Saudi Arabia is known for its enticing history. This stunning region makes history lovers feel like they have entered a historical heaven. There is a lot of history to learn in every corner of Saudi Arabia. Many history lovers yearn for a historical tour of the country. Many famous historical landmarks in Saudi Arabia glimpse the Kingdom’s rich past.
From the remnants of ancient civilizations to prominent religious landmarks, this famous Arab land has it all. So, brace yourself for an immersive experience that will become a vibrant memory for you. Saudi Arabia is renowned not only for its rich tapestry of religious and historical sites but also for its profound cultural significance in the Islamic world, drawing millions of pilgrims annually to its sacred grounds.Millions of Muslims from the UK and many other world regions travel to Saudi Arabia through Hajj and Umrah packages to fulfill their religious duties. However, there is much more to Saudi Arabia than just the pilgrimage sites, which has started intriguing many other tourists. History is one of the most prominent things of the Kingdom that fascinated people worldwide.
So, if you want to explore KSA’s historical side this holiday season, here is the perfect list of landmarks and their locations to add to your itinerary.
Famous Historical Landmarks in Saudi Arabia with Location
- Madain Saleh
Location: Al Ula within Madinah, Hejaz Region
Madain Saleh is the most prominent historical landmark in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. It is a world heritage site that attracts millions of tourists every year. This heritage site features some of the best-preserved remnants of the famous Nabataean civilization. You will find massive tombs here that reflect these ancient people’s architectural expertise and style.
This historical landmark is located amidst the desert, making it more captivating and visually stunning. In addition to the tombs, you will also find water wells that work on the ancient hydraulic system installed by the Nabataeans. This will surely be an insightful trip, and you will learn many new things about the history of the Kingdom.
- Masjid an-Nabwi
Location: Madinah
Masjid an-Nabwi is another prominent religious site in Saudi Arabia. It is significant for Muslims because it contains the tomb of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). It also has a prominent place in Islamic and Arab history. The Prophet (SAW) himself laid the foundation of this mosque, making it thousands of years old. Praying at this mosque has extensive rewards and benefits.
Even though visiting this mosque is not a ritual of Hajj or Umrah, all pilgrims ensure to see it to receive rewards and pay their respects to the Prophet (SAW). So, if you have also contacted an Umrah travel agency to plan your pilgrimage, you will visit this mosque soon.
- Ushaiqer Heritage Village
Location: Located in Najd, 200km Northwest of Riyadh
Nothing screams history more than 1500 years of mud and wooden houses. The Bedouins inhabited these houses. Here, you get a glimpse of the ancient way of living in the region. Travelers to Makkah loved to stay at this village because of its palm orchards and low-brimmed olives. You will feel like you have entered a history book’s page while exploring this stunning site.
Ushaiqer village comprises hundreds of mud houses with thick walls on winding alleyways. These houses feature a typical Najdi architectural style consisting of triangular windows, roofs, and spectacular wooden doors. The timber-framed walkways are also a sight that will surely fascinate you.
- Jubbah Hail
Location: 90km from Ha’il Province, an ancient caravan route between Najd and the Mediterranean Sea
If you are an archaeology lover, you will not want to miss out on Jubbah Hail. It is a historical caravan route in the Nafud Desert. This historical landmark dates back to Mesolithic times. You will find ancient rock inscriptions and sculptures here. Some prominent sculptures at this historical site include monkeys, animals hauling carts, gazelles, birds, and men in headgear.
The rock inscriptions here are also 7000 to 9000 years old. This makes it a fascinating site with a lot to learn and explore. Its desert location makes it more spectacular and attracts many tourists from around the globe. So, if you get the chance to visit this famous historical landmark, make sure to take your time and look at the rock inscriptions closely.
- Masjid al-Haram
Location: Makkah
Masjid al-Haram is a pilgrimage site for Muslims. The Holy Kaabah is located nearby. Millions of Muslims gather here for the Hajj and Umrah. This mosque and the Holy Kaabah have a great history, even older than Islam. The magnificent architecture and spiritual value of this mosque are undeniable.
It is impossible not to enlist this mosque among the historical landmarks of Saudi Arabia. However, remember that only Muslims can visit it for pilgrimage purposes.
Summing Up
Even though this blog has some of the most famous historical landmarks in Saudi Arabia, there are many other sites that you must see. Other historical landmarks in the region include the Jawatha Mosque, Masmak Fortress, Uhud Mountain, Al Balad, and many more. So, make sure that you have enough time in Saudi Arabia if you want to explore all its historical sites.
