Discover Saudi - Travel & Tourism Guide to Saudi Arabia

OPENING UP THE KINGDOM

Saudi Arabia stands on the cusp of a momentous time, which is leading the nation towards a future brimming with great potential. With the focus of Saudi Vision 2030 to unlock the true potential of the Kingdom’s tourism industry by promoting both inbound and outbound travel services, Saudi Arabia is positioned to be one of the world’s leading tourism destinations.

As the most significant move to open up Saudi Arabia to tourists, the Ministry of Tourism announced the availability of tourist visas and visa on arrival for 49 nationalities in September 2019. Prior to this important milestone, travelers could visit Saudi Arabia only with a religious travel visa, for business travel, or to visit family and friends. Saudi authorities also announced that nationals of any country holding a US, UK or Schengen visa in their passports will be eligible to apply for tourist visa.

TOURISM OPPORTUNITIES GALORE

The outbound travel market from Saudi Arabia has always been lucrative, but the growth in domestic and inbound travel, fueled by the opening of tourist visas in September 2019, is the key focus of the country’s ambitious tourism agenda. Working towards the nation’s goal of achieving 100 million international and domestic overnight visits a year by 2030 and 30 million pilgrims every year by 2030, Discover Saudi serves as your gateway to unlocking the opportunities in the Kingdom.

ADVENTURE

Saudi Arabia offers various thrilling desert experiences, with dune bashing and sandboarding amongst the adventurous things to do majestic red sand dunes. Saudi Arabia offers plenty for those who want to experience an adrenaline rush during their visit.

HISTORY & CULTURE

Saudi Arabia’s culture is shaped by its Islamic heritage, its historical role as trade hub, and its Bedouin traditions. From immersive cultural tours explaining local sartorial customs, to cultural shopping at traditional souks (markets), traditional meals in the midst of ancient landscapes, all the way to awe-inspiring heritage and archeology sites, cultural experiences play a huge role when visiting the Kingdom.

SPORTS

Hiking up rock formations to watch the sunset at the Edge of the World, diving amidst clear blue waters and
beautiful abundant coral reefs, a round of golf surrounded by lush greenery. Saudi Arabia offers plenty of options for sports enthusiasts.

NATURAL WONDERS

Saudi Arabia boasts untouched natural landscapes from green highlands covered in fauna, to mountainous terrain, all the way to pristine white beaches and seemingly endless deserts. The variety of natural wonders in Saudi Arabia never ceases to amaze.

ENTERTAINMENT & SHOPPING

The capital Riyadh has established itself as a hub for concept stores and mega shopping malls, but all major cities in the Kingdom offer retail therapy options for any kind of budget. Entertainment options are aplenty. Families with kids can find various options including aquariums, cinemas and other kid-friendly activities. The Saudi Seasons, a series of events running across the country year-round offer entertainment options galore.

DINING

Saudi Arabia’s dining scene has become one of the most vibrant and eclectic in the region, with local and international concepts opening doors for foodies from all over the globe. From local cafes that offer qahawa (traditional Saudi coffee) and local delicacies, to fine dining at a top restaurant, Saudi Arabia has it all.

ASPIRATIONAL MEGA & GIGA PROJECTS

RED SEA PROJECT

This massive land and property development project spanning 90 untouched islands and 28,000 square kilometers of land and sea will become a unique luxury sanctuary. Showcasing undiscovered natural beauty of the region, the Red Sea Project is designed to attract both domestic and international tourists to a place. The destination is set to be fully completed by 2030.

NEOM

The megacity project, located in the desert of the Tabuk Province, will in future, become home to a million citizens from around the world. The futuristic city, which will be innovative in its design and ecosystem, will serve as a smart city and tourist destination. The first phase is scheduled to be completed by 2025.

QIDDIYA

This entertainment megaproject close to Riyadh includes plans for a Six Flags branded theme park and hotels. Grand opening is scheduled for 2023. Qiddiya will serve as the capital of Entertainment, Sports and the Arts in Saudi Arabia.

AMAALA

Set to become the ‘Riviera of the Middle East’, Amaala is designed as an integrated resort with its own airport, focused on luxury residential and tourism real estate on the coast of the Red Sea.

SAUDI ARABIA AT A GLANCE

Situated in the heart of the Middle East, Saudi Arabia is a country known for its rich culture, heritage and as the birthplace of Islam. As the largest country in the Arabian Peninsula (2.15m km²), Saudi Arabia borders the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf.