Category: Tourism

AlUla Dates Season captivates visitors with interactive culinary showcases, a bustling auction, and a vibrant farmers’ market, supporting local economy and heritage.

Saudi Ministry of Tourism urges operators to obtain licenses before running tourism facilities, announcing fines that double for repeat violations and a compliance campaign.

NCVC invites seasonal investment applications for national parks in Makkah, Al-Baha, and Hail, offering opportunities in camping, caravans, dining, sports, and paragliding.

Tickets for Riyadh Season’s Wonder Garden are now on sale via Webook. The magical garden-themed park opens Nov 7 with 10 new experiences and over 90 games.

SRSA and GEOSA release the first high-resolution nautical chart for Sindalah Island, enhancing marine safety and supporting Vision 2030 tourism goals.

Red Sea Global opens reservations for Shebara, a new luxury resort at The Red Sea, offering sustainable villas, world-class dining, and unique guest experiences from November 2024.

Saudi Ministry of Tourism reports 99% growth in licensed hospitality facilities and 107% growth in rooms by Q3 2024, advancing Vision 2030 tourism goals.

Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla from December 19 to January 11, offering music, heritage, and culinary experiences. Discover the full program and Vision 2030 alignment.

Saudi authorities report over 58 tons of Zamzam water distributed to Prophet’s Mosque visitors since 2024, with 3,348 tankers and 23,000 quality tests ensuring safety.

Saudi Arabia returns to World Travel Market London with 61 stakeholders, unveiling a new destination and showcasing record tourism growth ahead of Vision 2030 targets.

The AlUla Wellness Festival concluded after 17 days in the AlUla Oasis, drawing international visitors for wellness experiences, workshops and expert sessions.

Jazan Region prepares to launch tourism and entertainment festivals in November, including the Jazan Winter Festival, boosting Vision 2030 tourism goals.

Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb inaugurated the Saudi Land pavilion at the World Travel Market in London, showcasing Vision 2030 tourism achievements and the Red Sea Destination.

Qiddiya announces the launch of Play Qiddiya City DMMO, a new destination marketing organisation to promote Qiddiya City globally and support Vision 2030.

Umluj Governorate has readied its beaches and parks for the holiday break, with food inspections and maintenance ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for visitors.

Hail Region Development Authority participates in WTM London to promote Hail’s tourism, forge partnerships, and support Saudi Vision 2030 goals.

The Tourism Development Fund signs MoU with Dusit International to develop luxury hospitality projects in Saudi Arabia, advancing Vision 2030 tourism goals.

The Jeddah Historic District Program showcases Al-Balad’s UNESCO heritage and tourism experiences at World Travel Market 2024 in London, advancing Saudi Vision 2030.

The Air Connectivity Program participated in the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Asia in Hong Kong, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s aviation and tourism growth.

The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites participated in the World Travel Market in London, showcasing landmarks, hospitality services, and investment opportunities to global travel leaders.

The Saudi Red Sea Authority grants the first six licenses for tourist yacht agents, advancing coastal tourism and aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 goals.

Hail’s mountains, valleys, and dunes are transformed by fog and rain, captivating visitors as winter approaches. Discover how this aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 tourism goals.

Discover Haql Governorate in Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk Region: a coastal gem on the Gulf of Aqaba with pristine beaches, desert landscapes, and rich history.

Taif Governor submits accreditation portfolio to World Tourism Organization, joining 35 global sustainable tourism observatories in a milestone for Saudi Vision 2030.

AROYA Cruises, a PIF-owned subsidiary of Cruise Saudi, announces its inaugural three-night voyage from Jeddah Port on December 16, 2024, to a Red Sea island.

Saudi Tourism Development Fund signs eight financing agreements at Biban24 Forum to expand funding for tourism MSMEs across the Kingdom, supporting Vision 2030.

Jeddah prepares to host The Wonder District festival, a family event organized by the Jeddah Event Calendar, expecting over 7,000 daily visitors and boosting Vision 2030 goals.

The King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority launches the fourth annual Wadi Al-Salf Festival in Hail, celebrating heritage, nature, and sustainability.

Al Balad Development Company, a PIF-owned entity, announces plans for 1,800 hotel rooms, 9,000 residential units, and over 1 million sqm of retail and office space in Historic Jeddah.

Riyadh Season 2024 has attracted four million visitors in less than a month, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing status as a global entertainment destination.

The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites concludes its participation in World Travel Market 2024 in London, showcasing Makkah’s tourism and investment opportunities.

The Ancient Kingdoms Festival in AlUla runs until November 30, 2024, offering heritage tours, exhibitions, and cultural experiences that highlight Saudi Arabia’s rich history and Vision 2030.

The Saudi Tourism Authority launches SARA, an AI-powered smart guide for Saudi tourism, debuting at the World Travel Market in London to enhance visitor experiences.

Discover Harrat Lunayyir in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia: a vast volcanic lava field with ancient formations, coastal marshes, and Vision 2030 tourism potential.

TDF concludes successful participation at World Travel Market in London, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading global tourism hub and attracting foreign investment.

Saudi Air Connectivity Program Executive Director Majid Khan highlights 12 new airlines, 22 new routes, and two million added seats at Super Terminal Expo 2024 in Hong Kong.

TDF concludes successful Biban24 participation as Enablement Sponsor, signing eight agreements to boost tourism entrepreneurship and innovation in Saudi Arabia.

Experience AlUla’s timeless charm from a hot air balloon. Sunrise safaris over Hegra and ancient landscapes showcase Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 tourism vision.

Discover how AlUla’s Hegra After Dark uses drone shows to illuminate Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, blending ancient history with modern innovation.

The Royal Commission for AlUla concludes Dates Season 2024 with 30% sales increase and 45% more farmers, advancing Saudi Vision 2030 goals.

Riyadh Season reaches 6 million visitors, just one week after surpassing 4 million, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing status as a global entertainment destination.

Ministry of Tourism reports Riyadh’s 5-star hotels reached 97% occupancy during mid-year school break, with overall occupancy surpassing 90%.

Jeddah’s Wonder District, with 10 zones of interactive shows, games, and live performances, continues to attract large crowds until mid-December, aligning with Vision 2030.

Hasma Desert in northwest Saudi Arabia is attracting adventure seekers with its caves, gharameel rock formations and unique climate, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

AROYA Cruises launches the Khuzama Experience, a luxury tier on its AROYA ship, featuring VIP suites, exclusive dining, and premium services, supporting Saudi Vision 2030 tourism goals.

Discover how tourist farms in Al-Baha offer peaceful retreats with fruit picking, organic farming, and eco-friendly stays, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.

Recent rainfalls have transformed Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders region into a lush landscape, attracting nature lovers and boosting tourism in line with Vision 2030.

The King Abdulaziz Public Library launches a cultural tourism initiative to showcase Saudi heritage, manuscripts, and traditions, aligning with Vision 2030 goals.

Saudi Vice Minister of Tourism Princess Haifa Bint Mohammed Al Saud says the Kingdom’s transformation creates promising opportunities for young people at Misk Global Forum 2024.

AlUla Trail Race returns Jan 23-24, 2025, with seven races from 1.6 km Kids Run to 100 km ultra-marathon, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 sports tourism.

Riyadh Season’s Boulevard World offers an immersive saffron experience, showcasing premium Iranian saffron and its culinary uses, aligning with Vision 2030 goals.

flynas announces three weekly direct flights between Madinah and Cairo’s Sphinx Airport starting December 11, expanding connectivity and supporting Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb says tourism drives economic diversity, with GDP contribution rising from 3% to 5% and 100,000 citizens trained annually.

Diriyah Company breaks ground for seven luxury hotels at Bashayer 24, advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 tourism goals with 877 rooms across prestigious brands.

Ministry of Tourism reports nearly 1.1 million tourists visited Hail Region in H1 2024, including 170,000 international visitors and 907,000 domestic travelers.

The Saudi Red Sea Authority issues its first marina operator licenses in Yanbu and Al-Lith to Al-Ahlam Marine Tourism, advancing coastal tourism and Vision 2030 goals.

First batch of Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program arrives in Madinah as Saudi Arabia welcomes 1,000 Umrah performers from 66 countries.

The first group of 250 Umrah performers under the Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program arrives in Madinah, receiving distinguished services and spiritual activities.

SPA documents vibrant spring blooms in Umm al-‘Asafir, south of Rafha, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s natural diversity and Vision 2030 tourism goals.

Saudi Arabia highlights tourism’s role in climate action at COP29, showcasing STGC and Vision 2030 projects like NEOM to drive global sustainable tourism.

Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb met Hail entrepreneurs and investors, announcing Tourism Development Fund support for projects worth over SAR1 billion.

Elephant Rock in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, captivates global visitors with its elephant-like shape, supporting Vision 2030 tourism and heritage preservation efforts.

Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb inaugurates Ramlah Company for Tourist Trips and Resorts in Hail, boosting private-sector tourism during the Saudi Winter Season.

The Spooky Circus at Jeddah’s Wonder District offers a 500-square-meter immersive experience with 300+ models and 10 themed zones, running until December 11, 2024.

Saudi Red Sea Authority becomes first Middle East tourism entity to win Japan Tourism Award for its Environmental Protection of Coastal Tourism initiative.

Riyadh Season has welcomed over 8 million visitors, announced by GEA Chairman Turki Alalshikh. The milestone highlights Saudi Arabia’s success in entertainment and Vision 2030.

Discover how rainbows in Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia, captivate nature lovers during the rainy season, boosting tourism and aligning with Vision 2030 goals.

Discover Jeddah’s Wonder Jungle, a unique zone in the Wonder District event blending nature and entertainment, offering interactive animal experiences and family fun.

The first group of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Program for 1446 AH visited the International Fair and Museum of the Prophet’s Biography in Madinah, exploring Islamic history and culture.

First group of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah and Visitation departs Madinah for Makkah, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s dedication to serving pilgrims.

Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb inspects the SAR 211 million Radisson Blu Hotel project in Al-Ahsa, boosting Vision 2030 tourism goals and the Saudi Winter Season.

Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb announces support for 17 tourism projects in Al-Ahsa worth over SAR3.5 billion, adding 1,800 hotel rooms and boosting Vision 2030 goals.

AROYA Cruise, the first Arabian cruise line, sets sail on its maiden voyage December 16 to a Red Sea private island, boosting Saudi tourism and Vision 2030.

Explore Bani Issa Market near Al-Qunfudah, a heritage tourist destination showcasing Saudi traditions, crafts, and culture.

The Saudi Red Sea Authority grants the first international marina operator license to Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina, advancing coastal tourism and Vision 2030 goals.

The Madinah Winter campaign offers cultural tours and experiences in Madinah until end of 2024, promoting tourism and aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques announces new prayer areas, carts, and amenities for elderly and disabled Umrah performers at the Grand Mosque.

GACA authorizes Transavia France to operate regular flights from Lyon and Paris to Jeddah starting December 12, 2024, boosting Saudi-France air connectivity.

Air France-KLM announces new Paris-Riyadh service and Transavia flights to Jeddah, expanding its footprint in Saudi Arabia and boosting Vision 2030 tourism goals.

The King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve showcases its biodiversity, rare wildlife, and augmented reality displays at the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival in Riyadh.

The Royal Commission for AlUla opens the Chedi Hegra Hotel in Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, blending luxury with ancient heritage.

Saudi Red Sea Authority grants first yacht chartering licenses to three companies, boosting coastal tourism and Vision 2030 goals. Learn more about this milestone.

Saudi Arabia ranked third globally in international tourist arrival growth in the first eight to nine months of 2024, with over 61% increase versus 2019, per UN Tourism.

The First Haneeth Festival in Mahayil, Aseer, attracts tourists with cultural evenings, poetry, workshops and daily food-safety testing as part of Saudi winter tourism.

The Saudi Tourism Authority’s ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’ partners with the 2024 Red Sea International Film Festival, boosting Jeddah’s status as a cultural destination.

Cruise Saudi’s inaugural ship AROYA arrives in Jeddah, marking a historic milestone for Saudi tourism and Vision 2030, with Red Sea cruises set to begin.

Riyadh Season 2024 has welcomed 10 million visitors, announced by Advisor Turki Alalshikh. The milestone highlights diverse global events and Vision 2030 progress.

Tents and hotel rooms in Al-Sayahid reach full occupancy as the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival draws record crowds, boosted by pleasant weather and rainfall.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism hosted a high-level COP16 panel on sustainable tourism and land restoration, highlighting Vision 2030 and the STGC’s global role.

The Mufti of Kyrgyzstan, Sheikh Abdulaziz Zakirov, visited the Hira Cultural District in Makkah, praising its rich presentation of Islamic heritage and the Revelation Exhibition.

The Tourism Development Fund receives ‘Qualified’ certification from the European Foundation for Quality Management, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to excellence in tourism governance.

Red Sea Global signs an aviation agreement with Jetex to operate the private jet terminal at Red Sea International Airport, boosting luxury travel and Vision 2030 tourism goals.

Madinah ranks 88th globally in Euromonitor’s 2024 top 100 city destinations, leading Saudi cities and reflecting Vision 2030 tourism success.

Cruise Saudi launches its first ship, AROYA, at Jeddah Islamic Port, marking a milestone in Saudi Arabia’s maritime tourism and Vision 2030 goals.

PIF launches Adeera, a hotel management company building distinct Saudi hospitality brands from mid-range to ultra-luxury, supporting Vision 2030 tourism goals.

Red Sea Global announces bookings open for Desert Rock, its third self-operated luxury resort in Tabuk, featuring sustainable design and wellness offerings.

Madinah ranks first among Saudi cities and 88th globally in Euromonitor’s 2024 Top 100 City Destinations index, welcoming 14.1 million visitors in 2023.

The Aseer Development Authority and flyadeal sign an MoU to enhance air services, support tourism, and advance Saudi Vision 2030 goals for the Aseer region.

Saudi Arabia participated in the 35th Executive Office session of the Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism in Cairo, reviewing smart tourism, climate impact, and heritage integration.

Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah welcomed its 10 millionth passenger of 2024, a historic milestone driven by 15% traffic growth.