The Saudi Arabia is widely known as the latest frontier of tourism. It is renowned for its rich Islamic heritage, stunning deserts, and modern architecture. Housing Mecca and Medina, the country brims with countless pilgrims throughout the year. Visiting Saudi Arabia in winter is highly recommended due to its mild and pleasant weather. From snow-capped mountains to lush oases, the state offers a perfect getaway for tourists.
Are you planning to perform Umrah this winter? Though, you can go between November to February, December is the peak-season. Millions of pilgrims prefer this month for Umrah because of the Christmas and winter holiday break. So choose this month for your sacred trip and don’t forget to include the following 5 cities in the itinerary of your Umrah Packages December 2024.
1- Tabuk
Located northwest of Saudi Arabia, Tabuk lies close to the Jordanian border. It is the capital of the Tabuk region and is set at 760 m above sea level. The city boasts numerous natural and cultural sites. The ancient Tabuk forest, dating back to 3500 BCE is the place of the battle of Tabuk, mentioned in Surah Tawbah of the Holy Quran.
Hijaz railway station, built in the Ottoman era, is another famous place in the city. This historical train depot once linked Damascus to Medina. Today, it serves as a museum, housing artifacts and historic models. The city is also famous for beautiful Wadi Al Disah, a part of the Prince Mohammad bin Salman Natural Reserve.
Jebel Al-Lawz or the Mountain of Almonds, is another major highlight of Tabuk. During winter, the mountain’s peak is covered with snow. Many global tourists enjoy hiking on the mount’s challenging treks. The prime location and features of Jebel Al-Lawz resemble Mount Sinai, where Prophet Mosses (A.S) had a notable meeting with Allah.
Mosses Well, present in the old city of Madyan attracts countless global tourists. Madyan is an archeological site in Tabuk, where you can find 4000-year-old houses made from rocks.
2- Abha
Perched in the southwestern region of the Saudi state, Abha is the capital of the Asir province. It is 2270 m above sea level and often called “Bride of the Mountains”. The city is known for lush greenery, misty mountains, and refreshing weather, especially during winter. Random rainfalls during December and January add to the city’s charm, making it a perfect winter retreat for all.
The routes to Rijal Almaa and Al Habala Hanging Village are one of the top lures of Abha. Here, tourists can see the beautiful Sarawat Mountains with a thrilling cable car ride. Asir National Park, a haven for nature lovers, is also located in the city. Shada Palace and the old village of Rijal Almaa show the region’s rich history.
The city is also adorned with vibrant artwork and jacaranda trees. Abha is one of the famous Saudi spots for camping, paragliding, and snorkeling. Abu Kheyal and Al Salaam parks are the city’s highlights. Choosing December Umrah packages allows you to enjoy both spiritual fulfillment and the natural beauty of Abha. Performing Umrah in November, December, and January offers the perfect balance of cool temperatures and fewer crowds. Hence, winter is the ideal time for both Umrah and exploring the enchanting cities of the country.
3- Al Ula
This historic oasis is located in the Medina province of northwestern Saudi state. Perched in the Hejaz region, it is about 300 km north of Medina. Al Ula is famous for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. It houses the Saudi’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, called Hegra. Here, tourists can find the antique tombs and rocks of the old Nabatean era.
The city is dotted with canyons and a lush oasis, creating a contrast against the desert backdrop. During winter, Al Ula offers pleasant and mild weather, with temperatures in the range of 8°C to 23°C. Elephant Rock is the perfect spot for sunset views and photography. Al Ula’s skies are clear and ideal for stargazing while camping. The city is also known for countless fun activities, such as hiking, zip lining, and hot air balloon rides. You can also wander through Al Ula Old Town, visit the Maraya Concert Hall, and enjoy local food. It is best to visit the city in winter due to its pleasant weather. Therefore, plan your winter escape to Al Ula with December Umrah packages and immerse yourself in the region’s rich history.
4- Riyadh
Centrally located on the Eastern part of the Najd plateau, Riyadh is the capital of the Saudi state. Known for modernity and tradition, this beautiful city houses many historical landmarks. Al Masak Fortress and the National Museum provide a deep history of the Saudi land. The iconic Kingdom Centre and Al Faislaiah Tower add to the city’s overall allure.
During December, the city’s temperature is mild and pleasant. Ranging between 8°C and 23°C, Riyadh’s climate makes it an ideal winter destination. It also hosts many winter events for both locals and global tourists. Riyadh season, featuring concerts, cultural shows, and sports, is one of the largest fun events in the world. It typically starts in late October and runs throughout the winter months.
Winter Wonderland, a major part of the Riyadh season, is worth experiencing. It offers 80 rides, ice skating, and themed zones for families. People of all ages can enjoy this event. MDL Beast Festival, a musical show, is another major highlight of the city. In this event, local and global artists perform in front of a massive crowd.
Tourists can hike on the Edge of the World and take pictures of the breathtaking views. The city’s modern shopping centers, such as the Kingdom Center are the ideal shopping points. People can savor local and international food at famous eateries. Families can spend quality time at Riyadh Zoo or King Abdullah Park and enjoy a lot.
5- Jeddah
This vibrant port city is set on the Red Sea Coast in the Hejaz region of the western Saudi state. Serving as a gateway to Mecca and Medina, Jeddah is a vital hub for pilgrims and tourists. It is famous for its modern buildings, rich culture, and stunning coastal views. The city also features many old landmarks, such as the Al Balad district, the King Fahad’s Fountain, and the bustling Corniche. Jeddah’s culinary experience is another highlight. It is renowned for top-class Hejazi dishes and global food items. The city is worth visiting in the winter season. During this time, the temperature is pleasant and mild.
With snorkeling and scuba diving, tourists can explore the marine life of the Red Sea. They can enjoy shopping at famous malls, housing world-class brands. December and other winter months are the best time to enjoy traveling this major Saudi city.
Thus, the Saudi Arabia offers a wide range of winter holiday spots for your notable trip. From the snow-capped peaks of Tabuk to the lush oasis of Abha, each place is known for its natural beauty and rich history. Book your December Umrah packages to combine spiritual fulfillment with the exploration of these stunning places. Muslims Holy Travel, one of the eminent travel agencies, offers you exclusive Umrah Packages & Ramadan Umrah Packages at cheap prices. Browse through their website now and ensure a seamless travel experience.
