Home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Tabuk has over 700km of coastline dotted with enchanting beaches from the city of Haql to the north and Umluj in the west – not to mention around 100 islands scattered offshore. The region is also home to exciting new development projects like NEOM, Amaala and the Red Sea, which are attracting flocks of visitors in search of luxury beach getaways. These are the finest stretches of sand in Tabuk.
1. Umluj Beach
Ranked among the top 100 beaches in the world in the Gold Beach Awards 2024 alongside Copacabana and Bora Bora, Umluj is home to pristine sand, clear waters and 104 islands that form an archipelago in the Red Sea. Often described as Saudi Arabia’s Maldives, the marine life in Umluj is remarkably active and quite easily accessible for scuba divers and snorkellers.
While still largely off the beaten track, Umluj is becoming increasingly popular with both international tourists and Saudis looking for a little luxury by the sea. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing, water sports, swimming and bird watching. You can also hire a boat to visit various beautiful shores such as Doqm, Ras Al Shaaban and Jabal Hassan Island – all of which provide the perfect peaceful getaway from the hustle of modern city life.
Be prepared for a warm welcome – the locals are renowned for their hospitality and laid back approach to life. Umluj is one of Saudi’s best beach destinations and arguably one of the world’s; venture here for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation amid calm relaxing waters and undulating sands.
2. Zaem Beach
One of the natural jewels of Tabuk, Zaem Beach is north of Al-Wajh and has long attracted visitors because of its unique natural charm and setting within a picturesque semi-circular bay lapped by calm, clear waters. It’s a great option for families with kids due to the top-notch facilities – loungers, parasols and lots of toys for tiny swimmers. The beach is also surrounded by verdant greenery and palm trees, which only adds to the sense of tranquility. For those eager to delve into the world underneath the waves, the waters around Zaem are packed with vibrantly coloured fish and breathtaking coral reefs.
3. Haql Shipwreck Beach
Considered by many to be one of the most stunning beaches in Saudi Arabia, this stretch of sand derives its name from a half-sunken ship that sank in the nearby waters around 20 years ago. The remnants of the vessel are now positioned on the pristine sands of the large, half-moon-shaped bay, providing a dramatic backdrop for photography and a reminder of the centuries of trade that have passed through these waters.
There is still very little tourism in the area, so if you are looking for a true escape from the bustle of city life, this is the place for you. There are very few facilities in the area – bring food, drinks, sunscreen, umbrellas and chairs with you. There are a few hotel and holiday rentals in nearby Haql City – why not stay a while to relax and unwind.
4. Hawaz Beach
From the unspoilt sands of this 6km-long beach one can see the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba. Its crystal clear, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and afterwards you can enjoy a delicious barbecue on the beach at one of the numerous pits stationed on the sands. Popular with locals and increasingly with tourists visiting Saudi, the beach is about 10km from the coastal city of Duba, often referred to as the “pearl of the Red Sea” and definitely worth a visit. Hawaz Beach is nestled within a natural inlet with breathtaking coral reefs and turtles that occupy their own designed sections of the beach. A place of serene natural beauty that will keep you coming back again and again.
