Tabuk

DESTINATIONS saudi arabia tabuk

Tabuk

From snowy mountains to the deep blue sea, the province of Tabuk in Saudi Arabia is home to some of the most varied natural landscapes in the country, offering possibilities for beach holidays, island hopping, Red Sea diving, mountaineering and, of course, sightseeing. The region holds some of the nation’s highly treasured historical and archaeological sites, a rich heritage left behind by ancient civilisations of foregone eras.

The Region

The earliest references to Tabuk, once known as 'Taboo', date back to 1500 BC, though significant historical events began unfolding here around 8,000 years ago. Tabuk is believed to have been home to prominent Islamic figures such as Prophet Shuaib and Prophet Moses. The natural springs used by Prophet Moses are still accessible to the public today and are among the many sacred sites in the region. The province's major towns include Umluj, Tayma, Al Bada, Haql, Duba, Magnah, Wajh, and Tabuk City, the regional capital. While most state-run attractions are concentrated in Tabuk City, recreational opportunities are plentiful throughout the province. From seaside towns with beaches along the Red Sea coast to the elevated mountainous areas inland, where winter snowfall is common, Tabuk offers a diverse range of experiences, contrasting with much of the country.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Those looking for an active holiday can choose between climbing up the mount of Jabal Al-Lawz and trekking or island hopping along the coast and descending underwater for diving sessions conducted by one of many professional dive centres. If you prefer to stay on land, venture upstate to the region's capital - Tabuk City - or visit the historic town of Al Bida which still holds evidence of ancient presence in its mountain caves. Other archaeological sites include those in the towns of Al Muwailih, Al Khuraibah, Rawwafa and Al Muzim.

Tabuk City

Approximately a two-hour drive from the coast and just an hour from the Saudi-Jordan border, Tabuk City is a developing town with a relaxed, rural atmosphere. Key attractions include Tabuk Fortress, the Hijaz Railway Station, the Museum of Antiquities and Traditional Heritage, the Prophet’s Mosque, and ancient natural springs dating back to the pre-Islamic …

Diving

The Red Sea is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, and the Tabuk region, with its extensive coastline, offers abundant opportunities for underwater exploration. A notable diving destination is Al Hisis, located south of Umluj. There are several dive shops in the area that provide certified diving courses and excursions, making Tabuk an excellent …

Beaches

The Tabuk Region features an extensive coastline along the Red Sea, with numerous picture-perfect beaches that attract holidaymakers. Popular spots include Sultaniyah Beach, Shareeh Beach, Ba’r Almashi Beach in Hegl, and the Qiyal Beaches. To the north of Duba, notable beaches are Sherma, Khiraibah, and Muwalij. South of Bid'a, you'll find Ras Al Sheik …

Mountain Climbing

Tabuk features a diverse range of landscapes, with its mountainous areas offering numerous opportunities for exploration. The most prominent peak is Jabal Al-Lawz, which rises to 2,580 metres above sea level. During the warmer seasons, campers often visit the eastern mountainside, while the mountain is known to be snow-covered in …

Parks

Tabuk province features several green parks across its region. The most prominent inland park is Prince Fahd Bin Sultan Park in Tabuk City, a popular family-friendly recreation area. Coastal parks include Lotus Park and Mountain Orchard in Dhiba, Nakheel Park in Hegl, and Degm Park in …

Dining

Grains such as wheat or rice and meats (such as lamb) constitute the bulk of Saudi cuisine; pork is normally not served in the country, as its consumption is forbidden by Islam. Yoghurt is often used in local cooking, and dates constitute a dessert staple. There is a lot of variation within the province of Tabuk, with coastal cuisine being known especially for 'Al-Sayyadiah', a signature local fish and rice dish served with spices.

Al-Bustan Restaurant

Al-Bustan Restaurant has a long history in Tabuk. Its menu includes both Arabic and International dishes, with Middle Eastern cuisine as the focal point. Al-Bustan is one of the finer establishments on the relatively limited restaurant scene of …

Cafés

There are quite a few cafés to be found in the city of Tabuk, many of which serve Western-style foods and coffees, as well as tea, local desserts, and fresh fruit juices. Cafés serving shisha often turn into evening social hot spots teeming with visitors.

Barn's

Barn's is a Saudi-wide chain with a couple of locales in Tabuk. Meals are not served here, as the establishment specialises rather in hot and cold beverages (coffee in particular), but a selection of baked goods is available for …

Bars & Nightlife

The cultural environment in Saudi Arabia is highly conservative. Religious law forbids the sale or consumption of alcohol throughout Saudi Arabia, so there are no bars or nightclubs. Instead, evening social activities are centred on shopping or dining out in one of the region’s many restaurants or cafés whilst indulging in a delicious mocktail (a mix of fresh fruit juices) or a strong cup of Arabic coffee.

Shopping

Shopping opportunities abound in Tabuk, where tradition (old souks or markets) meets modernity (modern shopping malls), often in the space of one city block. Tabuk City features a number of shopping centres representing international and local brands, as well as an entire pedestrian-only shopping street of Prince Fahd bin Sultan. Small shops and stores are scattered throughout the entire province, and so are traditional markets. Local crafts include woodwork, weaving, stone inscriptions and more.