Top 5 things for your bucket list of adventures Saudi Arabia

What draws tourists to visit Saudi Arabia? Part of the appeal comes from the novelty of the destination. For decades, the country was closed off to international visitors. Now that it has opened its borders, travelers are eager to explore Arabia's uncharted sites and rich culture. Many foreign tourists are attracted by the prospect of discovering landmarks and traditions that have remained hidden from the outside world for so long. Arabia presents an alluring opportunity for adventurous individuals seeking to experience new places and broaden their horizons. With its mix of ancient heritage and modern transformations, Saudi Arabia delivers an authentic glimpse into both its storied past and vibrant present.

1. Eve's Tomb, Jeddah

Located in the historic port city of Jeddah, said to be the final resting place of Eve, the biblical first woman. According to tradition, Jeddah derives its name from the Arabic word for grandmother, as Eve is believed to be the grandmother of all humanity. References to Eve's Tomb date back to 12th century travel writings. While parts were damaged in the 1920s, the cemetery remains one of Saudi Arabia's most iconic sites, a testament to the country's long religious and cultural heritage. Legend holds that it was here Eve came to rest after being banished from the Garden of Eden, her burial plot cementing Jeddah's identity and enduring connection to the founding matriarch across faiths.

2. Dune Bashing in Qasim

Few destinations offer the thrill of dune bashing like the rolling red sand seas of Qasim. This desert sport involves strapping into an all-terrain vehicle and hitting the dunes at high speeds, pushing vehicles to drift and slide up towering slopes of fine golden sand.
For a full immersion experience, multi-day excursions incorporate off-roading with Bedouin camping out under the stars. Begin with a camel ride at sunset, then spend the night sleeping amidst the dunes’ quiet solitude. Wake to a warming Arabic coffee before sliding down the soft dunes on boards or taking another rip through the desert in 4x4s.
Dune bashing taps into the adventure and tradition of desert life.

3. The Edge of the World - Jebel Fihrayn

High atop the desert-carved cliffs of Jebel Fihrayn lies a scenic overlook aptly named "The Edge of the World." Conjure images of Lizzie Bennet contemplating life's mysteries from a precipice, for this vantage point grants a sweeping vista to stir imagination and introspection. Situated northwest of the capital Riyadh, amongst rocky panoramas, the dramatic view seems to stretch to infinity. Stand at the cliff's brink amidst billowing golden dunes and feel as though perched at the planet's rim.

Take in the quiet solitude and endless sky meeting earth. Gaze across Nature's canvas, and gain perspective on your place within the landscape - and within the greater flow of human history in this ancient land. A visit to The Edge proves a perfect pause for reflection in one's Saudi travels.

4. Mada'in Saleh - Al Hijr

Nestled in the landscape just outside AlUla is the archaeological wonder of Mada'in Saleh. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient Nabataean city contains over 100 monumental tombs carved by skilled hands directly into rose-colored sandstone cliffs. The nomadic herders who inhabitated the area in centuries past left behind architectural feats that remain an archaeological treasure trove.

With uniform facades and ornate details chiseled with precision, the tombs stand as silent sentinels guarding the secrets of their creators. Illuminating inscriptions provide a rare window into the culture and language of these pioneering desert dwellers. Often described as the "Petra of Saudi Arabia," Mada'in Saleh provides insight into both the artistic achievements and everyday lives of its early inhabitants.

 5. The Zee Ain Ancient Village, Bidah Valley

Nestled within the mountains of the Bidah Valley in western Saudi Arabia lies the historic village of Zee Ain. Its stone structures, polished smooth over centuries, have remained largely untouched since the 8th century CE settlement was founded. Named for a spring flowing from the surrounding peaks, Zee Ain was witness to many tribal clashes in earlier eras. Today it stands as both a preserved slice of heritage and one of Saudi Arabia's UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Home to diverse flora including banana, kadi, basil and date palms, the village consists of 49 homes built using the traditional medamik construction system. Ranging from single-level dwellings to four-story complexes, they demonstrate the architectural evolution of this remote oasis. Venture back in time amidst the quiet alleys, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of village life that have endured for more than a millennium in this fertile desert valley. Zee Ain offers visitors a rare glimpse into Saudi Arabia's rich cultural roots.