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A visit to the attractions of Saudi Arabia is a
lifetime opportunity for all Muslims across the world. Home to Mecca
and Medina, two of the holiest
cities in Islam, Saudi Arabia is a country drenched in prayers and religious monotones.
Saudi Arabian attractions are more about Arabic traditionalism than about
modernity. Although the country has witnessed immense growth and has even adopted
some of the aspects of Western sumptuousness, it remains deep-rooted in its culture.
All followers of Islam are expected to undertake a Hajj
pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in a lifetime, as indicated in one of their
five religious dictates. Saudi Arabia is the country where this pilgrimage comes
to an end. Al-Masjid al-Haram, the biggest attraction of Saudi
Arabia, is the largest mosque of the world. Located in the city of Mecca, this
mosque is the place where Hajjis offer prayers on completion of their pilgrimage.
This mosque houses two of the most renowned Saudi Arabia attractions - Kaaba and
The Black Stone. The Kaaba is the cubical structure around
which worshippers perform their ritual circumambulations during Hajj. Black in
color and made of granite, the Kaaba is believed to have been built on orders
by Allah himself. It is the structure towards which all Muslims turn during their
daily prayers. The Black Stone, a popular Saudi Arabian attraction,
is the northern cornerstone of the Kaaba in Mecca. Bound to the Kaaba by a huge
silver band, this stone is believed to have been a meteorite's remnant. A few
Islamists believe that it was originally white in color, and has turned black
by absorbing the sins committed by mankind. The city of Medina houses
a very important attraction of Saudi Arabia, the Masjid al-Nabawi, or Mosque
of Prophet Muhammad. Built by the Prophet himself, it is the final resting place
of this founder of Islam. The Riyadh Zoo, located in capital city
of Riyadh, is extremely popular with kids. This place houses myriad species of
wildlife. Al Balad area in the city of Jeddah is the best place for shopping
in Saudi Arabia. Other must-visit Saudi Arabia attractions are Masmek Citadel,
Corniche at Al Khobar, Jeddah Fountain, etc.
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