The Sights and Wonders of Saudi Arabia's Red Sea

Considered the final frontier of diving, Saudi Arabia's majestic Red Sea is an absolute must for visitors to the Kingdom year-round. Boasting inviting white-sand beaches, glistening turquoise waters and unmatched scenery, this special region of the world is also full of vibrant marine life, including lively coral reefs and more than 1,200 species of fish, 20 percent of which are only found in the Red Sea. It's also an ideal locale for water-based activities and adventures from jet skiing to boat tours. Whether experiencing it from Jeddah or island-hopping through smaller coastal destinations like Umluj, travelers can't go wrong with a visit to this pristine natural gem. Read on to see some of the many highlights that await.

There's much to explore beneath the surface of the Red Sea, including shipwrecks dating back to the late 1970s in the Ann Ann and The Staphonos as well as beautiful coral reefs in the pristine Abu Galawa and 100-hectare Shushah Island Coral Reefscape. For a chance to see Clown Fish, Snappers and other species up close, head to the Farasan Banks or venture to Jabal Al Lith between March and June for a shot at witnessing majestic whale sharks in the wild.

Kitesurfing is one of the most exciting activities travelers can partake in on the Red Sea. The period from October to May is arguably the best time to give it a try as visitors will be met with warm water temperatures and steady winds ideal for navigating the readable waves.

If kitesurfing sounds like too much work or you simply want to experience the Red Sea at a higher rate of speed, there's always jet skiing. However, the crystal clear waters are perfect for whatever speed you choose.

Saudi Arabia's ambitious Red Sea Project aims to capitalize on this spectacular water body with the development of a sprawling tourism complex, offering luxury experiences as well as the opportunity to tour untouched islands and connect with nature and wildlife in ways designed to be sustainable.

For travelers looking to experience the Red Sea from above the water, boat tours and the inviting Yanbu Waterfront are ideal for activities such as fishing and bird-watching. It turns out that exploring the Red Sea can be quite relaxing.

Perhaps one of the most fascinating animals visitors to the Red Sea can come across are sharks. This part of the world is home to a variety of different types, including hammerheads and tiger sharks that travelers are likely to find at dive sites like Seven Sisters and Abu Galawa.

Saudi Arabia's Red Sea is also home to some of the world's most gorgeous beaches. A destination like Umluj is an excellent starting point to experience some of these spectacular coastlines. Half Moon Bay Beach and other standouts are ideal for soaking up the sun and taking in the Red Sea from dry land.

However you choose to explore the Red Sea, this natural wonder is not to be missed. Remarkably, it's just one of many unique experiences available to travelers visiting Saudi Arabia in 2022 and beyond.