Saudi Arabia is a country known for its grandeur and magnificence. Widely known for its beaches and marine life, it is an ideal place for diving and other water adventures. KSA is a heaven for those who love exploring the endless diversity, lush greenery and stunning islands with pristine beaches and an aura worth delving into. Plan your vacation on any of the stunning islands in Saudi Arabia for a memorable vacation lingering till eternity. Saudi is a hidden gem that is yet to be explored as the country has recently opened its gates for rest of the world.

7 Top Rated Islands in Saudi Arabia

Top Rated Islands in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is an archipelago that has incredible places to explore that you can keep in your memories forever.  Here is a list of best islands in Saudi Arabia that are worth exploring. If you are planning a vacation, then you must read till the end to know about the things that you can enjoy on your holiday.

1. Farasan Island

Farasan Island

Located About 40 kilometers from Jazan, Farasan island is a tiny group of coral islands that has than 80 islands making it an archipelago, boasting pristine coral reefs for water sports and aquatic life. The Island has world-class birding for species including the white-eyed gull, the crab plover and the sooty falcon.

Earlier the island was known as Portus Ferresanus, this is one of the top islands in Saudi Arabia. While you are there you can explore expanded biodiversity as marine sanctuary.  One of the main sites on the island is the sandstone village of Al Qassar which dates back to the roman era. You have to make sure that there are no diving centers on the Island so you need to prepare your own snorkeling gear.

Things to do: Diving and Snorkeling

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Suggested Read: Best Beaches in Saudi Arabia for a Tranquil holiday with Brood

2. Al-Nawras Island

Al-Nawras Island
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Locates in the governate of Yanbu, Al Nawras Island in Saudi Arabia is new tourist magnet in the country. One of the most popular island in Saudi, AL Nawras is considered as one a gem kingdom. If you are looking for relaxation and recreation, without any thought head towards this island, that promises an abundance of tranquility. There are many restaurants in Saudi Arabia that can satiate your hunger but fresh seafood that is serves on this island can not be compared anywhere. It is spread  over 11 kms and has plenty of green space, mountains and a perfect spot for selfies.

Things to do: Red Sea fishing trips, camping, water sports

Best time to visit: January

Suggested Read: Honeymoon in Saudi Arabia: Fall Head Over Heels in the Balmy Camelot

3. Sanafir Island

Sanafir Island
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It is a fact undeterred that Saudi Arabia’s beauty is incomparable and that is entices people from far off land. The Sanafir Island is one of the best Places to visit in Saudi Arabia and known for floating reefs. You can reach the island by Ferry and you would need approximately 2-3 days on, it is a perfect honeymoon destination for couples looking for tranquility. Check out the floating coral reef and adore the blessings of nature. Sanafir island is on of the best islands in Saudi Arabia that can be a perfect getaway option.

Things to do: Adore the  Floating coral reefs

Best Time to Visit: December to February

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4. Al Marjan Island

Al Marjan Island

An artificial island is located Dammam is amongst the favorite destination encompassing a diverse footfall. There is plenty of greenery where tourists can spend their time and relax while enjoying the lush greenery, open space, and play area for children soothing environment. You can organize a barbeque and enjoy a small party with your loved ones. If you love fishing, then Saudi Island can be a perfect place for you where you can cherish your hobby and calmly regain peace of mind sitting close to the cerulean water. Dammam looks very beautiful at night, while you are there just grab onto the opportunity of living the nightlife here.

Things to do: Fishing

Best time to visit: January

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5. Tarout Island

Tarout Island

Nestled in the Persian Gulf, Taout island is considered as one of the most ancient sites in KSA with a total area of 70 square kms. The four major attractions are Darin corniche, Ramlet AL Baydah, Tarout castle and AL Musally Museum. The afternoons are warm in winters reaching upto 25 degrees Celsius, so temperature is quite soothing in Saudi Arabia. The enriched history and traditions of the destination reflect the transitions of different colonies. If you are looking for fun things to do in Saudi Arabia you can enjoy Chariot ride, Fishing, Sunset watching and Pedaled Cab.

Things to do: Chariot ride, Fishing, Sunset watching, Pedaled Cab

Best Time to Visit: January- February

6. Umm Al- Qamari Island

Umm Al- Qamari Island

Renowned as the natural reserve in Saudi Arabia, Umm Al-Qamari Island is taken care of by national center for the development of wildlife. The island is famed for its coral reefs, coral limestone, and a wide diversity of aquatic plants that can be spotted here. Being one of the best islands in Saudi Arabia, it caters to every need of people coming here for relaxing. Apart from offering freshness in abundance the island promises to get you acquainted with the flora and fauna that you would have never imagined. It is highly recommended to visit the stunning island in Saudi Arabia for an unforgettable vacation.

Best Time To Visit: November –February

Things to do: Birds watching and knowing about various plants

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7. Tiran Island

Tiran Island

Tiran is yet another most important island of Saudi Arabia spread across 80 square kms. It plays a crucial role Aqaba in Jordan and Eilat in Israel, as it provides narrowest section of the Straits of Tiran, which is an important sea passage. The Island was taken over by Israil during the Suez Crisis and  in 1967 till 1982 after the six days war. Tiran Island sits at the entrance of the Straits of Tiran, connecting Red Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba. It is a part of the Ras Muhammad National Park, and its is surrounded by beautiful reefs. If you crave for water sports then try diving or snorkeling.

Best Time to visit: November - January

Things to do:  Visit Ras Muhammad National Park, Diving, Snorkeling

Suggested Read: Historical Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia: Diving Deeper into the History and Heritage

Saudi Arabia is a hypnotizing beauty that takes away the breath of all the travelers. If you are planning a holiday, then avail yourself of the best Saudi Arabia holiday packages to explore this ideal destination for its surreal beauty and picturesque views. The best things is that irrespective for age bracket the country, the country has something for all. Explore the beaches and islands in Saudi Arabia and you will instantly be gushes with the ecstasy. If you have never been to Middle East, you can begin relishing the Arabic hospitality now.

FAQs

Q1. How many islands are there are Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is an ideal destination for excursions. That incorporated stunning attractions, succulent delicacies, pristine beaches and gorgeous islands. With a total of 1300 islands Saudi Arabia is known as one of the most popular archipelagos.

Q2. What are the best islands in Saudi Arabia?

With a total of 1300 islands, Suadi Arabia has a long list of islands that are worth visiting for their unique reasons. The best ones are

  • Farasan island
  • Sanafir Island
  • Al Marjan Island
  • Tarout Island
  • Umm Al- Qamari Island
Q3. Why should I visit Tarout Island?

Taout island is considered as one of the most ancient sites in KSA with a total area of 70 square kms. The four major attractions are Darin corniche, Ramlet AL Baydah, Tarout castle and AL Musally Museum. The afternoons are warm in winters reaching up to 25 degrees Celsius, so temperature is quite soothing in Saudi Arabia. The enriched history and traditions of the destination reflect the transitions of different colonies.

Q4. How can I reach Sanafir Island?

The Sanafir Island is one of the best Places to visit in Saudi Arabia and known for floating reefs. You can reach the island by Ferry and you would need approximately 2-3 days on, it is a perfect honeymoon destination for couples looking for tranquility.

Q5. Is Farasan island good place for vacation?

Farasan island is a tiny group of coral islands that has than 80 islands making it an archipelago, boasting pristine coral reefs for water sports and aquatic life. The Island has world-class birding for species including the white-eyed gull, the crab plover and the sooty falcon. Earlier the island was known as Portus Ferresanus, this is one of the top islands in Saudi Arabia. While you are there you can explore expanded biodiversity as marine sanctuary.

Q6. What are the best things to do on Al Marjan Island?

An artificial island is located Dammam is amongst the favorite destination encompassing a diverse footfall. There is plenty of greenery where tourists can spend their time and relax while enjoying the lush greenery, open space, and play area for children soothing environment. You can organize a barbeque and enjoy a small party with your loved ones. If you love fishing, then Saudi Island can be a perfect place for you

Q7. Why is Umm Al- Qamari Island popular in Saudi Arabia?

Umm Al- Qamari Island is famed for its coral reefs, coral limestone, and a wide diversity of aquatic plants that can be spotted here. Being one of the best islands in Saudi Arabia, it caters to every need of people coming here for relaxing. Apart from offering freshness in abundance the island promises to get you acquainted with the flora and fauna that you would have never imagined. It is highly recommended to visit the stunning island in Saudi Arabia for an unforgettable vacation.

Q8. What are the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia presents a perfect blend of the old and new. From history and culture to modern and contemporary lifestyle you would find everything reflected here. To see this impeccable fusion, you have to explore the places in KSA. A few of the best local attractions are:

  • Makkah & Madinah
  • Diriyah
  • Al Rahma Mosque
  • King Fahd’s Fountain
  • Rijal Almaa
  • Elephant Rock