Bordering Countries Of Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Saudi Arabia is a country that attracts millions of tourists every year. However, not many people know that it is bordered by several countries that offer unique and exciting travel experiences. If you are looking to explore beyond Saudi Arabia’s borders, this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to the neighboring countries.
Top Attractions
The neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia offer an abundance of top attractions that are worth exploring. In the United Arab Emirates, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest building in the world and a must-visit attraction. In Oman, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a stunning architectural masterpiece that is open to visitors. In Bahrain, the Al Fateh Grand Mosque is a beautiful landmark that is open to non-Muslims for tours.
Hidden Gems
If you are looking for hidden gems that are off the beaten path, the neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia have plenty to offer. In Kuwait, the Tareq Rajab Museum is a hidden gem that showcases Islamic art and artifacts. In Qatar, the Al Zubarah Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a hidden gem for history buffs. In Yemen, the Socotra Island is a hidden gem for nature lovers with unique flora and fauna.
Food Scene
The food scene in the neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia is diverse and delicious. In Oman, the Omani Halwa is a sweet treat made of sugar, saffron, and rose water. In Kuwait, the Machboos is a rice dish with meat or fish that is a staple in Kuwaiti cuisine. In Bahrain, the Muhammar is a sweet rice dish that is traditionally served during special occasions.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to the neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia can be budget-friendly if you plan ahead. In the United Arab Emirates, consider using public transportation instead of taxis to save money. In Kuwait, visit the souks for a unique shopping experience where bargaining is expected. In Oman, consider staying in budget-friendly guesthouses instead of luxury hotels.
Outdoor Adventures
The neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia offer plenty of outdoor adventures for adrenaline junkies. In Oman, the Wadi Shab is a popular spot for hiking and swimming. In Qatar, the Khor Al Adaid is a natural reserve that offers dune bashing and sandboarding. In Yemen, the Socotra Island offers snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities.
Historical Landmarks
The neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia are steeped in history and offer plenty of historical landmarks to explore. In Bahrain, the Qal’at al-Bahrain is an ancient fort that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Oman, the Bahla Fort is a stunning example of Omani architecture that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Yemen, the Old City of Sana’a is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 11th century.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids to the neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia can be a fun-filled experience. In the United Arab Emirates, the Dubai Mall is a family-friendly attraction that offers an aquarium, ice rink, and cinema. In Kuwait, the Scientific Center is a family-friendly attraction that has an aquarium, planetarium, and interactive exhibits. In Oman, the Muscat Children’s Museum is a fun and educational attraction for kids.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you are looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, the neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia offer plenty of options. In Qatar, the Sheikh Faisal Museum is a unique attraction that showcases a collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and other artifacts. In Yemen, the Wadi Hadramaut is a vast valley that is home to several ancient villages that are worth exploring. In Kuwait, the Failaka Island is an abandoned island that has a rich history and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Natural Wonders
The neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia are home to several natural wonders that are worth visiting. In Oman, the Jabal Akhdar is a mountain range that offers stunning views and hiking opportunities. In the United Arab Emirates, the Liwa Oasis is a stunning natural wonder that is home to several Bedouin tribes. In Yemen, the Marib Dam is an ancient engineering marvel that dates back to the 8th century BC.
Vibrant Nightlife
The neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia offer a vibrant nightlife scene that is worth exploring. In Bahrain, the Adliya district is a popular spot for bars, clubs, and live music. In Qatar, the Pearl-Qatar is a man-made island that has several bars and restaurants with stunning views. In the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is known for its vibrant nightlife with several nightclubs and bars.
Local Markets
The local markets in the neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia offer a unique shopping experience that is worth exploring. In Oman, the Muttrah Souq is a bustling market that offers traditional Omani souvenirs and handicrafts. In Kuwait, the Souk Al-Mubarakiya is a traditional market that offers spices, textiles, and souvenirs. In Yemen, the Al-Tawahi Souq is a traditional market that offers spices, textiles, and traditional Yemeni clothing.
Beaches and Mountains
The neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia offer an abundance of beaches and mountains that are worth exploring. In Oman, the Al Wusta region is home to stunning beaches and untouched coastline. In Qatar, the Al Khor Mangrove Reserve is a natural wonder that is home to several species of birds and marine life. In Yemen, the Haraz Mountains offer stunning views and hiking opportunities.
Cultural Immersion
The neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia offer plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion. In Kuwait, the Sadu House is a cultural center that showcases traditional Kuwaiti crafts and textiles. In Oman, the Bait Al Zubair Museum is a cultural center that showcases Omani history and traditions. In Bahrain, the Bahrain National Museum is a cultural center that showcases Bahraini history and traditions.
Art and Music Scene
The art and music scene in the neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia is diverse and vibrant. In Qatar, the Museum of Islamic Art is a stunning architectural masterpiece that is home to several Islamic art collections. In Kuwait, the Al Shaheed Park is a cultural center that showcases contemporary art and music performances. In the United Arab Emirates, the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Festival is a popular cultural event that showcases classical and contemporary music and art.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia. In Oman, the Muttrah Corniche is a scenic waterfront promenade that offers stunning views and a chance to explore traditional Omani architecture. In Bahrain, the Manama Souq is a traditional market that offers a chance to explore Bahraini culture and history. In the United Arab Emirates, the Dubai Creek is a historic district that offers a chance to explore traditional Emirati architecture and culture.
Architectural Marvels
The neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia are home to several architectural marvels that are worth exploring. In Qatar, the Aspire Tower is a stunning architectural masterpiece that is home to several sports facilities. In Kuwait, the Kuwait Towers are a stunning landmark that offer stunning views of the city. In the United Arab Emirates, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a stunning mosque that is open to visitors and showcases Islamic architecture.
Historical Sites
The neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia are home to several historical sites that are worth exploring. In Oman, the Nizwa Fort is a historic fort that dates back to the 17th century. In Kuwait, the Al Jahra Fort is a historic fort that dates back to the 18th century. In Yemen, the Shibam Hadramawt is a historic city that is known for its high-rise mud-brick buildings.
Biking Routes
Biking routes are a great way to explore the neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia. In Oman, the Jebel Akhdar Loop is a scenic route that offers stunning views of the mountains. In Bahrain, the Bahrain International Circuit is a biking route that is open to visitors and offers a chance to explore the Bahraini countryside. In Qatar, the Doha Corniche is a scenic waterfront promenade that offers a chance to explore the city on a bike.
Wellness Retreats
The neighboring countries of Saudi Arabia offer plenty of wellness retreats that are worth exploring. In Oman, the Six Senses Zighy Bay is a luxury resort that offers wellness programs and spa treatments. In Kuwait, the Talise Spa at the Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel is a wellness center that offers a range of treatments and programs. In the United Arab Emirates, the Anantara Spa at the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort is a wellness center that offers unique treatments and programs.