Travel in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia investing in the future but remains reliant on religious tourism

Saudi Arabia is going through a period of transformation as part of its Saudi Vision 2030 plan, with the country’s travel and tourism industry being a key component of this plan. Religious tourism remains key with millions of pilgrims coming to visit the holy mosques in Mecca and Medina each year.

Saudi Arabia making it easier to shop online

The rapid evolution of smartphones and increased internet penetration has led to significant growth in the number of tech-savvy consumers in the Kingdom, most of whom belong to “generation Z”. With high levels of social media usage and comfort in using online platforms, these consumer groups prefer the convenience of using online booking platforms.

Hotels set for significant investment

With the government investing heavily in developing its tourism offer in the country large international chains such as Hilton, Marriott International and Accor are looking to increase their presence in Saud Arabia. Although a large share of these new hotels will be based around the cities of Mecca, Medina, Riyadh and Jeddah there is also investment being made in other areas.

Experimental ‘Saudi Seasons 2019’ initiative launched

The Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) launched its ‘Saudi Seasons 2019’ initiative in 2019. This trial launch is designed to use events and activities to highlight the cultural, historic, sport and entertainment offer for different regions in the country and thereby attract both domestic and foreign visitors.

Tourism seen as a pillar of the country’s Saudi Vision 2030 plan

Travel and tourism is seen as a key part of the country’s Saudi Vision 2030 plan and as such is receiving significant investment. This includes the building and expansion of airports, new holiday resorts, the expansion of the Holy Mosque in Mecca and accompanying investment in lodging to accommodate the increase in pilgrims.

Files are delivered directly into your account within a few minutes of purchase.