Eid in Saudi Arabia is a time of joyous celebration. You can fee the spirit of community and generosity among families and friends fills the air. All the smiley faces are coming together for feasting and celebratory events all around the kingdom. Everywhere you go, there are dazzling lights and decorations adorned, with the aroma of traditional sweets and savory dishes wafting from homes and restaurants.
However, beyond the familial feasts and traditional events, the country has a lot of space to welcome the travelers during this festival with open arms. Visitors can immerse themselves in the unique Eid atmosphere to discover the rich heritage and warm hospitality of the Saudi people.
You can revel in the cultural performances from traditional dances to musical recitals, each offers a glimpse into the kingdom’s artistic heritage. In coastal cities, the festive spirit extends to the beaches and waterfronts. Inland, historical sites and traditional markets often host special Eid events, providing opportunities to learn about the kingdom’s history and culture. Travelers might find special Eid markets with local crafts and traditional foods, a perfect place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. Furthermore, many restaurants offer special Eid menus, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of Saudi Arabian cuisine. Joining in these celebrations offers a unique insight into the heart of Saudi Arabian culture.
The following are five of the hotspots in Saudi Arabia that we think you can’t miss, especially during Eid. Whether it’s on land or right beside the sea, unparalleled beauty and wonder of this festival can be revelled.
The Floating Mosque of Jeddah
As one of the most popular destinations and largest cities in Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is a great place to spend the Eid holidays. Many travelers will want to witness the splendor of the city’s Floating Mosque, which is built in a manner that makes it appear as if the structure is floating on the sea. The mosque is easy to spot not only because of its waterfront location, but also by its dazzling turquoise dome. Known officially as the Fatima Al Zahra Mosque, this illustrious place of worship attracts many visitors during Eid who come to pray and then to relax at the mosque’s seaside setting. To the north of the mosque, travelers will find a wide array of picturesque cafes and restaurants that make for a charming setting to celebrate with an Eid meal.
Scuba Diving near the Farasan Islands
Located off the Southwestern coast of Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea, the Farasan Islands beckon scuba enthusiasts with their abundance of marine life. An increasingly popular tourist destination, especially during the relaxing days of Eid, the islands can be reached twice daily by ferry from Jizan Port. Travelers who prefer to spend time out of the water, which is known for visits from dolphins, whales (even orcas), and nurse sharks, will find wildlife on land like Arabian gazelles and migratory birds to view. Visitors who wish to scuba will find charters and gear rentals available.
Explore the Deerah Souq
Located in an old part of Riyadh, the Saudi capital city, the Deerah Souq is renowned for its gold wares as well as its myriad of other goods that include hand-woven rugs, traditional clothing, artisan-crafted trinkets, and loads of souvenirs. The souq is the perfect place to purchase gifts for giving during the Eid holidays. Shoppers are especially drawn to the goldwork that includes gem-encrusted bangles and lustrous gold chains. Other popular items include embroidered fabrics, ornate lanterns, and wood carvings.
Visit the ‘Edge of the World’
Jebel Fiyrahn, more famously known as the Edge of the World, has become a major Saudi tourist attraction. The cliff tops perch 300 meters above ground and are part of the Tuwaiq Escarpment. Visitors come to enjoy the uninterrupted views of the horizon. It is believed that an ancient ocean once existed below the cliffs, but its bed is now traversed by caravans who have traveled past the cliffs for centuries. Visitors to Riyadh can reach the ‘Edge of the World’ in about 90 minutes by car. Travelers in search of a quiet way to spend Eid may want to include the cliffs as part of their travel itinerary.
Trek to Al Ahsa
As Saudi Arabia’s largest oasis, Al Ahsa attracts many visitors to its spectacular location. Teeming with palm trees (more than 2.5 million of them) and located near four major cities and multiple smaller villages, the oasis has been well known since the time of the Assyrians. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Al Ahsa Oasis is one of the most enchanting places for travelers to spend the Eid holidays. Famous for its sticky dates and natural springs, the oasis promises visitors a nature-inspired experience. Most visitors travel from either Al-Mubarraz or Al-Hofuf to reach the inland garden, which is located about 40 miles from the Arabian Gulf.
Al Marjan Island
For water lovers, Al Marjan Island is a popular place to spend the Eid holidays with its majestic sea views and relaxing beaches. Located off the coast of Dammam, the island is an artificial one that was created for families and visitors to enjoy with its picnic areas and organized boat rides. Many visitors enjoy fishing and even snorkeling. There’s also a zoo on the island that’s popular with families. Travelers also will find many resorts and hotels on the coral island that feature remarkable views of the azure Arabian Gulf. As a destination that’s popular with locals and tourists alike, the island is likely to get crowded during Eid, but it’s well worth visiting, especially for sunrises and sunsets.
Check Out the Kingdom Centre
Located in Riyadh, the Kingdom Centre is a city focal point. The tower stretches 300 meters into the air and has become an iconic symbol of Saudi Arabia’s modernization. As the tallest structure in the country, the skyscraper attracts throngs of visitors with its unparalleled views of the city. The center boasts a mall with department stores, swimming pool, a luxury hotel, offices, and upscale condominiums. Visitors spending time in Riyadh during Eid should take time to witness this spectacular structure or enjoy its popular attractions.
Visit Masmak Fortress
Also located in Riyadh, Masmak Fortress is situated in the old part of the city and dates to 1865. As one of Riyadh’s best-known landmarks, the fortress, sometimes referred to as a palace, played an important role in the country’s unification. During Eid, it’s not uncommon for events to take place near the fortress’s distinctive red clay walls. Now converted into a museum, Masmak Fortress celebrates Saudi history with displays of artifacts and historic exhibitions.
Explore Diriyah
The city of Diriyah is located outside of Riyadh. Once the home of the Saudi royal family, Diriyah features many historic sites and important landmarks. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Diriyah has become a popular tourist center, and makes for an exciting place to visit during Eid with its palaces, museums, and architectural ruins. Popular attractions of Diriyah are the Imam Mohammed bin Saud Mosque, Al-Turaif Bathhouse, Saad bin Saud Palace, and the Salwa Palace. Many visitors enjoy exploring the neighborhood of Al-Bujairi with its distinctive buildings and palm trees.
Trek to Taif
Known as the City of Roses, Taif is located in the Mecca region of the country and is situated in the Hejaz Mountains. Often dubbed the summer capital of Saudi Arabia, Taif attracts many visitors because of its moderate climate, picturesque mountain resorts, and flower-strewn valleys. Travelers to the city enjoy hiking its mountain trails, shopping at its central market, or visiting the wildlife at the Taif Zoo. Look for specially held events during the Eid holidays. There are many upscale hotels in the city that also cater to travelers who visit during these festive times of year.
