Saudi National Day is the perfect opportunity to look back at the history, culture, and places that have shaped the Kingdom. Whether you’re into old heritage houses brought back to life or newer stays built around centuries-old landscapes, Saudi Arabia has plenty of destinations where the past and present naturally come together. From the mud-brick streets of Diriyah to the ancient wonders of AlUla, here are some stays that let you experience the Kingdom’s heritage while enjoying a modern getaway.
Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel — Diriyah
Located in Diriyah’s historic Samhan neighbourhood, Bab Samhan puts you right in the middle of one of Saudi Arabia’s most important heritage areas. The neighbourhood itself is made up of historic mud-brick buildings, while the hotel sits close to At-Turaif, the UNESCO-listed district that was once the seat of governance of the First Saudi State.
Beyond the hotel, it’s easy to turn your stay into a heritage walk, with At-Turaif, Wadi Hanifah, and Al Bujairi Terrace all nearby. It’s a spot where you can spend the day exploring Najdi architecture and history, then end the evening with a meal overlooking the same historic landscape.
The Chedi Hegra — AlUla
For a stay where history is quite literally part of the architecture, The Chedi Hegra is hard to overlook. Set within the UNESCO-designated Hegra area, the hotel incorporates existing historic structures, including an old railway station and Hegra Fort, into its contemporary design.
That means you don’t have to go far to feel AlUla’s history around you. Hegra itself was once an important city of the Nabataean Kingdom and is home to remarkable rock-cut tombs and archaeological remains.
Dar Tantora The House Hotel — AlUla
If wandering through old streets is your idea of a good holiday, Dar Tantora is right up your alley. Located in the heart of AlUla Old Town, the hotel is made up of restored mud-brick heritage houses, allowing guests to stay within the historic fabric of the destination rather than simply visiting it.
The surrounding Old Town dates back more than 700 years and was once an important stop along the incense trade route. With its winding pathways, traditional buildings, and views towards the AlUla Oasis, a stay here feels less like checking into a hotel and more like stepping into another chapter of the region’s story.
Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea — Umluj
Not every heritage experience comes with centuries-old buildings. At Six Senses Southern Dunes, the history is in the landscape itself. Located near Umluj, the resort sits along the historic incense trade route, with the Hijaz Mountains and desert plains surrounding it. Its design draws inspiration from Nabataean architectural heritage and traditional Bedouin patterns and textures.
It’s also a chance to experience a different side of Saudi heritage: the relationship between people, desert landscapes, trade routes, and traditional hospitality. So while the resort itself is contemporary, its setting connects it to stories that stretch far beyond its walls.
Al Koot Heritage Hotel & Restaurant — Hofuf
For a more intimate heritage stay, Al Koot Heritage Hotel & Restaurant sits in the heart of Al Hofuf’s historic Al-Koot district, directly opposite the famous Ibrahim Palace. The hotel occupies a nearly 200-year-old palace that was restored while retaining its traditional Hasawi architectural character.
Inside, you’ll find traditional details, antique pieces, a library dedicated to the history of Al-Ahsa and Al-Koot, and a restaurant serving local Hasawi dishes. Its location also puts you close to historic markets and landmarks, making it an easy starting point for exploring Al-Ahsa’s heritage beyond the hotel.
Beit Jokhdar — Jeddah
In Historic Jeddah, even the building you sleep in can tell a story. Beit Jokhdar is located in Harat Al-Yemen and is one of the district’s historic houses, featuring the colourful rawasheen that are so closely associated with Jeddah’s traditional architecture. The house has a long history connected to pilgrims travelling to Makkah, before later becoming a family residence.
Today, the property brings that history into a more modern stay, with individually designed rooms and suites that retain traditional Arabian details. And with the historic streets of Al-Balad right outside, you can spend your stay exploring one of Jeddah’s most character-filled neighbourhoods.
Saudi National Day is more than a date on the calendar; it’s an opportunity to discover the stories, architecture, landscapes, and traditions that make the Kingdom what it is today. And with destinations like these, experiencing that heritage doesn’t have to mean choosing between history and comfort.
This National Day, it might just be the perfect excuse to plan a trip, explore somewhere new, and see a different side of Saudi Arabia for yourself.
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