourism hotspot, with plans to attract over 100 million visitors annually by 2030. To achieve this, the Kingdom is investing in significant destination development and enhancing access to its ancient heritage sites.

From ancient cities and protected marine reserves to futuristic urban projects emerging from the desert, here are five must-know emerging destinations.

NEOM

NEOM is a groundbreaking project that has left many wondering about its reality. To counter skepticism, NEOM recently unveiled a video asserting that “NEOM is real,” showcasing the tangible advancements made so far. It aspires to redefine what’s possible, which appears to be its core objective. Notably, there are astonishing statistics tied to the Line, a revolutionary car-free city projected to span 105 miles in length, rise 1,640 feet high, and measure only 650 feet in width. This mirrored structure will operate on 100 percent renewable energy, accommodate 9 million residents, and feature a high-speed train that connects its ends in just 20 minutes.

Next up is Trojena, the elevated segment of the NEOM initiative, marking the Arabian Peninsula's inaugural winter sports destination. Slated to open in 2026, it will boast a ski village towering at 7,874 feet with 18 miles of skiing trails, set to host the 2029 Asian Winter Games. Plans also include amenities for water sports, wellness, hiking, and mountain biking. The first hotels—25hours and Morgans—are already confirmed for this thrilling venture.

The first part of NEOM set to welcome guests in early 2024 is Sindalah. This luxury island is designed to be a year-round haven for yachting enthusiasts, aiming to draw sailing communities and yacht owners from the Mediterranean and beyond, allowing them to navigate through the Suez Canal and into the Red Sea. It will feature an 86-berth marina and 75 offshore buoys, complemented by luxury accommodations, dining options, retail spaces, and facilities for spa treatments, wellness, golf, and various sports.

The Red Sea

Covering 10,800 square miles, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea destination is perched on the brink of the world’s fourth largest barrier coral reef, encompassing 90 islands and desert landscapes. With dormant volcanoes, canyon-like mountains, and rich cultural heritage sites inland, along with dive spots teeming with marine life offshore, adventure seekers have plenty to explore. Fortunately, they won’t have to sacrifice comfort, as the destination will feature 16 luxury resorts. The first three—Six Senses Southern Dunes, the St. Regis Red Sea Resort, and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve—are set to launch this year, while the futuristic stainless steel pod-like villas at Sheybarah Island resort, conceived by the architect behind Dubai’s Museum of the Future, are slated for a 2024 debut. The entire Red Sea development will operate on renewable energy, covering all facilities, transportation, and eventually seaplane services.

Amaala

Situated 125 miles north of the Red Sea, the 1,500 square miles of Amaala are nestled within the Prince Mohammad bin Salman Natural Reserve. AMAALA aspires to be the “world’s first integrated family wellness destination,” offering a variety of holistic well-being experiences, professional consultations, personalized health plans, and a year-round schedule of events. The initial phases, centered around the Triple Bay marina, are expected to open by mid-2024. A major attraction will be the Red Sea Marine Life Institute, designed by Foster + Partners, which will serve as a conservation-focused research and visitor center, providing multidimensional experiences. In practical terms, visitors can snorkel with rare species, participate in lab tours, and discover the underwater realm in a submarine.

Jeddah

As the original maritime gateway to Makkah along the Red Sea, Jeddah has served as a vital route for countless pilgrims throughout generations, many of whom have chosen to settle here, enriching the city's multicultural essence. Today, Jeddah is evolving into a forward-looking destination while proudly preserving its historical roots and cultural heritage.

The historic district of Al-Balad stands out as one of the most captivating urban areas in the country. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts over 650 structures that are 200 to 300 years old. Once the city’s vibrant core, Al-Balad had fallen into neglect in recent years, prompting the Ministry of Culture to initiate a significant restoration program to save and revitalize its most vulnerable buildings.

However, Al-Balad is not solely focused on its past. The neighborhood has already hosted the Red Sea Film Festival and the Balad Beast electronic music festival, featuring renowned artists such as Busta Rhymes, Carl Cox, and DJ Jazzy Jeff, alongside popular male and female Saudi DJs. Exciting developments are on the way, including new boutique hotels.

Diriyah

Situated on the outskirts of Riyadh, Diriyah and its UNESCO World Heritage site At-Turaif hold immense historical and cultural importance for the nation. Recognized as the birthplace of the kingdom, it was the original residence of the Al Saud royal family and the location where the first Saudi state was established in 1727. The restored Salwa Palace, an exemplary representation of traditional Najdi mud-brick architecture, reopened in late 2022 to welcome international visitors, featuring museums and guided tours by passionate young Saudi hosts. Overlooking At-Turaif is the newly developed Bujairi Terrace dining village, which hosts over 20 restaurants, including renowned global brands like Hakkasan and Long Chim, as well as local favorites like Maiz and Takya, serving exquisite Saudi cuisine.

While tourism is a significant aspect, Diriyah is set to transform the capital itself, eventually featuring 38 hotels (including luxury brands such as Four Seasons, Oberoi, Six Senses, and Rosewood), more than 26 cultural attractions, 400 luxury and lifestyle outlets, lush palm groves and parks, along with the kingdom’s first opera house and a contemporary art museum. Additionally, community centers, academies, universities, and a new metro line will cater to the anticipated 100,000 residents who will call Diriyah home in the coming years.