6 Aug 2025
Saudi Arabia is not only about something futuristic — it is packed with history everywhere you look. Beyond the gleaming towers, there is a whole world of ancient heritage villages and historic towns waiting to be explored. You don’t have to look far: just scroll through the work of Ibrahim Sarhan, a Saudi photographer who has spent years travelling the country and uncovering hidden places that most people have never even heard of.
And the more you explore, the more you realise there is always more out there. Whether you are a history buff or just curious, Saudi Arabia’s heritage villages offer a whole new perspective on the country — think mudbrick alleys, traditional souqs, centuries-old forts, and landscapes that make you feel like you have stepped back in time.
So, if you are searching for the best heritage villages in Saudi Arabia to visit in 2025, you are in the right place. Here is your list of where to go if you want a taste of the real Saudi Arabia, beyond the headlines, beyond the skyscrapers, and straight into the country’s living history.
Al-Diriyah
If you want to see where Saudi Arabia truly started, put Al-Diriyah at the top of your list. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is basically the original capital — think mud-brick fortresses, ancient mosques, and winding alleys that whisper old stories at every turn. At-Turaif, the crown jewel here, has been beautifully restored and is full of cafés, museums, and local guides who love sharing secrets. Visit at sunset, when the golden light makes everything glow, and it feels like time travel, minus the sci-fi.
Photo: Getty Imeages for Unsplash+
Rijal Alma
Ever seen a whole village made from stone? Welcome to Rijal Alma Heritage Village, tucked away in the green mountains of Asir. The stone houses, decorated with pops of colour, climb up the hills like a dream. This is a place where the past and present really meet — you will see local women selling handicrafts, kids playing in the streets, and traditional museums full of stories.
Photo: Ali Lajami
AlUla Old Town
You are definitely familiar with AlUla and its surreal rock formations. But there is another side: AlUla Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow streets, mudbrick houses, and bustling souks. Here, you can walk through history, sip coffee in open-air cafés, and maybe catch an art show or festival (because AlUla loves a good cultural pop-up). It is the perfect mix of old and new — expect locals chatting outside their homes and artists painting on centuries-old walls.
Al Balad, Jeddah
If you think Jeddah is just about the Corniche and the Red Sea, let Al Balad prove you wrong. This historic district is packed with coral-stone buildings, stunning wooden balconies, and markets full of everything from frankincense to fresh bread. Every alley has a new surprise, from art galleries to hidden mosques. At night, Al Balad really wakes up—lights twinkle, food carts appear, and the whole place buzzes with energy. It’s easy to see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a favourite with artists and travellers.
Photo: Muhammad Ahkamul Hakim, Yasser Mutwakil
Al-Masmak, Najran, Dhee Ayn, and more:
If you have extra time, there is more to discover. From the dramatic marble village of Dhee Ayn in Al Baha, perched on a hillside and shining white under the sun, to the palm-filled valleys of Najran and Al-Masmak in Riyadh, every region has its own hidden gem. Many of these villages host cultural festivals, craft markets, and open-air concerts, so check the calendar before you go.
Al Masmak Palace. Photo: Francisco Anzola
Why heritage villages?
Because this is where Saudi Arabia’s heart beats the loudest. It is not about just ticking off UNESCO sites or snapping the perfect photo (though you will do both). It is about sharing coffee with locals, hearing old songs in narrow streets, and seeing how history still shapes everyday life. In 2025, let yourself wander off the main road and discover a side of Saudi Arabia you won’t find in any travel brochure.
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