Saudi Arabia stands out in winter as one of the best destinations to visit, drawing locals and international visitors seeking to enjoy desert activities, explore the Kingdom’s rich history and traditions, and visit some of the country’s largest events. When temperatures drop, travelers in Saudi Arabia opt to spend time in traditional winter destinations to enjoy cooler climates and the cultural and natural experiences these locales offer.
Winter is the perfect time to discover Saudi Arabia’s great outdoors and go hiking, rock climbing, and even skiing. Riyadh, one of the hottest cities in the world, averages around a comfortable 22ºC between December and February, making it the perfect time to explore the capital’s offerings.
According to Wego’s latest comprehensive analysis, Tabuk, Riyadh, Abha and Al Ula are among the most popular destinations for Saudis seeking winter escapes. These places often see an uptick in interest during the colder months.
Travel to historic Tabuk
Tabuk, located in northwestern Saudi Arabia, is a must-visit destination for travelers this winter. This city offers a rich history, delicious cuisine, and plenty of activities for all ages. The history of the Tabuk province goes back over 5000 years. This historic land, known in ancient times as Madyan includes several ancient temples and archeological sites. The area also held great importance as an important trade route. The province is now home to the NEOM giga-project which will feature multiple luxury tourist destinations.
If you plan on visiting Tabuk this winter, the Tabuk Ottoman Castle is a must-see destination. The Tabuk Ottoman Castle is an ancient castle that dates back to 1559 and is one of the most popular historical landmarks in the region. The castle was renovated in 1993 and now serves as a museum that features historical artifacts from the Ottoman era.
Hijaz Railway Station is also among the most popular attractions to visit when in Tabuk. The station was built almost a century ago to take Muslim pilgrims from Damascus to the holy cities of Makkah and Medina but ended in ruins less than two decades after its start. It has become a famous tourist attraction and recently became a UNESCO World Heritage site. A museum was also recently constructed near the station in Al-Hijr to preserve the history of the region and the station.
Stroll through the ancient city of Madyan. Madyan is an archeological site that features houses that have been cut from huge rocks and can be dated back to 2000 BC. The Al Tawba Mosque is another attraction you must visit in Tabuk. Due to its link with the Battle of Tabuk, the mosque is a very important landmark in the region.
Visit Saudi Arabia’s futuristic capital Riyadh
Saudi Arabia’s futuristic capital, Riyadh, is a major commercial and financial hub, blending historical treasures with modern skyscrapers, shopping malls and fine-dining restaurants, making it one of the most popular destinations to visit in Saudi Arabia this winter.
Riyadh Season, the major cultural and entertainment event, has significantly boosted winter tourism in the capital city. In Riyadh, winter bookings on Wego last year were 18.39 percent higher than those in the late spring, while year-round favorites Tabuk and Abha also experienced increased searches, up 5.31 percent and 15.82 percent, respectively.
Among the most notable places to visit in Riyadh is Al Masmak Fortress. The magnificent fortress stands gracefully in the middle of Riyadh city as a tourist destination having silently witnessed great events in the history of the Kingdom’s foundation.
The Boulevard City area is also one of the most important destinations at Riyadh Season. It hosts a number of events and is the largest sustainable entertainment hub in the season, making it one of the most interactive locations for visitors in Riyadh.
If you are planning to visit Riyadh this winter, Salwa Palace is one of the best destinations to explore. It is a historical landmark that encapsulates a crucial time in the history of the Kingdom, taking you back in time to the establishment of the First Saudi State.
When visiting Saudi Arabia, set aside a day to explore the magnificent Saudi National Museum. From the Earth to the moon, and from the prehistoric ages to the modern ages, the hallways of the museum will take you on an adventure that transcends time and space. The museum opened its doors in 1998 and spans a distance of 17,000 km2 where it tells the story of 3,700 artifacts including statues, scripts and unique sculptures.
Enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery of Abha
Abha is the capital city of the Asir region in Saudi Arabia. It is famous among visitors for its beautiful mountain scenery and temperate climate, making it one of the most popular destinations to visit during the winter in Saudi Arabia.
When planning a trip to Abha, make sure to visit the Aseer National Park. It is the first Saudi National park, founded in 1980, and spans over 450 square kilometers. Due to its prime location, the national park offers rocky mountains, valleys and lush woods. Visitors can go hiking, camping, picnics and stroll through the park’s wonderful nature while enjoying outdoor activities
Waterfall Park is another stunning getaway where you can witness marvelous waterfalls and enjoy nature’s peaceful surroundings. When visiting Abha, remember to check out Al-Soudah Park which is part of the Sarawat Mountain range. This destination is popular for its mild climate and breathtaking views. During your trip to Al Soudah Park, you can enjoy hiking, picnicking and cable car rides with stunning views of the nearby valleys and mountains.
Embark on a journey to Rijal Heritage Village, just 45 km away from Abha. This stunning village features vibrant stone buildings and unique architecture, showcasing 700 years of history. Recognized globally as one of the best tourist villages, it spans 20 sections filled with traditional artifacts narrating the story of its inhabitants.
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Explore AlUla’s ancient cultures
Winter at Tantora in Al Ula is a key attraction that contributes to the popularity of certain destinations. For instance, bookings to AlUla for December – January trips last year nearly doubled compared to the April – May period. Winter at Tantora brings you closer to the very best of AlUla, shining a light on history, culture, art, music, dining and more. The festival begins on December 19 and ends on January 11, 2025.
If you plan on visiting Saudi Arabia this winter, make sure to stop by AlUla to explore ancient cultures and learn about how people lived in the Kingdom. Populated since before the 1st millennium BCE, Hegra is famous for its more than 110 well-preserved burial tombs carved from desert rock in which the Nabataean elite were laid to rest. Away from Hegra’s captivating tombs, this ancient Nabataean city also boasts examples of ancient engineering and craftsmanship such as wells and stone-lined water channels. Defensive walls, gates and towers that once encircled the city show the Roman influence at Hegra.
Another true icon of AlUla, the elephant-shaped rock formation stretches up 52 meters into the sky. Known in Arabic as Jabal AlFil, Elephant Rock is especially magical at dusk. Visitors can enjoy the desert views at sunset and warm themselves at a welcoming fire pit to combat the desert chill while enjoying something to eat and drink.
Wander the maze of historic alleys and hundreds of houses built of mud brick, lined up next to each other at AlUla’s Old Town. This once-thriving town from the 12th century stood on ancient trading routes and was also a key settlement on the pilgrimage path from Damascus to Makkah.
