Saudi Arabia is gearing up for a cracking Eid Al-Adha celebration, and it looks like everyone’s getting in on the travel action! With an extended bank holiday running from Thursday, June 5th, to Monday, June 9th, citizens and residents are seizing the chance to explore everything from bustling global cities to stunning local gems.

And guess what? International adventures are calling! According to Wego, the Middle East and North Africa’s top travel app, a whopping 96.12% of Eid travel searches from Saudi users are for international trips! That’s a serious jump from last year, showing that Saudi travellers are more eager than ever to discover the world, especially with those lovely extended public holidays and super easy entry requirements.

Where in the world are Saudis heading?

It’s a mix of heartwarming reunions and exciting new discoveries …

• Culturally connected & close to home: Many are flocking to countries with deep family and cultural ties. Think Egypt, India, the UAE, Pakistan, Türkiye, and Bangladesh – perfect for celebrating Eid with loved ones in a familiar, spiritual setting.
• Europe is calling: Craving cooler vibes and breathtaking scenery? European hotspots like Italy, Azerbaijan, the United Kingdom, Georgia, and Russia are soaring in popularity. Get ready for historic charm and stunning views!
• Asian sscapes Await: For those dreaming of immersive nature, wellness retreats, and family-friendly fun, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Japan are big hits. Sun, sand, and serenity, anyone?

Don’t forget the homegrown wonders!

While international travel is booming, Saudi Arabia’s own fantastic cities are still shining bright! Jeddah, Riyadh, Madinah, Dammam, and Abha remain super popular domestic destinations. These cities offer a fantastic blend of festive vibes, cultural events, and, in Abha’s case, some wonderfully temperate weather. Plus, Madinah always offers an incredibly unique spiritual journey.

Culture is King (or Queen)!

It’s clear that cultural exploration is a huge driver for travel decisions. Cities like Istanbul, Cairo, Jakarta, and Tbilisi are drawing crowds with their incredible mix of Islamic heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant local life. Wego says these spots are a perfect match for Saudi travellers looking for authentic and meaningful cultural experiences during Eid.

Easier than ever to see the world!

The surge in international travel is definitely helped by how simple it is for Saudi passport holders to explore! Countries like Türkiye, Thailand, Georgia, the Philippines, and Malaysia offer visa-free access. And for other popular spots, efficient electronic visa systems, visa waivers (hello, UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation!), and visa-on-arrival facilities are making spontaneous adventures a breeze.

Wego’s top tips for a seamless Eid trip

To make your Eid holiday as smooth as possible, Wego suggests:

• Plan ahead: Booking at least a month in advance can save you a bundle.
• Be a smart saver: Set up fare alerts and play around with flexible dates to snag the best deals.
• Last-minute lifesavers: If you’re a spontaneous traveller, Wego has real-time deals and last-minute hotel booking options perfect for families and solo adventurers alike.

Wego is constantly upping its game with smart booking tech, real-time price comparisons, and a vast network of airlines, hotels, and rental providers. All this means you can easily craft your very own personalised, seamless, and budget-friendly travel adventure, no matter your style!

So, where will your Eid Al-Adha adventure take you? Happy travels!

Also read: Hajj is almost here: Saudi Arabia welcomes 1M pilgrims so far!