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Things to Do in Yanbu

Even though it is a small city in Saudi Arabia, there are plenty of things to do in Yanbu. Yanbu, translating to “spring by the sea”, is a small city and a crucial Red seaport in Saudi Arabia. The port city offers tourists a number of entertainment sources and fun activities. The beautiful desert beaches on the shoreline of the city make it one of a kind.
The waters nearby are perfect for various water sports activities for enthusiasts all over the world. Scuba diving is particularly famous in the pellucid waters of the city. You can appreciate the serenity on blissful beaches to feel close to nature or have the time of your life at Hokair amusement park. One day you can loosen up at beaches and the next day goes on an adventure trek to Radwa Mountain. And the list continues.
As Yanbu has a profuse history and culture, touring local monuments is a prominent deed to see the culture of Saudi Arabia. The unique architecture aggrandizes Yanbu in a completely different manner. Some other things to do in Yanbu are swimming, fishing, camping, especially the Red Sea.
Feel the flowers blossom at the Flower Festival held every year in Yanbu. From visiting Yanbu’s night market to exploring the heritage district Yanbu Al Nakhl, the city offers a plethora of activities to do.

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What are the best things to do Yanbu?

1. Visiting the famous Lawrence of Arabia House: One of the vital things to do in Yanbu is to visit the house of Lawrence of Arabia. It was the residence of a former British intelligence officer, Thomas Edward Lawrence, famously known as Lawrence of Arabia. The house was recently restored from ruins and now is officially open for visitors.
It is located in the city of the Red Sea in the Al Madinah Province and overlooks the Moana. The two-story house is full of history and antiquity where one can appreciate the stories of the past. There is no entry fee to enter the house and one can visit it at all times of the day.

2. Enjoying clambake at Yanbu Historic Area with your loved ones: You can relish a blissful meal in the city by going to a garden party. Yanbu Historic Area is a perfect place for a picnic with your loved ones. Pick up the local seafood from the nearby shops and savor them with your friends and family.
The Saudi architecture and local life can be appreciated while having delectables. The place has many cafes and small restaurants serving local Arabic coffee also known as ‘Qahwa’. Appreciating the local heritage is one of the things to do in Yanbu. For this, tourists can take a stroll or even rent a bike to go for a ride around the Yanbu Historic Area.

3. Relax at Yanbu Waterfront: Yanbu has a lot of stunning beaches which are hidden gems in the list of beaches. If you are planning to spend your day peacefully on a beach, there is no name better than Yanbu Waterfront. Relax and experience a blissful seascape at the Waterfront.
The beach is bestowed with clean and soft sand, which is unusual in Saudi Arabia beaches. So visiting the place will be an amazing escapade. The place is also surrounded by a playing field for children. Nearby food and ice cream shops are a desirable addition to the location. If you are a water sports enthusiast then swimming is one of the things to do in Yanbu. The waters are pellucid and suitable for swimming.

4. Fun at Yanbu Lake Park: Yanbu not only offers activities for adults but there are several things to do in Yanbu for children too. One of them is to rejoice at Lake Park. Crafted with an artificial lake in the middle, beautiful lights, lush greenery, and waterfalls, this park is utterly famous, especially among the young ones.
The lake is filled with plenty of fish which gives the lake a very marine touch. There are also swings and playing areas for kids. It is an ideal destination to spend quality time with your friends and family because of its calm and tranquil atmosphere. It is located on Al-Mina Street and Parking is available for the people who plan to come by their vehicle.

5. Touring Al Nawras Island: As Yanbu is a city sharing its boundaries with the sea, there are some hidden islands nearby that can be visited if you are in Yanbu. Al Nawras Island is the most famous one where you can reach very conveniently. The island is adjoining Yanbu, so there is no need to sail on a boat to reach there.
It is known for its stunning seascape, beaches, and also for its greenery. It is a famous tourist place where people come to relax and rejuvenate. The authorities have well maintained the island and a few swings and rides have also been installed for the children. Despite so many things to do in Yanbu, one must visit Al Nawras Island to refresh.

6. Witnessing Sunken Greek Ship: One of the most interesting things to do in Yanbu is to visit an actual sunken ship. About 3 decades ago, a Greek ship carrying flour sank near Yanbu which now has become an adventurous exhibit for tourists. It is said that about 60 percent of the ship is still submerged in the water.
What is exciting is that you can visit the rest 40 percent only during the daytime. Experience the most peculiar yet thrilling ship with all its machinery still on the ship. Try and plan your tour in such a way that you reach back on the road before the sunsets.

7. Visit the heritage district Yanbu Al Nakhl: One of the things you can do in Yanbu is to explore its history and antiquity. As the city is full of ancient architecture that personifies Saudi history. Ruins and remains still behold their place in the city. The next name in things to do in Yanbu list is to explore the heritage district Yanbu Al Nakhl.
This city is full of archaeological sites, monuments, and ruins from the past. It is also known for its idyllic location which attracts a lot of tourists. Yanbu Al Nakhl was a famed trading location for pilgrims and caravans. There is a small place by the name of Al Suwaiq Village where you can explore the local market.

8. A shopping spree at Yanbu Night Market: While visiting any country, one must check out its local market to appreciate the craftsmanship of the domestic artists. Shopping is one of the many things you can do in Yanbu. This night market was started in the 19th century and it has been a famous tourist place since then.
It is the oldest market in the city and also one of the most important historical sites. The locals believe this market has existed for decades. One can buy gifts and souvenirs from here to take back to their home. Many events and shows take place in the market during the historic Yanbu Festival.
Timing- 5:00 pm to 12:00 am

9. Experience the spring season at Flower Festival: The flower festival of Yanbu occurs once a year and is a must-visit for every tourist. The festival blossoms with millions of flowers of different types. And you can be a spectator by attending the festival in March. Along with beautiful flowers, the festival is thrilling with entertaining activities. The butterfly garden is one of them. You can observe butterflies at a striking distance.
The best part is that you can even touch them. The next activity in the festival is the birdhouse where you will encounter birds of many kinds. Pick up sweet and fresh strawberries from the strawberry farm-grown inside the arena. For children, the festival offers plenty of rides and swings. After a tiring day of exploring the flower festival, treat your tastebuds to a delicious meal. Dine-in or take it on the go from the food court. Make sure to visit Yanbu during the festival so that you don’t miss it.
Ticket for bird aviary- 25 SAR for adults and 20 SAR for children
Timings- 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm

10. Shop at Dana Mall of Yanbu: Dala mall is immensely famous around the area for shopping. It is the biggest in the city and is pretty popular among tourists too. Plan a day and go on a shopping spree in this mall to buy souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones. Various high-end brands from all over the world are present in this mall.
Brands like Victoria’s Secret, Zara, H&M, Bath and Body Works, etc are open under a single roof. The enormous food court in the mall is filled with eating joints where you can relish the local as well as some international cuisines. The mall also has enough space for parking if you are planning to come by your vehicle.
Timing- 9:30 am to 12:00 am

11. Enjoying water sports at Yanbu Al-Bahr: Scuba diving is one of the things to do in Yanbu. And if you are a water sports enthusiast, then Yanbu Al-Bahr is the place to be. This city is famous for its untouched beach which overlooks the Red Sea. The waves are particularly favorable for swimming. Many tourists around the world come here, especially for water sports.
Peculiar coral reef formations can also be enjoyed in Yanbu Al-Bahr. Other water activities like snorkeling, sailing, cruising, etc can also be done at all times of the year. You can rent gear and equipment in the city for your adventure activity. The beach is blessed with a beautiful sunset which can be admired while taking a stroll on the shoreline.

12. Exploring Oyster Island: This island is bestowed with a beautiful sunrise and also sunset. The Oyster Island has stunning beaches surrounded by lush green parks, cafes, and restaurants, sitting areas, and also various resorts. You can enjoy various things to do in Yanbu but one particular thing is to have a BBQ with your loved ones. And Oyster Island is the perfect place for it. The island offers various barbeque sites where you can cook and celebrate with your friends and family.
Fresh seafood is also sold here which you can buy from local vendors. Along with relaxing and making merry, the adrenaline rush will be built up by various outdoor activities. The island is also known for water sports like scuba diving, swimming, snorkeling, sailing, etc. People can also find equipment for fishing and camping without any hassle. Witness a clear night sky with the calming sea to end your day on Oyster Island

13. Fishing in Marsa Al Ahlam: Marsa Al Ahlam also known as Al-Buthna Marina, is another famous spot for tourists in Yanbu where they can find plenty of fish in the sea. Not only fish, but you can also catch a wide variety of marine creatures. You can bring your rods and hooks or can buy them from vendors nearby.
Enjoy with your family and friends on the beach before fishing. Sit ashore, drop your rod into the water and relax until you catch a fish. Along with fishing, tourists and even locals come here to experience various activities like diving, sailing, and fishing tours and trips. For your inner sportsperson, Marsa Al Ahlam organizes fishing competitions where you can showcase your trawling skills. The whitefish and salmon caught here are known to be delectable.

14. Enjoying with family and friends at Hokair Amusement Park: Set up almost 5 decades ago, Al Hokair amusement park is full of thrill and luxury. Located inside a shopping mall, the park is immensely popular in Yanbu and also the most visited in the city.
The Park is brimming with games, rides, and numerous entertainment facilities for kids and teenagers. The area is equipped with the best and the safest machinery for your kids. Various games like bowling, go-karting, air hockey, etc enhance the experience of fun and thrill. Restaurants are available where you can eat delicious meals and spend your leisure time.
Timings- 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

15. Trekking to Radwa Mount: Trekking is not only fun but it gives you a sense of peace when you reach the top. To quench your inner adventure enthusiasts, you must plan a trek to Radwa Mount. Radwa Mount is the majestic mountain range that stands tall at 2,282 meters and is bestowed with stunning landscapes around.
The idyllic range is known for many trekking routes. Explore the wilderness of this mountain while trekking. Make sure to pack water, food, and necessities for the hike. Many organizers hold group treks where you can sign in and join. The range is pretty famous for its natural honey. At the end of the expedition make sure to eat this delicious liquid. One can trek up the mountains and even set a camp to explore the wilds. The best time to visit the range is during the spring season when the temperature is favorable for the expedition.

What are the different water activities to do in Yanbu?

1. Scuba Diving- Also known as “the pearl of the Red Sea”, Yanbu is the diving capital of Saudi Arabia. The water surrounding the city is pellucid, clean, and ideal for scuba diving. With a benthic zone rich in marine life, scuba diving in Yanbu gives you an experience like no other. The experience begins with learning about equipment, underwater communication, and the skills required.
You can either rent the gear or hire a professional instructor if you are a beginner. Some of the best places to go for scuba diving in Yanbu are Dolphin Diver, Diving Bubbles, Saudi Diving Center, etc. You can even plan and book packages according to your convenience. The packages include all the above-mentioned things plus meals and photographs. The best time to experience diving is between July and October.

2. Snorkeling- For all adventure enthusiasts, snorkeling is the supreme water sport where one can witness the underwater marine life at its closest. Snorkeling is as much famous in Yanbu as scuba diving is.  If you have already experienced diving and want to try something new, then snorkeling is your option.
Discover the untouched underwater species of the sea and appreciate the splendors that the Red Sea has to offer. Buy from various packages and deals available. The packages include a professional guide, transfer facilities, snorkeling gear and equipment, and even meals. You can easily learn the basics and go on with it. The ideal time for snorkeling is also from July to October.

3. Boat Trips- Yanbu is a major Red Sea port where ships and motorboats dock. Due to such availability, boating in the Red Sea is a popular activity for tourists and even the locals. Spend your day by renting a boat with your friends and family to explore the sea. The city is blessed with a stunning seascape which enhances the voyage.
Experience the city shoreline from a completely different aspect through the sea and dive in serenity. You can buy packages and deals that include the voyage, meals, and mini activities. Rent gear and go fishing while on the boat. Various night cruises are also available that offer a luxury experience.

What is the best time to visit Yanbu?

The best time to visit Yanbu is from January to April when the weather is pleasant with a minimum amount of rainfall. During November and December, again the weather is pretty good for traveling and touring around the city. If you are a water sports enthusiast, the best time to visit Yanbu is from May to November.

What is Yanbu famous for?

Apart from being a busy industrial port on the Red Sea, Yanbu is a small city with many historical stories. The chronicles of the past are reflected in the architecture and historic sites of the city. Yanbu is immensely famous for its desert beaches too.
The soft sand and crystal clear waters are perfect for water activities. Tourists from all over the world come to Yanbu to experience diving here. The idyllic location of the city makes it a perfect getaway with your friends and family.

How many days are enough for Yanbu?

Being a small city, usually, 3-4 days are enough to tour Yanbu. But if you want to spend some more leisure time, a week is more than enough to explore the whole city.

How to reach Yanbu from Riyadh?

There are usually 3 ways to reach Yanbu from Riyadh.
  • By Flight- Direct flights are available from Riyadh to Yanbu airport. The estimated time to reach there is around 2.5 hours. This is the most convenient way to reach the city in a minimum amount of time.
  • By bus- Domestic transport service is pretty decent in Saudi Arabia. One can board a bus from Riyadh to Yanbu and it takes 18 hours to reach there. Even though it is time-consuming, this is the cheapest means to reach Yanbu.
  • By car- You can also travel to Yanbu in your vehicle or rent a taxi. Yanbu is 863 km away from Riyadh. The estimated time to reach there is about 10 hours.

Is it worth visiting Yanbu?

Yes, even though it is a small city, Yanbu is brimming with history and Arabic culture. One can find all the aspects of a good trip while visiting Yanbu. From exploring historical sites to relaxing at blissful beaches, Yanbu offers a perfect amalgamation of relaxation and fun.

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