Top 12 Family Destinations in Saudi Arabia for a Perfect Holiday with Kids

With school holidays from 31st Dec until 16th Jan, now is the perfect time to plan a fun holiday with kids. There are a lot of places and activities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to amuse your children. We have included the usual zoos and theme parks and also added the lesser-known destinations that are suitable for your little ones. So let’s get together and make these holidays more fun for the kids.

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Top 12 Holiday Destinations to Travel with Kids During School Holidays

1. Mount Uhud, Medina

It’s the largest mountain in Medina and a major pilgrimage site. With history unfolding on every corner of Mount Uhud, it’s the perfect place for an amazing learning day out for kid.

2. Fakieh Aquarium, Jeddah

This is Saudi Arabia’s only marine-life exhibit. Fakieh Aquarium has diverse aquatic dwellers, many of these are native to the Red Sea. Kids will enjoy watching the seal and dolphin shows. The spacious tanks offer a prime observation of more than 200 species of fish, including sharks, seahorses, stingrays, sea turtles, and even a seadragon.

There are a cafe and restaurant available within the complex with a scenic view of the Red Sea coast.

A complete guide to a family-friendly holiday in Saudi Arabia

3. Riyadh Zoo, Riyadh

This is the perfect family-friendly attraction. Riyadh Zoo is spread over 55 acres of land and features over 1,500 animals of 40 species. From Bengal tigers, kangaroos, elephants, flamingos, giraffes, to seals, the zoo has geographic region division for better access. You can take a 20-minute train journey to all of the major highlights, and stop for a break at one of the onsite restaurants and cafes.

4. Salam Park, Riyadh

A huge man-made lake and the greeneries surrounding are perfect for a picnic with your little munchkins. Stroll, cycle, or skate along pathways, or sit and enjoy a picnic under the shade of large palm trees. Children can enjoy a ride in mini-boats on the lake and admire the large fountain.

Must visit places in Riyadh

5. Umluj, Tabuk Province

Often referred to as the Maldives of Saudi Arabia Umluj is a coastal region home to more than 100 islands. Whether you want to go on an adventure snorkeling to see the coral reef around the island of Jabal Hassan or relax at the picturesque palm covered beaches of Ras Al Shaaban, Umluj has something for everyone.

This archipelago is filled with so much to see that the best way to experience it is a three-day trip which is perfect for the long weekend. You can travel to a number of the islands and enjoy the seafront, or go on a day trip in a rented fishing boat. If you are lucky you might even spot a few dolphins or migratory birds around the island. Kids will love this.

6. Al Tayebat International City, Jeddah

Al Tayebat International City is regarded as a must-visit for anyone visiting the city of Jeddah. Often called a ‘city’ because of its size, this sprawling museum houses 300 rooms in 12 different buildings which were built using traditional Hijazi architecture.

The museum houses ancient Islamic Manuscripts, old coins, and a variety of items that are of great significance for Middle Eastern countries. The huge amounts of artifacts will keep you interested for hours on end and help you find something new to appreciate and learn about.

7. Farasan Island, Jizan

Just off the coast of Jizan lies a hidden gem known as the Farasan Islands. An archipelago consisting of 83 coral reef islands. These islands are untouched, pristine, and home to beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and plenty of wildlife.

Explore the untouched local coral reefs and even get up close and personal with a variety of marine life including dugongs, manta rays, and dolphins. In addition to marine life, there are a variety of birds including the famous Red-Billed tropical bird and the pink-backed pelican. For lovers of history, the sandstone village of Al Qassar, which dates back to the time of the Roman empire is a must-visit.

8. Asir National Park

One of the first national parks in Saudi Arabia, Asir National park, is a huge and mostly untouched abode of wilderness. Stretching from the Red Sea coast to the eastern desert, this area is famous for its juniper trees, fog-covered mountain ranges, the endangered Arabian Leopard, and the Hamadryas Baboons.

If you are a nature lover who adores animals then Asir National Park is the perfect long weekend destination. The cool mountainous park is the perfect place to escape the summer heat. This park is a great place for picnics and camping. There are also cable cars available to visit the mountain peaks for stunning views of the park.

9. Edge of the World, Riyadh

Edge of the World or Jebel Fihrayn is an awe-inspiring geological formation located in the rocky desert northwest of Riyadh. The stunning view of the horizon from on top of this natural structure is breathtaking.

There are several rocky hiking trails along the Edge of the World that attract tourists from around the world. Each trail provides you with an amazing view of the rocky outcrop. Truly making you feel like you’re at the edge of the world. You can also enter the lower levels of the plateau and search for fossils or pitch a tent for a night under the stars.

10. Empty Quarter Or Rub’ Al Khali Desert

The trip to this amazing destination is going to fun, adventurous, and memorable trip for your kids. The Rub’ Al Khali desert, also known as the Empty Quarter, is a vast unbroken, and otherworldly desert covering parts of Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, and UAE. A visit to this desert is like stepping out into another planet. No wonder movies like Star Wars: The Force Awakens have been shot there.

The desert is so vast and uninhabitable that very few people live there. It’s the perfect place for a journey away from all the hustle and bustle. If you need some adventure in your life, start packing your bags and hop on for the best escape of your life.

Know More about the Empty Quarter

11. Sky Bridge at Kingdom Center, Riyadh

Located on the 99th floor, the place offers you an amazing view of the city. Considered the world’s 3rd largest skyscraper, the Sky Bridge measures 65 meters in length. Kids will be thrilled to go up and look at the ground below. With 2 lifts to take to the Sky Bridge, we are sure this is going to be an adventurous journey for your kids. Besides the spectacular view of the city, there are various dining options to enjoy.

Price per adult: 60 SAR

Price per kid: 20 SAR (aged 2 to 10)

12. Half Moon Beach, Al Khobar

Relax on the white sands of Half Moon Beach. It’s a scenic crescent-shaped beach that stretches on for miles. It’s a popular recreation spot for local and expat families. You can take a dip in the gulf waters, sunbathe, or ride a beach buggy across the dunes. With an amusement park and play areas for kids, this is popular with families with children. Bathrooms, lockers, and shower facilities available here.

There’s nothing better than exploring what our home country has to offer. So start packing your bags cause home is calling. Kids are going to have memories for lifetime this holiday season.