For years, the allure of the Maldives has been irresistible, elevating this beautiful island paradise to the top of many travelers’ bucket lists. However, for some, the dream of experiencing all that the Maldives has to offer can be difficult to realize, usually due to travel costs. Umluj, a stunning local coastal town-city, is a stunning local coastal town-city where you can still enjoy the Maldives’ famous serene stretches of silk-like sand and refreshing turquoise waters without breaking the bank. What’s even better? It’s peaceful and quiet, and there aren’t many people there, but it’s gaining international attention, so go while it’s still a hidden gem!
Umluj, located 150 kilometers north of Yanbu, is a paradise for nature lovers all over the world. It’s no surprise that it’s been dubbed the “Maldives” of Saudi Arabia, given its clear waters, white sand, and lack of crowds. Hire a boat and explore some of the breathtaking coral reefs and fascinating underwater species while in Umluj, if you’re looking for some action. During your visit to the island, you can also visit stunning mountain ranges, nature reserves, and volcanic formations. Let’s explore Umluj with this blog.
WEATHER OF UMLUJ, SAUDI ARABIA
‘Umluj’ is a good place to visit at any time of year because it is always quiet, peaceful, and underutilized. However, if you visit between January and June, you will feel the most relaxed. Rainfall occurs only twice a year, in April and late autumn. So, in an arid climate, there is plenty of sunshine all year, very little rain, and the Red Sea helps to keep the dry heat at bay. Temperatures drop at night, and evenings are generally pleasant.
THINGS TO DO IN UMLUJ, SAUDI ARABIA
There are so many activities available for the visitors to make your holiday memorable and some of them are listed below-
Beach Activities- With 104 small islands to explore, Umluj offers a plethora of beach and water activities. From Smooth sands, swaying palms, to a tranquil atmosphere make the beaches are ideal for a relaxing stroll or reading a book. Because the area is less well-known than other Red Sea tourism destinations, there will be plenty of space for picnics or beach games like volleyball. Gather your friends and family for a beach barbecue under the stars later in the evening. Don’t miss the beaches of Umluj, as if you will do that you are definitely going to regret it.
Also Read, Farasan Islands: The Hidden Gem of Saudi Arabia
Explore the Sea Life- Umluj is an excellent diving and snorkeling location due to its warm and clear waters. Here you can find an abundance of flora and fauna such as colorful coral reefs, green and Hawksbill sea turtles, nudibranchs, dugongs, dolphins, and over 1,200 species of fish, and more than 300 coral species – four times the number of corals found in the Caribbean! You can explore hidden caves and marvel at the surrounding volcanoes if you rent a boat. Do explore the sea life of Umluj, as it will definitely fascinate you!
Bird Watching- Bird watching is something that can give you a perfect delight in Umluj. Along the Umluj coast, you’ll see kingfishers, cranes, white-tailed lapwings, and many other species. These migratory birds fly only to nest near beaches and feed on the local sea life.
Discover other islands- Visit Umluj’s neighboring islands, such as Jabal Hassan, in about an hour by boat. Jabal Hassan is named after the mountain, which rises 200 meters above sea level and stretches for 7.3 kilometers in all directions. This island was once an ancient passageway for ships traveling between Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt, with beautiful beaches, fishing spots, and coral reefs. On land, you can travel from Umluj to nearby mango farms for fresh local fruits. A short distance away is Harrat Lunayyir, a black lava field with craters and 50 volcanic cones that are ideal for those looking for off-the-beaten-path sights.
Get a glimpse of the Local History of Umluj- Visit the restored Umluj Castle for a rare look into Saudi Arabia’s ancient history (Tabuk Castle). The castle was built around 3500 BCE and has been restored several times. The Tabuk province is ideal for history buffs, as it is rich in archaeological sites, such as palaces, forts, and petroglyphs, as well as antiquities. Hundreds of historical rock art and inscriptions from various periods, including the Paleolithic and Islamic periods, can be found here.
So, when are you planning to have your memorable vacation in the Maldives of Saudi Arabia and fill your social media with stunning pictures of the destination?
