Saudi Arabia remains one of the top travel destinations in 2024
The Kingdom has more to offer than just its revered spiritual sites…
Yes, you read that headline right. According to Wego, the largest online travel marketplace and the number one travel app for flight bookings and searches in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) remains one of the top travel destinations in 2024.
A perennial favourite among MENA travellers, KSA has retained its #2 position as the top destination for international travel since Wego started tracking customer trends in 2014. Among the Middle East destinations, the top three – Egypt, KSA, and the UAE – have kept their places from 2023.
Wego users search for tens of millions of trips each quarter, and this flight and hotel data has been analysed to determine the relative destination rankings. The leaderboard announced for the destination trends covers the first four months of 2024.
Why Saudi Arabia?
Photo taken in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Since opening its doors to tourism in 2019, Saudi Arabia has remained mysterious to many. Its unexplored corners – from the vast desert landscapes and dramatic mountain peaks to cosmopolitan cities, serene coastlines, and incredible heritage treasures – are waiting to be discovered.
Offering more than just its revered spiritual sites, the Kingdom offers a plethora of unique cultural experiences and diverse attractions. Its enduring appeal, drawing in travellers in search of enriching experiences, is a testament to its allure. The country’s strategic location and rich heritage further enhance its status as a must-visit destination for international travellers. What’s more, ease of travel is at the forefront, with Saudi Arabia offering flexible visa schemes.
What’s On in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi is more than you think. Its cultural calendar is brimming with festivities, from the Riyadh Season’s city-wide celebrations to the heritage-rich Al Janadriyah Festival. These events not only offer a glimpse into the Saudi way of life but also a chance to engage with its vibrant entertainment and culinary scenes, which are rapidly growing.
Then, there’s its rich tapestry of history. Delve into a cultural heritage treasure trove with Saudi Arabia’s Unesco-listed marvels, such as the Al Ahsa Oasis and the ancient city of Hegra. Wander through the historic lanes of Al Balad in Jeddah, where the past and present blend seamlessly.
The allure of Saudi also extends beyond its historical narratives into the realms of unparalleled luxury and wilderness. For instance, AlUla, the world’s largest living museum, and The Red Sea are already set to become must-visit destinations on the global tourism map.
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Imagine the serene luxury of resorts like The St. Regis Red Sea and Six Senses Southern Dunes, where opulence meets beautiful natural touches that celebrate the local environment. Or embark on a desert escape, experiencing the otherworldly AlUla landscape, capped off with watching the sunset at Jabal AlFil (Elephant Rock).
That’s not all, though. Across the Kingdom, new developments are paving the way for incredible hotels, world-class leisure destinations and an unforgettable array of experiences. From Qiddiya to Neom, Saudi Arabia is creating a host of giga-projects and attractions as part of the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) Vision 2030, with plans to reach 100 million visits annually.
Moreover, with Saudi Arabia welcoming the world for World Expo 2030, prepare yourself for the exciting times that lie ahead.
Images: Unsplash