Saudi Arabia holds untold secrets, refreshing tales, and remnants of ancient civilisations. In addition to vast deserts, the region has many captivating landscapes that will leave you in awe. Whether you are a history lover or an adventure seeker, you will get it all in Saudi Arabia. To journey through time, you must visit the forgotten Saudi Arabian landmarks.
The region only welcomed religious tourists in the past, so the tourist attractions still need to be explored. These hidden gems fascinate travellers around the world. You can explore the breathtaking islands in the country or head towards the ancient towns. Moreover, you can go on a desert safari or visit the country’s historical landmarks.
Even though millions of Muslims visit KSA for Hajj and Umrah, many are also interested in exploring tourist attractions in the region. This is the perfect blog if you are a UK citizen who has booked Umrah and Hajj 2025 deals but wants to explore the country’s forgotten landmarks.
Must-Visit Forgotten Saudi Arabian Landmarks
1. Madain Salih
Madain Salih was long forgotten but has now caught the attention of tourists worldwide. It is located in the northwestern part of Saudi Arabia. You will find stunning landscapes here, and the type of history and heritage will keep you hooked. Many people are intrigued by the similarity between Madain Salih and the world wonder in Petra, Jordan.
This place was inhabited by the Nabataeans hundreds of years ago. Remains of this ancient civilisation are found here in the form of massive sandstone cliffs and well-preserved tombs. It is unmatched in its architecture and history. The desert landscapes make the historical site even more magnificent. Therefore, this hidden gem of KSA is something that you must not miss out on.
2. Dadan and Lihyan
Dadan and Lihyan are the two hidden gems located in the northwestern region of Al Ula. These 2000-year-old kingdoms of Dadan and Lihyan have unforgettable stories about their powerful rule. The two kingdoms were known for their efficient management and control of the incense trade route. Similar to Madain Salih, sandstone tombs are carved into cliffs here. Such magnificent architecture represents the sophistication of the powerful kingdoms.
Moreover, inscriptions in Dadanitic and Lihyanic scripts provide an insight into the lifestyle of the ancient people. People who learn the language can tell much about the powerful kingdoms’ religion, culture, and traditions. It is one of the unforgettable landmarks of Saudi Arabia that archaeologists are trying to explore.
3. Tarout Island
Tarout Island is one of the most ancient inhabited lands in Saudi Arabia and the world. The evidence of life here is more than 5000 BCE old. Being one of the oldest settlements in the country, there is a lot of history to explore here. Moreover, it has been influenced by numerous cultures and civilisations. You will find influences from Islamic, Persian, and Mesopotamian.
You will find many ancient artefacts on this island. Make sure to visit the spectacular 16th-century castle while you are there. You must also see the pottery, jewellery, and tools that represent the ancient lifestyle of the island.
4. Farasan Islands
Unlike Tarout Island, which represents the region’s historical significance, Farasan Island displays the luxurious maritime region of KSA. It has diverse marine life. You can dive into the spectacular waters and see the beautiful marine life. Moreover, you can also have a luxurious beach escape here.
There is some history associated with the region, too. Evidence of Greek and Roman presence on these islands makes them even more fascinating for history buffs. So, immerse yourself in diverse experiences that are full of nature and history on the Farasan Islands.
5. Dumat Al-Jandal
Dumat Al-Jandal is another forgotten landmark of Saudi Arabia. It is an ancient city in the region that only a few people know of. The city originated in the Assyrian period. You must not miss out on its famous landmarks during your time here. You must visit the 2000-year-old Marid Castle and the Omar Mosque, the oldest in the region.
The city also served as a stop on a prominent ancient trade route. Therefore, there is a lot of history and blend of cultures here. Exploring this city will surely be an enlightening experience.
6. Tayma
Tayma is an oasis of ancient civilisations in northwest Saudi Arabia. It was a prominent oasis for trade routes in ancient times. This ancient city is also linked to the ancient, powerful kingdom of Lihyan. There are ancient wells and rock carvings here that will surely fascinate you.
One of the city’s most prominent attractions is the Tayma Stone, a massive stone inscribed by the Babylonian king Nabonidus.
Summing Up
If you booked Hajj packages from the UK, you will visit Saudi Arabia soon. Millions of Muslims gather at the country’s holy sites to perform the pilgrimage every year. But now people are also becoming curious about the tourist attractions and hidden gems of KSA. So, to explore the forgotten Saudi Arabian landmarks after the pilgrimage, you must plan your visit accordingly.
