In Saudi Arabia's northern region, about 550 mi/885 km north of Mecca, Sakakah is an excellent base for viewing area sights. South of town are the ancient standing stones of Rajajil. Just to the west, near the town of Al Jawf, you'll find the magnificent second-century-BC fortress Qasr Marid and the Mosque of Umar.
On the way back to Sakakah, stop at Al Qarah to see its museum, the mud fort and the pre-Islamic drawing of dancing girls. The Rijal al Hajafr ("men of stone") sculptures depicting Bedouin life are also in the area, but you'll need to hire a guide with a four-wheel-drive vehicle if you hope to see them.
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