After Umrah, Where To? 6 Must-Visit Destinations in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is not only known as the primary destination for Muslim worship but is also transforming into a global tourism hub. The oil-rich nation's government is seriously boosting its tourism sector to diversify national income sources.

One key target is Umrah pilgrims from countries like Indonesia, who increasingly combine religious duties with tourism.

To support this, Saudi Arabia is enhancing pilgrimage-adjacent tourist sites visited after Holy Land rituals.

Consequently, many pilgrims extend their journeys to explore natural landscapes, historical sites, and spiritual destinations across various cities.

Here are six remarkable Saudi tourist attractions to visit after completing Umrah:

1. Red Sea and Ar Rahmah Mosque: The Beauty of a Floating Mosque

Ever seen a mosque appearing to float on sea? That's Jeddah's Ar Rahmah Mosque. Surrounded by the Red Sea, it seemingly levitates during high tide.

Built in 1985 and also called Fatima Al-Zahra Mosque, thousands of Umrah pilgrims visit annually to worship while enjoying serene sea views.

2. Qisas Mosque: Traces of Law and History in Jeddah

For cultural explorers, Qisas Mosque (Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Juffali Mosque) offers historical immersion. This was once Jeddah's execution site.

Historically, public beheadings occurred Fridays after prayers. Today it serves as a pilgrimage site for reflecting on Saudi Arabia's legal evolution.

3. Al Wahbah Crater: Desert's Natural Mystery

Near Mecca lies this geological wonder: a nearly 1-mile-wide crater with 850-foot cliffs. Sodium phosphate crystals create its white basin.

Its meteor-impact-like formation from above creates irresistible photo opportunities.

4. Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum: Jeddah's Journey Through Time

History enthusiasts must visit Jeddah's oldest museum, showcasing artifacts from pre-Islamic eras to modernity. Well-curated collections reveal Saudi heritage beyond religious tourism.

5. Fakieh Aquarium: Underwater World Amidst Desert

Perfect for families, Saudi's largest aquarium houses 200+ marine species including sharks, rays, seahorses, and Napoleon wrasse. It combines recreation with education about Red Sea biodiversity and marine conservation.

6. King Fahd Fountain: Water Touching the Sky

Jeddah's engineering marvel holds the world record for tallest fountain (853 meters). Its three jet pumps propel 625 liters/second at 375 km/h. Night illumination creates breathtaking displays under King Fahd's commissioned structure.

From Worship to Spiritual Adventure

With these destinations, Saudi Arabia transcends pure worship into cultural, historical, and natural exploration. The government aims to establish the kingdom as Islam's new tourism magnet while preserving spiritual sanctity.

For Umrah pilgrims, Holy Land journeys now offer completeness: worship, pilgrimage, and immersion in a land of stories and wonders.