Inside Saudi Arabia’s Most Beautiful Villages – And the Stories They Carry

Explore Saudi Arabia’s most beautiful villages—from Rijal Almaa and Thee Ain to Diriyah and Habala—where heritage, architecture, and history endure.

Beyond the gleaming towers of Riyadh and sacred mosques of Makkah, Saudi Arabia is a land rooted in ancient history. While the country is developing astonishingly fast, deeper in the mountains lie a number of villages that speak to an older, more elemental way of Saudi life. Built from the land itself – in stone, clay, or sun-dried brick – these extraordinary settlements are largely untouched, preserving centuries of local knowledge and regional identity. Below, we explore five of the Kingdom’s most captivating villages, from the stacked stone homes of Rijal Almaa in the southwestern highlands to the fortified mudbrick palaces of Diriyah near the capital.
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<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/Most%20beautiful%20village%20in%20Saudi%20Arabia.jpg" width="1000" height="667" loading="lazy" alt="Most beautiful village in Saudi Arabia" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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<h2>1. Rijal Almaa – The Mountain Village of Stone and Colour</h2>
When most people picture Saudi Arabia, flame-licked sands and imposing Islamic architecture often come to mind. But at the foot of the Sarawat Mountains in the southwest, Rijal Almaa shows a different face. Built from dark slate and tucked into a green valley near Abha, the village is almost alpine in appearance – misty and otherworldly in the heart of the verdant Asir Province.
Rijal Almaa has stood for over nine centuries. Once a key stop for merchants and pilgrims moving between <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/red-sea" rel="noopener">the Red Sea</a> and the highlands, it grew into a fortified settlement with unusually tall homes – some rising eight storeys. The windows and doors are bordered with geometric motifs painted in a local style known as qut, traditionally created by Asiri women. The effect is subtle but highly expressive – a vernacular art form that continues today. Much like <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/buy/property-for-sale">modern Saudi homes</a>, the interiors typically include a central majlis, built with thick walls to regulate the mountain air.
In 1985, the village opened one of Saudi Arabia’s first local museums, housed in a former fort and filled with manuscripts, tools, and tribal artefacts. More recently, Rijal Almaa was nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status and has become a model for responsible tourism in the south. Still partially inhabited, it offers one of the clearest views into the architectural traditions and cultural history of Asir.
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<h2>2. Thee Ain – The ‘Marble Village’ of the Mountains</h2>
Tucked into the cliffs of Al-Baha Province, Thee Ain is one of Saudi Arabia’s most visually striking villages. Its angular stone buildings are set on a natural rocky outcrop at the edge of a spring-fed valley, framed by date palms and the jagged peaks of the Hejaz. At sunrise, the entire village takes on a silvery glow, earning it the nickname ‘the marble village’.
Thee Ain was founded over four centuries ago, named after the Ain spring that still runs through the area, irrigating the terraced farms and orchards below. The homes are built from locally quarried stone, with clean, rectangular forms rising two to four storeys high. Narrow lanes thread between them, leading to shaded courtyards, stepped terraces, and lookout points once used to monitor passing caravans.
Though the village has been uninhabited for several decades, Thee Ain has undergone careful restoration and is now open to visitors. The original layout remains intact, and efforts have been made to preserve its dry-stone walls and agricultural channels.
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<h2>3. Diriyah – The Historic ‘City of Earth’</h2>
Just outside Riyadh lies the storied city of Diriyah: the ancestral seat of the Al Saud family and the birthplace of the First Saudi State. Founded in the 15th century, Diriyah was once a key political territory, with the fortified mudbrick district of At-Turaif at its heart. Now a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area includes mosques, museums, and Salwa Palace – a commanding structure that once housed the royal court.
Today, Diriyah is the focus of an ambitious heritage-led masterplan by Diriyah Company. While the original town is undergoing careful restoration, the surrounding area is being redeveloped into a bustling cultural and residential centre, paying tribute to the landscape with earthen mudbrick facades, Najdi motifs and contemporary Saudi interior design.
In February 2025, Diriyah also hosted Sotheby’s inaugural auction in the Kingdom – a milestone that reflects its growing status as a locus of art, heritage, and high culture.
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<h2>4. Ushaiqer – A Desert Stronghold in the Heart of Najd</h2>
Set along the old pilgrimage route to Makkah, Ushaiqer is one of the oldest mudbrick settlements in the Najd region. Surrounded by desert and palm groves, the village offered shelter to traders, travellers, and tribal families long before the rise of Riyadh. Its name, meaning ‘Little Blonde’, refers to the pale-red mountain nearby – a landmark once used to guide those crossing the central plateau.
Unlike the stone-built villages of Thee Ain and Rijal Almaa, Ushaiqer is shaped by the sand. Homes are constructed from sun-dried mudbrick, coated in smooth clay and supported by traditional tamarisk wooden beams. In the 17th century, Ushaiqer emerged as a centre of learning and religious life, home to several prominent tribes and scholars, including the Banu Tamim and the Al Sheikh family. Many of its original inhabitants have since moved to nearby towns, but the village has been extensively restored, with more than 400 buildings preserved and a dedicated heritage centre in place.
Visitors can now walk through its labyrinthine corridors, mosques, majlis, watchtowers, and traditional markets. Though the desert has crept closer, Ushaiqer remains deeply intact – a rare example of Najdi architecture preserved at scale.
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<h2>5. Habala – The Cliffside Village of ‘Flower Men’</h2>
Habala is undoubtedly Saudi Arabia’s most unique village, built on the sharp edge of a cliff high up in the Sarawat Mountains, more than two thousand metres above sea level. For much of its history, the only way in or out was by rope ladder (the word habala itself comes from habl, meaning rope in Arabic). Cut off from surrounding settlements, the village was once home to a small Qahtan community, often referred to as the ‘flower men’, known for their long-standing tradition of wearing garlands of fresh herbs and blooms.
The stone houses are modest and irregular, built along narrow ledges with small terraces for drying crops and storing water. Farming took place on sloped plots nearby, sustained by rain and seasonal springs. Oral histories suggest the extreme location offered protection from Ottoman persecution in the 19th century, allowing families to remain hidden among the rocks.&nbsp;
In the 1990s, Habala was reopened via cable car, giving visitors access to what had long been an isolated world. While the original residents have mostly relocated, their descendants still return for festivals and summer gatherings, and elements of their dress and music remain part of the cultural identity of Asir.
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Beyond the gleaming towers of Riyadh and sacred mosques of Makkah, Saudi Arabia is a land rooted in ancient history. While the country is developing astonishingly fast, deeper in the mountains lie a number of villages that speak to an older, more elemental way of Saudi life. Built from the land itself – in stone, clay, or sun-dried brick – these extraordinary settlements are largely untouched, preserving centuries of local knowledge and regional identity. Below, we explore five of the Kingdom’s most captivating villages, from the stacked stone homes of Rijal Almaa in the southwestern highlands to the fortified mudbrick palaces of Diriyah near the capital.

10 Watch Brands Shaping Saudi Arabia’s Luxury Market

Discover the 10 best luxury watch brands defining Saudi Arabia’s growing collector market, from Rolex and Patek Philippe to Richard Mille and Audemars Piguet.

Saudi Arabia has a long and rich history of watch collecting, which accounts for a significant and expanding share of the luxury sector, with the local market projected to reach $1.93 billion by 2033. As collecting culture matures, so too does the appetite for watches that carry real weight: rare complications, limited editions, and models with provenance and lasting value. From diplomatic one-offs crafted for Gulf royalty to Arabic-numeral exclusives, here are ten brands shaping the landscape of Saudi watch collecting.

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<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/top%2010%20luxury%20watch%20brands.jpg" width="1000" height="667" loading="lazy" alt="1. Rolex" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; display: block;">
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<h2>1. Rolex</h2>
A watchmaker with serious cultural cachet, Rolex is a mainstay in nearly every local collection. Beyond legacy icons like the Daytona and Submariner, a particularly resonant model is the gold Day-Date 40 with Eastern Arabic numerals – a piece admired for both its cultural fluency and technical pedigree (it was the first watch to display both the day and date). Rarer still is the Datejust 36 ref. 16220, bearing the Kingdom’s coat of arms and the signature of King Fahd. Today, Rolex operates multiple boutiques across Riyadh and Jeddah, and its resale market remains among the most active in the Kingdom.
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<h2>2. Patek Phillippe</h2>
Patek Philippe sits at the apex of Saudi collecting culture – a name that signals discretion, connoisseurship, and heirloom-level significance. While global demand centres on the Nautilus, local collectors often favour rarer, less-publicised pieces: Arabic-dial Calatravas, perpetual calendars, and minute repeaters with Gulf provenance. A standout region-specific example is the ref. 2481 in pink gold, commissioned in the 1950s with an enamel dial depicting King Saud – an extraordinary fusion of Swiss watchmaking and Saudi royal heritage. In contrast to Rolex’s ubiquity, Patek ownership in the Kingdom is quieter and more private, often passed through families or acquired via long-standing retail relationships.
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<h2>3. Richard Mille</h2>
A watch that’s recognisable across any room (or racetrack), Richard Mille has found a cult collector base in Saudi Arabia, marked by the opening of a new flagship in Riyadh’s Kingdom Centre. Relative to the dress-watch polish of a Rolex or Patek, Richard Mille is visually arresting – built around bold, futuristic forms and wholly novel technical features. Popular models like the RM 011 and RM 67-01 are often seen on the wrists of Gulf royals and international athletes, including rare editions with skeletonised dials or Eastern Arabic numerals. The brand made headlines in the Kingdom in September when French alpinist Charles Dubouloz became the first to summit Jabal Raal – the highest peak in the <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/red-sea">Red Sea region </a>– wearing an RM 67-02 Automatic Winding Extra Flat.
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<h2>4. Audemars Piguet</h2>
Audemars Piguet resonates with collectors who value design-forward independence over institutional heritage. The Royal Oak is one of the most recognisable silhouettes in modern horology – particularly the discontinued 15202 ‘Jumbo’. A prized Middle East edition in production today is the white-gold Royal Oak 33mm (ref. 67651BC.ZZ.1261BC.01), which leans into high jewellery with its brilliant-cut diamonds and Arabic numerals set against a deep burgundy dial. AP models with Arabic script or regional provenance are appearing more frequently at auction – a reflection of the growing importance of Arab buyers in the wider luxury market.
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<h2>5. &nbsp;F.P. Journe</h2>
F.P. Journe occupies a quieter but deeply respected corner of Saudi watch culture – less visible than a Richard Mille or Rolex, but often held in even higher esteem by true horology purists. Producing just a few hundred watches a year, the brand is still led by François-Paul Journe himself, whose focus on invention over scale has earned him a place among the most revered independent watchmakers of our time. True to its Latin motto ‘Invenit et Fecit’ – ‘he invented it and made it’ – every timepiece is crafted entirely in-house in Geneva. F.P. Journe is yet to open a boutique in Saudi Arabia, but pieces can be reliably sourced on the secondary market, or at retail in the UAE and Qatar.
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<h2>6. Vacheron Constantin</h2>
Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin is the world’s oldest watchmaker – a historic house that speaks to traditional Gulf collectors. Its appeal lies in polished refinement rather than popularity, with exquisite cloisonné enamel dials, poetic complications, and heritage-led design. In recent years, the maison has released Middle East editions of the Patrimony and Historiques collections with Eastern Arabic numerals – a tasteful nod to the region’s long-standing patronage. Today, Vacheron maintains two boutiques in the Kingdom: one in Riyadh’s Kingdom Centre and another on Jeddah’s Tahlia Street.
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<h2>7. A. Lange &amp; Söhne</h2>
A. Lange &amp; Söhne is one of the few watchmakers outside Switzerland to find favour in local collecting circles. First founded in 1845, this German brand is prized for its exacting mechanics and scholarly, classical aesthetic. After its revival in 1994, the maison made waves with the asymmetric Lange 1 – a now-iconic model that disrupted the norms of dial architecture. Popular pieces in the Kingdom include the Datograph, Zeitwerk, and Richard Lange Tourbillon ‘Pour le Mérite’, all of which showcase the unique craftsmanship of the Glashütte school. A. Lange &amp; Söhne has a boutique in Riyadh’s Al Faisaliyah Centre.
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<h2>8. Cartier</h2>
A love of high jewellery runs deep in Saudi culture, and at the heart of that world is Cartier. Known for its French maison aesthetic and historic ties to royalty, the brand occupies a rare space between horology and haute joaillerie. Women are typically more devoted Cartier collectors than men in Saudi Arabia, drawn to creative timepieces like the blue sapphire-set Ballon Bleu and the sinuous, cuff-like design of the Panthère. Over the years, Cartier has hosted a number of private high jewellery salons across the country and now maintains six boutiques across Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Khobar.
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<h2>9. IWC Schaffhausen</h2>
IWC Schaffhausen began producing pilots’ watches in the 1930s, originally engineered for Luftwaffe navigators in need of large, legible timepieces. That legacy of precision continues to resonate in the Gulf, with Saudi collectors favouring its clean, masculine aesthetic and technical reliability. The Big Pilot and Portugieser remain the most coveted models, and in 2021, IWC released a limited Big Pilot 43 Middle East edition featuring Eastern Arabic numerals against a stunning emerald green dial. IWC has multiple boutiques across Riyadh and Jeddah.
<h2>10. Hublot</h2>
A divisive brand among purists, Hublot enjoys strong traction among younger local collectors. This Swiss watchmaker takes a louder, less conventional approach than most heritage maisons, with oversized cases, exposed screws, and sturdy rubber straps. Over the years, Hublot has released a number of culturally fluent takes on its Big Bang and Classic Fusion lines – from camel-leather straps to pearl-set dials and Eastern Arabic numerals. Its flagship boutique is in Riyadh’s Solitaire Mall, though loyal collectors can also commission bespoke pieces through the brand’s invite-only “Hublotista” programme.
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Saudi Arabia has a long and rich history of watch collecting, which accounts for a significant and expanding share of the luxury sector, with the local market projected to reach $1.93 billion by 2033. As collecting culture matures, so too does the appetite for watches that carry real weight: rare complications, limited editions, and models with provenance and lasting value. From diplomatic one-offs crafted for Gulf royalty to Arabic-numeral exclusives, here are ten brands shaping the landscape of Saudi watch collecting.

Saudi Arabia Unveils ‘Unreal Calendar’ Campaign

Experience Saudi Arabia’s ‘Unreal Calendar’ — a season of world-class culture, sports, and music events headlined by Cristiano Ronaldo.

Saudi Arabia is playing an instrumental role in reshaping how the Middle East is perceived around the world. Once seen as an insular nation steeped in mystery, it has opened its arms to the world through initiatives that are designed to draw in a global audience. Most notable among them is Riyadh Season, a large-scale cultural and sporting event spanning a period of 5 months that inaugurated its 6th season in early October. Another cornerstone of the Kingdom’s tourism goals is the ‘Unreal Calendar’, a new campaign launched in September and headlined by football icon Cristiano Ronaldo. We explore this calendar in more detail below, highlighting the most exciting events that visitors to the Kingdom can experience.
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<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/saudi%20tourism%20authority%20unreal%20calendar%20campaign.jpg" width="1000" height="667" loading="lazy" alt="saudi tourism authority unreal calendar campaign" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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<h2>What is the ‘Unreal Calendar’?</h2>
While <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/the-journal/tourism-in-saudi-arabia-offers-a-wider-range-of-exciting-and-unique-destinations" rel="noopener">Saudi Arabia’s tourism</a> sector has grown significantly in the past few years, few people outside its borders are familiar with the diversity of experiences available. It is still seen largely as a destination for sports - namely football. The ‘Unreal Calendar’ is designed to change that and to introduce the wider world to what Saudi Arabia has to offer in terms of art, culture, exploration and more. The calendar includes an impressive lineup of events, mainly spread out from October to April, which is peak tourism season across the Middle East.
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<h2>‘I Came for Football, I Stayed for More’</h2>
A campaign with such an ambitious focus needs a face with worldwide appeal and recognition. Given his legendary status in the world of international football and his long association with the Kingdom, Cristiano Ronaldo was the most natural choice. The Portuguese great famously signed on with Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr Club in 2023, becoming a part of the Saudi Pro League and adding some international flair to a hugely successful local club.
As one of the most high-profile expat residents of Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo has become a key part of the Kingdom’s social and cultural fabric. The new campaign, centred on the slogan ‘I came for football, I stayed for more’, showcases Ronaldo’s own journey of discovery and invites visitors from around the globe to learn more about the breadth of experiences that the Kingdom has to offer.
Football’s widespread popularity will help ensure that Ronaldo’s message reaches fans in every corner of the world, especially in Europe and Asia, bringing attention to Saudi Arabia’s entertainment landscape like never before.
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<h2>What’s on the Calendar?</h2>
Officially kicking off in late September with the Riyadh Comedy Festival, the lineup of events in the ‘Unreal Calendar’ includes live entertainment, artistic showcases and lots of sports. The calendar is divided across major regions of the Kingdom, focusing primarily on Riyadh, Diriyah, Jeddah, and AlUla. Below we look at what visitors to each destination can expect.
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<h3>Riyadh</h3>
The Riyadh Comedy Festival, featuring globally renowned entertainers like Dave Chappelle, Bill Burr and Omid Djalili, marked the beginning of the seasonal calendar. The end of the festival was followed by the opening of <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/the-journal/riyadh-season" rel="noopener">Riyadh Season</a>, which will be running until mid-March and will have its own unique event lineup. Mid-October’s Six Kings Slam brought together tennis luminaries such as Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz for a three-day friendly tournament in which previous year’s champion Sinner handily defended his title.
The Longines Global Champions Tour, one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world, is set for the end of October and November kicks off with more tennis action during the WTA Finals. Then in late November, the Night of Champions will see boxing matchups including David Benavidez vs. Anthony Yarde and Devin Haney vs. Brian Norman Jr.
Music lovers will have plenty of reasons to flock to Riyadh in December for the incredible Soundstorm festival, headlined by international stars such as Post Malone, Cardi B and Calvin Harris. An action-packed January will kick off with the WWE Royal Rumble, marking the first time this event has been held outside of North America.
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<h3>Diriyah</h3>
The UCI BMX Freestyle World Cup will be held in the historic quarter of Diriyah during the first week of November, where some of the world’s talented cyclists will show off their stunt skills against the stunning natural backdrop of a major Saudi cultural centre.
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<h3>Jeddah</h3>
The last two months of the year will bring high-octane sporting action to Jeddah with the World Rally Championship taking place across the dunes and the F1H20 Grand Prix on the water, followed by the ATP Next Gen tennis finals featuring the world’s top under-21 players.
Jeddah Winter Wonderland, part of the extended Jeddah Season, will create a festive experience that will run through to the start of 2026. Spring and winter will be the setting for more racing action with the Formula e electric car championship in February and the F1 Saudi Arabia STC Grand Prix in April.
The end of July brings with it a new edition of Jeddah Season, an 85-day event that includes the West Coast Festival and transforms the famous Saudi Arabian city into a prime summer destination.
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<h3>AlUla</h3>
A region of immense natural beauty, AlUla features events that perfectly highlight the landscape. Azimuth, the region’s flagship music festival, is held every September on the weekend of Saudi National Day. This grand celebration perfectly blends pulse-pounding electronic music with the picturesque natural canyons of Thanaya.
For those who may find too much of an adrenaline rush with all of the season’s events, the AlUla Wellness Festival running during the last week of October will provide an opportunity to reset and recharge in tranquil surroundings that provide nourishment for both body and spirit. Culture aficionados can explore AlUla’s history at the Ancient Kingdoms Festival in late November and enjoy a weekend of candlelit concerts at Hegra, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia. Towards the end of the year, they can head to the Winter at Tantora festival, another showcase of heritage and culture that leads into 2026. Mid-January, AlUla Arts Festival and AlUla Desert Polo provide two diverse options for visitors to experience.
&nbsp;
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Saudi Arabia is playing an instrumental role in reshaping how the Middle East is perceived around the world. Once seen as an insular nation steeped in mystery, it has opened its arms to the world through initiatives that are designed to draw in a global audience. Most notable among them is Riyadh Season, a large-scale cultural and sporting event spanning a period of 5 months that inaugurated its 6th season in early October. Another cornerstone of the Kingdom’s tourism goals is the ‘Unreal Calendar’, a new campaign launched in September and headlined by football icon Cristiano Ronaldo. We explore this calendar in more detail below, highlighting the most exciting events that visitors to the Kingdom can experience.

An Island Golfing Experience at Shura Links

Discover Shura Island’s Shura Links Golf Club at The Red Sea — a sustainable luxury golf experience blending world-class design with breathtaking coastal beauty.

The Red Sea, extending out from the western coast of Saudi Arabia, has transformed itself into a significant tourism hotspot through the pioneering vision of master developer Red Sea Global. Combining sustainability and luxury into a uniquely harmonious blend, a pristine Saudi archipelago is evolving into the destination of the future.

The anchor point for the new Red Sea project is Shura Island, a naturally dolphin-shaped landmass that is the setting for 11 branded resorts and exceptional residential projects complemented by a plethora of lifestyle experiences. A key component of that lifestyle is the Shura Links Golf Club, a first-of-it-kind island golfing experience in the region which opened for play in September 2025. The club is an excellent addition to the Middle East’s golfing portfolio and a showcase for the diversity of Shura Island’s landscape.
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<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/shura%20links%20golf%20club.jpg" width="1000" height="667" loading="lazy" alt="shura links golf club" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
&nbsp;
<h2>Green in More Ways Than One</h2>
Designed by acclaimed golf architect Brian Curley of Curley-Wagner Golf Design and managed by Golf Saudi, the golf course at Shura Links provides a unique playing experience for players of all skill levels. Curley took full advantage of Shura Island’s unique topography when designing the course and, in line with RSG’s sustainability goals, made sure to not disrupt the island’s native flora or fauna in the process. Richard Haas, Executive Director of Red Sea Global and himself an experienced golf architect, oversaw the construction and landscaping work of the course.
The result is an 18-hole par-72 course that spans 7,400 yards from the standard tee positions, with the possibility of extending the playing area to 7,700 yards. High-performance Platinum TE Papsalum turf is used throughout, known for its drought-resistance, salt-tolerance, and rich dark green appearance. This type of turf is also resistant to wear, grows well in low light conditions and has a quick recovery time, allowing for regular use over a longer term. A Toro irrigation system keeps the turf in excellent condition throughout the year while maximising water efficiency.
Each hole on the course is visually distinct, framed by pristine white dunes, lush mangroves, or the contours of the coastline and the azure waters beyond. The course seemingly blends into the landscape, a deliberate choice by Curley so that the vistas across the island remain uninterrupted and unmarred. Open expanses also help with easy ball recovery, as Curley has witnessed too many desert courses that punish players with areas of thick vegetation.
Sustainability extends to the design of the clubhouse as well. Conceptualised by Foster + Partners, the master architects of the <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/the-journal/red-sea-project" rel="noopener">Red Sea project</a>, it follows their ‘Coral Bloom’ design vision, which draws inspiration from indigenous plant species and natural formations to create unique silhouettes. The clubhouse is made up of five lightweight structures clustered around a central courtyard, resembling the petals of a blossoming flower when seen from above. Set along the coastline, it offers views over the 18th green and various lifestyle experiences.
&nbsp;
<h2>A Premium Experience</h2>
While the course at Shura Links will provide a solid challenge for the most seasoned players, the golf club is designed to offer a richer experience for everyone. A putting course located adjacent to the clubhouse is designed for families to enjoy a fun day out, with excellent playability for all ages and skill levels. Two returning nines also extend out from the clubhouse, offering the flexibility of playing individual nine-hole circuits or a full 18-hole game.
Skills can be honed on the expansive practice course or the putting green, and novice players can take advantage of instruction from PGA-qualified coaches.
After a day out on the greens, guests of Shura Links can head into the magnificent clubhouse, which has curated retail boutiques selling a variety of golf merchandise. They can also indulge in fine dining or unwind at the clubhouse pool.
&nbsp;
<h2>The Beating Heart of the Red Sea</h2>
Shura Links is just one part of an entire ecosystem that is coming together on Shura Island, the anchor point of <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/red-sea" rel="noopener">the Red Sea</a> archipelago being developed by Red Sea Global.
As the destination’s main lifestyle hub, the island will have a total of 11 world-class resorts by the end of 2026, with the first three slated to open by the end of 2025. Some of the leading names in hospitality, such as <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/project/sls-red-sea-residences" rel="noopener">SLS</a>, <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/project/private-residences-red-sea" rel="noopener">Four Seasons</a> and <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/project/nujuma-ritz-carlton-reserve-residence" rel="noopener">Ritz-Carlton</a> will operate hotels and will also offer limited residential collections. North American wellness brand <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/project/miraval-residences-red-sea" rel="noopener">Miraval</a> and the UAE’s award-winning Jumeirah Group will mark their first forays in the Kingdom as well.
Apart from its resort and residential components, Shura Island will offer a comprehensive family lifestyle defined by leisure and relaxation. The Shura Links golf club will be one component of that, along with a marine centre where residents and visitors can explore a variety of water-based activities including deep sea diving amongst the Red Sea’s vibrant coral reefs. A yacht marina is set on one side of the island, as well as a waterfront retail and entertainment centre. Additionally, visitors to the island will have the opportunity to learn all about the sustainability initiatives of the Red Sea and to discover the marine ecosystem.
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<h2>The Future of Sustainable Tourism</h2>
An integral part of <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/the-journal/vision-2030-the-saudi-arabia-of-tomorrow" rel="noopener">Saudi Vision 2030</a>, The Red Sea is a sprawling megaproject that will feature resorts and residences masterfully blending design ambition with an eco-conscious, sustainable approach. Of the 90 islands clustered around the Saudi Arabian coast, only 22 are being developed, along with 6 onshore destinations. The remainder of the island will be designated as conservation zones to maintain the integrity of the ecosystem. All of the development taking place on Shura Island and other parts of the Red Sea is fully sustainable, and visitor numbers to the area are expected to be capped annually to reduce the impact of human habitation.
Shura Island is situated just 25 minutes from <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/the-journal/red-sea-airport" rel="noopener">Red Sea International Airport</a> on the mainland. A dedicated fleet of electric cars provides access on and off the island, adding to its sustainable footprint. The Red Sea is roughly one hour and a half away from both Jeddah and Riyadh, and roughly 85% of the world is within an 8-hour flight, making it a truly global destination.
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The Red Sea, extending out from the western coast of Saudi Arabia, has transformed itself into a significant tourism hotspot through the pioneering vision of master developer Red Sea Global. Combining sustainability and luxury into a uniquely harmonious blend, a pristine Saudi archipelago is evolving into the destination of the future.

Wicked The Musical: Where, When, How To Get Tickets

Wicked The Musical arrives in Riyadh this winter! Experience Broadway’s spellbinding hit live at King Fahd Cultural Centre from Dec 3–20. Book tickets now!

This winter, Wicked The Musical will land in Riyadh for the very first time, bringing one of Broadway’s most celebrated productions to the Saudi stage. Written as a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, Wicked tells the story of unlikely friendship, shifting loyalties, and the making of the so-called ‘Wicked Witch of the West’ we know today. Since its premiere in 2003, the musical has become a juggernaut of contemporary musical theatre, seen by more than 65 million people around the world. The Riyadh run is part of the show’s current international tour, arriving with a full orchestra, more than 100 performers and backstage crew, and over 350 costumes – the same scale and detail as its long-running Broadway and West End productions.&nbsp;

Its arrival in the Kingdom follows recent stagings of The Phantom of the Opera and The Lion King – both of which drew full houses with widespread acclaim. It also reflects a broader shift in the country’s increasingly rich cultural calendar, where full-scale musicals now hold a firm place.&nbsp;
Below, we take a closer look at the story of Wicked, its global legacy, and how to secure tickets for the Riyadh run.
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<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/wicked%20the%20musical%20saudi.jpg" width="1000" height="540" loading="lazy" alt="wicked the musical saudi" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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<h2>What Is Wicked? – Story, Awards, Cultural Legacy</h2>
Wicked is the untold story of the witches of Oz – set long before Dorothy’s arrival in ruby slippers. Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, the musical reimagines Baum’s original world through a more emotionally complex lens, centring on two women whose paths cross at a mythical university: Elphaba, intelligent, defiant, and born with snake-green skin; and the lovely Glinda, ambitious and effortlessly adored. One is labelled ‘wicked’, the other ‘good’ – and the musical picks apart the dynamics beneath those labels.
Over the years, Wicked has amassed more than 100 international awards, including three Tony Awards, a Grammy, and an Olivier. Its enduring appeal lies in its layered narrative: the musical is part fever-dream fairytale, and part meditation on the making of a legend. This is reflected at the box office: Wicked is one of the highest-grossing musicals of all time, with Broadway ticket sales alone surpassing $1.5 billion – second only to The Lion King.
The original Broadway cast was led by Idina Menzel (later the voice of Elsa in Frozen) and Kristin Chenoweth, whose performances helped cement the show’s seemingly immortal place in pop culture. Songs like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular” have since become staples of the musical theatre canon – performed in schools, concert halls, and streaming playlists around the world. The musical gained renewed attention this year following the release of the long-awaited film adaptation – a two-part production starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, and Ariana Grande as Glinda.
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<h2>Where, When, and How to Get Tickets for Wicked The Musical</h2>
In Riyadh, Wicked will run from December 3 to 20, with performances taking place at the King Fahd Cultural Centre – one of the city’s largest venues. Tickets are now on sale, with early demand reflecting the scale of the production. Pricing starts at SAR 80 for standard seating and climbs to SAR 750 for premium categories, including VIP rows with prime views of the stage. A handful of private boxes are also available for those attending in groups, though these are limited and sell out quickly.
Bookings can be made via the official Wicked website or through local ticketing platforms authorised by the organiser. As with other international productions staged in Riyadh in recent years, the best seats tend to disappear early. The show is entirely in English, and the cast is yet to be announced.&nbsp;
For those travelling into Riyadh for the show – or simply wanting to make a night of it – there are a number of excellent hotels nearby. The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh is one of the closest, surrounded by 52 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. Its all-day restaurant, Al Orjouan, is a local favourite – generous and always busy on weekends.&nbsp;
Equally well placed is The St. Regis Riyadh – a newer addition to the capital, set in a dazzling contemporary structure with a notably warm hospitality team. The hotel’s in-house eatery, Jackie Restaurant, is a polished American-style brasserie serving Greek-American dishes – a fitting venue for a pre-show dinner, or something late and low-key after the curtain call.
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<h2>Wicked, Vision 2030, and What Comes Next</h2>
The arrival of Wicked in Riyadh marks another milestone for the Kingdom’s burgeoning cultural sector. Under <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/the-journal/vision-2030-the-saudi-arabia-of-tomorrow" rel="noopener">Vision 2030</a> – a national initiative aimed at diversifying the economy and expanding the creative industries – theatre has moved from the margins into the spotlight, with international productions now reliably woven into the winter calendar. Stagings of Phantom of the Opera and The Lion King set early benchmarks, and Wicked builds on that momentum with something bigger and more technically ambitious.
Its presence also points to the infrastructure taking shape across the country. New venues, better touring capabilities, and growing creative partnerships are all opening the door to deeper engagement – not just with audiences, but with aspiring local talent. More productions are expected to be announced in the coming months, including possible regional premieres and new works developed in collaboration with international houses. It’s a scene that’s absolutely worth keeping an eye on.
In this context, Wicked is more of a preview than a novelty – a glimpse of what Riyadh’s stages will begin to host more regularly. After its run in the capital, the show will travel to Dubai, where it is set to headline Dubai Opera from January 28 to February 15.
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This winter, Wicked The Musical will land in Riyadh for the very first time, bringing one of Broadway’s most celebrated productions to the Saudi stage. Written as a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, Wicked tells the story of unlikely friendship, shifting loyalties, and the making of the so-called ‘Wicked Witch of the West’ we know today. Since its premiere in 2003, the musical has become a juggernaut of contemporary musical theatre, seen by more than 65 million people around the world. The Riyadh run is part of the show’s current international tour, arriving with a full orchestra, more than 100 performers and backstage crew, and over 350 costumes – the same scale and detail as its long-running Broadway and West End productions.&nbsp;

How Riyadh Season is Redefining Sports in the Middle East

Discover how Riyadh Season 2025 is transforming Saudi Arabia into a global sports hub, hosting world-class boxing, tennis, WWE, and more under Vision 2030.

Launched in 2019 as part of Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision to diversify the country’s economy away from its reliance on non-renewables, Riyadh Season now stands as one of the world’s biggest entertainment and cultural festivals. One of the most important aspects of the season is the focus on sports – the Saudi capital has quickly positioned itself as one of the world’s foremost destinations for top-class sporting events – with world-class boxing, international tennis tournaments and even eSports contributing to the proceedings. This year’s iteration is set to be bigger and better than ever, with a whole host of new sports and familiar names added to the roster. Read on to learn all about Riyadh Season 2025 and what to expect as the world’s best descend on Saudi Arabia once again.
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<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/riyadh%20season%20sports.jpg" width="1000" height="667" loading="lazy" alt="riyadh season sports" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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<h2>How Riyadh Became a Global Sports Hub</h2>
The concept of <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/ar/the-journal/riyadh-season-2025" rel="noopener">Riyadh Season</a> was first introduced in the mid-2010s as part of <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/the-journal/vision-2030-the-saudi-arabia-of-tomorrow" rel="noopener">Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision</a> to diversify the economy by boosting tourism through culture, entertainment and sports. As a forward-thinking nation, the government were interested in creating a seasonal festival – during Riyadh’s cooler winter months – that could essentially compete with other more established tourism destinations to attract international visitors.
The first iteration took place in 2019 as part of the Saudi Seasons initiative, and the enterprise has grown year on year, now representing one of the key pillars of Saudi Arabia’s economic strategy going forward. Riyadh now plays a major role in hosting international tournaments and events that had previously been seen as difficult to make due to a range of contributing factors. One of the key factors has been the Saudis’ willingness to invest heavily in international sport, a strategy championed by Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority and adviser to the Royal Court, who has described Riyadh Season as an event that “belongs to everyone.”
Al-Sheikh has confirmed that this year’s event will open with a grand parade at Boulevard Riyadh City, which will encompass 25 giant balloons, 25 floats, 3,000 performers, and more than 300 handlers, organised in collaboration with the U.S. company Macy’s. He also highlighted how this year’s event will focus on three key aspects: Expanding opportunities for youth and women, fostering Saudi creativity, and elevating local content to compete with global standards.&nbsp;
Al-Sheikh will undoubtedly be hoping to improve upon last year’s highly impressive numbers. Riyadh Season 2024 saw 110 billion media impressions, 3,300 media visits to the Kingdom from more than half of the world’s countries, and 20 million in-person visits from 135 nations. These outstanding figures have combined to place the market value of the Riyadh Season brand at a staggering $3.2 billion – not bad for an endeavour yet to reach its tenth birthday.
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<h2>Riyadh Season 2025 Sports Lineup: What to Expect</h2>
Expanding on previous iterations, Riyadh Season 2025 is bursting at the seams with world-class talent across a plethora of the globe’s most popular sports. From October to March, the festival will see some of the planet’s most iconic athletes grace the Kingdom, starting in earnest from October 15.
The 2025 6 Kings Slam event, held at the ANB Arena from October 15 to 18, will see six of the world’s best male tennis players – including Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic – engage in a straight knockout competition for an eye-watering $4.5 million for the winner.
World-class boxing is also on offer, with contemporary icons like David Benavidez, Chris Eubank Jr., Devin Haney, Nouya Inoue and one of the game’s current pound-for-pound best in Artur Beterbiev all set to appear at this year’s event. Multiple world titles will be contested, promising high-stakes action and unforgettable bouts for fans and enthusiasts alike.
WWE Royal Rumble will take place at the end of January, before the Fantastic Flags Football Classic at the end of March; a three-team, round-robin flag football tournament featuring current and retired NFL stars and celebrities, organised by legendary NFL quarterback Tom Brady, among others. These are just a few of the top-class sporting events on offer at this year’s Riyadh Season.
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<h2>What Does the Future Hold for Riyadh Season and Sport?</h2>
Where sport and Riyadh season are concerned, it’s safe to say that the Saudi authorities are not resting on their laurels. Strategic expansion is planned beyond 2025, with a range of global partnerships and more variety in sports events in the pipeline. This will hopefully expand on the already-lucrative arrangements in place with various stakeholders throughout the nation and beyond. One of those stakeholders is global sports entertainment platform DAZN, which is known for its wide-ranging coverage of boxing – a key component of Riyadh Season. Their partnership agreement with the Saudi organisers guarantees exclusive coverage of Riyadh Season events, and considering the success of the festival in its short lifespan so far, it is thought the DAZN hierarchy will want to keep the good times rolling.
In early 2025, the company sold a minority stake to Surj Sports, the sports investment unit of Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund (PIF), which has been responsible for bringing global talent such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane and Karim Benzema to the Arabian Peninsula to play in the Saudi Pro League. While not directly involved in Riyadh Season, football and the PIF play a crucial role in the country's strategic vision, sharing a similar mission and investment strategy under Vision 2030. This includes expanding tourism, promoting international events, showcasing the country to the world, and increasing domestic spending on entertainment.
&nbsp;
<h2>Riyadh Season, PIF, and Saudi Arabia’s Expanding Sports Empire</h2>
Some recent reports, although denied by the club, have suggested that the PIF could be interested in buying out the Glazer Family to take full control of England’s Manchester United. As one of English football’s most successful clubs, an acquisition of such scale would be huge for everyone involved; the PIF, the government and especially Turki Al-Sheikh, who himself took to social media recently to comment on the state of the club, saying: “The best news I heard today is that Manchester United is now in an advanced stage of completing a deal to sell to a new investor. I hope he's better than the previous owners.”
Whether this would even be possible from a logistical point of view is another potential stumbling block. The PIF acquired Newcastle United in 2021 with a majority 80% stake in the club, prompting widespread concern throughout English football as the league’s members feared a repeat of Abu Dhabi’s purchase of Manchester City in 2008, which prompted a spending spree – and subsequent period of dominance – which the other teams have only recently caught up with.&nbsp;
This prompted a whole host of rule changes, including multiple ownership regulations and the implementation of Profit and Sustainability rules to ensure clubs were only spending what they were making.&nbsp;
While it is doubtful that an acquisition of Manchester United would be allowed to go ahead while the PIF was still involved with Newcastle, it is undeniable that the PIF’s access to funding and long-term investment strategy means that Riyadh Season can continue on its current trajectory of attempting to attract the world’s best sporting talent. With the PIF’s backing, Riyadh Season can continue to help Saudi Arabia grow on a global scale, positioning itself as a world-class destination for sports and entertainment. Whether that will involve a sporting giant such as Manchester United remains to be seen.
Saudi Arabia is undergoing a profound transformation. Sporting and entertainment events such as Riyadh Season are at the forefront of this change, helping to elevate the nation’s global profile, attract tourism, and position it as a leading cultural destination – while advancing the broader vision of diversifying the economy and reducing long-standing reliance on oil wealth.
&nbsp;
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Launched in 2019 as part of Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision to diversify the country’s economy away from its reliance on non-renewables, Riyadh Season now stands as one of the world’s biggest entertainment and cultural festivals. One of the most important aspects of the season is the focus on sports – the Saudi capital has quickly positioned itself as one of the world’s foremost destinations for top-class sporting events – with world-class boxing, international tennis tournaments and even eSports contributing to the proceedings. This year’s iteration is set to be bigger and better than ever, with a whole host of new sports and familiar names added to the roster. Read on to learn all about Riyadh Season 2025 and what to expect as the world’s best descend on Saudi Arabia once again.

Red Sea International Airport serves as a gateway, connecting the world to the luxurious experiences of the future.

<img src="https://146414713.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414713/Imported_Blog_Media/mtar-albhr-alahmr-aldoly-ojh-trbt-alaaalm-bfkham-almstkbl-e9b4c56cd419e3a4d03fa8d4759c7880-1-2.webp" alt="Featured Image" style="width: 100%;"> 
 
The newly operational Red Sea International Airport serves as a crucial connection, linking tourism and entertainment projects in the Red Sea to cities within Saudi Arabia and worldwide. As Saudi Arabia's Red Sea destination aims to become a top tourist spot globally, it demands a high-end airport that matches the luxury found in the resorts and hotels in the region. 
 
The airport showcases a captivating architectural design inspired by the sand dunes of the surrounding desert. Notably, it prioritises environmental friendliness by relying entirely on renewable energy sources, resulting in a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. The Red Sea International Airport also provides complimentary transportation services to and from the airport three hours before each flight. Residents of Red Sea tourist destinations can access the airport through seaplanes, electric cars, or luxury yachts. 
The airport is designed to handle a wide range of aircraft, from small private planes to large Airbus A380s. It is also the sole airport of its kind in the Red Sea region that caters to seaplanes. Since its opening in late 2023, the airport is projected to host approximately one million passengers each year, with the ability to handle up to 900 passengers per hour during peak times. 
The Red Sea International Airport's initial flight plan includes two weekly flights from the capital, Riyadh, via "Saudi Airlines." Subsequently, additional flights are set to be added from various Saudi and international locations. The airport is slated for expansion and increased capacity this year, capitalising on its strategic location. This is significant, enabling access to 85% of global destinations within a maximum travel time of 8 hours. Concurrently, new projects and resorts in the Red Sea region are set to be launched in the upcoming period. 
Being managed by the Red Sea International Company, the Airport is part of their portfolio, which includes developing renewable projects in the Red Sea and Amala destinations. Aligned with the Kingdom's 2030 vision, the goal is to turn this region into a prominent tourist attraction, catering to lovers of tourism, adventure, and luxury experiences from around the world. 
&nbsp; 
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The newly operational Red Sea International Airport serves as a crucial connection, linking tourism and entertainment projects in the Red Sea to cities within Saudi Arabia and worldwide. As Saudi Arabia's Red Sea destination aims to become a top tourist spot globally, it demands a high-end airport that matches the luxury found in the resorts and hotels in the region.

Farsan Island: Saudi Arabia’s Most Significant Island

<img src="https://146414713.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414713/shutterstock_2714693949.jpg" width="1024" height="768" loading="lazy" alt="Farsan Island: Saudi Arabia’s Most Significant Island" style="width: 1024px; height: auto; max-width: 100%;"> 
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia boasts a remarkable diversity in climate and terrain, offering numerous natural attractions across its landscape. This has led to Saudi Arabia emerging as a prominent destination for tourism and entertainment throughout the year. Visitors to the Kingdom could experience the desert one day and explore mountains or islands the next, showcasing the country's rich natural diversity.

Among the kingdom's environmental treasures, the islands dotting the Red Sea hold particular significance with Farsan Island standing out as one of the most important. Situated southwest off the coast of Jazan city, Farsan Island is part of a marine archipelago known as the "Farsan Islands". Comprising approximately 200 islands of varying sizes, Farsan Island is renowned for its picturesque natural scenery and rich biodiversity, earning it the nickname "Saudi Maldives". It is the largest island in Saudi Arabia and the second largest in the Red Sea after Dahlak Island in Eritrea.
The Island offers visitors an exceptional experience with its pristine coral reefs, lush forests, pristine sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Its marine ecosystem teems with diverse aquatic life, from undiscovered coral reefs to a plethora of fish species, including the revered parrot fish celebrated by locals during spring rituals. Sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles also grace the island's waters, adding to its appeal.
Farsan Island holds both natural and historical significance, with traces of human habitation dating back to the first century BC. Over the centuries, it has been inhabited and influenced by various civilizations, including the Romans, Ottomans, and Arabs, evident in the island's architectural remnants and historical landmarks.
In addition to being a marine reserve, Farsan Island boasts terrestrial elements including mangrove forests that provide habitat for numerous bird species, including ospreys, sunset falcons, grey pelicans, and white-eyed gulls, along with the endangered Farsan Island gazelle.
Visitors to the island can engage in a variety of activities, such as boat tours to explore its famed mangrove forests—a rarity in a country like Saudi Arabia. Another highlight is a visit to the Ottoman fort atop a rocky peak, offering panoramic views of the Red Sea and other landmarks of the island.
&nbsp;
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<img src="https://146414713.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414713/shutterstock_2714693949.jpg" width="1024" height="768" loading="lazy" alt="Farsan Island: Saudi Arabia’s Most Significant Island" style="width: 1024px; height: auto; max-width: 100%;"> 
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia boasts a remarkable diversity in climate and terrain, offering numerous natural attractions across its landscape. This has led to Saudi Arabia emerging as a prominent destination for tourism and entertainment throughout the year. Visitors to the Kingdom could experience the desert one day and explore mountains or islands the next, showcasing the country's rich natural diversity.

The Top Residential Development Projects in Riyadh to Watch

Don’t miss out on these residential development projects in Riyadh if you want to make the best investment

<img src="https://146414713.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414713/Imported_Blog_Media/afdl-msharyaa-alttoyr-alaakary-fy-alryad-4cc82fb9de4cde0a0fe2ba585c7ae851-1-2.webp" alt="Featured Image" style="width: 100%;"> 
 
As the capital city of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is at the forefront of the Kingdoms push towards a more innovative, expanded and inclusive future.&nbsp; It is home to several of the pioneering mega projects that echo the themes of the nation’s Vision 2030 as well as a first class infrastructure, bustling cultural scene and internationally connected commercial districts.&nbsp; It is also growing in popularity amongst tenants, residents, visitors, tourists and investors from around the world.&nbsp; More and more people are recognising the unique potential of Saudi Arabia and Riyadh itself and are keen to put themselves in the right situation to take advantage of its thriving economic future.&nbsp; For potential residents and luxury property investors the possibilities in Riyadh are almost limitless, so we wanted to take a look at some of the top residential development projects in Riyadh that are not to be missed. 
 
Vives Compound 
This western-style community is a high end residential complex designed to exceed the expectations of its tenants in terms of comfort and convenience.&nbsp; It is setting a high bar for the type of new residential accommodation options and development projects that are being initiated in Saudi Arabia, where residents can enjoy excellent security, beautifully designed homes, a state of the art infrastructure and comprehensive amenities.&nbsp; Vives Compound is made up of two residential areas with a combined size of 180,000 sqm and 230 fully equipped residential units that include villas and apartments.&nbsp; The luxury properties are also surrounded by landscaped gardens, walking paths and lifestyle amenities geared towards health and wellness. A typical three-bedroom villa in Vives Compound is approximately 285 sqm and comes fully furnished.&nbsp; On the ground floor there is a spacious living room and dining room with a fully equipped kitchen, guest bathroom and storage area.&nbsp; On the first floor there are two bedrooms with a shared bathroom, a living room and a grand master bedroom suite with en-suite bathroom.&nbsp; Outside the villa also comes with a green front yard and a private back garden, so they are ideal for couples with children or those who love to entertain.&nbsp; Vives Compound also delivers on the facilities side of things, having been planned perfectly to deliver a modern community spirit for its residents that is enhanced with all the conveniences they could need.&nbsp; In addition to excellent transportation services, the community amenities include a supermarket, tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts and a mini soccer field.&nbsp; There is also a main swimming pool and kid’s pool, both with showers and lockers, a nursery, kid’s playground, steam room, jacuzzi, gym and laundry facilities. 
Nasaj Town Alnarijis 
Another new housing project, one of the 28 located in the Riyadh area, that is making waves is Nasaj Town Alnarijis, executed by the Saudi Retail Urban Development Company.&nbsp; This brand new residential area will include 455 villas and is designed to contribute to the nation’s commitment to increasing housing opportunities for its citizens.&nbsp; The complex will be overseen by the National Housing Company, an affiliate of the Housing Ministry and will cover an area of around 716,000 square metres just to the north of Riyadh’s town centre.&nbsp; 
With over 35,000 new apartments, houses and villas projected to be completed in Riyadh’s push for more residential areas, this is a great time to find the right fit for your portfolio if you are a luxury property investor with vision and a desire to add a lucrative asset to their long-term strategy.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
If you would like to find out more about Riyadh residential projects, KSA mega projects, luxury property in Saudi Arabia or other real estate investment opportunities, get in touch with one of our consultants at Saudi Arabia Sotheby’s International Realty today{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"]}) }}

<img src="https://146414713.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414713/Imported_Blog_Media/afdl-msharyaa-alttoyr-alaakary-fy-alryad-4cc82fb9de4cde0a0fe2ba585c7ae851-1-2.webp" alt="Featured Image" style="width: 100%;"> 
 
As the capital city of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is at the forefront of the Kingdoms push towards a more innovative, expanded and inclusive future.&nbsp; It is home to several of the pioneering mega projects that echo the themes of the nation’s Vision 2030 as well as a first class infrastructure, bustling cultural scene and internationally connected commercial districts.&nbsp; It is also growing in popularity amongst tenants, residents, visitors, tourists and investors from around the world.&nbsp; More and more people are recognising the unique potential of Saudi Arabia and Riyadh itself and are keen to put themselves in the right situation to take advantage of its thriving economic future.&nbsp; For potential residents and luxury property investors the possibilities in Riyadh are almost limitless, so we wanted to take a look at some of the top residential development projects in Riyadh that are not to be missed.

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