Al Ula, Riyadh, Abha, and Tabuk, Wego Unveils Exciting Winter Travel Trends in Saudi Arabia for 2024-2025

Saturday, December 7, 2024

As the cooler months approach, Saudi travelers are setting their sights on some of the Kingdom’s most cherished destinations, drawn by the promise of mild temperatures and unique cultural experiences. Wego, the region’s leading travel app and the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), shares exclusive insights into the rising domestic travel trends in Saudi Arabia for winter 2024-2025.

Discovering Saudi Arabia’s Winter Travel Hotspots

Wego’s research highlights that regions like Tabuk, Riyadh, Abha, and Al Ula are top choices for Saudis planning winter getaways. These areas, known for their cooler climates and breathtaking landscapes, see a significant uptick in travel during the winter months, as locals seek to enjoy both relaxation and exploration.

Saudi Arabia’s diverse winter destinations offer more than just a break from the heat—they provide an opportunity to immerse in the Kingdom’s natural beauty, heritage, and vibrant cultural scene. From the ancient wonders of Al Ula to the lush mountains of Abha, the season promises something for every traveler.

Saudi Tourism Authority’s 2024-2025 Winter Events Lineup

With the launch of the Saudi Tourism Authority’s winter events calendar for 2024-2025, the Kingdom is set to amplify its appeal as a year-round tourist destination. Featuring over 1,000 events—ranging from world-class festivals to immersive cultural celebrations—the winter calendar is designed to attract global visitors and provide fresh experiences for domestic travelers. This ambitious lineup aims to fuel growth in the Kingdom’s tourism sector, benefiting airlines, local businesses, and hospitality providers while showcasing Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Seasonal Events Shaping Winter Travel Preferences

Wego’s data underscores the impact of seasonal events on winter travel decisions. Popular events such as Riyadh Season and Winter at Tantora in Al Ula continue to draw travelers from across Saudi Arabia and beyond. The effect of these festivals on tourism is undeniable—bookings to Al Ula in December and January last year nearly doubled compared to the less popular spring months, illustrating the influence of these major attractions.

Riyadh Season, one of the Kingdom’s largest and most celebrated cultural festivals, continues to serve as a major driver for winter tourism in the capital. Last year, Wego recorded an 18.39% increase in bookings for Riyadh during the winter, a significant jump from the spring season. Other winter favorites like Tabuk and Abha also saw notable growth, with searches up 5.31% and 15.82%, respectively, reinforcing the growing interest in these cooler destinations.

A Promising Winter for Saudi Tourism

As winter 2024-2025 approaches, Saudi Arabia is poised to experience a vibrant and bustling tourism season. With new events, a growing array of travel experiences, and the promise of cooler weather, the Kingdom is setting the stage for a successful winter season.

Travelers can expect an enriched travel experience with something for everyone—from the historic allure of Al Ula to the modern excitement of Riyadh’s festivals and the natural beauty of Tabuk and Abha. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Saudi Arabia’s winter season offers a perfect escape.

As the Kingdom continues to evolve into a global tourism hub, the winter of 2024-2025 is shaping up to be a landmark season for Saudi Arabia, welcoming visitors from around the world to experience its wonders firsthand.

“With the winter season approaching, we anticipate a continued rise in travel to these top winter destinations,” said Mamoun Hmidan, Chief Business Officer at Wego. “Our platform is ready to assist travelers in crafting the perfect winter getaway and discovering Saudi Arabia’s stunning landscapes.”

Saudi Travelers’ Winter Booking Trends and Preferences

In-depth analysis of Saudi travelers’ winter booking habits reveals a clear preference for shorter trips, with most travelers opting to stay 1 to 3 days at their chosen destinations. Notably, many bookings are made closer to the departure date, pointing to a growing trend of spontaneous travel planning.

A striking 83% of all bookings for these destinations were made through Wego’s mobile apps, underscoring the demand for a seamless, user-friendly travel experience that the platform provides.

Wego’s data also indicates that travelers are particularly inclined to book stays at hotels and aparthotels, showcasing a strong preference for these accommodations during their winter holidays.