Visitors enjoy exploring the historical significance of the cities of Mecca and Medina, but Saudi Arabia has a number of other cities, each with its own distinct history and culture. So what are the largest cities Saudi Arabia? Here’s the answer to this question, along with a detailed look at each city, and the most important information you should know before visiting the Kingdom.
Overview of Saudi Arabian cities
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is one of the largest countries in the Arab world, and it has many major cities that are distinguished by their unique character. Saudi Arabia combines religious cities such as Mecca and Medina, economic and commercial cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah, and industrial cities such as Dammam.
Largest cities Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has many major cities that play a vital role in the fields of economy, tourism, and culture. Here are the Largest cities Saudi Arabia, which are characterized by cultural and economic diversity in various fields.
Riyadh
Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia, with a population of 7.68 million. It is a political and administrative center and features modern landmarks such as the Kingdom Tower and Al Faisaliyah Tower.
It is also ranked among the top 80 cities in the world in terms of wealth. Riyadh is home to the headquarters of major companies such as the National Commercial Bank, Al Rajhi Bank, SABIC, Almarai, and the Saudi Telecom Company.
It attracts tourists from all over the world thanks to its unique blend of modern culture, stunning tourist attractions, and world-class facilities. It also offers attractive job opportunities, high salaries, and relatively low cost of living, making it an ideal destination for residents and tourists alike.
Top tourist attractions in Riyadh
- Kingdom Tower
- Al Faisaliah Tower
- Saudi National Museum
- Diriyah Historical District
- Edge of the World (Mount Fahren)
Most prominent economic sectors
- Energy
- Tourism
- Financing
- Technology
Jeddah
Jeddah is a major gateway for pilgrims and Umrah performers heading to Mecca, and has a thriving tourism sector. Its population is around 4.7 million. Jeddah plays a prominent role in maritime trade. It is also the economic capital of the Kingdom, and is located on the Red Sea coast.
It hosts many major companies and projects, such as the “New Jeddah Downtown Project”, which aims to transform the city into a sophisticated urban center.
It is also an important center for investment, especially in the fields of science and engineering. In addition, it includes more than 20 universities, including King Abdulaziz University, the largest university in the Kingdom.
Top tourist attractions in Jeddah
- Jeddah Corniche
- King Fahd’s Fountain
- Nassif Historical House
- Waterfall Theme Park
- Sail Island
Most prominent economic sectors
- Religious tourism
- Trade and Logistics
- Science and Engineering
Mecca
Mecca is the holiest city in Islam, where the Prophet Muhammad was born. It receives millions of Muslims annually during Hajj and Umrah. Its population is about 1.58 million.
The city houses the Grand Mosque and the Kaaba, and is one of the most visited cities in the Islamic world. Mecca was ranked the 10th most visited city in the world in 2023.
It also has an important economic role, as it depends on religious tourism, and includes many luxury hotels and development projects to serve pilgrims and Umrah performers.
The most important tourist attractions in Mecca
- The Grand Mosque and the Holy Kaaba
- Jabal Al Noor Cultural Area
- Mount Arafat
- Jabal Omar Project
Most prominent economic sectors
- Religious tourism
- Handicrafts and agriculture
- Financial services
AL Madinah Al-Munawwarah
Madinah is the second holiest city in Islam after Mecca, and is home to the Prophet’s Mosque, which contains the tomb of the Prophet Muhammad. Its population is about 1.18 million. Madinah’s economy is largely based on religious tourism.
Non-Muslims can enter Madinah, but they are not allowed to enter the Prophet’s Mosque. It is one of the safest cities in the Kingdom, especially for tourists and women, thanks to the strict security measures. It is characterized by its tranquility and unique spiritual atmosphere.
Madinah is known for its date and vegetable cultivation, food industry, real estate development, and knowledge sectors such as education and scientific research.
The most important tourist attractions in Madinah
- The Prophet’s Mosque
- Quba Mosque
- Mount Uhud
- Seven Mosques
Most prominent economic sectors
- Religious tourism
- Agriculture
- Real estate development
Dammam
Dammam is located on the Arabian Gulf in the east of the Kingdom, and is one of the closest cities to Bahrain. It has the largest port in the Gulf, King Abdulaziz Port. Its population is about 1.25 million.
Dammam is known for its tourist attractions such as Coral Island and Dammam Corniche. In addition to its humid climate due to its proximity to the Arabian Gulf, it offers a high standard of living thanks to the low cost of living compared to other cities.
Dammam plays an important role in the Saudi oil industry. It also houses many factories and companies in the field of shipping and logistics services.
- The most important tourist attractions in DammamPrince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium
- King Abdullah Economic City
- Heritage Village
- Coral Island
- Lake cities
- Dammam Corniche
Most prominent economic sectors
- Energy and Oil
- Manufacturing
- Transport and shipping
Things to know before visiting Saudi Arabia
Here are the most important things to know before visiting Saudi Arabia:
- Visitors require a tourist visa, which can be easily obtained electronically.
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months before you travel.
- The official language is Arabic, but English is spoken in most tourist places and hotels.
- There are various means of transportation available such as the metro in Riyadh, taxis, and smart applications such as Uber and Careem.
- Saudi Arabia has a desert climate, so it is recommended to visit coastal and mountainous cities during the summer to avoid the extreme heat.
- It is important to respect local customs such as wearing modest clothing.
- Women are not required to wear the hijab, but their shoulders, arms and legs must be covered.
Interesting facts about the cities in Saudi Arabia
Here are Interesting facts about the cities in Saudi Arabia to explore this wonderful country:
- Riyadh is the fastest growing city in the world.
- Makkah receives more than 2 million pilgrims annually.
- Dammam contains the largest artificial island project in Saudi Arabia.
- Jeddah has the tallest fountain in the world.
Tour package to explore Saudi Arabia
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Saudi Arabia Travel Package, which takes you through the stunning landscapes and rich history of the Tabuk region.
People also ask
What are the top 5 largest cities in Saudi Arabia?
The five largest cities Saudi Arabia are: Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, and Dammam.
What are the three major cities in Saudi Arabia?
The three major cities in Saudi Arabia are:
Riyadh: The political and economic capital
Jeddah: Commercial Capital and Main Port
Mecca: The most important religious center in the Islamic world
Is Riyadh bigger than Jeddah?
Yes, Riyadh is larger than Jeddah in terms of area and population.
In conclusion, the largest cities in Saudi Arabia are wonderful destinations that combine heritage and modernity, making them ideal for tourism and investment. Whether you are looking for a religious experience, recreational tourism, or economic investment, you can visit Saudi Arabia and you will find all that and more.
