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Wego Unveils Saudis’ Favorite Travel Destinations for 2025

Wego, the leading travel app and the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa has revealed the top travel trends among Saudis during the first quarter of 2025.

The company reported a significant surge in travel activity during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, marked by residents returning to their home countries and citizens traveling for leisure, according to an official statement.

Wego’s Top Travel Destinations

Egypt, Pakistan, and India ranked as the top destinations for Saudi travelers during this period, reflecting deep cultural and historical ties between Saudi Arabia and these nations. These destinations proved ideal for families seeking enjoyable and relaxing holiday experiences during festive seasons.

Closer destinations like the UAE and Jordan also topped the list due to their geographical proximity and accessibility, making them perfect for short, family-friendly getaways.

European Destinations

European destinations such as the UK, Azerbaijan, and Russia witnessed a notable increase in bookings by Saudis.

This surge was attributed to simplified travel and visa procedures, including electronic visas (eVisa) and electronic travel authorizations (ETA), which streamlined the planning process and made these locations more appealing to Saudi tourists.

Domestic Bookings

Despite the significant growth in international bookings, domestic travel remains a vital part of Saudi Arabia’s tourism landscape. Local bookings accounted for 27.3% of total reservations from January to March 2025, highlighting strong interest in exploring the Kingdom’s attractions.

The Role of Digitalization

Mamoun Hmedan, Wego’s Chief Commercial Officer, commented:
“This report reflects a major shift in travel habits among Saudis, with increased interest in regional and international destinations driven by stronger cultural ties and easier travel processes.

“With growing demand for international travel and visa facilitation, we anticipate further growth in travel activity during the upcoming quarter. At Wego, we remain committed to offering innovative options and exceptional services for travelers, both domestically and abroad.”

Digital platforms have also been instrumental in simplifying bookings, underscoring the travel sector’s digital transformation and the adoption of advanced technologies, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Riyadh Season and Popular Domestic Destinations

Riyadh and Jeddah emerged as the most sought-after domestic destinations. Riyadh’s vibrant Riyadh Season, which ran from October 2024 to March 1, 2025, attracted a substantial number of visitors with its diverse events catering to all age groups and its winter-friendly ambiance.

Jeddah, on the other hand, offered a unique blend of mild weather and coastal activities, making it a favored destination for enjoyable vacations.

Q2 Projections

Saudi travelers are expected to balance their choices between domestic and international destinations, supported by ongoing travel facilitation measures and an expanded range of tourist options.

Additionally, the travel sector is poised for further growth, driven by increasing digital bookings and the Kingdom’s ongoing push to develop its tourism and hospitality sectors.

 

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