Residents of Saudi Arabia are busy preparing for the upcoming holiday of Eid Al-Adha 2024 by arranging domestic and foreign vacations. Wego, a MENA travel marketplace, has featured many of the best places that Saudi tourists may visit without a visa at the moment.
Top visa-free destinations for Saudi travelers
This year's Eid Al-Adha is expected to provide a long weekend for Saudi residents, making it an ideal opportunity for travel. Anticipation for the holiday is already evident, with an 84.73 percent increase in searches for international trips compared to the previous month. Wego anticipates that booking numbers will continue to rise as the holiday approaches.
Wego's data from last year's Eid Al Adha revealed that, on average, travelers booked their trips more than a month in advance. However, about 25 percent of people preferred to book closer to their travel dates, sometimes just seven days ahead. For those who are still undecided about their travel plans, Wego has recommended five visa-free destinations.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Saudi Arabian citizens can enter Georgia visa-free and stay for up to 360 days. Tbilisi, the capital, offers a rich tapestry of history, art, architecture, and Georgian cuisine. Direct flights from Riyadh and Jeddah are available via Flyadeal and Jazeera Airways, with fares starting at SR831 ($222) from Riyadh and SR817 ($218) from Jeddah.
Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Tashkent welcomes Saudi travelers without the need for a visa, allowing stays of up to 30 days. As a historic city along the Silk Road, Tashkent offers vibrant bazaars and serene beaches. Flights with layovers are available from Riyadh via Uzbekistan Airways, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, and Emirates, starting at SR835 ($224). From Jeddah, flights begin at SR 1,009 ($269).
Amman, Jordan
Saudi citizens can visit Jordan visa-free for up to three months. Flights from Riyadh to Amman start at SR364 ($97), while those from Jeddah begin at SR262 ($70), serviced by Flynas and Flyadeal.
Istanbul, Turkey
Turkey permits Saudi travelers to visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Istanbul, where Eastern and Western cultures blend seamlessly, offers numerous attractions, from the shores of the Bosphorus to the cafes of Beyoglu. Direct flights from Riyadh are available from SR707 ($189) via Turkish Airlines and Flyadeal. From Jeddah, direct flights start at SR435 ($116) with Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines.
London, UK
Although not entirely visa-free, Saudi citizens can easily obtain an electronic travel authorization (ETA) for multiple visits to the UK over two years or until their passport expires. Direct flights from Riyadh to London start at SR1,512 ($403) with British Airways. From Jeddah, Saudi Arabia offers direct flights starting at SR1,986 ($530).
As Eid al-Adha 2024 approaches, Saudi residents have a range of exciting visa-free destinations to choose from for their holiday travels. With increased interest and convenient travel options, this holiday season presents the perfect opportunity for international exploration. Wego's recommendations provide a variety of cultural and historical experiences, ensuring memorable trips for all travelers.