As we embark on a new year, the world beckons with exciting opportunities for exploration and discovery. In 2024, consider adding these five captivating Arabian destinations to your travel itinerary. From ancient archaeological wonders to natural marvels, each place offers a unique glimpse into the beauty and diversity of our planet.
Diyarbakir, a city in southeastern Turkey, boasts a remarkable cultural landscape comprising the Diyarbakir Fortress and the Hevsel Gardens. The Diyarbakir Fortress, also known as the Amida Fortress, is an imposing structure that dates back to Roman times and has played a significant role in the region's history. Its massive stone walls encircle the old city, protecting a rich historical and architectural heritage within. The Hevsel Gardens, on the other hand, represent a lush and fertile area with carefully designed agricultural terraces, canals, and orchards that have been cultivated for centuries. Together, these sites provide a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical heritage of Diyarbakir.
The 'Rock Art in the Hail Region' serial property comprises two key sites: Jabal Umm Sinman at Jubbah, located 90 km northwest of Hail, and Jabal Al-Manjor and Jabal Raat at Shuwaymis, 250 km south of Hail.
Jabal Umm Sinman in Jubbah showcases petroglyph panels and inscriptions left by ancient Arabs near a once-lush freshwater lake. Meanwhile, Jabal Al-Manjor and Jabal Raat in Shuwaymis boast a multitude of petroglyphs and inscriptions spanning nearly 10,000 years of human history within a valley blessed with flowing water.
Together, these sites form the largest and most significant rock art complexes in Saudi Arabia and the region. They reflect changes brought about by desertification and offer a rich blend of petroglyphs, inscriptions, archaeological features, and unique environmental settings.
3) Al-Balad, Jedah, Saudi Arabia
Al Balad, Jeddah's historic district, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. This vibrant marketplace, featuring multi-storied mud brick and stone buildings, offers a diverse array of goods, from textiles and precious ornaments to spices and honey. Established 1,300 years ago as the gateway for Muslim pilgrims to Mecca, it remains a captivating testament to Saudi Arabia's rich heritage and is celebrated as the most beautiful Old City among the Gulf Monarchies.
4) Ankara, Turkey
