Known as the ‘Maldives of Saudi Arabia,’ Umluj offers tourists with breathtaking landscapes. It is one of the governorates in the Tabuk region and a stunning small town in the kingdom. With more than 100 gorgeous islands, the best places to visit in Umluj include cotton-white sandy beaches, hidden coral reefs, deep blue and turquoise water, and magical vistas. The town provides a place where travelers can unwind from their hectic routine, explore the reefs and relax on the beaches. It features several beachside towns and open places with many welcoming restaurants.
Umluj is a part of the Red Sea project; therefore, ferries, boats, and large ships are banned from sailing in the area. This makes many Umluj tourist places untouched, quiet, and peaceful. It is an isolated gem that attracts travelers from all over the world. With crystal-clear water meeting the blue sky at the horizon, the town also has reefs that add vibrant colors to the landscape, making the peninsula a dream destination.
The best time to visit the Umluj cluster of islands is between January and June. It experiences a small amount of rainfall around April and in the late autumn season. The arid climate maintains sunshine throughout the year, and the dry heat is moderate and bearable. Therefore, one can plan a trip to Umluj throughout the year.
Top tourist places to visit in Umluj
1. Jabal Hasan Island – Less than 20 km from Umluj Beach, Saudi Arabia, this island is one of the best holiday destinations in the kingdom. The white sand beach and stunning beauty offer tourists an opportunity to go fishing or get mesmerized by the coral reefs. It was a part of an ancient passage for ships sailing between Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan. Many historians say that the Romans extract glass from the plains of the island. It has graves spanning across the eastern part of the mountain, suggesting the trails of an ancient civilisation.
2. Umluj Beach – With shallow sea shoes and clear blue water, it is among the most alluring places in Umluj to visit. Travelers can visit this place with family, friends, and kids. People are not allowed to go beyond 5 m in the sea. However, in the unrestricted area, one can pick shells, play beach games, build a castle or take a sunbath.
3. Duqm Tourist Park – With rides along the lush green grass and sandy beach, the park is a famous Umluj attraction. Tourists often come here with kids and enjoy their time with family and friends. People walk barefoot on the sand, hike and soak in the stunning view from the sunset. The charming atmosphere is perfect for playing football, swimming or meditating. Tourists can purchase something to eat or drink from the kiosks near the beach.
4. Al Manakhah Heritage Museum – Travelers interested in history of Umluj and its surrounding regions, must visit Al Manakhah Heritage Museum. It exhibits antique items and artifacts that speak volumes about the old interesting tales. The museum exhibits old items, stones, a traditional wedding dress, bridal accessories, old weapons and artefacts that speak of some interesting tales from the past. Visitors can read the documents that talk about the people of Umluj pledging an alliance with King Abdulaziz. The museum is also a part of local events that its authorities organise in association with the region’s tourism development committee.
Address: 375G+Q8F, Umluj 48323, Saudi Arabia
Timings: 9am–12pm, 4pm–12am
5. Mango Farms – Travelers who like to spend time in nature’s lap must visit the mago farms and orchards in Umluj. They are among the most preferred Umluj tourist places to visit between April and June. One can find a variety of trees like custard apple, mango, orange, drumsticks, etc., on the farms. You can try fresh mangoes at these farms and feed a few birds and animals that are usually found in the orchard premises. Two of the popular mango farms in Umluj are: Mango Garden and Mango Orchard Umluj.
Most popular things to do in Umluj
Being a beach destination, Umluj tourist places offer several fun activities that can make every holiday memorable. Swaying palms, a serene environment, and smooth sand make for a relaxing surroundings. There are many beach and water activities that adventure enthusiasts can undertake.
6. Scuba Diving – Amongst the most cherished activities for adventure lovers is diving in the depths of blue seawater. Amid colorful coral reefs and aquatic life, this is a one-of-a-kind experience. There are more than 1200 species of fishes and 300 varieties of corals, along with turtles, dolphins, and dugongs. Travelers can also rent a boat from Umluj beaches to check out hidden caves and places surrounding the volcanos. There are diving schools where tourists can enroll and learn the basics of diving before going underwater.
Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In Saudi Arabia: 7 Cities To Explore The Red Sea Reefs
7. Island Hopping – As a part of the Red Sea Project, tourists have the liberty to plan to hop from one island to another to enjoy water activities like snorkeling, dolphin-spotting, fishing, etc. Umluj attractions include spectacular untouched seafronts with less crowd.
8. Hiking – Harrat Lunayyir is a black lava field with at least 50 volcanic cones and craters, which makes it an off-beat destination for hike lovers. Hikers enjoy the trek to the volcanic cones and craters present in the region.
Source: Wisdom Prime
9. Exploring – One can also rent a boat from Umluj Beaches to check out places surrounding the volcanos and hidden caves. The boats are available for rentals on an hourly basis. The prices start at 200 SR and can go as high as 400 SR. Khalid Abu Waleed, Maris Umluj Boat Trips, Blue Boat Hire and Boat for Hire Sea Trips are a few recommended places to rent a boat.
10. Relishing Seafood – If you are here for adventure, island hopping, beach activities, and other Umluj tourist places can be a handful for a day. You might require a pullover to have some local food. The town has many food joint that offer local as well as international food options. Tourists can taste authentic coastal delicacies are popular restaurants such as Khalifa Al Bukhari Umloj Restaurant, Umluj Fish Restaurant, Fish Leader Restaurant, and Modern Hadhramout Restaurant & Kitchen.
Umluj is a holiday jewel in Saudi Arabia. It is a peaceful place that lets one experience serenity and try some adventure in one destination. It is absolutely refreshing and joyful to wake up to the view of a white sandy beach and seawater meeting the sky at the horizon. Umluj beaches have many stay options like hotels and resorts that offer this stunning view from modern rooms with high-end amenities. Boasting fantastic views, the accommodations are lavish and budget-friendly. The best time to visit Umluj is from November to March.
Suggested Read: 9 Things To Do In Red Sea: Water Sports, Snorkeling And More
Places To Visit In Umluj FAQs
Can travelers go for swimming on Umluj Beach?
Yes, tourists can swim on Umluj Beach, and they can also indulge in other beach activities like beach sports and lounging.
Is Umluj safe to visit?
Yes, the town is safe to visit for everyone and every gender.
How many islands are there in Umluj?
The total of islands in Umluj counts to 104. Many islands are isolated and offer a peaceful spot for enjoying the vacation.
What are the accommodation options available in Umluj?
The accommodation options vary from luxurious to pocket-friendly. Depending on the requirements of a traveler, many options are available in the town.
Are there any places to eat in Umluj?
Yes, there are many restaurants and food joints available in the town.
