by admin | Apr 7, 2025 | economics, saudi arabia, tours, Travel, travel destinations
Riyadh
[
Saudi Arabia
], April 4 (ANI/WAM):
Saudi Arabia
‘s
tourism sector
reached a record surplus of SAR 49.8 billion in the 2024 travel sector, marking a 7.8% rise from 2023, as stated in a press release from the Tourism Ministry.
The announcement relayed via the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) stated that this growth was driven by a 13.8% rise in expenditure by incoming visitors, which amounted to approximately SAR 153.6 billion in 2024. This estimate is derived from initial balance of payments figures provided by the Saudi Central Bank for the same year.
The ministry credited the notable increase in the 2024 travel account surplus to coordinated initiatives across the Saudi tourism sector, designed to bolster the industry and boost its impact on the nation’s economy. The statement highlighted that this achievement underscores the successful execution of top-tier practices in tourism advancement, improved service offerings, and robust governmental partnerships—efforts aligned with achieving the objectives outlined in Saudi Vision 2030. (ANI/WAM)
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 31, 2025 | hotels, islam, saudi arabia, tourists, Travel
The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reported that 18.5 million individuals completed the pilgrimages of Hajj and Umrah in 2024. This achievement was facilitated by enhancements such as expanding lodging options, modernizing airports, refining transport systems, and implementing tech-driven services.
The efficient management of these pilgrim periods, commended by global organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), underscores the robust functioning of the tourism industry.
The Ministry of Tourism reports that the hotel sector in Mecca expanded by 80% in 2024, with over 1,000 authorized hotels and apartment complexes. By year-end 2024, Mecca had surpassed 1,150 hotels and provided 260,000 rooms, whereas Medina ended up with 347 hotels along with 1,500 furnished apartments.
This expansion coincides with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to elevate the pilgrimage experience. Initiated in 2016, the “Doyof Al Rahman” initiative focuses on upgrading facilities and enhancing services for those undertaking Hajj and Umrah.
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Saudi Arabia hosts 18.5 million pilgrims in 2024 as part of an expanding hospitality sector.
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.
by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | battery electric vehicles, electric cars, politics of saudi arabia, saudi arabia, tesla
Tesla
has officially arrived in Saudi Arabia, with plans to start selling electric vehicles next month.
The statement, posted on the company’s official site, arrives as
Tesla
experiences a considerable drop in sales throughout Europe, partially because of
Elon Mus
K’s significant position within the U.S. government and the
Department of Government Efficiency
(DOGE).
Tesla
His arrival in Saudi Arabia bolsters the diplomatic relationship between Washington and Riyadh even more. This Middle Eastern nation is progressively adopting electric vehicles as it recognizes that its extensive oil resources won’t last indefinitely.
The firm is already active in multiple Middle Eastern countries such as the UAE, Jordan, Israel, and Qatar. Nonetheless, Saudi Arabia stands out as the biggest marketplace within this area.
The relationship between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia has been enhancing since
Donald Trump’
Upon their return to offices, the kingdom announced significant investments in U.S. military hardware earlier this month.
(QG – Source: Newsweek – Image: © Unsplash)
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | africa, flying, military, morocco, saudi arabia
Morocco, in collaboration with the United States and France, is studying the possibility of building an airport in the far south of the Sahara to launch airstrikes against jihadist bases in the Sahel, according to
La Razón
.
The scheduled missions were set to include both drones and fighter jets, aimed at neutralizing extremist factions in the area.
Sources close to the initiative informed La Razón that these air strikes would occur with the consent of the involved nations—namely Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.
The goal is to neutralize a growing security threat that poses a risk not only to these nations but also to Morocco, which jihadist groups see as an obstacle to their expansion towards Europe.
Recently, Moroccan intelligence agencies carried out operations in multiple cities, where they discovered a cache of weapons meant for assaults planned by a prominent leader affiliated with the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (EIGS).
This operation thwarted several scheduled assaults and underscored the escalating security issues in the area.
Supported by French intelligence agency Direction Générale de la Sécurité Extérieure, Morocco’s counter-terrorism unit Office for Counterterrorism thwarted a terror cell active across nine urban centers.
The authorities apprehended 12 individuals and confiscated a substantial stockpile of explosives, advanced weaponry, along with confidential files.
The materials were discovered at an undisclosed logistical facility in Errachidia, close to the Algerian frontier. It is said that this network was headed by the individual overseeing ISIS’s external activities in the Sahara region, tasked with orchestrating several assaults.
A geostrategic expert named Roudani Charkaoui informed LIFEHACKAr previously that extremist organizations view Morocco as a crucial target within their larger strategy aimed at destabilizing the area.
Cherkaoui stated that Morocco acts as the final defense before Europe, being essential in stopping extremist activities from crossing boundaries.
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Morocco, the United States, and France are contemplating constructing an airport in the Sahara region aimed at enhancing counter-terrorism efforts.
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by admin | Mar 7, 2025 | saudi arabia, tourist attractions, tourists, Travel, travel destinations
Previously considered the “best-kept secret” among global travelers, Saudi Arabia has emerged as an essential travel destination for Europeans.
At the ITB Berlin 2025 conference, Saudi Tourism Authority’s CEO, Fahd Hamidaddin, informed Euronews Travel that European arrivals increased by 24 percent in 2024, positioning the nation as an emerging global center for sports, with a higher number of events compared to Las Vegas.
With major sporting spectacles such as the 2034 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, alongside opulent getaways along the picturesque shores of the Red Sea and adventurous desert camps beneath the vast starlit skies, Saudi Arabia caters to a wide array of traveler preferences. This makes it a perfect ‘best of both worlds’ destination for visitors with varied interests.
There are more tourists from Europe visiting Saudi Arabia than any other place.
“Saudi Arabia remains one of the greatest and biggest mysteries hidden from travelers across the globe,” asserts Fahd Hamidaddin, Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Tourism Authority.
Last year, we saw the most significant expansion originating from Europe, where growth attributed solely to this region reached 24 percent, including women accounting for 44 percent of that total.
When we began in 2019, our aim was to reach 100 million visitors by 2030. However, by the close of 2023, we surpassed this target with over 106 million visits.
“The current objective has been set at 150 million, with our growth rate consistently doubling each year. Over the last four years, we have maintained our position as the quickest-expanding travel destination globally.”
From the breathtaking Red Sea shoreline to extensive
desert landscapes
And with premier sporting events, Saudi Arabia provides a distinctive mix of adventurous activities, rich cultural experiences, and luxurious amenities.
Below are the top methods to explore the Kingdom in 2025.
From FIFA World Cup to Formula 1 Grand Prix: The globe’s top athletic mecca
Saudi Arabia has rapidly emerged as a major force in international sports tourism.
Elite sports figures such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Tyson Fury, and Max Verstappen have all participated in events on Saudi Arabian turf, along with significant
sporting events
attract people from all over the world.
In 2034, millions of people will descend upon Saudi Arabia for the FIFA World Cup, whereas 2025 is poised to be brimming with various sports competitions.
This April, the AFC Asian U17 Cup will highlight some of Asia’s most promising young football talents, whereas motorsport enthusiasts can watch Lewis Hamilton adorned in Ferrari red as he competes at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit during the Saudi Arabian Formula One Grand Prix.
During August, basketball enthusiasts have the opportunity to see top-tier national teams from across the continent compete for glory at the FIBA Asia Cup. In contrast, tennis aficionados will be treated to matches featuring the planet’s elite eight players when they take center stage at the WTA Tour Finals in November.
“Every major sports event, whether it’s a Formula One race or the World Cup, is accompanied by a range of cultural activities,” according to Hamidaddin.
“Saudi has been hosting more events per week than Vegas had events per week, from the Formulas, to boxing, to the World Cup, to tennis, and Dakar [Rally – the off-road endurance event].”
Sun, sand, and tranquility: Enjoy ultimate luxury at The Red Sea
Boasting untouched shorelines, exceptional sea creatures, and an array of luxurious five-star resorts, the Red Sea spans across 28,000 square kilometres along Saudi Arabia’s west coast, making it a heavenly destination.
So far, two upscale developments have debuted along its coastline, featuring the Six Senses Southern Dunes, and the St. Regis Red Sea Resort which boasts overwater bungalows extending out above the clear blue waters.
The Saudi Red Sea is the biggest vertical Riviera globally,” says Hamidaddin. “It’s an exceptional location extending from the northernmost point of Neom and Sindalah Island all the way down to the southern part of the Saudi coastline.
By the conclusion of 2025, this location will accommodate 16 resorts, and by 2030, an additional 34 resorts will bring the total count up to 50.
luxury marinas
, golf courses, and housing developments.
The developer of Red Sea, the destination manager, emphasizes that sustainable growth lies at the core of their initiative. Seventy-five percent of the area’s islands will remain undisturbed, with the remaining portion set for development.
renewable energy
.
Setting up camp beneath the stars in Saudi Arabia’s desert regions
Approximately 30 percent of Saudi Arabia’s land area is blanketed by
desert
,
Moreover, the region is renowned for its majestic dunes, ranging from the crimson tones of the Ad Dahna Desert to the vast wilderness of Rub’Al Khali (TheEmptyQuarter), which holds the title as the planet’s most extensive uninterrupted sandy terrain.
The vast Arabian sand dunes present a globally renowned attraction in the winter season, possibly rivaling major attractions around the world.
safari
in Africa and
skiing in the Alps
,” says Hamidaddin.
“Whether you’re into sand therapies, engaging in sand sports, seeking thrilling adventures, or enjoying stargazing, there’s an abundance of activities to experience, such as bearing witness to
rewilding initiatives
Through which we’ve introduced 21 species to establish a new animal kingdom.”
In the historic city of AlUla, you have the opportunity to go on camel rides, camp out in the desert, and gaze at the stars across the expansive night sky.
To seek further adventures, trek through the Red Sands vicinity.
Riyadh
Or venture into the historic Najd region, where off-road adventures stand unmatched.
If you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the desert landscape, visit the Edge of the World—a breathtaking 1,131-meter cliff located within the Tuwaik mountain range close to Riyadh. This spot offers climbers the opportunity to ascend dizzying elevations and enjoy some of the nation’s most stunning vistas.
by admin | Jan 6, 2025 | culture, saudi arabia, Travel, travel advice, travel destinations
-
Inayah Sadiq shares her reasons for suggesting Saudi Arabia as an ideal destination for vacations.
-
The content creator offers a travel schedule to discover the nation’s key attractions.
-
READ MORE:
I sold my home to travel non-stop — these are the places I’ve adored.
Saudi Arabia
was once one of the world’s least-visited tourist destinations.
However, it’s now welcoming international tourists – with visitor numbers expected to surge for the 2034 World Cup.
Considering making a move since it’s become trendy, yet unsure if it suits you—or concerned about receiving a chilly welcome?
TikTok
traveller Inayah Sadiq (
@inayahtravels
It might just spark your desire to explore the nation.
The 27-year-old travel content creator resided in Saudi Arabia for 15 years and strongly wishes for people around the globe to experience a nation she endorses wholeheartedly as an ideal vacation spot.
She posted a
Video explaining six manners guidelines
You must consistently adhere to those guidelines while there, and disclosed additional insights about the nation to MailOnline Travel. This included highlighting the top destinations to explore, dispelling prevalent misunderstandings, along with suggesting an optimal travel schedule.
To start with, we asked her what message she’d convey to individuals who were anxious about paying a visit.
She responded: “Saudi Arabia is remarkably secure, and I’d advise individuals not to take everything at face value from what they encounter in the press. The citizens here are among the friendliest and most accommodating you could come across.”
I strongly suggest it as an ideal vacation spot. Similar to most Gulf nations, incidents of street aggression and offenses such as robberies are exceedingly uncommon, with robust police visibility in key urban areas.
‘I suggest going with an open mind, understanding the local customs and manners prior, and fully immersing yourself in the encounter.’
Inayah pointed out that several misunderstandings exist regarding Saudi Arabia.
She shared that even though ‘drinking alcohol isn’t an option, it doesn’t lessen the enjoyment’ of going there.
The experienced traveler mentioned that women aren’t required to wear a hijab during their visits.
She stated: ‘While modesty is promoted, women are not required to cover their hair or wear an abaya [a full-length garment] nowadays.’
She stated that even though some believe ‘women lack rights’ and ‘freedom of speech does not exist’, Saudi women are ‘highly educated’ and becoming more prominent in leadership positions. Additionally, the nation boasts a ‘dynamic exchange of ideas,’ particularly amongst younger individuals.
Concerned about potentially extreme heat? Inayah mentioned that this isn’t necessarily so, stating to MailOnline: “Although summers can be scorching, the winter period between November and February tends to have agreeably moderate temperatures, which makes it a great time for visits.”
What then is the travel guru’s favorite aspect of Saudi Arabia?
She stated: “It’s difficult to pick just one aspect, particularly for someone like me who was raised here. Observing Saudi Arabia experience this astounding change has been truly breathtaking. What used to be a relatively isolated community is now a vibrant center brimming with culture and innovation, all thanks to the forward-thinking guidance of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.”
Saudi Arabia seamlessly merges contemporary advancement with profound heritage.
The warmth of the welcome here stands out uniquely, and the exceptional culinary landscape really shines. Don’t miss trying kabsa – the renowned national dish featuring spiced rice combined with meat, cardamom, and cinnamon. It’s one you definitely shouldn’t skip. Personally, I have a special preference for it.
Mama Noura
, where I’ve always enjoyed meals, never lets me down with its tasty shawarma.
‘Epic events such as Riyadh Season have thrust Saudi Arabia onto the world stage, offering memorable concerts, exciting sporting activities, and premier entertainment.’
In 2023, I got the opportunity to go to MDL Beast Soundstorm, which is the biggest music festival in the Middle East. There, I saw amazing shows put on by musicians like David Guetta, Steve Aoki, and Amr Diab.
As Saudi Arabia gears up to host the FIFA World Cup 2034, its international profile is poised for expansion. Given all these thrilling developments, there’s no better moment than now to explore and personally experience this vibrant nation.
What are some of the top sights to visit in the country?
Inayah suggested visiting historical locations in Riyadh, like Masmak Fortress, Murabba Palace, and the adobe-built town of Diriyah—the cradle of the Saudi kingdom—alongside contemporary spots including the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), Via Riyadh shopping center, and Boulevard.
The Kingdom Centre Skybridge, known for its ‘panoramic vistas’, should definitely be included in your itinerary, as well as a visit to the breathtaking Edge of the World cliff edge, located approximately 100km outside of Riyadh.
In Jeddah, Inayah recommended wandering through Al-Balad (the historical quarter), exploring the Floating Mosque, taking a leisurely walk along the Corniche, and going snorkeling at Silver Sands Beach.
The historic oasis town of Al-Ula and the close-by stunning tombs at Mada’in Salih — located in AlUla, which is Saudi Arabia’s inaugural UNESCO World Heritage Site — ought to be high up on your must-see list as well.
She stated: ‘Discover Abha, uncover the splendor of the Asir Mountains, explore the historic village of Habala, and relish the refreshing weather and verdant scenery.’
At the same time, in the desert area, visitors have the opportunity to experience activities such as ‘dune surfing, camel rides, and dining beneath the stars in a traditional Bedouin setting.’
Inayah informed MailOnline that Muslim travelers ought to strive for experiencing the profound spirituality of Mecca and Medina, which are among the most sacred cities in Islam.
And nobody should overlook the cuisine and the market shopping.
Inayah mentioned that visitors ought to try Kabsa (seasoned rice and meat), mandi (rice and meat prepared in an underground oven), ma’moul (clarified butter cookies), maqshush (bite-sized buckwheat pancakes drizzled with honey and clarified butter), as well as muttabaq (filled crepes). She also noted that the markets offer not only spices and keepsakes but also provide a chance for guests to immerse themselves in Saudi customs and warm welcomes.
She mentioned: ‘Souk al Zal in Al Dirah in Riyadh is excellent for this.’
Certainly, visitors should pay attention to the nation’s traditions and regulations, as Inayah emphasizes in her TikTok video.
She told MailOnline, “Just like when visiting any place, it’s crucial to use good judgment and show respect towards local traditions. Refrain from criticizing Islam or the Saudi government, seek consent prior to photographing individuals, and pay attention to the dressing norms to guarantee a considerate and secure visit.”
‘Wear clothing that is conservative and respectful of local traditions. Drinking alcohol is not allowed, and some actions might be limited.’
‘Ensure your conversations remain discreet since public displays of affection are not appreciated. Refrain from taking photographs of local people, particularly women, and avoid snapping pictures around sensitive locations such as government offices.’
Inayah advised you to plan your schedule considering prayer timings since some establishments may shut down for prayers, hence suggesting to arrange activities suitably.
Plus, navigating through traffic might be challenging.
Inayah mentioned, “Should I highlight just one negative aspect of Saudi Arabia, it would be the traffic situation in Riyadh. The swift development in tourism along with an increasing populace has resulted in crowded streets, frequently causing journeys to take more time than anticipated.”
‘Nevertheless, following the recent inauguration of the Riyadh Metro, this issue is expected to enhance, providing a hopeful answer for more efficient travel in the days ahead.’
Finishing up her tips on etiquette for a visit to Saudi Arabia, Inayah suggested: “Interact with the local people. The Saudis are friendly and keen to showcase their traditions.”
Looking for more insights from Inayah? Check out her TikTok for travel advice and motivation.
@inayahtravels
– and Instagram,
@inayahtravels
For additional information about Saudi Arabia, please visit
www.visitsaudi.com/en
.
INAYAH’S PERFECT SAUDI ARABIA TRAVEL PLAN
‘Visiting Saudi Arabia for a week provides ample opportunity to truly understand the essence of the nation,’ stated Inayah, ‘with an array of historical sites, cultural experiences, natural beauty, and contemporary attractions. The planned schedule ensures that newcomers receive a thorough taste of the kingdom’s deep-rooted traditions, breathtaking vistas, and bustling urban centers.’
The ideal period to visit would be from October to March, when the climate is more pleasant.
Day 1-2:
Riyadh
.
Day 1: Visit Masmak Fort, Diriyah (UNESCO site), and take in the expansive vistas from the Skybridge of the Kingdom Centre.
Day 2: Embark on a one-day journey to the Edge of the World to admire stunning desert vistas. Later, unwind at Riyadh Boulevard as dusk falls.
Day 3-4:
Jeddah
.
Day 3: Take a flight to Jeddah, explore the historical area of Al-Balad, and enjoy a walk at the picturesque Jeddah Corniche.
Day 4: Explore the famous Floating Mosque, unwind or go snorkeling at Silversands Beach, and savor freshly caught seafood by the Red Sea.
Day 5-6:
Abha
.
Day 5: Take a flight to Abha, visit the breathtaking Habala Village, and shop at the nearby souq.
On Day 6, explore the historically significant Rijal Almaa Village with its distinctive architectural style, followed by a trek through the picturesque landscapes of Asir National Park where you can enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas.
Day 7: Return.
Return to Riyadh or Jeddah for your departure flight.
Optional Add-Ons:
In the AlUla area (spanning 2-3 days), you can visit Mada’in Saleh (also known as Hegra), marvel at the Elephant Rock formation, and explore Dadan, all while residing in desert lodges for a truly authentic encounter with nature.
Visit the Grand Mosque in Mecca and Masjid Al Nabawi in Medina for a spiritual experience (for Muslims).
Explore Red Sea Wonders: Diving, Snorkeling, or Island-Hopping in Yanbu or Umluj (the ‘Saudi Maldives’).
Explore the Volcanic Al Wahba Crater near Taif for stunning vistas.
Visit Taif: Discover its rose plantations and relish the refreshing highland weather.
Explore Jizan for its verdant scenery, coastal areas, and the breathtaking Farasan Islands.
Source: Inayah Sadiq (
@inayahtravels
)
Read more
