A group of islands off the coast of Al-Lith in Saudi Arabia’s Makkah Region is drawing increasing attention for its ecological significance and potential to become a leading destination for sustainable tourism and marine investment.

Known collectively as the “Four Sisters”—Marmar, Dohrab, Malatu, and Jadir—the islands form part of a diverse marine ecosystem along the Kingdom’s southern Red Sea coast. Their clear waters, untouched beaches, and extensive coral reef systems make them among the region’s most valuable natural assets.

The coral reefs surrounding the islands play a vital role in supporting marine life and maintaining ecological balance. They provide habitat and breeding grounds for numerous species, contributing to the exceptional biodiversity for which the Red Sea is known.

The islands are also an important nesting area for green sea turtles, whose presence is considered a key indicator of a healthy marine environment. In addition, the surrounding waters host a wide variety of tropical fish and some of the most vibrant coral formations in the Red Sea.

Beyond marine life, the Four Sisters serve as seasonal stopover points for migratory birds, further highlighting their importance within the region’s wider biodiversity network and supporting Saudi Arabia’s wildlife conservation objectives.

The islands have become increasingly attractive to divers and nature-focused travellers seeking pristine marine environments and unique wildlife experiences. Their relatively untouched condition offers opportunities for exploration while supporting long-term environmental sustainability.

Officials view the islands as a strong foundation for expanding Saudi Arabia’s ecotourism sector through responsible development that aligns with international sustainability standards. Their natural appeal is expected to support a range of tourism experiences centered on conservation and environmental awareness.

The area also presents opportunities for investment in low-impact marine tourism projects, including eco-friendly accommodation, diving facilities, and advanced marine services. Such initiatives could strengthen the Kingdom’s growing blue economy while creating skilled jobs and supporting local communities.

The development of Al-Lith’s islands forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to unlock the potential of its Red Sea coastline, improve quality of life, and position the Kingdom as a global destination for sustainable tourism.

As interest in the region grows, the Four Sisters islands are increasingly being viewed as a model for balancing environmental protection with economic development, demonstrating how natural resources can be preserved while contributing to long-term growth.

Source: ZAWYA

ABHA, Saudi Arabia: Abha is taking on a lively character after sunset, with its cool mountain weather, city lights and varied natural attractions drawing visitors well into the night.

Tourist sites and open-air venues across the city are seeing increased activity, as residents and visitors gather at walking paths, parks, restaurants, cafes and mountain viewpoints. The moderate temperatures allow families and tourists to enjoy outdoor activities long after daylight fades.

Clouds and fog frequently forming across the surrounding highlands add to the nighttime atmosphere. Combined with illuminated urban areas and the mountainous landscape, the changing weather creates distinctive views that reinforce Abha’s appeal during the summer season.

Parks, promenades and other outdoor attractions continue to welcome visitors in the evening, offering a range of recreational activities and venues for those looking to spend time outdoors.

The increase in nighttime tourism is also supporting activity across Abha’s hospitality, entertainment, restaurant, cafe and retail sectors, as demand grows for evening experiences and outdoor destinations.

Abha’s vibrant after-dark tourism scene highlights the diversity of its summer offering. Its mountain scenery, mild climate, recreational facilities and visitor services combine to create a tourism experience that extends well beyond the daytime.

Source: SPA

TABUK, Saudi Arabia: Two adjoining rock formations in southwestern Tayma Governorate have become one of the area’s most distinctive natural and cultural attractions, known collectively as Al-Naslaa, or the “twin” rock.

The formation is characterized by a remarkably straight and narrow gap that divides the two rock sections, creating the appearance of a precise split. Its name is derived from the Arabic word nasalat, meaning “to separate,” referring to the rock’s separation from the surrounding mountain formations.

Standing approximately eight meters high, Al-Naslaa rests on two natural rock bases, with each base supporting one side of the formation. Its unusual geological structure is complemented by ancient inscriptions and rock art carved into its surface.

The Heritage Commission says Al-Naslaa lies within a broader area known for its archaeological sites and extensive rock inscriptions. These remains reflect the long-standing historical importance of Tayma and the wider Tabuk Region.

For centuries, Tayma served as an important station along ancient trade routes crossing northwestern Arabia, connecting the area to broader networks of commerce and cultural exchange.

Today, Al-Naslaa is recognized as one of Saudi Arabia’s notable geological landmarks. The combination of its unusual natural formation and preserved inscriptions offers visitors a glimpse into both the geological evolution and human history of the surrounding landscape.

Source: SPA

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia: Wadi Hanifah is offering residents and visitors a chance to escape Riyadh’s fast-paced urban environment, combining rugged terrain, greenery and open spaces within one of the capital’s most prominent natural landmarks.

The valley is featured among the destinations promoted under the Saudi Summer 2026 program, held under the slogan “Summer Your Way.” The initiative highlights a broad range of attractions across the Kingdom, including natural, recreational and heritage destinations.

Extending across large areas of Riyadh, Wadi Hanifah has played an important role in the city’s history and development. Rehabilitation projects have helped protect its natural character while improving surrounding areas with facilities designed to support visitors and outdoor activities.

The valley features landscaped areas, walking trails, seating spaces, parks and viewpoints overlooking its terrain. These amenities have helped establish Wadi Hanifah as a popular destination for families, walkers and people seeking outdoor recreation.

The Wadi Hanifah Dam and surrounding areas are among the valley’s notable attractions, complemented by parks and other natural sites distributed along its length. Together, they provide additional leisure options within the capital while creating spaces where nature and the urban environment intersect.

The destination’s growing summer popularity reflects increasing interest in outdoor leisure among Riyadh residents and visitors. Its open-air setting provides an alternative to indoor entertainment and offers several ways to enjoy the city’s natural surroundings.

Wadi Hanifah forms part of the diverse experiences promoted through Saudi Summer 2026, which includes events and activities alongside natural, cultural, heritage and recreational attractions. The program seeks to encourage domestic tourism and highlight destinations across the Kingdom’s regions.

With its environmental, historical and recreational significance, Wadi Hanifah remains an important feature of Riyadh’s tourism landscape, providing a distinctive natural retreat in the capital and adding an outdoor dimension to the city’s summer experience.

Source: SPA

ASEER, Saudi Arabia: Thick clouds are sweeping across the mountains of the Aseer region, creating a striking summer landscape as mist moves along steep slopes, winding roads and agricultural terraces.

Aerial images captured by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) show historic villages and traditional terraces emerging through the fog, at times appearing to float above an expansive sea of white clouds. The scenery reflects both the region’s rugged geography and generations of local adaptation to life in the mountains.

For travelers exploring Aseer’s highlands, rapidly changing weather conditions can transform the landscape within minutes. Clear views of deep valleys and green forests can give way to dense fog, creating an atmospheric setting that adds a sense of mystery to the journey.

The region’s combination of sweeping cloud formations and moderate temperatures has further strengthened Aseer’s appeal as a leading summer destination in 2026. Viewpoints across the highlands provide visitors with opportunities to watch clouds rise from the valleys, creating panoramic scenes in which the mountains appear to drift across an endless white horizon.

Source: SPA

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia: Jeddah is drawing increased attention as a summer tourism destination in 2026, with its Red Sea coastline offering visitors a combination of marine recreation, adventure and natural attractions.

Beyond its beaches, the governorate provides opportunities for boat excursions, diving, water sports and exploration. Offshore islands and coral reefs add to the area’s appeal, with reefs featuring a wide range of formations and colors that contribute to Jeddah’s distinctive marine landscape.

The governorate is strengthening its role as a gateway to Red Sea marine tourism by expanding access to coastal sites, boat trips and water-based activities. The growing range of experiences gives visitors opportunities to combine leisure and adventure while discovering the region’s marine environment.

Activity is currently increasing across 13 beaches and marine sites. To support visitors, operations are being backed by 34 field supervisors and 66 male and female lifeguards. The deployment is intended to improve safety, strengthen operational preparedness and maintain service standards as demand for coastal activities rises.

Visitors can select from four types of marine sports and experiences, in addition to boat trips to islands and coral reef locations. Together, these activities offer opportunities to explore the Red Sea’s natural diversity while enjoying recreational and sporting experiences on the water.

The development forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to expand its tourism industry and capitalize on the Red Sea’s natural and competitive advantages. It also supports the diversification of tourism destinations and products in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to increase tourism’s contribution to the national economy and improve quality of life.

Source: SPA