Discover the magic of Saudi: World Tourism Day, FIFA Club World Cup, Riyadh Season and more
Whether you're a football fanatic, a history buff, a music lover or a culinary explorer, Saudi promises an unforgettable journey that combines tradition, innovation and warm hospitality to all its visitors.
Tuesday 10 October 2023 23:06, UK
Saudi, a land of rich history, breath-taking landscapes and unmatched hospitality, is set to host visitors from around the world in the coming months with a line-up of exciting events and unique attractions.
From the celebration of World Tourism Day in Riyadh to the thrill of the FIFA Club World Cup in Jeddah, and the dazzling Riyadh Season, Saudi has something for everyone as it showcases its broad choice of entertainment and cultural heritage.
With its practical and convenient eVisa system, accessible transportation options and cutting-edge payment solutions like Apple Pay, visiting Saudi has never been easier, or more inviting.
One of the best examples of this new Saudi is World Tourism Day.
The event, celebrated every year on 27 September and hosted in Riyadh this year, is an opportunity for countries to promote tourism's social, cultural, and economic significance.
In Saudi, this day is marked with various events and exhibitions that highlight the country's deep history and customs. Tourists were able to explore cultural sites, visit museums and enjoy traditional Saudi cuisine during the celebration.
This World Tourism Day also saw Saudi partner with the UN to launch the Open Minds Campaign.
Alongside the UN World Tourism Office, Saudi pledged to help develop tourism in less visited regions, to open up new opportunities, and to create moments to establish a dialogue between strangers.
Travel should be an experience that connects strangers and brings us closer together as a global population.
From culture to corner kicks, Saudi is also set to host the prestigious FIFA Club World Cup in Jeddah on 12-22 December 2023.
Saudi's enthusiasm for sports is undeniable, and the tournament is a testament to this passion.
The country is experienced at welcoming teams and fans from across the globe having hosted a Formula One Grand Prix for several years now.
The Club World Cup will not only showcase world-class athleticism but will also offer a unique opportunity to experience Saudi's vibrant atmosphere and hospitality.
Another chance to catch a glimpse of this distinctive heritage is during Riyadh Season (28 October). The event is an annual entertainment extravaganza that transforms the capital city into a hub of cultural and artistic activities in October of every year, running until March the following year.
The event features concerts, theatre performances, art exhibitions, sports showdowns and culinary delights, making it an unmissable experience for visitors. Riyadh Season demonstrates Saudi's commitment to becoming a global leisure destination.
Visitors can got to RiyadhSeason.com to buy tickets for events taking place during this period, including the heavyweight boxing showdown between Francis Ngannou and Tyson Fury.
As a tourist destination, Saudi boasts a diverse range of historic and natural treasures, including seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
These sites offer a window into the country's fascinating past and stunning landscapes, with Hegra in AlUla being a good example of this. An ancient Nabatean city and the first UNESCO heritage site registered in Saudi, Hegra is known for its remarkable rock-cut tombs and archaeological significance.
Elsewhere in the country, the coastal city of Jeddah has a historic district that traces its roots back to the 7th Century.
Sitting on the 2,000km Red Sea coast, Jeddah became an important harbour for ships travelling on trade routes across the Indian Ocean, bringing goods to Makkah. This trade transformed the city into a vibrant multicultural hub, known for its unique architectural style.
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is the At-Turaif District in Diriyah, Riyadh, which served as the birthplace of the Saudi state, located in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.
Established in the 15th Century, the site showcases the unique Najdi architectural style while offering an experience of the Saudi dynasty's first capital city. Diriyah is a must-see for visitors to the country as it boasts unique historic and culinary offerings throughout the year.
The best part? Enjoying all of this has never been easier.
Thanks to the introduction of eVisas and improved accessibility, visiting Saudi has become more practical than ever. The country now offers convenient eVisas to more than 50 countries, making the application process quick and hassle-free for tourists. This initiative encourages travellers to make their first trip to Saudi and explore the country's diverse attractions.
For travellers in transit, Saudi offers the Stopover Visa, allowing them to experience a taste of the country during layovers for up to 96 hours.
While in the kingdom there is an array of transportation choices, including ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem, car rentals, and a well-connected public transportation system. These options ensure visitors can explore the nation with ease and flexibility.
Meanwhile, the Gulf country is at the forefront of adopting modern payment solutions, including Apple Pay and contactless payments. Tourists can enjoy the convenience of cashless transactions at hotels, restaurants, and shops. This innovative approach enhances the overall travel experience by providing a secure and efficient way to manage finances while exploring the country.
Saudi's calendar is filled with exciting activities and events that cater to a wide range of interests, from sports enthusiasts to culture lovers.
With its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, practical eVisa system, accessible transportation options, and cutting-edge payment solutions, visiting Saudi has never been more appealing. This land of contrasts, where ancient history meets modernity, invites travellers to discover its treasures, embrace its culture, and create unforgettable memories.
So, whether you're a football fanatic, a history buff, a music lover, or a culinary explorer, Saudi promises an unforgettable journey that combines tradition, innovation, and warm hospitality to all its visitors.