A surge in bookings points towards a Saudi winter travel boom, according to online marketplace Wego.
When temperatures dip, Saudi travellers opt to spend time in traditional winter destinations to enjoy cooler climates and the cultural and natural experiences these locales offer, said Wego.
Based on its analysis, Tabuk, Riyadh, Abha, and Al Ula are among the preferred destinations for Saudis seeking winter escapades. These places often see an uptick in interest during the colder months.
Saudi winter travel trends
According to the recent launch of Saudi Tourism Authority’s Winter events calendar, 2024-2025 is set to revitalise the nation’s tourism sector.
With more than 1,000 unique experiences and events, including major festivals and global events, the Kingdom aims to attract visitors from around the world. This is expected to boost the hospitality industry, airlines, and local businesses, contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
Wego’s data indicates that seasonal events and festivals such as Riyadh Season and Winter at Tantora in Al Ula are key attractions that may contribute to the popularity of certain destinations. For instance, bookings to Al Ula for December – January trips last year nearly doubled compared to the April – May period.
Riyadh Season, the major cultural and entertainment event, has significantly boosted winter tourism in the capital city. In Riyadh, winter bookings on Wego last year were 18.39 per cent higher than those in the late spring, while year-round favourites Tabuk and Abha also experienced increased searches, up 5.31 per cent and 15.82 per cent respectively.
Mamoun Hmidan, Chief Business Officer at Wego, said: “With the winter season approaching, we anticipate a continued rise in travel to these top winter destinations. Our platform is ready to assist travellers in crafting the perfect winter getaway and discovering Saudi Arabia’s stunning landscapes.”
Further analysis reveals a preference for shorter trips, with the majority of travellers spending about one-to-three days at their destinations. Bookings are often made close to the travel date, highlighting a trend towards spontaneous travel planning.
Additionally, a significant 83 per cent of all bookings for these destinations were made via Wego’s mobile apps, further indicating an appetite for seamless travel planning and strong preference for the user-friendly experience offered by the platform.
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