16-05-2025
An oasis of hidden gems awaits
SAUDI ARABIA isn't just a place of pilgrimage for Muslims; it is a melting pot of cultural transformation and enduring heritage.
Visitors will discover a land rich in remarkably well-preserved historical relics – thanks in large part to the fact that the country only opened its doors to the world in 2019.
If you're eager to uncover the country's timeless charms beyond the buzz of its modern capital, Apple Vacations' 10D7N tour to this Middle Eastern gem offers a chance to explore its hidden treasures.
Where the past meets the future
Standing proudly at the heart of the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh is the Al Masmak Fortress, a 160 year-old citadel.
Made of clay and mud bricks, its towering walls and formidable structure make it one of Saudi Arabia's best-preserved historic landmarks.
First built as a palace, it now functions as a museum and a symbol of the country's power and rule.
Just a 10-minute drive from the fortress is the Saudi National Museum. The eight-gallery museum traces the journey of the universe's origins through the eras of the Arab Kingdoms and pre-Islamic times, culminating in the unification of Saudi Arabia.
With more than 3,700 artifacts on display, it gives visitors an in-depth look into the country's rich history and cultural heritage spanning several millennia.
For a shopping experience filled with old-world charm, you'll find a treasure trove of items at Souq Al Zal, one of Saudi Arabia's oldest flea markets.
Wander through rows of antiques, trinkets, traditional handicrafts and other interesting finds as chatter echoes through its century-old alleyways.
Top off the Riyadh experience with panoramic views of the capital at Kingdom Centre Tower. From 300m above, the city's skyline is breathtaking.
Ushaiger Heritage Village
Ushaiger Village is one of the best-preserved ancient villages in central Arabia.
Just north of Riyadh sits one of the oldest towns in the Saudi region.
Once a pitstop for pilgrims of ages past, Ushaiger Village continues to be a destination that captures the heart of travellers for its innate charms.
Glimpses of the old way of life of the village's past inhabitants surface as you stroll through its winding streets and rugged terrains.
Along the way, you'll notice unique triangular roofs and white-rimmed windows that decorate the red mud-brick houses, a relic of Saudi Arabia's architectural traditions.
AlUla Unesco World Heritage Site
From ancient tombs to geological formations, AlUla is packed with age-old wonders.
Take your first step back in time with the AlUla Old Town. Sitting in the narrowest part of the AlUla Valley stands more than 900 mud-brick houses built over 2,000 years ago.
Through the mazes of its historic alleyways, feel the place teeming with life from the olden days amongst its historic walls, standing against the test of time.
Immerse yourself in the language of the civilisation that once thrived there with the open library of Jabal Ikmah, situated just 20 minutes up north of AlUla Old Town.
More than 300 stone inscriptions are carved into the rock faces on the cliffs, each with a story of its own from the Dadanite and Lihyanite periods.
The exterior of the Elephant Rock is shaped by millions of years of wind and water erosion.
Amongst the sand dunes of Northeast AlUla stands the majestic Elephant Rock in Harat Auwyrith.
Rising to a height of 52m, this geological wonder, which resembles an elephant with a ground-bound trunk, is fringed by hundreds of other rock monoliths formed from ancient times.
End the day with a star-gazing experience in the desert with a local astronomer, coupled with a traditional dining experience. You might catch a glimpse of the Orion constellation, if you're lucky.
Medina, Islam's second holiest city
In the heart of Medina stands Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, or the Prophet's Mosque – Islam's second holiest site and the second largest mosque in the world.
Known for its iconic green dome, it uniquely retains much of the traditional and contemporary elements of Islamic architecture, from intricate mosaics that decorate its halls to the sliding domes of the mosque.
The mosque is not the only one to have evolved with time.
Witness the transformation of Medina with the exhibits at Al-Madinah Museum. Just a 15-minute drive from Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, dive deep into Medina's rich history with archaeological collections, visual galleries and rare images of the city found nowhere else.
Jeddah, Saudi's second largest city
Sitting along the coasts of Jeddah, is the Al Rahma Floating Mosque.
Inspired by the city's seafaring heritage, the iconic mosque was erected on water in 1985 and is renowned for its turquoise-coloured dome and white-coloured exterior.
South of the Al Rahma Floating Mosque is Al-Balad, the historic centre of Jeddah and one of the most Instagram-worthy sites in Saudi Arabia.
The Hijazi houses that line the sides of this Unesco World Heritage Site are known for their coral stone structure and intricately-carved wooden balconies, while its cozy alleyways offer a snapshot-worthy backdrop.
The last to add to your list of must-visits is the King Fahd's Fountain, touted as the world's tallest fountain, standing at 312m.
The local landmark is a sight to behold from afar, especially when it's illuminated at night.
Five-star experiences
Apple Vacations has now rolled out their tour packages to Saudi Arabia for 2025.
The packages include tickets to the attractions and a treat to Arabian delicacies, as well as five-star accommodation throughout the trip. Additionally, it includes one domestic flight to spare travellers from an 11-hour flight.
Tour package is priced from RM31,999 (including flight tickets).
Book your adventure on either Nov 19 or Dec 17 to experience Saudi Arabia's past, present– and future.
Ready to immerse yourself in the Arabian experience? Click here to kickstart your adventure.
