Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has launched the “Where Winter Lights Up” campaign to set the stage for its most ambitious winter season yet. From October 2024 to March 2025, the Kingdom invites visitors to experience over 1,000 immersive activities and more than 500 special offers, transforming Saudi Arabia into one of the world’s most exhilarating winter destinations.
Bringing together cultural festivals, global sports events, and exclusive entertainment experiences, the winter calendar promises a season unlike any other. Highlights include the much-anticipated return of the Riyadh Season, AlUla Festival, Diriyah Season, MDLBEAST, and the Dakar Rally. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a culture lover, or someone searching for luxury escapes, Saudi’s winter events are tailored to create unforgettable memories.
A New Chapter for Saudi Tourism
Winter in Riyadh with Diriyah Season and Boulevard World.
Building on the success of its previous tourism campaign, “This Land is Calling,” Saudi Arabia’s latest initiative under the banner “Saudi, Welcome to Arabia,” shifts focus to “Where Winter Lights Up.” This winter campaign aims to showcase Saudi’s rich cultural tapestry, highlighting the unique offerings across critical regions, including Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, and the Red Sea.
The launch of this winter campaign underscores Saudi Arabia’s push to diversify its economy by positioning itself as a global tourist destination. With a growing portfolio of events, Saudi is quickly becoming a must-visit locale for leisure and adventure travellers.
Riyadh: The Heart of Saudi’s Winter Wonderland
Saudi Arabia’s bustling capital, Riyadh, is the centrepiece of this winter spectacle. The Riyadh Season, one of the world’s most significant winter entertainment events, returns with even grander attractions. The city is brimming with energy from a never-before-seen Harry Potter Experience, sprawling across 25,000 square meters, to Tyson Fury’s world title fight against Oleksandr Usyk on December 21 at Kingdom Arena.
This year’s Riyadh Season will feature 14 themed zones designed to captivate audiences. Boulevard Riyadh City will once again open its gates, offering myriad activities from stand-up comedy by Martin Lawrence to the WWE Crown Jewel 2024. The city’s cultural roots will be celebrated at Diriyah’s Bujairi Terrace, where visitors can indulge in traditional Saudi cuisine at restaurants like Maiz, which is known for its live bread-making stations.
AlUla: A Timeless Journey Through History and Culture
Winter in Saudi Arabia includes AlUla Festivals, the Riyadh season, and other events.
Nestled in the northwestern region of Saudi Arabia, AlUla continues to be a crown jewel in Saudi’s tourism efforts. The UNESCO-protected region, famous for its monumental landscapes and ancient history, will host the Ancient Kingdoms Festival from December 8, 2024, to January 7, 2025. This immersive event will delve deep into the region’s heritage, offering live performances, art installations, and gourmet experiences, creating a sensory journey through time.
For those seeking wellness, the AlUla Wellness Festival, from January 18-20, 2025, will offer yoga, fitness classes, and mindfulness workshops, all set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of AlUla’s desert landscape.
Jeddah: A Coastal Hub for Global Sports and Culture
Jeddah, known for its cosmopolitan charm, will be another focal point this winter. The city is set to host the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in April 2025. Meanwhile, the Spanish Football Cup and Italian Football Cup will bring high-stakes matches to the coastal city in January 2025, drawing in sports fans from around the globe.
Alongside these sporting events, Jeddah’s rich history will be showcased in Historic Jeddah, where the intricately preserved UNESCO-protected Old Town offers visitors a journey through time. The city’s expanding hospitality scene will elevate the experience with new luxury accommodations along the Red Sea coastline.
The Red Sea: A Sanctuary of Luxury and Adventure
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea offers a perfect coastal retreat for those looking to escape the cold. With pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and thrilling activities, the Red Sea coastline is the ultimate getaway. Ummahat Islands, home to the newly opened St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Nujuma, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East, offer travellers opulent hideaways accessible only by seaplane or boat.
The Red Sea also offers a range of activities for adventure seekers, from stargazing and beach horse riding to thrilling heritage diving and the Bayada Island Snorkeling Boat Trip. Furthermore, the region is home to the country’s first PADI Adaptive Dive Centers, making it an inclusive destination for all.
Visa Innovations: Simplifying Travel to Saudi
Saudi Arabia’s efforts to enhance accessibility for international visitors are evident in its continuously expanding eVisa program. With eligibility extended to 66 countries, the introduction of a free 96-hour stopover visa, and the inclusion of GCC residents, travelling to Saudi has never been more accessible. Visitors holding UK, US, or Schengen visas can also benefit from an instant visa upon arrival, making exploring the Kingdom’s offerings more convenient.
In addition, Saudi Arabia is already connected to 175 global destinations, with plans to reach 250 by 2030. This includes the recent launch of 14 new international routes in 2024, further boosting connectivity and accessibility.
A Season to Remember
As Saudi Arabia continues to transform into a global tourism powerhouse, the winter season offers a unique opportunity for travellers to witness the country’s rich blend of tradition, innovation, and hospitality. Whether it’s the adrenaline of the Formula 1 races, the cultural immersion of AlUla’s festivals, or the luxurious escapes along the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia’s winter season promises an unparalleled adventure.
For more information and bookings, visit VisitSaudi.com.
Written by: Kevin Hall
