Known as the ultimate forbidden kingdom to most, Saudi Arabia is a destination for the bravest and boldest of travelers. But the petroleum-producing monarchy is slowly lifting the veil to show outsiders the positive side of its country: the stone-carved tombs of Nabataeans, the holy Muslim city of Makkah and the seemingly endless Bedouin hospitality of the locals.
Saudi Arabia boasts miles of coastline that several cities call home. Just a skip away from Makkah (or Mecca) lies liberal-minded Jeddah, the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia that sits on the Red Sea. Most travel guides to Saudi Arabia will however recommend Madain Saleh in the north as an absolute must-see, and is often heralded as “The Petra of Saudi Arabia.”
The mystery surrounding this middle-eastern nation may be just what drives you towards it, as it has for the most daring expeditioners in history. Nowadays, you don’t have to be searching for adventure to visit Saudi Arabia; it has plenty in the way of attractions to lure visitors looking for a simple vacation.