The UNWTO event will be attended by 180 participants worldwide. The two-day event will discuss crucial matters related to implementing the council’s decision and recommendations for supporting the tourism sector. According to the organizers, in the 116th session of Executive Council the council will meet on the first day of the event on June 7. The second day’s program includes a thematic session called Tourism Futures — New Governance and Advocacy.

The UNWTO states that the tourism sector has been highly resilient despite taking the hardest hit during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to available data, in some regions, the arrivals of international tourists are beginning to reach pre-pandemic levels and even exceeding those figures.
The council will debate the steps to sustain the potential drive in the industry in the post-pandemic era. In addition, it will explore the challenges and opportunities that govern global communication.

The two sessions

The thematic session will address these concerns through two different sessions.

The first session, called “Towards a New Tourism Governance: Lessons Learned for a Resilient Future,” will be attended by tourism ministers and high-level representatives of international organizations worldwide.

The second session, called “Raising Tourism’s Visibility,” will aim at enhancing the political and public recognition of the tourism sector. The discussions will be led by the ministers and prominent figures from online and broadcast media, marketing, and business. The session on the second day will initiate a debate on how to take the significant steps needed to put the tourism industry back on track. It will decide what the sector needs in the wake of the changed circumstances relating to governance, funding, and advocacy. UNWTO believes that the tourism sector is the driver of economic growth and is an indispensable pillar for growth and development.

Future of Tourism Survey

A recent survey by YouGov and commissioned by the Saudi Tourism Ministry revealed that travelers want the tourism sector to learn the lessons from the pandemic and make changes to deal with such situations more effectively. The survey also found Saudis were the most enthusiastic about taking either a holiday or business trip abroad. They want to shape their travel plans over the next six months. This is also a reflection of the strong performance of the Saudi economy. The Future of Tourism Survey explored the level of enthusiasm and expectations of consumers in 11 countries, including China, India, South Korea, Sweden, Spain, the US, the UK, Japan, Germany, Mexico, and of course, the host Saudi Arabia.

The survey revealed the following key points:

• Travelers wanted a significant change in the manner in which tourism is handled
• The sector is fast recovering from pandemic repercussions
• 55 percent of the respondents were likely to travel within their country
• 44 percent of respondents wanted better synchronization of health protocols and technology to make travel easy
• 34 percent of respondents wished for greater sustainability in the sector
• 33 percent called for better protection of finances for travelers
• 18 percent of respondents said they are very likely to travel internationally for business

The Saudi Tourism Minister, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, while expressing his views about the survey, said, “The Future of Tourism Survey shows that the public wants us to learn the lessons of the pandemic and to make changes that put health, sustainability, and the better use of technology, at the heart of future tourism”.

According to the survey, economic insecurity and rising costs are the critical reasons for declining enthusiasm for travel.

Current status of Saudi Arabia Tourism

Saudi Arabia has improved its performance by 10 points to rank 33rd in the Travel and Tourism Development Index. The World Economic Forum released this index.

“Saudi Arabia is a brand-new tourism destination. We opened our doors to international tourism just before the pandemic, and because of that, we are willing and able to think and act in new and different ways”, Al-Khateeb said. “By aligning vision, leadership, and resources, we have been able to create a new model for tourism which is more resilient and more sustainable by design”, the minister added.

Tourism will have a crucial role in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan for economic diversification. Consequently, the country will invest a whopping $200 billion in this sector. The spending will be on creating additional tourism facilities and job creation. Saudi Arabia also has ambitious plans to welcome over 100 million visitors to the country by 2030. The goal is to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP by 10 percent. Therefore, the 116th session of Executive Council will be essential to tourism industry in the kingdom and worldwide.

Suggested Read: Saudi Arabia Tourism 2022: Top Cities, Itinerary, Do’s and Don’ts

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9 Beautiful places to visit in Saudi Arabia

1. Empty Quarters, Near Riyadh

The Empty Quarters or the Rubʿ al Khali, is the largest uninterrupted sand desert in the world, covering 650,000 square meters with its fringes spilling into Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Yemen. The desert is among the aridest places on Earth. It receives less than 3 cm of rainfall annually in some parts and zeroes in other areas. The dunes have a reddish-orange hue making them highly photographic. The Empty Quarter is made up of five distinct types of dunes, offering an excellent opportunity to take part in the desert adventure.

Top attractions/activities: Desert camping is the top attraction where one can camp among the dunes and enjoy a fantastic view of the clear skies at night. The Empty Quarter is also the perfect place to test driving skills and learn how to sandboard and sand ski.

Best time to visit: The desert remains extremely hot during the summers. Hence, the best time to visit the Empty Quarter is November to February. The weather is the coolest during this time, with a pleasant breeze flowing across the vast expanse.

Suggested Read: Saudi Arabian Deserts: For An Unusual Adventure In The Arid Dunes

2. Al Souda, Abha

The Al Soudah is among the top incredible places to visit in Saudi Arabia. It is a breathtaking mountain area situated at an elevation of 3,000 meters in the Asir region. The Al Soudah mesmerizes with its majestic mountain draped in juniper trees. The place’s natural beauty is overwhelming and nothing short of a paradise for those who love nature. The soothing weather is a welcome change from the arid climate of other parts of the country.

Top attractions/activities: Tourists can visit the Rijal Almaa village, which has served as a resting place for pilgrims traveling to Makkah and Madinah. The village also has many ancient forts and museums. The Asir National Park is another key attraction. It’s a huge park that stretches all the way to the Red Sea coast. One can indulge in adventure-filled activities such as riding a cable car from steep mountain slopes. There are several hiking trails that can be explored.

How to reach: One can conveniently reach Al Soudah from Abha International Airport, located less than 50 km.

Best time to visit: From November to February, the winter months are the best months to visit Al Soudah in terms of climatic convenience and see the stunning sights of the snow-capped mountain. Many tourists visit the mountain in August to enjoy the Flowerman Festival celebrations.

3. Wadi Al Disah, Tabuk

Wadi Al Disah is a beautiful mountainous valley in the northwestern area of Saudi Arabia of Tabuk province. It translates as ‘The valley of palm trees,’ and it’s aptly named because the valley floor presents a delightful piece of nature. The massive sandstone cliffs and pillars further add to the beauty of the place. Tourists come here to explore and experience this marvel of nature. Wadi Al Disah is characterized by gigantic mountain forms, rocky columns, and freshwater springs.

Top attractions/activities: Wadi Al Disah is the perfect place in Saudi Arabia to get away from the crowd and have a nice time relaxing in the calm and soothing nature. One can indulge in hiking or join the locals in picnicking at the valley entrance while enjoying the locally flavored tea.

How to reach: Wadi Al Disah (main entrance) is about 260 km from the city of Tabuk. A drive from Tabuk to Wadi Al Disah can take around two hours. Tabuk is accessible from anywhere in Saudi Arabia, but it’s better to take a flight to Tabuk.

Best time to visit: Winter is the best time to visit Wadi Al Disah, as the climate is cool. Further, the area has a majestic charm to its beautiful environment in winter.

4. Wadi Lajab, Jizan

Wadi Lajab is a famous valley in Jizan, Saudi Arabia. Located between two high mountains, it is a canyon that is 30 km wide and 5 km long. Wadi Lajab is called ‘Heaven in the Desert’ because of the fantastic beauty of the place. The sides are steep and covered in thick moss, making it appear like an incredible hanging garden. The valley has a constant supply of fresh water.

Top attractions/activities: Wadi Lajab is one of the top places for hiking and trekking. It is also a site approved for rock climbing by the Jizan Tourism Development Council.

How to reach: Wadi Lajab is located some 125 km from Jizan. It takes around two hours to reach Wadi Lajab from Jizan by road. To get to the valley, one must hire a 4X4 vehicle to navigate the rugged terrain and the rough trails of the place.

Best time to visit: From November to March, the winter months are the best time to visit the Wadi Lajab. The weather remains pleasant, making it convenient for one to explore the region without suffering the summer heat and associated inconveniences.

5. Wadi Hanifa, Riyadh

Wadi Hanifa is a classic example of how human efforts can dramatically transform the surroundings. Hanifa Valley, a waste disposal site, is now a picture of natural abundance as the beautiful valley stretches across 120 km from northwest to southwest of the Saudi capital. It is now the largest natural reserve in Saudi Arabia. Migratory birds visit this wetland during winter. It is also one of the most popular recreational spots in the country. People love to camp in Wadi Hanifa among the mountains and the lakes.

Top attractions/activities: Hanifa Valley is a global destination for bikers and cyclists. Amateur botanists can have a wonderful time exploring the various trees, shrubs, and flowers that abound the place.

How to reach: Tourists can reach Hanifa from Riyadh, as it is located in the Najd region of Riyadh Province. It runs for around 120 km from northwest to southeast in Najd.

Best time to visit: One can visit Hanifa Valley at any time of the year, but the winter season is the best time to explore the region.

6. Jabal Abayad, Madinah

Jabal Abayad is the tallest volcano in Saudi Arabia. It is also famous as the White Mountain due to the presence of a unique white ash coating. Jabal Abayad is located in Harrat Khyber in the Madinah region of Saudi Arabia. It stands tall at 2093 meters. A satellite image of Harrat Khyber shows marked similarity to the Moon’s cratered surface because of the Jabal Abayad volcanic debris.

Top attractions/activities: Visitors can witness the stunning evidence of the assault caused by the molten fury in the two large lava flows. Jabal Abayad is located within a short driving distance from Madinah. The most recent recorded eruption is about 80 miles north of Harrat Khaybar. To the East of Madinah, one will find the most extensive lava field in the country. It stretches 180 km in the south towards the Jeddah suburbs.

How to Reach: Jabal Abayad is easily accessible from Jeddah or Madinah. One can take a flight to Tabuk and reach Jabal Abayad by road.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year is good to visit Jabal Abayad, but winters are the best as the climate is conducive for traveling.

7. Al Ahsa oasis, Al Ahsa

The Al Ahsa Oasis is one of the most incredible places to visit in Saudi Arabia and is known for its shady palms and clear springs. The oasis offers a picturesque view of the area’s amazing greenery combined with the sand-toned hamlets. Al Ahsa is also famous for its historical sites, artesian springs, canals, and wells. It is a historic port city famous for its home-grown varieties of dates and the red-grained Hesawi rice.

Top attractions/activities: Tourists can also explore the rock-hewn caves or climb the famous Al Qarah Mountain. The more adventurous can join the locals in drifting down the dunes in a hired SUV. Evening times are best for visiting the busy Souq Al Qaisariy and shopping with street hawkers for local products.

How to reach: The Al Ahsa Oasis is located 60 km from the Persian Gulf coast. One can travel to the oasis from Al Ahsa International Airport. Train services from Riyadh and Dammam are also available.

Best time to visit: December to February are the best months to visit the Al Ahsa oasis. The weather is cool and pleasant during this time of the year.

8. Farasan Islands, Jizan

The Farasan Islands, located in the Red Sea, are famous for their marine biodiversity. The Farasan Island Marine Sanctuary has been developed to protect this valuable biodiversity. This beautiful tourist location comprises around 80 islands, but one can visit only three of them. The islands, which are now a protected area, are rich in pristine coral reefs and are home to many species of rare birds. The islands serve the needs of tourists through a string of luxury hotels and on-site restaurants.

Top attractions/activities: Some of the top attractions of the Farasan Islands include the Najdi Palace and Century Beach. The palace is known for its unique architecture from the ancient era; whereas, The beach has blue, clear water and is an unspoiled area with many marine plants. One can go swimming or soak in the sun on the beach benches. The Luqman Castle is a major tourist attraction and offers a great view of the places around. The Ghadeer Bay has a rich and diverse marine biology environment.

How to reach: The Farasan Islands are located some 50 km from Jizan. There are ferries available for transportation between the city and the islands. The ferries can accommodate hundreds of people as well as automobiles. There are two trips conducted between Jizan and Farasan daily.

Best time to visit: The winter months are best to visit the Farasan Islands, from November to February. Winter temperatures are cool and pleasant, making it comfortable for tourists to explore the various places on the islands.

9. NEOM, Tabuk

NEOM is a New Enterprise Operating Model from Saudi Arabia, which indicates a new future. It is a futuristic city that will incorporate the nation’s emerging technologies and sustainability goals. NEOM will be established in an area encompassing 26,500 square kilometers and will run along the Red Sea coast for 460 km in the Tabuk province. Among other things, NEOM will also be a self-sufficient residential place that will run entirely on renewable energy.

Top attractions/activities: NEOM will house a million residents and will also have the largest floating industrial complex in the world, named Oxagon. Trojena, the symbol of engineering innovation and architectural marvel, is where all the adventure activities will take place. It will have a ski slope, water sports, and mountain biking. Another major attraction is NEOM Lake, an artificial water body created against a beautiful mountain backdrop.

How to reach: Tourists can visit NEOM from Tabuk, which is the nearest airport. It’s a three-hour drive to NEOM from Tabuk. It will take around six hours from the Sharm el-Sheikh airport and 10 hours from the Hurghada airport.

Best time to visit: As in other places in Saudi Arabia, the winter season is the best time to visit NEOM and explore the various features and facilities.

Saudi Arabia has come a long way from allowing only business visitors and religious tourists. The Kingdom has transformed dramatically over the past few years and is now one of the world’s most desirable and exciting tourist destinations. Most of the incredible places to visit in Saudi Arabia are blessed with an abundance of nature, exotic landscapes, historical places, and welcoming people.

Suggested Read: Mountains In Saudi Arabia Are Home To Historical Peaks And Charming Vistas

Incredible Places To Visit In Saudi Arabia FAQs

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The Saudi National Air Connectivity Program sponsored the signing, which aims to investigate airline industry expansion potential in Saudi Arabia. The program is in line with the country’s broad and aspirational objective to quadruple passenger traffic by 2030.

Newly formed alliance

Saudi Arabia is a major religious destination that yearly draws millions of pilgrims to the two sacred places of Makkah and Madinah for the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. It has lately begun to promote leisure travel to diversify the economy besides religious tourism and oil.

Saudi Arabia expects to attract more than 70 million tourists this year, up from 62 million last year. Visits climbed by 130 percent on average this year compared to the first quarter of last year. The Kingdom expects to open doors to additional tourism-focused initiatives in the coming years. The Red Sea project, for example, is a high-end redevelopment that will include resorts on beaches and inland.

These initiatives would necessitate passenger demand, where Wizz Air’s newly formed alliance comes in. According to Wizz Air, these two companies will collaborate on possible investment and operational strategies to profit and serve the Saudi Arabian aircraft ecosystem. It will help to grow tourism and increase connectivity. The MoU underlines the parties’ shared view of the immense traffic possibilities the Budapest-based airline can offer to the Kingdom to drive new demand, which adds considerably to Saudi Arabia’s projected expansion.

Market competition

Wizz Air has increased its influence in the aviation business as the world’s fastest-growing low-cost airline. Wizz Air has already been operating to destinations outside of Europe, including Turkey, Morocco, and Israel.

Furthermore, Wizz Air is no stranger to the Middle East, as it operates Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, a joint venture with holding firm ADQ in the United Arab Emirates. This carrier plans to expand its fleet to eight airbus aircraft by October. However, the Middle Eastern aviation business is still challenging to break into. Wizz Air would compete with the operations of the leading three Gulf carriers, Etihad, Emirate, and Qatar, which all offer intercontinental flight services to multiple locations in the KSA. The Kingdom’s official carrier Saudia is also a major competition.

Wizz Air would be competing with flynas, which conducts over 1,500 flights daily to 35 destinations worldwide, including over 30 aircraft. Similarly, according to Bander Al Mohanna, chief executive and senior director of flynas, the airline wants to make a substantial contribution to Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry:

“From our vantage point as a Saudi airline, we see tremendous growth potential, aided by the Kingdom’s strategic location and the opportunity presented by Saudi Vision 2030 for the air transportation sector. flynas will test new aircraft with diverse capacities, fly to new areas, help tourism, and assist in transporting pilgrims and Umrah performers, all while increasing the world’s link to the kingdom .”

The future

Wizz Air’s great track history for security and overall growth suggests that the low-cost carrier will have little trouble breaking into the Middle Eastern industry. Given the dominance of flynas and other low-cost airlines like flyadeal, sustaining and developing might be a different challenge entirely.

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Saudi 2030 Vision focuses on diverging sources of economic growth for the country. The traditional sources of religious tourism and oil dependency need to undergo a significant change. This change has been proposed in the ‘Red Sea Project’. According to this project, economic development will usher in the Kingdom through investment in non-oil sectors such as tourism, entertainment, education, and health. Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman al-Saud believes that Saudi can reach its zenith by prioritizing the tourism sector. Special special attention should be on non-religious tourism and not just on pilgrims going to Makkah and Madinah.

The new plan

The country has bagged the world-famous Lionel Messi as brand ambassador to boost tourism in Saudi Arabia. The country has really been working hard to make its boundaries more accessible to an international audience. The Riyadh Season, an entertainment festival, was launched in 2019 as a way to reinforce Saudi Vision 2030. The opening ceremony of last year’s Riyadh Season witnessed big names such as the famous wrestler, The Undertaker, and the American rap star, Pitbull. More than 7,00,000 people attended the festival. The festival is said to play a massive role in making the country a global tourist spot in the coming years.

Jeddah, the gateway to the Two Holy Mosques and the Red Sea, has also become the new hub of international activities. The city was recently flooded with tourists who came to attend the Red Sea International Film Festival and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The Formula 1 races were held for the first time in Saudi Arabia, which received a lot of global attention. Football events of international scale, like the Spanish Super Cup and the Italian Super Cup, were also pulled off smoothly by the country.

Fortifying tourism

The country was busy promoting and conducting many events during the pandemic years to accelerate the slow economic progress. At present, the country has almost reached its pre-pandemic economic growth. An elaborate tourism policy is being brewed to make Saudi Arabia stand out in the Middle Eastern region. As per the plans, a new national airline is going to work parallelly with the former national airline, Saudia. Both these airlines will focus on increasing the transit traffic that is coming to the country. Jeddah and Riyadh will be the two bases, where Jeddah will focus on religious tourism and Riyadh will focus on non-religious tourism.

Plans have also been made to increase Umrah pilgrims and include more and more guides specializing in different languages to overcome the linguistic barrier that exists. The tourism-friendly approach will also include the introduction of hi-tech technology that will increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the tourism sector. With an elaborate tourism plan, the country aims at generating more jobs in this sector and attracting substantial foreign investments.

Saudi Arabia has to push its boundaries if it wants to outdo its main competitions in tourism. With privatization, increased employment, and more foreign direct investments, Saudi Arabia’s vision to transform into a global tourism economy does not seem impossible. However, only time can tell how things will unfold for the country.

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The ‘Vision 2030’ of Saudi Arabia aims to diversify the country’s economic growth by lessening the dependency on oil resources while boosting other sectors such as tourism, infrastructure, and education. As per this vision, instead of removing the current airline, Saudia, and introducing a new airline, the Gulf country decided to implement a ‘dual-hub’ strategy.

Dual hub strategy

The ‘dual-hub’ strategy has been implemented to create two logistic hubs in the country. One is Jeddah, the gateway to the holiest cities of Islam. And second is Riyadh, the commercial and administrative capital of Saudi. These national airlines will function in parity so that new carriers can reach the maximum capacity of airports. At present, Saudi Arabia witnesses around 100 million passengers, which it wants to boost to at least 300 million in the coming years. Through two national airlines, the number of destinations covered by flights at present will also increase from around 100 to 250. With this new airline, transit traffic is also supposed to grow three times more than before. The main target is set on the arrivals coming to the country, which has the capacity to increase Saudi’s air traffic in the whole Middle Eastern region, making it to be one of world’s biggest aviation hubs.

Although diversification of economic growth has been suggested, the focus on religious tourism still remains one of the priorities. Jeddah’s base will prioritize the maximum traffic of the pilgrims to Makkah and Madinah, and Riyadh will cover other non-religious economic flights. That way, Saudia, the only national airline of Saudi Arabia at present, will function more efficiently and effectively. The previous years’ performance of the airline has not been very optimistic and, therefore, these measures are thought to be extremely important and necessary at the moment.

The pandemic years have not been very fruitful for economies all around the world, and Saudi is no exception. The country is successfully going back to the high economic growth rates of pre-pandemic years, but the road to success is not easy. The country believes that investing in the tourism sector can be profitable and yield exponential growth. The new nameless airline is being funded by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which is a sovereign investment fund owned by the state.

Does a new airline mean new competition

The plan is to introduce the new airline with five-star carriers, and this only means more competition with international airlines. According to Gulf News, the new airlines will be competing head-to-head with regional aerospace giants such as Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar Airways.

The low-cost airlines, namely Flyadeal and Flynas, will not be much affected as they are not the direct competition of the new airline. While talking about the latest emerging competition, the officials cleared out that no plans for acquisitions or consolidations of these low-cost carriers are on the table for the future.

The anonymous airline

As pointed out earlier, the carrier is unnamed as of now. The Public Investment Fund will work out the decisions pertaining to the name, operationalization, and other details. Everything related to the new airline is under its jurisdiction. And, since naming the airline is related to brand identity, the big reveal can take time.

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The Arabian Travel Market exhibition drew 1500 exhibitors, 158 destination representatives, and 30,000 participants this year. The discussion centered on future global tourism investment and financing solutions. With the focus turning from post-pandemic recovery to future potential, ATM 2022 was 85 percent larger than the previous year.

The Arabian Travel Market’s Exhibition Director, Danielle Curtis said:

“Over the previous 12 months, we’ve been pushing hard to collect momentum and focus on the prospective trajectories, the future growth”.

The participants

With the yearly attendance of European nations such as Greece and Germany to first-time participants such as Jamaica, the event showcases countries aiming to appeal to new tourist markets. According to Daniel Rosado Bayon, the Spain Tourism Office director, it is an excellent platform to encourage national tourism in an international market.
“We offer wonderful experiences that can be had all year, not just during the summer, but all year and around the country. From beaches to ski slopes, we offer a wide range of activities. We might also remark that Spain is a world within a country”. According to the International Air Transport Association, overall traveler numbers are expected to approach pre-pandemic levels by 2024, which is good news for exhibitors.

J.Lindeberg, a Scandinavian clothing-forward athletics company, has launched a flagship store in Dubai Mall. Hans Christian Meyer, the company’s CEO, is a design industry veteran who previously worked at Ralph Lauren and as the CEO of Tiger of Swedish prior to joining J.Lindeberg.

According to him, Dubai was the first option for their worldwide flagship shop because of its high foot traffic and visitor numbers.
“We feel that now is the best moment to continue investing in the brand.” Pre-pandemic, the Dubai Mall had 90 million visits, and we’re seeing that it’s rebounding, with 98 percent of those travelers visiting the mall”.

In 2021, J.Lindeberg’s revenues surpassed €86 million. According to CEO Hans-Christian Meyer, part of the success comes from developing brand desirability.

Arabian Travel Market

“Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism is pleased to be a part of this important event on the global tourism calendar, and we look forward to discussing and exploring opportunities for long-term growth”, said Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism).

“Dubai has never looked back since returning to the world market in July 2020. Year after year, we’ve built on this momentum, resulting in a highly successful Expo 2020 Dubai”.

“ATM 2022 will see a varied spectrum of industry professionals take to the stage, delivering authoritative views on trends, problems, and opportunities throughout our sector”, stated Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME – Arabian Travel Market.

One of the hot topics at ATM is how the variety of activities, trips, and attractions available rapidly influences people’s vacation choices and the convenience of travel.

“Our main markets are Germany and the United Kingdom, but we’re also seeing growth from the Czech Republic, Poland, and other countries that can go directly to the Emirates,” says Raki Phillips, CEO of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).

The ATM proved to a great success for travel industry in the Middle East, consisting of countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan and more.

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Why visit Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is an incredible country. It is best known for being home to two of the most sacred cities in Islam, Makkah and Madinah. Millions of pilgrims visit KSA to perform the obligatory Hajj and non-obligatory yet highly rewarding pilgrimage of Umrah. They are also the major contributors to the Saudi Arabia tourism. The Kingdom is heavily investing in its infrastructure and tourism industry to give a memorable experience to all the tourists visiting the country. The cities in Saudi are well connected and traveling around the country is greatly convenient.

Top tourist destinations in Saudi Arabia

The most well-known destinations in Saudi are the two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Madinah. The country is full of historical sites that are of prime importance in Islam. But besides them, there are numerous remarkable places to visit in Saudi Arabia.  It is a mix bag of adventures ranging from ancient mosques and serene villages to bustling cities and magnificent architectural wonders. Some top Saudi natural destinations include Jebel Fihrayn, Al Souda mountains, Al Nafud Desert, Elephant Rock and wadi Al Disah. It has numerous heritage sites such as Rijal Almaa, Hima Cultural Arena, and Diriyah. The beautiful beaches of Saudi are a pleasant surprise for those who thought this gulf nation is just desert and arid mountains. Saudi Arabia is home to stunning beaches including Al Nakheel Beach, Umluj Beach, Indigo Beach, Al Fanateer Beach, etc.

Popular things to do in Saudi Arabia

Tourists visiting Saudi Arabia can look forward to many exciting activities, from thrill of scuba diving to quad biking in the dunes. Scuba and snorkeling can be done at any of the incredible diving sites near Jeddah. One can also go on a desert safari and enjoy dune surfing across the expansive sands of the Arabian Desert. In addition, tourists can participate in an unforgettable camping trip to the gorgeous reserve called Rawdat Tinhat.

Saudi Tourism: Key Information

Best time for Saudi Arabia tourism

The best time to visit Saudi Arabia are spring, autumn and winters. Spring lasts from mid-March to mid-June. During these months, the temperatures can drop below 15°C in the north and 20°C in the south and central region. While summers are long and hot; hence, tourism narrows down during June till September. The tourists activities during summers include water sports, hiking and camping. Saudi Arabia experiences autumn in October and November which is also a good month for tourism just like springs. Winters last from December to mid-March, offering varied winter tourism activities. Snowfall is rare but there are some cities that witness beautiful snowy winters.

Ideal trip duration

Saudi Arabia is a massive country with so much to see and do. Therefore, it is highly advisable to plan a long trip to fully explore all the delights it has to offer. Ideally, a trip to Saudi Arabia should be 15-20 days long.

International airports in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s tourism is enhanced by its numerous international, domestic, and regional airports. The country is home to four international airports, including:

1. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh
2. King Fahd International Airport in Dammam
3. King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah
4. Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah

Intercity connectivity

Internally, different regions and cities in Saudi Arabia are conveniently linked to each other via regular flights, trains, and buses. In addition to the four international airports, it also has nine regional and fourteen domestic airports. Furthermore, it has three major railway lines: Riyadh-Dammam Line, The North Train, and Haramain Railway. These railway lines effectively connect various cities in the Kingdom. Moreover, the Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO) runs a comprehensive network of buses across the country, linking all its major cities, towns, and villages.

Saudi Arabia travel itinerary: Top KSA Cities

The country’s marvelous cities are significant highlights of Saudi Arabia’s tourism. Some of the best destinations you should certainly add to your Saudi Arabia travel itinerary include:

1. Makkah and Madinah – The holy cities of Saudi Arabia

The trip to Saudi Arabia cannot be completed without a visit to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Known for holding immense religious significance amongst Muslims, these two sacred cities serve as the destination for the holy Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. Makkah and Madinah are known for their essential history and cultural heritage. The cities have many religious sites and other tourist attractions, which draw in millions of visitors throughout the year.

Popular attractions in Makkah, Madinah:

• Seek blessings at Al Haram Masjid and Masjid-Al-Nabawi.
• Admire the incredible marine-life exhibition at Fakieh Aquarium.
• Check out the striking architecture of Makkah Royal Clock Tower.
• Explore the history at Medina Media Museum.
• Spend a fun day at Al Hokair Luna Park.
• Pay a visit to Masjid-Al-Qiblatayan and Quba Mosque.

Must Read: Top 10 Places To Visit With Family In Makkah And Madinah

2. Riyadh – The dynamic capital

Serving as the country’s capital city and central financial hub, Riyadh forms a significant part of Saudi Arabia’s tourism. This city features a charming combination of the old and the new with a storied past, rich cultural heritage, and an urban landscape. Home to bustling markets, fascinating museums, and spectacular architecture, Riyadh is a paradise for travelers from all walks of life. The city attracts tourists all year round owing to its dynamic lifestyle and wealth of tourist attractions.

Popular attractions in Riyadh:

• Explore Saudi Arabia’s history at Diriyah.
• Understand the history of the ancient Al Masmak Fortress.
• Check out the extensive collection of antiquities at the Saudi National Museum.
• Go on a shopping spree at the vibrant Souk Al Zal.
• Attend a show at the famous King Fahd International Stadium.

3. Jeddah – A vibrant cultural hub

Counted amongst the country’s major cosmopolitan hubs, Jeddah plays a vital role in Saudi Arabia’s tourism. The beautiful city has many pristine reefs, gorgeous beaches, ancient ports, and offer mouth-watering seafood and breathtaking views of the vast Red Sea. Despite being home to glamorous malls, towering skyscrapers, and luxurious resorts, the city of Jeddah effectively preserves its historical past.

Popular attractions in Jeddah:

• Explore Jeddah’s historical center Al Balad, which is listed amongst the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Discover the swimming bays, piers, and restaurants lining the gorgeous Jeddah Corniche.
• Dive deep into the history of fishing tribes at Tayebat City Museum.
• Witness King Fahd’s Fountain, known for being the world’s tallest fountain.
• Pay respect at the striking Al Rahma Mosque.

4. Abha – The heart of the Asir region

Serving as the capital of the beautiful Asir region, Abha is a culturally rich city situated at the Red Sea coast’s southern end. Surrounded by the country’s mountainous areas, this lovely city has a plethora of attractions ranging from architectural gems and natural wonders to bustling markets and historic neighborhoods. In addition, the city is an excellent destination for history lovers with its age-old traditions and lively culture.

Popular attractions in Abha:

• Admire the spectacular architecture of Rijal Almaa.
• Enjoy an exciting cable car ride between the towering mountains.
• Go trekking across one of the many hiking trails in Soudah.
• Take in the mesmerizing views at Jabal Thera.
• Witness the grandeur and magnificence of Shada Palace.
• Delve deep into the area’s history at the ancient Al Muftaha Village.

5. Tabuk – A historical gem

Featuring vibrant culture, notable heritage, and storied history, Tabuk is the capital city of the Tabuk region, which lies in northwestern Saudi Arabia. For many decades, it has served as a resting point for Egyptian and Jordanian pilgrims. The city is home to gorgeous beaches and idyllic coastal towns, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers. Also, it is a perfect place for history and adventure enthusiasts.

Popular attractions in Tabuk:

• Learn more about the city’s history at Tabuk Castle.
• Enjoy awe-striking views of the sunset at the stunning Al Disah Valley.
• Explore Maghaer Shuaib to discover the ancient tombs built into sandstone rocks.
• Shop for the famous goat-hair tent covers and patterned rugs at Souq Twaheen.
• Spend a day at the beautiful Haql and Sharma beaches.

Saudi Arabia Travel Requirements

Saudi Arabia tourism is open to tourists from anywhere in the world. Therefore, anyone who wishes to explore the country can plan a trip. The only condition is to meet all the Saudi Arabia entry requirements. The first and foremost of Saudi entry requirement is to obtain a visa. Tourists can apply for a multiple-entry visa, which remains valid for a year and allows them to stay in Saudi for a maximum of 90 days. This type of visa is only granted to those looking to visit the country for tourism-related activities or Umrah. Tourists belonging to 49 eligible countries can easily apply for the visa online. While those from the rest of the world can obtain their visas through Saudi embassies and consulates.

Do’s and don’ts for tourists visiting Saudi Arabia

Here are some important tips to keep in mind during the trip to Saudi Arabia:

• Foul language and loud behavior is a disrespectful act. Therefore, it is advisable to maintain respectful public decorum.
• Keep the prayer timings in mind as certain shops remain closed during those periods, especially during Ramadan.
• The consumption, purchase, or sale of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited in the country.
• Make sure to follow the dress code of individual establishments.
• While visiting a place of worship, take care to dress modestly.

Saudi Arabia is a great place to plan a trip to visit one of the holiest places on Earth and explore beautiful destinations. Saudi Arabia tourism has grown leaps and bounds due to the country’s amiable cities, picturesque landscapes, rich culture, and new tourism policies. Tourists can visit Saudi Arabia and experience the incredible tourist destinations in the Kingdom.

Suggested Read: 10 Largest Cities In Saudi Arabia That Are Totally Worth A Visit

Saudi Arabia Tourism FAQs

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Beautiful Yet Underrated Destinations, KSA

1. Hail – Hub of history & culture

The city is home to legends like Arabian Nights and Hatim Al Tai. It formerly served as the capital of the whole Arabian desert and is currently the capital of the north-central region of the Kingdom. In the past, Hail developed into an important commercial center due to ample rainwater draining from the nearby mountains and its presence on caravan trade routes. Today, Hail is famous for its beautiful tourist spots and hosting international desert events like Hail International Rally. The city is one spot to experience the history and culture of Saudi Arabia altogether.

Tourist attractions: While in Hail, tourists can explore Al Nafud desert, Aarif fort, Barzan castle, Al Qishlah castle, Hail souq, and Hail flea market.
Restaurants: Tourists can sit in Al Turathy Restaurant to enjoy the exquisite food of Saudi Arabia and glance at preserved artifacts. Families can have mouth-watering seafood at Al Marsaai Restaurants.
Hotels: Holiday Villa Hail and Luxury Millennium Hail Hotel provide a warming and comfortable stay for people visiting Hail city.
Best time to visit: As Hail experiences cold winters; therefore, the best time to visit the city is from March to November.
Nearest airport: Travelers can reach the city via Hail International Airport, which is located 10 km from the city center.

2. Unaizah – A lesser-known gem

North of Riyadh and the South of Buraydah, Unaizah is the second-largest city in Al Qassim province. It has immensely helped in spreading Islam and was the stopping spot for people traveling from Mesopotamia to Makkah and Madinah. The city has massive sand dunes to its west and north known as Al-Ghamis Sands. Another geographic marvel surrounding the town is Al-Ghadha Woods in the north. Unaizah is famous for its salt lake, Al-Aushaziayh (sabkha), and other hidden tourist spots present in and around the city.

Tourist attractions: The Unaizah tour is incomplete without the visit to Alghda Heritage village, Al Mooze mosque, Clock Square Onaizah, Lake Al Oushzih, and Al Bassam Heritage site.
Restaurants: The city offers many popular eateries, including Lokma Tamam, Fawal Qismat Alafrah, and Kyan Cafe.
Hotels: There are numerous staying options in the city furnished with modern amenities like Boudl Al Fakhria, Al Malfa Resort, Gulanar Hotel, and Aber Unayzah.
Best time to visit: The winters are semi-blustery and chilly, while the summers show low humidity and are relatively dry. The best time to visit Unaizah is late spring, as it is the time when a soothing environment blankets the city.
Nearest airport: The nearest airport to Unaizah is Gassim Airport ELQ which is only 46.3 km away.

3. Al Kharj – Blend of tradition, fun and frolic

Al Kharj is an essential governorate located southwest of Riyadh. It is home to many hidden tourist spots and is one of the most underrated destinations in Saudi Arabia. It lies 100 km south of Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. The old parts of the town still preserve the traditional palm and mud-brick houses. The city is a hotspot for various alluring parks and archaeological museums. It is one of the top choices in the country for people to settle however it is not much popular as a tourist destination.

Tourist attractions: The most popular tourist spot in Al Kharj is Ayun AlSeih, also known as Eyes of AlSeih. It is a combination of two holes filled with water made by meteors ages ago. Other attractive spots include Al Kharj Park Zoo, Al Kharj Water Tower, Al-Baijan Amusement Park, Jaw Mall, and King Salman Walkway.
Restaurants: Restaurants like Al Romansiah Restaurant, Awtar Cafe and Restaurant, Al Kanadeel Restaurant keep buzzing with people and tourists.
Hotels: Adwaa Rafa, Marahel Kharj Aparthotel 3, and Retaj Hotel Apartments offer next-level stays for tourists coming from various regions and countries of the world.
Best time to visit: As Al Kharj experiences pleasant weather in January, February, and December, tourists flood in to enjoy marvelous locations during these months.
Nearest airport: Riyadh RUH Airport, 110 km away, is the nearest airport to Al Kharj City.

Must Read: Top Places To Visit In Al Kharj: Ayun AlSeih, Al Kharj Zoo, Al-Baijan Park

4. Khyber – A lush green oasis

Enriched with a series of important events, Khyber has a great historical past. It is the place where the Battle of Khaybar was fought in 628 CE. Fort Khaybar is one of the primary highlights here. It is an oasis located around 153 km north of the holy city of Madinah. Due to ample wells and a complex yet effective irrigation system, Khyber is surrounded by uncountable palm trees. The lush greenery present today gives an idea about how the city must have looked like 2000 years ago when it had a constant freshwater source. The city is also known for its exquisite dates cultivation.

Tourist attractions: Khyber is a well-fortified city having forts like Al Saab, Al-Nizar, and Abi. There are around eight such fortifications in the region of Khyber.
Hotels: Thahmad Hotel Apartments is a welcoming and all amenities inclusive stay in Khyber.
Best time to visit: The city experiences a mix of every weather condition throughout the year. Therefore, tourists can visit the city at any time of the year and enjoy the peaceful tourist spots.
Nearest airport: Bisha Airport, which is 31 km is the closest airport to Khyber main city.

5. Tayma – Home to archaeological sites & museums

Situated on the northwest side of Saudi Arabia, Tayma is conveniently located at the point where the Nefud desert begins to cross the trade route between Dumah and Madinah. The oasis present in the region is the reason for Tayma’s progress and development. The archaeological excavations show that the city has been a settlement since the bronze age. The city has a rich historical past; therefore, numerous excavation sites are present in Tamya, showcasing the ancient culture of Saudi Arabia.

Tourist attractions: Bir Haddaj in Tayma is a famous well that was built centuries ago. It attracts tourists from Saudi Arabia and all around the world. Many archaeological sites and museums present in the Tayma depict the various historical arts and writings of the region.
Restaurants: Eateries like Al Aali Restaurant, Taima Restaurants, and several others offer excellent dining options for visitors.
Hotels: Tourists can stop by in luxurious hotels like Jawharat Al Amaken Hotel and Al Ula Alac Resort to enjoy a comfortable and lavish stay.
Best time to visit: January and February are the two major months of increased tourism in Tayma.
Nearest airport: The nearest airport to the Tayma region is Tabuk Airport which is approximately 200 km.

The locations mentioned above are just a glimpse of less explored tourism in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom offers much more than the handful of regions highlighted in this blog. If you have explorative shoes on, Saudi Arabia will never disappoint you in any sense. The kingdom hosts a number of oases, mountainous regions, beaches, historical sites, modern cities, and various other awe-capturing landscapes. The tours to Saudi Arabia are increasing at an unprecedented rate as no one wants to leave this magical Kingdom out of their list of must-visit countries.

Underrated Destinations In Saudi Arabia FAQs

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