As Saudi Arabia gears up for the Eid al Adha holiday, a notable shift in travel patterns is unfolding, with WeGo, the leading travel search engine, revealing compelling new insights into Saudi travellers’ preferences.
This year, 96.12% of travel searches made by Saudi users on the travel platform are for international destinations. This data marks an increase of almost ten percent, with just over 87.34% of searches during the same period last year being for international travel destinations.
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Where Are Saudi Travellers Going?
This year, according to data and statistics released by WeGo.com, Saudi-based travellers are heading for more international destinations. From short-haul trips to long-haul escapes, and regional city hops, these are the trends we can see coming from the data.
Short-Haul Destinations
Short-haul international destinations are emerging as a top choice for Saudi travellers during Eid al Adha, likely driven largely by the varied expat communities living in the Kingdom, eager to reconnect with family during the festive period. This trend highlights a strong preference for culturally linked locations, with Egypt, India, the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, and Turkey leading travel searches.
With the long Eid holiday break and numerous, accessible flight routes, travellers are opting for quick, convenient journeys that allow them to maximise time with loved ones while immersing themselves in the comfort of home-like surroundings.
- Egypt
- India
- The United Arab Emirates
- Pakistan
- Turkey
Euro-Summer Destinations
Given the more moderate temperatures that sweep across Europe during the summer season, countries such as Azerbaijan, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Georgia are attracting visitors eager to escape the Middle Eastern summer heat.
Interest in flights and accommodations to Russia has seen a significant surge, reflecting a growing trend among Saudi travellers seeking cooler climates, cultural exploration, and historic cityscapes. Moscow and St. Petersburg, in particular, are drawing visitors eager to experience iconic landmarks, vibrant urban life, and rich heritage, making Russia an increasingly attractive destination for Eid getaways.
With a selection of flights, including direct flights, Saudi travellers are heading to Europe to explore rich historical landmarks, picturesque scenery, and vibrant city life. From Rome’s ancient ruins and London’s world-class museums to Georgia’s lush mountain retreats and Azerbaijan’s charming old town, these destinations provide a refreshing change of scenery along with a touch of luxury and adventure.
- Azerbaijan
- Georgia
- Italy
- United Kingdom
- Russia
Asian Destinations
Meanwhile, Asian destinations such as Bangladesh, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Japan are drawing more travellers than before. Ideal for those in search of tropical getaways, wellness retreats, and family-friendly experiences, these destinations are now linked with direct flights, with numerous Asian destinations offering Iqama holders and Saudi citizens relaxed, visa-free travel and other simplified entry options.
Whether it's relaxing in Bali’s secluded resorts, exploring Japan’s cherry blossom-lined streets, or enjoying Malaysia’s cityscape, these locations offer a perfect balance of nature, relaxation, and cultural discovery. With a surge in flight availability and travel packages, Saudi holidaymakers are embracing farther-reaching destinations, turning Eid into an opportunity for exploration and rejuvenation rather than just celebration.
- Bangladesh
- Indonesia
- Japan
- Malaysia
- The Philippines
- Thailand
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Domestic and Regional Travel Still Holds Appeal
Despite the surge in international travel - both short-haul and long-haul, domestic destinations remain popular among Saudi travellers.
As many people begin to return to their home cities for the celebratory period, there has been increased searches for flights to cities across the Kingdom including Jeddah, Riyadh, Madinah, Dammam, and Abha.
- Abha
- Dammam
- Jeddah
- Madinah
- Riyadh
With Saudi travellers setting their sights abroad, this Eid al Adha is shaping up to be a season of exploration beyond borders. Whether seeking cultural immersion, scenic getaways, or family reunions, the Kingdom’s residents are embracing global experiences like never before.
